by Reshma Allu
Attending North America Fashion Week 2024 (NAFW) in Seattle was a refreshing departure from the typical high-fashion spectacles of Paris or New York. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, NAFW offered something deeper: a confluence of cultures and a purposeful celebration of fashion’s role in fostering community and social change.
Now in its seventh year, NAFW continues to evolve. This year, it paid tribute to the tapestry of India’s rich cultural heritage, focusing on handloom and artisan craftsmanship. Organized by the AmPowering Foundation, the event brought together diverse voices united by a passion for preserving cultural legacies and making a lasting impact through fashion.
This year’s spotlight on India was underscored by the presence of Mr. Prakash Gupta, Consul General of India, who delivered a moving speech. “We extend a warm welcome to each of you to this unique celebration, showcasing some of the finest fabrics, textiles, and weaves from India,” he began. He went on to commend Ms. Menka Soni, the founder of AmPowering, for her dedication to elevating Indian craftsmanship. His remarks framed the event as a celebration of India’s cultural richness and the legacy of artisan work that NAFW honored this year.
With India at its heart, NAFW 2024 paid homage to a textile legacy that spans over 5,000 years while advocating for inclusivity and social good. As Mr. Gupta aptly noted, “Indian textiles and Indian heritage are key components in sharing India’s cultural diversity.” This year’s NAFW established Seattle as a stage for this exchange, leaving an indelible mark on both the attendees and the broader fashion community.
From the outset, it was clear that this event wasn’t simply about sartorial indulgence. The Dehaat Show, featuring Indian rural craftsmanship, served as a powerful testament that set the tone for the event. As a longtime observer of the fashion world, I’ve seen traditional textiles incorporated into modern fashion before, but here in Seattle, it felt especially poignant. Watching models glide down the runway in meticulously handcrafted garments reinterpreted for a global audience, I was reminded of how fashion can act as a bridge between cultures. These pieces weren’t just clothes; they were stories—woven with care and steeped in heritage, yet undeniably forward-looking. Their creation ensures sustainable livelihoods for artisans and access to education for their children.
Inclusivity was integral to the event’s ethos. On the runway, models of all genders, races, sizes, ages, and abilities walked with confidence, proving that fashion truly belongs to everyone. This was more than just token representation; it felt authentic—a reflection of the broader theme of community and creativity that defined the week. A shining example was Meera Parlikar, a childhood brain cancer survivor with unique abilities, who returned to NAFW after a confidence-boosting experience last year. The designers themselves embodied resilience and renewal, many having grappled with personal challenges like depression and domestic violence yet finding the courage to present their collections as a form of catharsis. In the words of Ms. Soni, “NAFW has truly been a launching pad for many designers, models, photographers, and HMUAs, whom I now see becoming successful in many endeavors.”
What truly set NAFW apart from its global counterparts was its commitment to social responsibility. Presented by the nonprofit AmPowering, the event directed its proceeds toward supporting Seattle’s homeless population. In an industry often criticized for its exclusivity and opulence, this philanthropic focus was a welcome change.
In a world where fashion weeks often blur together, NAFW offered a singular experience. It wasn’t just another stop on the fashion circuit—it was a movement that honored artisans, celebrated India’s rich cultural legacy, and advocated for greater inclusivity across the industry. As someone accustomed to the grandeur of runways, this event left me with a renewed sense of fashion’s potential to create meaningful change. This year’s focus on India will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on both attendees and the fashion world alike.
