Lindsay Peoples Wagner and Snapchat Launched Teen Vogue’s Generation Next With a Private Runway Show

On Monday night, aces from the fashion and entertainment worlds (both YouTube vloggers and big-screen actors alike) gathered to welcome Teen Vogue’s inaugural class of young designers into the publication’s new fashion mentorship program. Generation Next is an ongoing, year-round initiative that lays the foundation for the careers of young talents in the fashion industry through networking opportunities. Each year, fashion and beauty editors will hand-select five fashion brands that identify with Teen Vogue’s ideals, amplifying their work at an invitation-only runway show during New York Fashion Week.

The West Chelsea High Line Arts District served as the backdrop for the afternoon event, where fashionistas, including Susan Alexandra, Selby Drummond, and Kellie Brown, viewed designs from the Teen Vogue–curated talent. Within the studio, the five designers showed their work in a freeze-frame of sorts, each receiving a fixed area to present their garments on real models prior to the runway segment. Looks ranged in inspiration from the pastoral to the space-age, and all maintained a focus on inclusivity with each piece. Guests were invited to interact with the models and designers about the garments.

Emma Chamberlain was a cohost, and Snapchat served as the presenting sponsor for the evening, its partnership with Teen Vogue rooted in shared values—from promoting self-expression and authentic friendship to championing inclusivity, both in fashion and in life. The social platform provided added exposure for the designers via an Our Story on Snapchat’s Discover page.

Like any great New York Fashion Week event, Generation Next reached its peak point with a show deejayed by Zuri Marley. “I’m so excited and passionate to show you guys all these wonderful people,” shared Lindsay Peoples Wagner, editor in chief of Teen Vogue, in her preshow toast. “They truly care so much.” From there, a cavalcade of models spilled down the catwalk, which occupied the same floor as the guests.

For the selected designers, the Generation Next experience is far from over. Teen Vogue will continue to provide resources and advising opportunities for the five brands, and the lucky winner’s designs will be worn by a cover star in Teen Vogue’s February 2020 Young Hollywood issue.