Walking into Fashion Futures: My Day at Vogue’s Bowery Event

The rain tapped lightly on my umbrella as I made my way through the streets of New York City. Umbrella in hand, I walked toward The Bowery Hotel at 335 Bowery, a spot that felt like both a historic escape and the perfect venue for Vogue Business’ Fashion Futures New York. It was one of those afternoons where the city’s gray skies only seemed to heighten the excitement.

I came to network, to listen, and to see where the fashion industry is heading. Along the way, I met my friend Brooke Cherry, who beamed with enthusiasm. She told me, “I love it here. I love fashion. I love nature. This is amazing—thank you.” Her energy mirrored exactly how I felt stepping into the room.

Atmosphere

Inside, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. Hilary Milnes, Executive Americas Editor of Vogue Business, was leading the conversations. She interviewed Leigh Manheim Levine, President of Coach North America, who shared her insights with ease. Later, Hilary sat down with Sarah Davis, Founder and President of Fashionphile, alongside Barbara Piermont, Chief Growth Officer of 3C Ventures. Listening to women shaping the industry in real time was powerful.

One of the most resonant discussions came when Sarah Davis and Barbara Piermont reminded us that AI is an opportunity, rather than a threat. It was refreshing to hear leaders frame technology not as something to fear, but as a tool for creativity, efficiency, and new possibilities.

I also had the chance to hear from Jessica Kohl, Head of Shopify VIP at Shopify, and Seth Siciliano, Director of ISV Partnerships at Google Cloud. Both shed light on how digital platforms and partnerships are helping fashion evolve in ways that go far beyond shopping—pushing into innovation, accessibility, and global reach.

The speaker list itself read like a who’s who of the industry:

• Leigh Manheim Levine, President, Coach North America
• Ezgi Barcenas, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer and CEO of Fondation L’Oréal, L’Oréal Group
• Sophia Kianni, Co-Founder, Phia
• Sarah Davis, Founder and President, Fashionphile
• Barbara Piermont, Chief Growth Officer, 3C Ventures
• Jessica Kohl, Head of Shopify VIP, Shopify
• Seth Siciliano, Director of ISV Partnerships, Google Cloud
• Bella Webb, Sustainability Editor, Vogue Business
• Alexa Gordon, Sustainability Director, Eva Joan Repair
• Maria McManus, Founder and Creative Director, Maria McManus

By the time the panels wrapped, I felt grateful to have braved the rainy streets to be there. Events like these remind me why Presence News needs to keep its finger on the pulse of fashion—not just reporting trends, but immersing ourselves in the conversations shaping the future.

Walking back out into the drizzle, I knew that today wasn’t just about attending an event. It was about experiencing firsthand how fashion’s future is being imagined—and making sure we’re ready to share it with the world.

Sources:

• Vogue Business – Fashion Futures New York
• The Bowery Hotel
• Coach Official Site
• Fashionphile
• Shopify
• Google Cloud
• L’Oréal Group

You may also enjoy reading: