MACY'S x RUNWAY OF DREAMS

I was selected to serve as the liaison between the I.N.C. Design Team and Runway of Dreams for a collaborative initiative with FIT and Macy’s. What began as an opportunity to introduce student designers to the brand, retail floor, and fashion industry evolved into an invitation to serve as a design mentor throughout the project. I participated in student fittings, offering real-time feedback and collaborating directly with models to refine garment fit, functionality, and accessibility. Beyond apparel, I helped address a unique footwear challenge for a model who struggled to find an accessible shoe to complement her silk gown. By connecting her with Macy’s footwear design team and exploring creative ways to elevate existing adaptive footwear, I helped develop solutions that celebrated both personal style and functionality. This experience reinforced my belief that exceptional design begins with listening, collaboration, and creative problem-solving to make fashion more inclusive.

Through Macy’s partnership with Runway of Dreams and FIT, we provided footwear options for the models participating in the runway show. When one model found a boot she loved but struggled to independently operate its zipper, I identified an opportunity to enhance accessibility without compromising style. By replacing the traditional zipper pull with a statement ring, I created a functional yet fashion-forward solution that made the boot easier to wear independently. This simple modification demonstrated how thoughtful, intentional design can seamlessly blend accessibility with elevated fashion.

Through Macy’s partnership with Runway of Dreams, I was approached by a model seeking a footwear solution that could accommodate her leg brace while complementing a custom dress created by her student designer. Recognizing an opportunity to merge adaptive design with elevated craftsmanship, I transformed a pair of Billie sneakers into a one-of-a-kind statement piece, meticulously hand-embellishing them with over 1,500 individually placed rhinestones. Created as a potential footwear option for her runway debut, this project reflects my passion for creative problem-solving and designing with both purpose and inclusivity in mind.