April 4, 2014

The definitive arbiter of fashion for Neiman Marcus, Ken Downing, will make a return visit to the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design on Friday, April 11, to engage the Drexel community in a discussion on spring trends and the future of fashion. The fashion director and senior vice president of Neiman Marcus stores will lead a free-to-the-public presentation at 9:30am in the URBN Center Annex Screening Room (3401 Filbert St.).

Downing will join Clare Sauro, Curator of the newly renamed Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection, in an exclusive conversation on select items from the collection’s more than 12,000 garments, accessories and textiles that is open by invitation only. Downing will also tour the URBN Center fashion facilities, and offer feedback to Fashion Design seniors on their creations.

In May 2013 Downing was the recipient of the Westphal Award, presented for his profound understanding of the luxury retail customer and the industry community, and for his humanitarian efforts to inspire and nurture the next generation of leaders. The award is one of the highest honors bestowed by the College. Downing has played a pivotal role in all style elements at Neiman Marcus since 2006. He oversees women’s and men’s trends, manages the company’s New York office, represents Neiman Marcus in the media and at major fashion events, and directs 200 merchants in Dallas on what to buy for each season.