Portland, Oregon is preparing to once again host a globally recognized event as Portland Fashion Week™ celebrates its 24th year. From September 15 to 21, 2025, the Mercedes-Benz of Wilsonville will transform into a nexus of fashion, art, culture, innovation, and sustainability, continuing its legacy as the world’s most sustainable fashion week. This highly anticipated event, a significant fixture in Oregon’s cultural calendar, promises seven nights of groundbreaking styles and a steadfast commitment to eco-conscious practices.
A Global Leader in Sustainable Fashion
Since its inception in 2002, Portland Fashion Week (PFW) has emerged as a vanguard in the global fashion industry, consistently pushing the boundaries of what a fashion week can represent. It holds the distinction of being the third oldest fashion week series in the United States and has earned accolades from prominent publications. Time Magazine has lauded it as the “BEST Indie Fashion Week in the USA,” while Book Moda declared it the “world’s most sustainably produced fashion week.” The Huffington Post has further recognized PFW as the “world’s only carbon-negative fashion week.”
PFW’s commitment to sustainability is deeply ingrained in its operational philosophy. It embraces “slow fashion,” advocating for non-impulsive buying and a conscious understanding of clothing quality, value, and origin. The organization diligently implements sustainable practices, emphasizing reducing, reusing, and recycling. Their pioneering efforts include launching a sustainable bamboo runway in 2006, initiating a carbon mitigation program by planting thousands of native trees since 2007, and showcasing a custom solar panel as a runway in 2009. Furthermore, PFW has been entirely plastic-free and cruelty-free since 2015, solidifying its position as an ethical beacon in the industry.
Championing Inclusivity and Innovation
Beyond its environmental stewardship, Portland Fashion Week is celebrated for its unwavering dedication to inclusivity. As early as 2005, Vogue magazine commended PFW for being the first fashion week globally to dedicate showcases to both sustainable and plus-sized apparel. The event continues to champion diverse representation, embracing gender-fluid fashion and ensuring a safe, drama-free, and inclusive environment for all participants and attendees. This commitment extends to its selection process, where PFW actively avoids predatory fees, setting a template for ethical business practices within the fashion industry.
Under the leadership of Executive Producer and owner Tod Hunter Foulk, PFW has consistently fostered emerging talent. Notably, more Project Runway alumni have showcased their collections at Portland Fashion Week than at both Los Angeles and New York Fashion Weeks combined, underscoring its role as a vital platform for new designers. Foulk, alongside co-producer Kirt Elliot, has cultivated a transparent and supportive atmosphere, ensuring the well-being of the hundreds of individuals involved in the production.
The Road to 2025 and Beyond
The 24th annual event will feature a diverse lineup of themes throughout the week. Festivities kick off with a Public Launch Party, dubbed “The Fashionista’s Ball,” on Monday, September 15. The week will progress with a dedicated Press and Buyers Night, an Opening Night, and themed showcases including Sustainable Apparel, Ready-to-Wear, Couture and Bridal, and a grand finale featuring Boutiques, Accessories, Hair Styling, and Makeup. MAC Cosmetics will be the exclusive hair and makeup partner for the 2025 series, adding another layer of prestige to the event.
The move of the primary venue to Mercedes-Benz of Wilsonville in 2023 was a strategic decision by Foulk, prioritizing the safety and experience of attendees and participants. This partnership has allowed PFW to continue its mission in a state-of-the-art setting.
PFW is currently accepting submissions for models, designers, photographers, videographers, and stylists. This open call highlights the event’s ongoing commitment to discovering and showcasing new talent within the trending fashion landscape.
Beyond the glitz of the runway, Portland Fashion Week maintains a strong philanthropic focus. As a 100% volunteer-based organization, it allocates a percentage of its proceeds to support local and international charities, including Rose Haven, a day shelter aiding women, children, and gender-diverse individuals. It also champions an annual clothing drive for veterans and mentors emerging entrepreneurs through the US State Department’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative.
As Portland Fashion Week approaches its 24th anniversary, it continues to set a global standard, blending high fashion with profound ethical and environmental responsibility. This year’s event promises to be a powerful statement, reinforcing its reputation as a leading voice in the international fashion news landscape and an essential experience for anyone passionate about the future of style.
