Get ready for an exciting series of events hosted by the NYPL during New York Fashion Week 2026! This is a unique opportunity to delve into the business side of fashion and explore the strategies and insights that drive the industry forward.
Unveiling the Secrets of Fashion's Business World
The NYPL's Business Center is opening its doors, both virtually and in-person, to small business owners, startups, freelancers, designers, and anyone curious about the fashion industry. Over three days, you'll gain a behind-the-scenes look at building and growing fashion ventures, with a focus on strategy, research, and real-world knowledge.
But here's where it gets controversial... or at least thought-provoking! The series covers a range of topics, from branding and intellectual property to market research and sustainability. Let's dive into the schedule and uncover the gems waiting for you.
Day 1: Sustainable Fashion and Market Research
Kicking things off on Wednesday, the online event "Sustainable Fashion Industry and Market Research" (4-5 pm) will guide you through researching sustainable fashion and related industries. You'll gain insights into consumer trends and market performance, with a special focus on U.S. fashion designers and consumer behavior related to sustainable shopping.
Day 2: Intellectual Property Rights in Fashion
On Thursday, the online event "Importance of Intellectual Property Rights in the World of Fashion" (noon-1 pm) features a special guest, Liz Jackson, Acting Director of the Northeast Regional Outreach Office of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Liz will delve into the world of trademarks, patents, and copyrights, and their significance in the fashion industry.
Later that evening, the in-person event "Branding 101" (6-7 pm) will explore the fundamentals of branding, going beyond logos. You'll learn how to define your company's mission, identify your target audience, and develop a consistent brand voice that resonates with consumers.
Day 3: Luxury Fashion and Consumer Insights
Friday's online event, "The Luxury Fashion Consumer" (1-2 pm), will aid you in researching the luxury fashion sector and gaining marketing insights and consumer trend analysis. Using various databases, you'll explore a 2025 report on U.S. luxury consumers, gain insights into luxury goods, and analyze brand KPIs for luxury fashion.
And to wrap up the series, the in-person event "Introduction to Intellectual Property and Fashion" (3-4 pm) will teach you about protecting your business assets and ideas. The NYPL's Thomas Yoseloff Business Center, also a Patent and Trademark Resource Center, will offer an introductory class on IP, covering the four different types.
So, are you ready to dive into the business of fashion? These events promise to be an eye-opening experience, offering practical knowledge and insights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain a competitive edge in the fashion world.
And this is the part most people miss... the NYPL also provides access to WWD archives from 1910-2015, offering a wealth of historical fashion knowledge!
Join us and be a part of this exciting journey into the heart of fashion's business landscape. Your comments and thoughts on these events are most welcome!
