Emerging Designer Program

We have various levels of involvement with designers: the Emerging Designer Program, and the Designer Co-op.

The Emerging Designer Program remains the heart of the Marketplace, with a two-tiered approach to partnering with the Fashion Research Institute.

The basic partnership includes basic store front space with full access to the range of runway and photography sets and free admission to a monthly design seminar. 

The Emerging Designer partnership includes not just store front space, but the opportunity to mentor directly with Fashion Research Institute CEO Shenlei Winkler. These designers receive focused attention on their brand and their work, with compassionate critique specifically intended to help these designers move their brands forward.  Applications for both levels of partnership are available at the Marketplace.

A cooperative is more than just a term.  It's a community of like-minded people who band together and pool their strengths and resources in order to collectively create something that is both stronger and more substantial than what any one individual of the group could produce.  The community cooperates to bring together something beautiful and productive.

The Shengri La Designer Coop is based on this concept, and  helps designers present their creations in innovative and interesting ways to help them build their brand, developer their career, and enhance their revenue stream.  The experienced and knowledgeable staff at the Fashion Research Institute work closely with members of the Co-op to develop unique, interesting, and exciting fashion displays and events.  

To apply, please visit the Marketplace in Shengri La Hope in Second Life.

The Professional Virtua Designer Society is a new program the Institute will be launching.  The Society members will benefit from a comprehensive suite of benefits ranging from major medical and other forms of insurance to member discounts and professional development courses and seminars.