Capital Couture: DC Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025 Illuminates the District

By Kia C. Boone, Contributing Photographer for COVERED

Washington, D.C., often celebrated for its political gravitas, once again transformed into a vibrant fashion epicenter during the Autumn/Winter 2025 edition of DC Fashion Week (DCFW). Held from September 26–28, 2025, the event showcased a dynamic blend of emerging talent and international couture, reaffirming the city's growing influence in the global fashion.

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A Weekend of Style and Substance

The festivities commenced with the Fashion Industry Networking Party at Saint Yves, drawing a diverse crowd of designers, models, stylists, and fashion enthusiasts. This gathering set the tone for a weekend dedicated to creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange.

Saturday's Emerging Designers Showcase at The National Housing Center spotlighted the ingenuity of rising American designers. Standouts included Rz1nt Studios, led by teenage prodigy Andy Velasquez, and Fernanda Salazar, whose collection captivated audiences with its vibrant color palette and innovative designs. 

The weekend culminated in the 43rd International Couture Collections Showcase, featuring a global roster of designers:

• Andrew Nowell Menswear (USA)

• Chiefo! (UK)

• Corjor International (USA)

• Clay for Design (USA)

• I AM WRIGHT (USA)

• Matveeva Fine Garment (Ukraine)

• Teona Margvlshvili (Georgia)

• Valennciiventora (USA)

• Yvonne Exclusive Designs (Ghana)

Each designer brought a unique perspective, weaving cultural narratives into their collections and enriching the

tapestry of the event. 

Behind the Lens: Capturing the Essence

Photographing DCFW was an immersive experience. The energy backstage was palpable, with designers and models collaborating to bring visions to life. On the runway, each ensemble told a story, reflecting the designer's heritage, inspiration, and craftsmanship. Capturing these moments required not just technical skill but an understanding of the narratives unfolding before the lens.

A Platform for Emerging Talent

DC Fashion Week continues to serve as a vital platform for emerging designers, offering them exposure and opportunities to connect with industry professionals. The success of the Emerging Designers Showcase, which outdrew the International Showcase in attendance for the first time, underscores the growing interest in fresh, innovative voices in fashion. 

Looking Ahead

As DCFW concludes its Autumn/Winter 2025 season, the anticipation for future showcases builds. The event's commitment to diversity, creativity, and accessibility positions it as a beacon for fashion's evolving landscape. For a visual journey through the highlights of

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Note: This article is intended for publication in COVERED magazine and reflects the author's experiences and observations during DC Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025.