The Michigan Fashion Media Summit is arguably one of the most renowned student-led organizations at the University of Michigan. Founded in 2018, they dedicate themselves to bringing together emerging talent and established industry voices. The resulting pathways allow for meaningful introductions and support into fashion, media and creative business. This past April, the Michigan Fashion Media Summit (MFMS) 2026 took place at the Ross School of Business. The diverse and unique crowd of students and speakers remind us of the impact of these industries, bringing together an inspiring community of passionate individuals entirely dedicated to their craft.
Those who believe that the MFMS is simply a day-long summit about fashion are wrong, and this year proved that. Even while walking on campus, one couldn’t go without seeing innovatively creative advertisements for the MFMS. It’s safe to say that the MFMS has established a powerful presence in our community. Pre-summit activities consisted of a raffle for “Campus Essentials,” a local Ondo x MFMS collaboration, Oudessa x MFMS perfume, Camair x MFMS phone cases and the yearly Thursday Night Launch Party.
The actual summit on Friday included seven different panels, in addition to a Fashion Forward Showcase competition and networking hour. Between Brand Storytelling, The Art of Styling, Retain Renaissance and Vision to Venture, the MFMS provided something for everyone.
MFMS founder, Ali Gropper, was once a student at the University who felt passionate about pursuing a career in fashion; knowing that there were others students and faculty who shared this interest, she created the first ever fashion-focused program on campus. Every year, she joins the MFMS to not only support the team, but to share some of her industry knowledge and inspire others who share this passion.
Many of my experiences during my time at MFMS 2026 truly established its value and meaning. Certain moments continue to stick in my brain and encapsulate what MFMS does for its participants. The first of these highlights include learning about Calvin Klein’s former CEO, Steve Shiffman, and his opinion on media’s CBK hyperfixation. “Love Story”, the FX show now streaming on Hulu, has taken over the internet — and Shiffman believes Calvin Klein, whether on purpose or not, is the main beneficiary. Hearing an expert’s opinion on the intersection of media and fashion at MFMS further reinforces this highly inter-related world. My second MFMS highlight was when Danielle Guizio (of Guizio) and Francesca Aiello (of Frankie’s Bikinis) shared their experiences as founders of viral clothing brands. For many, this panel was an opportunity to see their favorite brand’s founders not only impart their wisdom, but give them a sneak peek (and perhaps some motivation) into what it’s like to take the internet by storm.
Beyond scheduled events, students showcased their take on “business” attire, taking this unique opportunity to learn and witness fashion in action. While many find dressing for their upcoming internships, school presentations and interviews boring and monotonous, the MFMS, year after year, proves that fashion and business can go hand in hand — both in theory and in the real world.
Although the MFMS 2026 weekend is over, they continue to remain active on their social media and host additional events. We look forward to the 2027 summit which will bring similar and new students and speakers to experience and appreciate the inspiring and expansiveness of all MFMS events.
Daily Arts Writer Lucia Larach can be reached at llarach@umich.edu.
