State of play: KC Fashion Week 2026 started last week and built momentum before the runway even opened.
- Events included a kickoff party, a volunteer day at nonprofit Scraps KC, and model photo shoots ahead of show week.
- By Wednesday night, crowds were already lining up outside Union Station for the opening runway shows.
What they’re saying: “KC is a huge staple for fashion,” co-founder Teisha Barber tells Axios.
- About half of the designers are local or regional, with others coming from places like New York, California and Texas.
- “We are actually making moves in the fashion world. People should be paying attention to the Midwest,” she said.
Zoom in: More than 30 designers are showing their work on the runway, including from brands including MADE MOBB and designers including Peach Carr and April Spring Powell.
- Student designers are also making their runway debut, showing full collections as part of the spring/summer lineup.
The intrigue: KC’s location is part of the draw. Barber said designers come here to reach audiences they do not hit on the coasts.
What’s next: Runway shows continue until tomorrow, with limited tickets still available.