Kent State School of Fashion to induct Fern Mallis into Fashion Hall of Fame

The Kent State University School of Fashion will induct Fern Mallis into its Fashion Hall of Fame during its annual Fashion Week celebrations in May 2026.

Often referred to as the “Godmother of Fashion Week,” Mallis is widely credited with transforming New York Fashion Week into a globally recognised fashion industry platform. During her leadership, shows were centralised at Bryant Park, helping elevate the international profile of American designers and bringing greater cohesion, sponsorship and media attention to the event.

The induction recognises Mallis’ decades-long influence on the fashion industry, including her roles at the Council of Fashion Designers of America and as senior vice president at IMG Fashion. She later founded her own consulting firm and continues to support emerging talent through mentorship and industry initiatives.

Mallis will visit the university to deliver the annual Hall of Fame lecture on May 1, followed by the induction ceremony on May 2 as part of the school’s annual fashion show, which highlights the work of graduating design and merchandising students.

Established in 1989, the Kent State School of Fashion Hall of Fame honours individuals whose leadership and contributions have significantly shaped the global fashion industry and inspired new generations of designers and professionals.