Navigating the fashion industry as an emerging designer is no easy feat. The challenges are endless, from gaining exposure to securing the right connections. This is where Global Fashion Collective (GFC) comes into play—a visionary organization that offers designers a springboard to showcase their talents on a global scale. Founded by Jamal Abdourahman, GFC has opened doors for new talent in major fashion capitals. Among the designers who have thrived with GFC’s support is Tess Mann of Tess Mann Atelier, who has experienced firsthand the impact of this unique platform.
“Global Fashion Collective has truly been a game-changer for my brand,” Tess says. “The opportunities I’ve gained through their shows have been truly transformative for my brand.Their support goes beyond the runway; they are genuinely committed to helping designers connect with the right people in the industry.”
Previously known for its exquisite bridal designs, Tess Mann Atelier recently expanded to include evening wear, cocktail attire, resort wear and bespoke pieces. Through GFC, Tess has been able to introduce her new collections to audiences in fashion hubs like Tokyo, New York, and Milan, and is gearing up for the upcoming Paris and Vancouver showcases. For Tess, the journey has been both exhilarating and demanding, with GFC providing the tools, connections, and guidance necessary to elevate her brand to the next level.
“Being part of GFC’s Fashion Week shows has been an unforgettable experience,” Tess adds. “Tokyo’s fashion scene is incredibly avant-garde, setting a bold tone for the season, while New York Fashion Week offers that fast-paced, high-energy environment that pushes our creativity to new levels. Every show is a new adventure. Jamal and the GFC team go beyond just putting us on the runway; they make sure we build meaningful connections that last long after the shows are over.”
Jamal Abdourahman, the driving force behind Global Fashion Collective, has a longstanding history of nurturing emerging talent. His journey began with the launch of Vancouver Fashion Week in 2001, followed by GFC in 2017 with a mission to foster designers on an international scale. Now hosting shows in cities like New York, Tokyo, Milan, Paris, and Vancouver, GFC gives designers like Tess the chance to gain international visibility and establish connections crucial for their growth.
“The introductions GFC facilitates are crucial,” Tess explains. “Meeting buyers, editors, and influencers at these shows has opened up opportunities I could only dream of before.”
While GFC is known for its glitzy runway shows, its approach extends far beyond the catwalk. The organization works closely with designers to refine their market positioning and media outreach, tailoring strategies to resonate with different markets. This holistic support has made GFC an invaluable ally for emerging designers looking to break into the global fashion scene.
As Tess Mann Atelier prepares for upcoming showcases in Paris, and Vancouver, the partnership with Global Fashion Collective continues to be a catalyst for the brand’s evolution. “GFC is more than just a fashion week platform; it’s a network of support. It’s about building a brand that has staying power, not just having a moment on the runway,” Tess says.
For designers looking to make their mark on the international stage, Global Fashion Collective remains a beacon of opportunity—fostering creativity, building networks, and championing the voices of fashion’s next generation. With stories like Tess’s, it’s clear that GFC is paving the way for talented designers to thrive in an industry that often seems impossible to break into.
Photo of Tess Mann Atelier’s Tokyo Fashion Week Showcase in partnership with GFC by John Diep Photography.
