Alexander McQueen's Sarabande Foundation “What Now?” Returns to The Standard for its Fashion Careers Fair, Connecting Young Creatives with Fashion’s Biggest Names
The Sarabande Foundation is bringing its celebrated “What Now?” forum back to New York City this spring, offering a rare opportunity for young creatives to meet one-on-one with some of fashion’s most influential names.
Flyer for The Sarabande Foundation “What Now?” forum on May 6. Photo courtesy of the Sarabande Foundation.
Lee Alexander McQueen's Sarabande Foundation free NYC Career Fair, which will take place on May 6 at The Standard, East Village, was designed to help students and recent graduates gain clarity, confidence, and connections as they enter a constantly shifting job market.
Attendees can drop into workshop stations and portfolio reviews hosted by representatives from leading brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, Marc Jacobs, Thom Browne, Tiffany, Fendi, Burberry and Coach.
RSVP is required to attend.
Founded in 2006 by the late designer Lee Alexander McQueen, the Sarabande Foundation is a London-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting artists and designers who might otherwise lack the financial means to pursue a creative career. McQueen, who came from a working-class background and struggled to fund his education, created the foundation to give back. Its name comes from his Spring/Summer 2007 collection.
Attendees at the fair in NYC 2024. Photo courtesy of the Sarabande Foundation.
Since then, Sarabande has become a launchpad for more than 130 emerging talents, including Craig Green, Molly Goddard and Bianca Saunders. The foundation offers subsidized studio space, scholarships and mentorship to early-career creatives across disciplines.
The “What Now?” series directly responds to the uncertainty many young adults face after graduating, especially within the highly competitive fashion industry. Sarabande hopes to bridge the gap between education and employment by partnering with top design houses and professionals.
The event’s return signals an ongoing commitment to extending McQueen’s legacy to a new generation of American creatives.
Attendees at the fair in NYC 2024, working with top designers and gaining career advice. Photo courtesy of the Sarabande Foundation.