On September 27th, 2024, Pittsburgh Fashion Week, emceed by the wonderful Daisy Jade, brought a new energy to the Wintergarden at PPG Place, as designers unveiled collections that balanced tradition with modern innovation. Each designer showcased seven unique designs, offering a glimpse into the diverse creativity shaping the city’s fashion scene.
Michael Nolan Kouri, one of the featured designers, drew inspiration from the vibrant styles of the 1980s for his collection. “My collection is inspired by the 80s—a lot of neons, portraying that bold era. What I love about being a designer is that you can create these extravagant things,” Kouri explained. Reflecting on his future goals, he added, “One day I would love to open a store in Pittsburgh.”
Photo by Amaya Lobato Rivas
Starr Thomas, another standout designer, expressed her excitement about the event, saying, “Seeing all the designs and people’s creative take on fashion has been the most exciting part.” For Thomas, Pittsburgh itself is a source of inspiration. “I mean, this is Pittsburgh—this is home and family. I’m inspired every day.” She also offered advice to emerging designers, encouraging perseverance: “Never give up, even if you feel broke or like you’re about to cry. Just keep pushing. If it’s your passion, it will come to you.”
The energy of the evening extended to the models, including Giovanni Natalie, who shared his experience on the runway. “It was so cool. The energy was up tonight—everyone was so loud. I love it. It’s so Pittsburgh.” Reflecting on his favorite moments, Natalie added, “The people here, the models, are all so beautiful and different. Everyone’s so social and alive. There’s so much common ground between everyone, and this whole industry is really cool.”
Photo by Amaya Lobato Rivas
With high-energy music from DJ Petey C and a dynamic performance by Keeley Hernandez and Jessica Lilja, the night was more than just a runway—it was a celebration of Pittsburgh’s creativity and community. After the show, guests had the chance to meet the designers and models up close at the after-party, building connections within the city’s growing fashion scene.
As Pittsburgh Fashion Week continues to expand, it’s clear that the city is carving out a distinct voice in the fashion world, blending local talent with a spirit of innovation.
For a glimpse of all the styles in motion, check out our Pittsburgh Fashion Week reel on Facebook or Instagram.
Photos by Amaya Lobato Rivas
Meet the Authors:
Amaya Lobato Rivas is a photojournalist based in Puerto Rico and Pittsburgh. She aspires to organically document the cultural and sociopolitical dynamics that shape her home country, Puerto Rico—to become a historian of the present. Her personal work, shot on 35mm film, aims to be a voice for anticolonialist, feminist, and queer countercultures. She also digitally shoots current events for local news organizations, including PublicSource, The Pitt News, and Centro de Periodismo Investigativo.
Amaya is a senior at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in Media and Professional Communications and minoring in Film and Media Studies. She spent the previous semester abroad studying Documentary Photography and Photojournalism at the London College of Communications in the University of the Arts in London.
Andrew Openko is a dedicated and emerging journalist. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, Andrew’s keen interest in understanding human behavior and experiences has naturally led them to the world of journalism. Growing up in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Andrew has developed a deep appreciation for the city’s vibrant culture and community. Andrew plans to pursue a graduate degree in Psychology after graduation.
Maria Hernandez-Castaneda is an undergraduate student at the University of Pittsburgh. She is a senior majoring in Psychology, minoring in GSWS and Film & Media Studies. Maria is a volunteer research assistant of the CREAR Lab. In addition to her studies, Maria is also a full-time Resident Assistant in Lothrop Hall and a library assistant at Benedum Engineering Library. Outside of academia and work, she enjoys taking part in a well-rounded routine of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and immersing herself in her culture while also making room to learn about others. She works diligently to create a safe space for women of color to speak and be heard with her position of Vice President for Women of Color Collective at Pitt.
Chloe Camacho Walker is a senior at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in Psychology and Law, Criminal Justice, & Society. She has spent her previous semesters working in management positions, learning the ways around building a business. She aspires to pursue a career path in education and social work. She plans to work towards getting her Masters in Education and begin a career teaching young children. In Fall 2025, she plans to teach English abroad in order to gain a more global and multicultural perspective prior to returning to graduate school.
