How N4XT Experiences is reimagining Los Angeles Fashion Week for the future

Los Angeles Fashion Week (LAFW) recently concluded its third season following its return to the scene since changing ownership and post-pandemic. This edition showcased SS25 collections from local and emerging talent alongside established New York names, with Theophilio and Sergio Hudson making a return. Continuing to evolve under the hand of N4XT Experience, a global event firm that acquired it in early 2022, LAFW's third edition showcased a diverse range of creative talent while staying true to its broader aim of "transforming the city into a vibrant epicenter of style, culture, and innovation." Although LAFW has conventionally struggled to embody the true spirit of Los Angeles fashion despite being around for some 21 years, this season appears to herald a change, with buyers, influencers, reporters, and industry insiders applauding the four-day event, which included runway shows, panels, intimate dinners, a pop-up marketplace, exhibitions, and parties.

To learn more about LAFW's third season, the changes implemented, and what to expect for future editions, FashionUnited spoke with N4XT Experiences co-founders Ciarra Pardo and Imad Izemrane.

1. Looking back on LAFW's third event that just wrapped, what are some of the highlights that you feel set this edition apart from previous ones?

Imad: "This season, LAFW elevated its reputation as a cultural and creative hub by introducing immersive fashion-tech installations and a diverse lineup of designers who pushed boundaries. One standout moment for me was the opening show with Tribute Brand, which blended digital artistry with live performances, creating an unforgettable fusion of fashion and technology. The energy and creativity on display reflected the innovation and dynamism that define LAFW."

Ciarra: "One of the standout moments during the third season of LAFW for me was our partnership with Nike, which brought a refreshing emphasis on wellness and the intersection of fashion and fitness. It was incredible to see how this collaboration resonated with attendees and further solidified our mission to make LAFW a space that reflects the multifaceted lifestyles of today's creatives.

Our partnership with SnapChat also set this season apart, allowing us to merge technology with fashion in a way that felt innovative and interactive. The AR experiences gave the audience a new lens, literally, to engage with the collections, making the runway feel more dynamic and inclusive. Lastly, the growing marketplace was a highlight. It's exciting to see new, incredible designers debut their work alongside more established names. LAFW is evolving, and this season felt like a major leap forward in celebrating the diversity, creativity, and innovation that make Los Angeles a global fashion capital."

2. LAFW presented a diverse lineup of designers and brands. How did you approach curating this selection, and what criteria were important in your decision-making process?

Imad: "Our curation process prioritized originality and alignment with the recurring LAFW pillars. We sought designers who exemplified creativity and a forward-thinking approach, ensuring a mix of established names and emerging talent. Inclusivity and cultural representation were central to our selection criteria, creating a platform that celebrates the global and multifaceted nature of fashion."

Ciarra: "Curating the lineup for LA Fashion Week is always an exciting challenge because it's about finding the balance between honoring our incredible returning designers and introducing fresh, new talent to our attendees. Building community is at the heart of what we do, so having recurring names like R!O, Theophilio, Sergio Hudson, BruceGlen, Kim Shui, and Nike was a deliberate choice. These designers represent the creative excellence and bold vision that define LAFW, and their continued participation strengthens the sense of belonging within our fashion community.

At the same time, we're always on the lookout for new brands and emerging talent that can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table. It's important to us to shine a spotlight on these rising stars and provide them with a platform to tell their stories and connect with an engaged audience."

3. Inclusivity was a central theme this season. How did you ensure representation and inclusivity across various aspects of LAFW, from runway shows to panel discussions?

Ciarra: "Inclusivity is not just a theme for us; it's a commitment that guides many of the decisions we make at LAFW. On the runway, we showcased designers and brands that celebrate diversity, not just in their collections but in the stories they tell. Designers like R!O, Theophilio, BruceGlen, and The Blonds, for example, brought collections that were not only bold and innovative but also deeply rooted in their unique perspectives.

Our N4XT Chats and panel discussions mirrored this ethos. We invited a diverse group of speakers and thought leaders who could bring fresh insights to the table, whether through their personal journeys, their professional expertise, or their vision for the future of fashion. From sustainability to technology, we ensured that a range of voices were amplified and celebrated.

Inclusivity also extended to our collaborations. Partnering with brands and platforms like Nike, SnapChat, and Omnipop's 360 Creator Academy allowed us to create spaces where creators and attendees of all backgrounds could connect, learn, and grow. It's about building an ecosystem where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to contribute to the evolution of fashion."

4. The intersection of technology and fashion was another main focus of LAFW. How was this translated and showcased during the four-day event?

Imad: "This season featured augmented reality displays where attendees could see garments come to life on the mirrors and smartphones. We also hosted live digital art installations and immersive experiences, such as virtual try-ons powered by cutting-edge tech. These innovations not only captivated audiences but also demonstrated how technology is reshaping the future of fashion."

Ciarra: "Our N4XT Chats took this conversation even further by diving into how technology is transforming the business of fashion. The discussions covered everything from the rise of streamers and creators to how platforms like TikTok Shop are becoming vital spaces for building brands and engaging with audiences in real-time. The launch of the 360 Creators Academy was another highlight. It's a space that empowers creators to explore innovative tools and strategies, helping them succeed in this tech-driven landscape. From AR activations to virtual marketplaces, we wanted to create an environment where attendees could experience firsthand how technology is shaping fashion's future. This season wasn't just about showcasing tech, it was about making it accessible and inspiring for everyone, from designers to creators to our audience."

5. Unlike other major fashion weeks, certain parts of LAFW were open to the public this season - what spurred this decision?

Imad: "Opening certain parts of our programming of LAFW to the public aligns with our mission to make fashion accessible and inspire a broader audience. By removing exclusivity, we create opportunities for emerging designers to connect directly with consumers and foster a more inclusive industry. It's a hallmark that sets us apart, reflecting LA's democratic and innovative spirit."

Ciarra: "From the very beginning of our journey with LAFW, opening our doors to creatives and students has been a core part of our mission. This is our third season operating LAFW, and while the first two seasons were invite-only, this season, we intentionally took a step toward broader accessibility. Our goal has always been to support emerging talent and build a strong, inclusive, creative community.

That said, we are still finding the right balance and approach. It's a process of learning and adapting, but the intention remains the same: to create an environment where creativity thrives and where designers, students, and enthusiasts can connect, learn, and grow together.

What differentiates LAFW is this openness, an acknowledgment that fashion is for everyone and inspiration can come from anywhere. By offering access, we're not just showcasing fashion; we're creating opportunities for education, collaboration, and connection. This makes LAFW feel alive and deeply rooted in the diversity and creativity that define Los Angeles. We're still refining this model, but we're excited about the direction we're headed and the community we're building together."

6. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for future editions of LAFW? Are there any new initiatives or directions you're excited to explore in upcoming seasons?

Imad: "Our vision for LAFW is to remain a pioneer in merging fashion with technology, sustainability, and inclusivity. Future initiatives include expanding virtual experiences, establishing a mentorship program for emerging designers, and deepening our focus on sustainability. We aim to make LAFW a global leader in driving meaningful change within the fashion industry."

Ciarra: "Looking ahead, my aspirations for LAFW are centered around continuing to refine and elevate the experience, not just for designers and industry insiders but for the broader creative community that makes Los Angeles so special. We want to build LAFW into its fullest potential, a global platform that represents the innovation, diversity, and cultural richness of this city.

One direction we're excited to explore is finding ways for LAFW to show up during other key moments throughout the year when fashion is naturally in the spotlight. For example, aligning with major events like award season could create unique opportunities to spotlight designers and bring fashion into conversations happening on an international stage.

We're also looking at expanding our initiatives around education, sustainability, and technology. Whether it's through deeper partnerships with brands or introducing more year-round activations, we want LAFW to feel like more than just a week but a movement that continues to innovate and inspire long after the final show.

Ultimately, we're focused on building a community-driven platform that not only showcases incredible talent but also fosters collaboration, education, and growth. The future of LAFW is bright, and we're excited to push boundaries, create new opportunities, and celebrate the creativity that defines this city."

7. Lastly, what advice would you offer to emerging designers hoping to participate in future LA Fashion Week?

Imad: "Be authentic and innovative, tell your story through your designs. Leverage the opportunity to network with industry professionals and take advantage of the resources we provide, such as mentorship programs and sustainability workshops. Most importantly, engage with the diverse audience to build a lasting connection with your brand."