Join us Thursday, September 11^th at 7pm for an NYC Fashion Week kick-off conversation with five of House Ballroom’s leading designers! The evening panel discussion will celebrate the presenters’ creativity and multifold contributions to Ballroom, fashion, culture, community, and beyond. Q+A and reception to follow.

Moderator:

Icon J’Lin Lanvin

As a 25-year participant in the House Ballroom Scene, J’Lin has competed for over two decades, earning her Iconic and Hall of Fame status for all fashion categories, such as High Fashion Couture, Labels, Best Dressed, Foot & Eyewear, and many more. Formerly the NYC Mother of The House Of Xclusive-Lanvin, J’Lin now supports the house on an executive level, while supporting the community and community partners by curating various Ballroom and LGBTQIA+ projects throughout NYC. J’Lin also oversees the NY-NJ Ballroom Alliance, which focuses on brining all NYC chapter houses together to build and mobilize house members in positive engagement and structured guidelines. Professionally, J’Lin is the Director of Community Engagement & Program Operations for the Hetrick-Martin Institute, and works directly with youth and young adults who participate in the Kiki House & Ballroom Scene. J’Lin has been able to utilize relationships, skillsets, and relatability to connect with the youth to engage in programming. Through these engagements, J’Lin has built “community” while providing a foundation of love and support for many LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.

Panelists:

Marquise Foster is a fashion designer best known for competing on Project Runway Season 18, where he showcased his modern, sophisticated, and detail-driven aesthetic. Born and raised in Oakland, California, he brings a bold, artistic perspective rooted in his diverse cultural background and personal journey. His work often combines luxury with wearability, blending sharp tailoring with innovative textures and silhouettes. After gaining national recognition on Project Runway, Marquise has continued to build his brand, designing pieces for both everyday wear and high-profile celebrity clients, as well as tailoring services. He is passionate about creating garments that empower individuals to feel confident, unique, and stylish. Beyond the runway, Marquise fosters connections with his community, using fashion as a platform for storytelling and self-expression. His evolving vision cements him as an emerging voice in contemporary American fashion.

Icon Fashion Designer Michael Leon Allure Michael Leon was reared, educated, and began his fashion career in the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With over 33 years in the Fashion style business, Michael Leon has imprinted the world with his art: his fashion, which is reflective of his persona and spirit, bold, elegant, and sophistication with the right edginess. After being introduced to the Ballroom community back in the late 1990’s, Michael began providing his services to many of Ballroom’s most notable pioneers, icons, and stars, helping many to add more wins to their legacy. And now with a new chapter Michael has started his own nonprofit, Counsel On Ballroom Fashion INC., which is centered around uplifting and supporting the immense talent that exists within the Ballroom culture.

Formally known as Overall Father of The Royal House of LaBeija…. Now founder of the new Ultravating Haus of Elixir….Icon Fatha Freddie
With a mixing bowl of major talent, a drizzle of courageous, wide-eyed personality, and a few grand prize trophies for binding; you’ve got a creation known as Fatha Freddie…. A part of Ballroom scene since 1987 by way of Washington D.C… I have a hue of inspirational moments, but to the current date, just to name a few, is the re-creation of Pepper LaBeija’s look at Icon Dorian Stewart Ebony ” I AM Ball ” 2024, and Bazaar look at Icon Leiomy Maldonado ” The Fifth Element Ball ” 2025.

RJ Frazer was born on the vibrant island of St. Thomas U.S.V.I., and relocated to New York City at the age of 15. Immersing himself in the pulsating rhythms of one of the world’s fashion capitals, it was in this bustling metropolis that he discovered his passion for fashion, inspired by the eclectic mix of cultures, styles, and artistic expressions that surrounded him.

Starting his journey in the industry as a stylist, RJ honed his eye for detail and aesthetics, collaborating with various artists and creatives to craft distinctive looks that resonated with individuality and self-expression. His innate talent and innovative vision quickly paved the way for a transformation into a self-taught contemporary streetwear designer. In 2012, RJ made his remarkable debut by launching his menswear brand, Nativ New York, during the widely celebrated Fashion’s Night Out. The collection showcased RJ’s unique ethos, blending urban style with modern sensibilities, and celebrated the spirit of creativity and authenticity.

Drawing inspiration from his Caribbean roots, RJ infuses his designs with a sense of freedom and vibrancy, creating pieces that not only reflect contemporary trends but also tell a story of cultural heritage. His work is characterized by bold graphics, innovative fabrics, and a commitment to sustainability, making Nativ New York a standout name in the streetwear scene. As RJ continues to carve his niche in the fashion industry, he remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and inspiring others with his distinctive vision and passion for design.