My Experience at the 2025 Fashion scholarship fund gala
- Lauryn Giddings
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
My Two-Time FSF Journey, From Florence to New York and Everything in Between
I am beyond thrilled to share that I was selected once again by the Fashion Scholarship Fund—making me a two-time winner for this year’s case study, Falling into the Cyberverse.
This year, I made a promise to myself: get out of my comfort zone, show up unapologetically, and connect with others—truly connect. Honestly, I was surprised people even remembered me from last year!
The FSF events in 2024 were chaotic in the best way. I was studying abroad in Florence, Italy, so to make it to New York in time, I had to hop on a 16-hour flight, scramble for last-minute shopping trips (because all I had in Italy were my “everyday” fits), and prep for networking mode—all while trying to find my way in a new city with no WiFi because I forgot to take out my Italian SIM card. Classic me.
Let me tell you, I was exhausted—and I’d never been to New York City before. But somehow, between the nerves, excitement, and a lot of caffeine, I made it through. More than that—I flourished. Talking with industry professionals and fellow scholars made me realize just how proud I am to be a part of this beautiful, evolving community. There was this perfect cocktail of inspiration, drive, and ambition buzzing in every room. I felt it in my bones.
This year felt even more special because I got to attend with a crew of incredible fellow VCU students who also won FSF! Some I had never met before, but it didn’t matter—we clicked instantly. We attended panels and events together, hyped each other up, shared advice, and yes, ran through NYC like absolute hooligans to get gelato before closing. (And don’t worry—we tipped the workers for dealing with our chaos!)
Even Anna Wintour was there—and best believe, I was ready. I got to shake her hand and tell her who I was, but I didn’t get to have a full conversation… yet. 😏 I’m staying positive. That handshake felt like the start of many more.
I may have felt like Pearl from that one SpongeBob episode meeting her idol, but not because I was nervous—I was just excited. Seeing her in person reminded me that beyond all the fame, legacy, and iconic sunglasses, she’s still human. Just like me.
It made me eager to speak with her, but I know it wasn’t the right moment just yet. I’m trusting that next time, the universe will make room for more than a handshake.
Chloe Allen won Best Design Case Study also presented her speech as the final top four! It was a huge moment that made all of us VCU students feel even more proud to represent Chloe’s hard work, our school, and each other.
This year, my Fashion Scholarship Fund Design Case Study Falling into the Cyberverse is a collection reimagining Louis Vuitton through the lens of XR. With immersive boutique experiences, innovative craftsmanship with AI Magnex for fashion shows, and collaborations with the the personified character of AI, I was able to have great conversations around the crossroads of fashion and technology.
Oh—and the fashion? Immaculate. I wore a tiered tulle Milla dress in Cinderella-blue. I felt like a princess at the gala, and the compliments it drew sparked so many great conversations. It reminded me that fashion really is a language of connection.
I don’t know where the next year will take me, but whether I return as a three-time winner (fingers crossed!) or a proud alum, I’ll continue expanding my network, seeking growth, and putting my all into everything I do.
Huge thank you to the Fashion Scholarship Fund team for another unforgettable experience. Here's to the journey ahead—and to the brilliant, inspiring Class of 2025 FSF Scholars.
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