Idaho potato sack couture kicks off New York Fashion Week
Published 9:00 am Thursday, February 12, 2026
Fashion models wearing couture tailored entirely from burlap Idaho potato sacks helped open New York Fashion Week, slated Feb. 11-16.
Models showcased the Haute Potato Collection as they proceeded down a catwalk at New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, “dazzling commuters while generating awareness for the No Kid Hungry Campaign,” according to an Idaho Potato Commission news release.
The commission uses funds generated by a a tax on all Idaho-grown potatoes — currently 12.5 cents per hundredweight — to advertise, promote, and do research to expand markets for Idaho potatoes, according to IPC. The state leads the U.S. in potato production.
The Haute fashion collection is an extension of the commission’s mission to weave Idaho potatoes into America’s pop-culture fabric, according to the release.
“Idaho potatoes fit in everywhere,” said Jamey Higham, the commission’s president and CEO. “They’re one of the world’s most versatile ingredients, and they somehow span the cultural continuum from backyard barbecues to NYFW — from the mashed potatoes you make at home to the Patatas Bravas you order at a 5-star restaurant. And we wanted to remind the world of that in a really fun and entertaining way.”
The sculptural, high-fashion collection includes flowing gowns, tailored suit silhouettes and architectural detailing, “elevating the potato sack into wearable art” and reframing it as both cultural symbol and creative canvas, according to the release. Idaho-born designer Cartier Dior Eliasen’s work “reflects a journey shaped by Idaho potato farming roots, formal high-fashion training and a deep love of Americana storytelling.”
IPC partner No Kid Hungry is a national campaign that works to end childhood hunger. Select dresses from the collection will be auctioned through 5 p.m. EST Feb. 17 at idahopotato.com to help feed children.
“Food is one of the most powerful ways we connect as people,” said Anais Laurent, No Kid Hungry associate director of talent partnerships. “This collaboration shows how creativity, culture and purpose can come together to help ensure kids across the country have access to the meals they need.”
IPC’s New York Fashion Week event included a culinary component created in partnership with Grand Brasserie, a French restaurant within Grand Central, featuring Idaho potato-inspired hors d’oeuvres.