Announcing the Spring/Fall 2026 Cohort
If you’ve made it to our blog, you’ve probably heard the exciting news.
We’re extending our program to six months, beginning March 2026! 🎉 With this major update comes exciting changes to how our program is run.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Spring/Fall 2026 cohort:
Program Updates
For the past three years, Hems & Brims has offered 1:1 mentorship and group sessions (courses) for young Black fashion creatives. With this extension, we’re introducing virtual Career Readiness events exclusively for our students during August 2026, including:
Workshops
Guest Speaker Sessions
Networking Events
Additionally, our curriculum will be updated to provide deeper insights into foundational knowledge and technical skills, ensuring students are well prepared for the fashion industry.
Our program will remain virtual, enabling us to support young Black creatives across the U.S. and internationally. Please note that all courses, 1:1 and group sessions will be scheduled in Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Program Timeline
Waitlist Opens: January 6, 2025
Registration Opens: September 15, 2025
Application Deadline: November 15, 2025
Final Selections Announced: January 6, 2026
Virtual Orientation: February 2026 (TBA)
Program Begins: March 7, 2026
Virtual Graduation: August 30, 2026
Program Overview
Our extended Spring/Fall 2026 cohort is designed to provide a comprehensive and supportive environment for students to explore fashion, hone their skills, and prepare for the industry.
Courses
Our courses are divided into two key components:
1. Foundational Courses:
Introduction to Fashion History: Learn about the rich contributions of Black creatives to the fashion industry, explore major movements, and understand how Black culture and innovation have shaped the fashion world today.
Industry Basics & Insights: Gain a comprehensive understanding of how the fashion industry operates, from key roles and career paths to the fundamentals of sustainable practices and the business of fashion. Explore how fashion brands are built, the importance of ethical production, and strategies for navigating this ever-evolving industry as an aspiring professional.
2. Technical Skills Development:
Sewing Techniques: Learn hand-sewing and machine-sewing fundamentals, from simple stitches to advanced techniques.
Design Techniques: Discover the process of creating original designs, focusing on sketching, mood boards, and visual storytelling.
Pattern Making: Understand the art of drafting patterns, making adjustments, and creating custom pieces from scratch.
Group Sessions
These sessions will now center on collaborative projects facilitated by Group Session Leaders (GSLs), led by our program alumni.
Students will work in groups to complete a fashion-related project, fostering teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
1:1 Mentorship
Each student will have a weekly 1-hour session with their assigned mentor. These personalized sessions focus on:
Completing weekly assignments.
Setting and achieving individual goals.
Developing a tailored plan to track and support student progress.
Career Readiness
During August 2026, students will benefit from targeted career preparation:
Workshops: Led by industry professionals, covering topics such as sustainable fashion, business strategies, and career growth.
Expert Talks: Students will hear firsthand advice and insights from experienced fashion leaders.
Networking Mixers: Opportunities to connect with professionals, alumni, and peers, helping students build their industry network.
Program Highlights
Since accepting our first students in 2021, we’ve had the privilege of mentoring 25 talented students. Our partnerships with organizations like Seed Public Charter School of DC and Creatives Want Change have helped us grow and expand our reach.
Through donor support, we’ve distributed 120 yards of fabric and 16 sewing machines to empower students in their fashion journeys. Additionally, in 2024, our students gained volunteer opportunities with the Sustainable Fashion Community Center of NYC.
We’re thrilled to share that we’ve recently received fiscal sponsorship from Community Initiatives, enabling us to accept tax-deductible donations to support our mission.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower the next generation of Black fashion creatives by equipping them with resources, mentorship and professional and educational opportunities.
The program extension is a labor of love and a testament to our commitment to uplifting young Black creatives. We believe it’s imperative to provide our youth with a head start, empowering them to achieve their dreams and build a legacy in the fashion industry.
Ongoing Support for Black Creatives
Until the 2026 cohort begins, we’ll continue supporting Black creatives by hosting virtual workshops, networking events, and guest speaker sessions—open to the public. To participate, you must be at least 18 years old and donate a minimum of $25 to our organization.
Donations will help fund scholarships, program resources, and opportunities for students participating in our program. Starting August 2026, all events will be exclusive to our students.
Stay updated on upcoming events by visiting our website and following our social media channels.
We’re overjoyed to share this news with you and look forward to continuing our mission to support young Black creatives pursuing careers in fashion.