The 39th annual Silver Needle Runway took place on May 20, 2025, highlighting the work of senior fashion design students and the fashion show production class at Marist College. The event raised $45,000 for the Fashion Scholarship Fund through ticket sales and donations, with more than 2,000 tickets sold at McCann Arena.
Guests at the event explored collections by student designers, shopped at the MPorium pop-up shop—which saw an 8% increase in sales compared to last year—and viewed the latest issue of Measure Magazine, which experienced a 45% rise in engagement from its previous launch.
Jennifer Finn, Chair of the Fashion Department, addressed those involved in organizing and participating in the event. “Tonight, we celebrate the fashion department’s hallmark experiential learning opportunities that actively engage students and prepare them for a strong college to career path that puts theory into practice,” Finn said.
A total of 27 senior Fashion Design majors presented their capsule collections. Many designers drew inspiration from personal heritage and family members or focused on sustainability within their designs.
Industry professionals attended as judges after reviewing student portfolios before the show. Notable guests included Luke Hall, Vice President of Design at Ann Taylor Factory and Loft Outlet; Julia Luff, Textile and Concept Designer at Free People; and Francesca Liberatore, Creative Director of her own brand.
At the conclusion of the evening, Francesca Liberatore awarded Hanna Beth Lee with Designer of the Year honors. “This student has shaped their collection in the same way they’ll shape their career,” she said.
Hanna Beth Lee received recognition for their collection titled “Tailor Made: The Romance of Old Clothes.”
The runway show opened with a performance by Marist Music Department’s student orchestra and featured a rotating stage that allowed seamless transitions between collections.
Before presenting Hanna Beth Lee with their award, Liberatore spoke directly to Marist students attending: “I believe in the possibility that this University gives to you as students, and the effort of all your professors to drive your creativity and education to a higher standard. I believe in all of you to be the shape a great future with the great things Marist is providing you,” she said.
