The High School of Fashion Industries celebrated its 100th annual student fashion show and fundraiser on Wednesday night at Gansevoort Plaza in New York’s Meatpacking District. The event honored Daryl Blank, principal at High School of Fashion Industries with its Legacy Award, and Sharifa Murdock, chief impact officer of Kith, with its visionary award.
The fashion show and fundraiser were held for the third consecutive year in partnership with the Meatpacking Business Improvement District, underscoring its support of New York education, community and the next generation of fashion talent.
The event featured a runway show presented by the graduating senior class, spotlighting student designs, modeling, styling and choreography. Some 200 people were seated in the audience, along with passersby watching the show. Throughout the year, students are mentored by industry designers and leaders who participate in events such as HSFI Career Day and the Fashion Show Preview.
Previous HSFI honorees have included Angelo Baque, Daniela Vitale, Ken Downing and Jeffrey Kalinsky. All proceeds raised at the fundraiser go to student scholarships.
Blank has been with the HSFI for more than 29 years, including 16 years as principal, helping to ensure students thrive both academically and through industry partnerships. Murdock is a fashion executive, community builder and cultural strategist dedicated to expanding access and opportunity within the fashion and creative industries.
Murdock said, “There are few things more inspiring to me than what this school manages to do year after year. These are the young minds and future leaders who are shaping our world. To be recognized by an institution that has been devoted for a century to fostering creativity, building skills and confidence, and celebrating individuality is something I appreciate more than words can explain.”
Blank said, “For a century, the High School of Fashion Industries has been a place where talent is discovered, creativity is nurtured and futures are shaped. Tonight’s fashion show in the iconic Meatpacking District celebrates the students, alumni, and educators who build this extraordinary legacy — and the next generation who will carry it forward.”
Jeffrey LeFrancois, executive director of the Meatpacking BID, added, “Our partnership with the High School of Fashion Industries continues to showcase the incredible creativity, ambition, and talent shaping the future of New York fashion. As HSFI celebrates its 100th anniversary, we’re proud to once again welcome this inspiring event to the Meatpacking District, a neighborhood where fashion, culture and innovation come together every day. Supporting the next generation of designers and creatives is deeply aligned with our commitment to championing emerging talent and fostering meaningful community connections.”
