Orlando International Fashion Week teams up with Orlando International Fringe Festival for its 35th anniversary
Orlando International Fashion Week (OIFW) has entered into a new partnership with the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival as part of the theatre festival_s 35th anniversary celebrations this year.
As part of the partnership_ OIFW will host a showcase on May 16_ 2026_ within the Outdoor stage that will include avant-garde_ futuristic_ and experimental fashion designs that reflect the spirit and nature of the Fringe festival. The collaboration between the two organizations is in line with their shared broader goal of uplifting artists_ fostering inclusive creative spaces_ and connecting communities through the arts.
“Fringe and OIFW share a commitment to creating platforms where artists can take risks_ express themselves freely_ and connect with diverse audiences_” said Rob Henlon_ Executive Director and Co-Founder of Orlando International Fashion Week_ in a statement. “This collaboration allows fashion to live within a broader artistic conversation_ which is exactly where it belongs.”
Designers are now invited to register for OIFW's Fringe fashion showcase_ with submissions encouraged to reflect modern_ edgy concepts_ artistic storytelling_ and bold_ experimental design.
“This partnership is exactly what Fringe is about_ bringing different art forms together in a way that_s inclusive_ expressive_ and community-driven_” continued Tempestt Halstead of the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival. “We_re excited to create space for fashion to be part of that story.”
Now in its 35th year_ the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival is the longest-running Fringe festival in the United States. Held each May_ it offers an unjuried_ uncensored platform for independent artists across performance_ visual art_ and music_ and returns 100 percent of ticket sales directly to the artists.
“As someone who serves on the board with both organizations_ this partnership represents the best of what Orlando_s creative ecosystem can be_” said Dr. John Payne-Rios_ OIFW Advisory Board Member and arts advocate. “It brings together fashion_ theatre_ and community in a way that expands access_ celebrates diverse voices_ and creates meaningful opportunities for artists to be seen and supported.”