Announcing The 2026 UpNXT Finalists
FashioNXT is excited to announce The 2026 UpNXT Emerging Designers!
- Zezenah
- Dearest Cloud
- Prismdrifter
- Shore Darling
These designers will get to showcase their work on opening night of FashioNXT Week, October 8th showcasing their collections at the largest fashion event in the PNW.
The Emerging Designers Accelerator is a designer competition where emerging designers get to present their brands. Finalists are chosen and get to showcase their designs at FashioNXT week and partake in a mentorship program.
From the finalists, one winner will be selected by a panel of judges and the people’s choice. The winner receives a cash prize and mentorship along with a show slot at FashioNXT Week the following year.
Meet the Designers
Zezenah is western luxury brand based in Dallas, Texas. IG: @zezenah_fashion
Desert Cloud’s brand is ready to wear, colorful, and playful based in Portland, Oregon. IG: @dearestcloud_
Prismdrifter makes independent avant-garde clothing that is sustainable and surreal based in Portland Oregon. IG: @_prismdrifter_
Shore Darling features custom designs, upcycling and ready-to-wear pieces that are inspired by the coast based in Santa Monica, California. IG: @shoredarling
Meet the Judges
A huge thank you to this year’s judges!
(from left to right)
Seth Aaron – Winner of Project Runway Season 7 and All-Stars 3
Ken Boddie – KOIN6 Anchor
Matt Rhoades – Former Global Creative Director at Nike,
Stephanie McComb – Creative Director at Love Stephanie
See these designers on the runway this October 8th at FashioNXT Week! Buy your tickets now to our 2026 UpNXT Runway Competition.