FAQ

What is The Fashion Circuit?

The Fashion Circuit, launched in 2024 by Sandrah Nasimiyu and Izzy Kelai, is a fashion-forward organization based in Des Moines, IA, that seeks to uplift, empower, and support creatives around the state through fellowship programs, community projects, and curated fashion shows.

How can I get involved?

There are many ways to get involved with TFC! We accept creatives of all disciplines who are eager to participate in our mission of connecting the Midwest through fashion.

  1. Apply to be a Fellow - The Fashion Circuit Fellowship is a one-of-a-kind program designed to empower the next generation of fashion creatives. Open to individuals aged 15 and above, the fellowship offers a one-year hands-on experience in the fashion industry by pairing fellows with experienced mentors and designers, culminating in our seasonal fashion shows. TFC accepts a Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter class per year, with both design and creative (behind-the-scenes) roles available. Applications are currently closed, but will open ahead of each season. Watch this space!

  2. Apply for the Circuit Team - Our volunteer Circuit Team is the backbone of The Fashion Circuit, with roles for experienced creatives open across marketing, production, and media. Applications are currently closed, but will open ahead of each season. Watch this space!

  3. Model in one of our shows - Are you a model or have you always wanted to be? Look no further! The Fashion Circuit’s F/W show featured over 100 models, and we’re always on the hunt for new talent. Attend one of our model workshops, and then show us what you’ve got at our model castings!

  4. Attend an event or show - TFC hosts two fashion shows annually, as well as several community events. Our shows are ticketed, but the majority of our events are free to attend!

  5. Volunteer - Help us with setting up and tearing down our shows, as well as other duties as needed, and reap all the free perks!

  6. Help us grow - Are you a business seeking to support a growing creative space in Des Moines? Get in contact, and we’d love to work with you!

What is the SewCial Impact initiative?

At TFC, we believe fashion has the power to inspire change, build community, and spark meaningful conversations. That vision led us to create SewCial Impact—a project that connects creativity with social responsibility.

Through SewCial Impact, we use fashion as a platform to engage local communities, address social issues, and drive lasting positive change. Our programming ranges from Sunday SewCial, an artful networking series, to Pull Up n Stitch, a monthly sewing workshop designed in partnership with local organizations to support community well-being.

Past workshops have included assembling blessing bags for unhoused Iowans, making reusable sanitary pads, and gathering essential donations for young women and mothers—just a few ways we’ve put fashion to work for the greater good.

Where and when do events typically take place?

Most of TFC’s events take place around Des Moines. Our past fashion shows have been hosted by the Olson-Larsen Galleries in Valley Junction. You can also often spot us at major fashion events around the metro, like the DSM Flea!

How can I stay connected?

It’s easy to stay connected with The Fashion Circuit! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn. You can also sign up for our newsletter!