Last Tuesday, we hosted our fourth international Fireside Dinner in a unique atmosphere: Decision-makers, representatives, and visionaries from the fashion, cultural, and business worlds gathered in New York to further deepen German-American exchange in the fashion industry. As part of the Berlin Fashion X International project and the accompanying delegation trip to New York City, the FCG's Fireside Dinner provided a forum to generate new ideas and foster synergies between German talent and the international fashion scene.

The renowned Schilling restaurant, located in the heart of the Financial District, served as the venue. A specially curated menu was presented for the occasion, offering a tribute to German cuisine. Schilling is the passion project of Michelin-starred chef Eduard Frauneder , who reinterprets Austrian cuisine with his distinctive style. In a relaxed atmosphere, approximately 50 select guests gathered to enjoy culinary excellence and discuss the future of German-American fashion relations.

In close collaboration with partners, a platform for personal exchange, cooperation, and intercultural dialogue was deliberately created throughout the delegation's trip. The evening focused not only on strengthening the German-American partnership but also, and especially, on the German fashion and accessory labels that accompanied the delegation: 6ad Stitches , Esther Perbandt , Fiona Bennett , Gina Melosi , Horror Vacui , International Citizen , Laura Gerte , Studio Taskin , Unvain , and William Fan . They impressively showcased the creative diversity and innovative strength of the German fashion design scene—and how well-connected they already are internationally.

Other guests included local figures from the fashion and technology sectors, as well as representatives from prominent media outlets, including Melitta Baumeister (designer), Mark Holgate (Global Network Lead and US Fashion Features Director, Vogue US), Larissa Gargaro (Fashion Creator Partnerships, META), Vincent Gobeil and Laura Baker (Buying Director & Co-Founder, ESSX), Fiona Luo (Public Relations, Gia Kuan Consulting), Sam Knoll (Fashion Market Editor, iD), and Dylan Kelly (Fashion Editor, Hypebeast). Several of the guests had previously visited the German capital for Berlin Fashion Week . Their return to New York underscores not only the growing international network of the Fashion Council Germany but also the relevance and impact of Berlin Fashion Week beyond national borders. The fireside dinner thus provided a platform not only for new ideas but also for continuing existing dialogues – a reunion among key players who actively contribute to the global positioning of the German fashion industry.

Berlin Fashion X International is supported by a state program, which is financed by ERDF funds and funds from the state of Berlin.