Ferrara Hosts RAISEfashion to Support the Next Generation of Designers
- Ferrara Manufacturing
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Published June 19, 2025
On June 12, 2025, Ferrara proudly opened the doors of our Long Island City factory to host RAISE the Future—an inspiring evening presented in partnership with RAISEfashion. The event brought together leaders, changemakers, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for the Designer Production Fund, an initiative designed to help BIPOC and underrepresented designers access the production resources they need to scale their businesses with integrity.
At Ferrara, where our work is rooted in craftsmanship, precision, and mentorship, this wasn’t just a gathering—it was a chance to help shape the future of American fashion.
Behind the Seams: A Factory Tour with Joe Ferrara and Michael Rose
The designers were invited on an intimate behind-the-scenes tour of the Ferrara Factory—led by CEO Joe Ferrara and EVP Michael Rose.
From the cutting floor to final pressing, the tour offered a firsthand look at what goes into producing high-end, Made in USA garments at scale. Attendees learned about canvas construction, machinery calibration, quality control, and the craftsmanship that powers Ferrara’s work with both heritage brands and rising designers.
It was an opportunity to demystify the production process—and to reinforce why access to this kind of expertise can be transformative for emerging fashion businesses.
A Night of Purpose and Community
The Ferrara Factory became a space for powerful connections—between designers and mentors, between legacy and innovation. Guests filled the space with conversation, curiosity, and a shared belief in a more equitable and transparent fashion industry.
Throughout the evening, guests posed in front of the Ferrara event backdrop, connected over drinks and conversation, and reflected on the value of providing access—not just to tools and facilities, but to knowledge, networks, and long-term support.
Conversations That Mattered: Two Insightful Panels
At the heart of the evening were two panels that addressed some of fashion’s most pressing questions—with candor, experience, and heart.
Panel 1: The True Cost of Production
This thoughtful conversation explored the realities behind building a sustainable fashion business—through the lens of those who’ve lived it.
Moderated by Felita Harris (Executive Director & Co-founder, RAISEfashion), the panel focused on the often-overlooked costs of production, the unique challenges faced by emerging designers, and the central role American manufacturing can play in creating sustainable, ethical fashion at scale.
Panelists included:
Joseph Ferrara, CEO & Co-founder, Ferrara MFG
Gabrielle Ferrara, President & COO, Ferrara MFG
Prabal Gurung, Designer and author of Walk Like a Girl: A Memoir
Aisling Camps, Knitwear Designer and RAISE Masterclass Alum
Together, they explored the intersection of sustainability, craftsmanship, and transparency, highlighting a growing resurgence of interest in Made in America fashion—and what it actually takes to make that viable.
Fireside Chat: Bradley Taylor on Purpose and Philanthropy
In a candid fireside conversation, Bradley Taylor (entrepreneur, investor, and RAISEfashion board member) sat down with Felita Harris to discuss how to lead with purpose, build cross-generational impact, and make equity a long-term investment. The conversation was a powerful reminder that changing fashion means changing how we value people, purpose, and partnership.
Guests also had the opportunity to meet Prabal Gurung, who signed copies of his new memoir, Walk Like a Girl, following the panel.
A Shared Commitment to Access and Excellence
Ferrara was built on the idea that precision, craftsmanship, and integrity should be the foundation of every garment. But we also believe that excellence should be accessible—especially to those building something new.
That’s why we were proud to stand beside RAISEfashion in support of the Designer Production Fund. This initiative is more than a grant. It’s a commitment to equity, mentorship, and a future where designers of all backgrounds have the tools to succeed.
Explore the Photo Gallery
From candid moments to red carpet smiles, these images capture the spirit, creativity, and community that filled the Ferrara Factory that night.
How to Support
To everyone who joined us—thank you. Your presence, energy, and generosity helped bring this mission to life. Events like RAISE the Future remind us of the power of community—and the importance of making space for new voices in fashion.
If you’d like to learn more about the Designer Production Fund or support its ongoing impact, visit raisefashion.org. Your contribution helps provide the access, mentorship, and production resources that emerging designers need to thrive.
Together, we can help raise the future of fashion.
