Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Brooklyn Arts Ambassador Colm Dillane of KidSuper on Tuesday launched an open call for emerging Brooklyn-based fashion designers to present five-look collections at The 2026 People’s Runway, a full-service fashion show set for fall at Brooklyn Borough Hall.
Five selected designers will each receive a $5,000 grant and mentorship from fashion industry leaders. The opportunity is open to Brooklyn residents age 18 and older. Applications are due July 5 at 11:59pm.
The announcement follows the success of the first People’s Runway, a New York Fashion Week event held in September 2025 at Brooklyn Borough Hall. The show drew more than 1,000 attendees and featured fashion, music and cultural programming. It also attracted international media attention and guests, including Lauryn Hill, Ne-Yo and Busta Rhymes.
“Last year, the People’s Runway showed that Brooklynites are hungry to see real investments in creatives that call this borough home. For the second year in a row, I am proud to partner with Brooklyn Arts Ambassador Colm Dillane to showcase and empower Brooklyn’s emerging fashion designers,” said Reynoso.
The initiative is intended to expand investment in local creatives and strengthen pathways for emerging designers. Dillane, who began his fashion career in Brooklyn, said the program reflects a commitment to expanding access for new talent entering the industry.
The 2026 show will take place in September at Brooklyn Borough Hall. Selected designers must finalize all work by Aug. 31, following an orientation in late July.
“I got my start in fashion just a few blocks from Brooklyn Borough Hall, and it’s so special to come back years later to give emerging designers the opportunity to take their career to the next level. There’s so much talent here in Brooklyn and I encourage all creatives to take a chance and submit their applications to showcase their work at The People’s Runway,” said Dillane, creative force behind KidSuper.
The office will provide runway production, lighting, sound, stage design, models, styling, hair and makeup, photography and videography. It will also handle seating, ticketing and press outreach.
Applicants must submit original work. Artificial intelligence-generated designs are not permitted. The program is open to Brooklyn residents of all backgrounds, with eligibility not based on race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics.
