FIT’s Class of 2025 Redefines the Future of Fashion in Bold Macy’s Collaboration
TanaziaJae
(Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Fashion Institute of Technology)
Leave it to the next generation of fashion designers to remind us: the future isn’t coming—it’s already strutting. The Fashion Institute of Technology’s annual Future of Fashion Runway Show lit up Manhattan’s fashion scene with unapologetic creativity and bold vision. Presented by Macy’s and held on FIT’s Chelsea campus, the outdoor showcase featured 82 original designs by 67 students from the Class of 2025 Fashion Design BFA program.
The show celebrated five areas of specialization: Children’s Wear, Intimate Apparel, Knitwear, Special Occasion, and Sportswear. With electric energy and a buzzing front row, the vibe was innovation-meets-ambition—every look a testament to the designers’ skill, imagination, and perspective.
“The show has always been called the FoF, and it is just so appropriate. Our students are the future of fashion!“
Quote from Troy Richards (Dean, School of Art & Design, Fashion Institute of Technology)
The Future of Fashion: Sustainability in Every Stitch
At FIT, sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a value. This year’s designers proved that ethos by incorporating eco-conscious materials like denim, lace, leather/faux leather, boning, waterproof fabrics, and fur/faux fur. Techniques such as beading, embroidery, pleating, hand-painting, and appliqué brought each piece to life.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 08: A model walks the runway at the 2025 Future of Fashion Runway Show presented by Macy’s, held at the Fashion Institute of Technology on May 8, 2025, in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Fashion Institute of Technology)
One standout was Dayna Ruddock’s Bio Harmony sportswear collection, which used upcycled muslin to create structured yet organic silhouettes—an impressive example of form, function, and environmental responsibility.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 08: A Critic Award winner and a model at the 2025 Future of Fashion Runway Show presented by Macy’s, held at the Fashion Institute of Technology on May 8, 2025, in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Fashion Institute of Technology)NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 08: A Critic Award winner and a model at the 2025 Future of Fashion Runway Show presented by Macy’s, held at the Fashion Institute of Technology on May 8, 2025, in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Fashion Institute of Technology)
Spotlight on: Khoboso Nale, Macy’s Capsule Collection Winner
We caught up with Khoboso Nale, this year’s Macy’s Capsule Collection winner, to discuss her design journey, inspirations, and what’s next.
Tanazia:What inspired your collection this year? Khoboso: “I’m really interested in ethics and sustainability—I’m actually minoring in it. For this collection, I referenced my first year studying chemistry. I experimented with natural dyes and dyed both the cardigan and dress in my graduate collection myself.”
Tanazia: Were there any challenges during the process? Khoboso: “Time, definitely. Some experiments didn’t go as planned, so adapting without giving up was key. It was a test of patience and determination.”
Tanazia:How long did the collection take to create? Khoboso: “Months. I started researching and experimenting in December 2024—so it’s been a long journey from then to now.”
Tanazia:Any cultural or historical references? Khoboso: “Absolutely. I researched traditional dyeing techniques—methods that are holistic and non-toxic. There’s so much history in how we used to dye our garments, and I wanted to preserve and honor that.”
Tanazia:What has FIT taught you that’s shaped your design approach? Khoboso: “Perseverance. The fashion industry can be chaotic and pressure-filled, but I’ve learned to trust myself and stay grounded in my vision.”
Tanazia:What’s next after this show? Khoboso: “I’m looking to work full-time as a knitwear designer. I’ll also be producing my capsule collection with Macy’s—hopefully dropping next spring. I’m really excited to dive into that process!”
“FIT has always been fortunate to have great support from the fashion industry, and the exposure is extremely meaningful to our students – not only does top industry turn out to support the show, they also hire our students, often inspired directly by their work shown on the runway.“
Quote from Troy Richards (Dean, School of Art & Design, Fashion Institute of Technology)
From deconstructed tailoring to Met Gala-worthy gowns, FIT’s Class of 2025 didn’t just present a runway—they launched a movement.
The future of fashion isn’t just in good hands—it’s in beautifully disruptive ones.
