The Fashion Business Organization (FBO) is KU’s first step toward bringing resources to students passionate about fashion. Founded in 2021, the student-run organization connects members with industry insights, hands-on experiences and opportunities to express themselves and network.
The organization was created in response to the limited fashion-related opportunities at KU. Through networking events, workshops, and collaborations with local businesses, FBO has been working a greater fashion presence into campus culture here in Lawrence.
“FBO is for anyone who loves fashion—not just business majors,” organization president Marilyn Jewett said. “We want people to leave our meetings thinking, ‘Wow, there’s a community of people interested in the same thing I am, even though KU doesn’t have many resources for it.’”
FBO has hosted many workshops, giving members a taste of the fashion industry. Workshops have included styling tutorials and hands-on activities, while guest speakers have shared insights into the many paths within the fashion industry.
Members of the Fashion Business Organization created fashion moodboards at their first meeting of the semester on Sept. 11, 2024. The organization uses hands-on activities like creating moodboards to inspire creativity through clothing.
Sophomore member Liv Cadenas explained the most recent hands-on activity, the creation of Pinterest boards for sustainable Halloween costumes made from thrifted clothing, allowing members to explore environmentally conscious and cost effective avenues to fashion.
“The main thing FBO has shown me is how many aspects there are to [the fashion industry],” Jewett said. “There are so many different kinds of job positions and individual parts to the industry. Having guest speakers has been great to see the range of people doing completely their own thing.”
The organization encourages members to think outside the box and explore their potential. From activities such as inspiration boards and guest speakers, members are given ways to generate ideas to push the limits of their own personal styles.
“I think FBO also allows people to think creatively, which is what the world has lacked in these last few years,” said Jack Berry, the organization’s event coordinator. “I enjoy being able to help people grow both personally and professionally.”
FBO members often engage with the fashion world, incorporating the lessons they’ve learned from the organization in their endeavors. Jewett, who started reselling vintage clothing in 2018, now sells regularly online and at pop-up events, including markets hosted by Daisy Lee Vintage and other events throughout Lawrence and Kansas City.
“I have a brand called Marilyn’s Mall right now, and that’s like my vintage resale business,” Jewett said. “Eventually, I want to make it an actual storefront, but on a bigger scale, with a bunch of different kinds of vintage vendors.”
Other members are diving into online platforms like instagram to showcase their creativity.
“On my fashion Instagram, I post everything fashion-related and model for different companies, learning more about the industry,” Cadenas said. “FBO has played a huge role in my success and networking in the fashion world.”
The organization prides itself on blending creativity with entrepreneurship.
“We want to give members the tools they need to connect their passion for fashion with real-world opportunities,” said Lucia Scarpinato, a member of the organization’s PR committee. “Whether that’s hosting vintage pop-ups, collaborating with local designers, or organizing networking events, the goal is to inspire students to engage with the fashion scene on and off campus.”
Jewett expressed the organization’s eagerness to continue expanding its presence both on campus and in the fashion world. Through networking opportunities, workshops and future planned events, FBO aims to help students unlock opportunities in the world of fashion.
One of the most anticipated upcoming events is KU Fashion Week, set for March 27 to 29, 2025. The fashion week will celebrate the talent and creativity of students at KU.
The organization is currently accepting applications for models and designers, providing a unique opportunity for students to showcase their talents.
For the latest updates on meetings and events, follow the organization on Instagram at @ku.fbo.
