Courtesy of Parsons’ ADHT

Last week kicked off Pratt Institute’s Department of Fashion’s third annual “Fashion Talks,” hosted by MAFS alumnae Kim Jenkins. And, if you think you’re going to just hear about fashion week and blogging, think again.

The series launched with culture scholar Minh-Ha T. Pham (author of one of our favorite blogs Threadbared) and model and founder of Stand Up for Fashion, Yomi Abiola. The three discussed controversial topics such as the Bangladesh factory collapse (Abiola actually visited Bangladesh to take photographs of victims) and racial diversity in the fashion industry. Pushing the conversation even further, they challenged those in attendance to go beyond what we’re already saying about fashion (i.e. we need more racial diversity) and say what’s not being said. After the talk, guests were invited to mingle with Jenkins, Abiola and Pham during a reception.

Jenkins most recently acquired the “Fashion Talk” series, which will explore the intersections of culture, dress and more as it pertains to fashion. While curating the five-part series, Jenkins also holds a position as a visiting professor at Pratt, as well as teaches an undergraduate course at Parsons. Her fun and eclectic style, bright smile and outstanding research won her many acknowledgments during her time–and after–in Parsons MAFS program.

Join Jenkins for her next chat, taking place at 6pm on Oct. 6 as she explores “The Fine Art of Menswear” with Simon Doonan and Dion Mattison. Check out the rest of the “Fashion Talk” series’ talks here.