If you had told me a few years ago that I would be here, writing my final President’s letter for TFN’s 14th Issue, I would’ve said “You think way too much of me!” not at all aware of where I’d be today. I joined TFN as a model, drawn to the creativity and freedom of expression that radiated in this community. My first photoshoot, Perhaps Lack of Motif, was all about pushing self made boundaries; a message I didn’t realize would come to define my experience with TFN.
I remember standing in front of the camera that day, feeling both excited yet unsure. What started as a simple shoot turned into something so much greater: an introduction to a world where my ideas can become reality, and collaboration becomes art. Soon after, I knew that I had to contribute more to this community and started my journey as marketing director, and then President. The experience has been nothing short of exhilarating. From braving freezing waters for Lunar Luminance with Jolene and Ellie, to watching Porcelain Paradox come to life by our genius Makeup Director (and now President) Karla De La Cerda, these moments were more than just projects, they were proof of what can happen when crazy people go for crazy ideas. TFN is not just a club or publication; it is a living, breathing testament to the power of creative minds uniting over a purpose.
But, beyond the photoshoots and events, TFN has shaped me in ways I never expected. This organization pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone and into the person I had always hoped to be. I’ve met the most ambitious, wildly talented individuals who have changed and inspired me. William Hohe, whose mind operates in a way where you can’t look away. Olivia Sims, who set the foundation for everything this publication has become, and Maddie Edwards who has redefined that vision. Cece Lopez and Taychelle Glen, whose limitless imagination brought TFN’s portion of The Circular Fashion Exposition to life. And of course Mia Bartletti (A.K.A DJ Neveah) for making sound into art. Every member in this organization, whether in the spotlight or working tirelessly behind the scenes, has played a role in shaping TFN into what it is today. I am endlessly grateful for each of you.
TFN has been the defining experience of my college years, and this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. More than anything, TFN has taught me what it means to build something that lasts, given be friendships like family, confidence in my new creative voice, and overall a deeper appreciation for the creatives in my life.
To every model, photographer, stylist, designer, and member- thank you. Your passion and dedication make TFN what it is, and I am forever proud of what we’ve built together.
I have no doubt that TFN’s best years are still ahead.
With gratitude,
Alexandra Limov TFN President SP24-FA24
Dear The Fashion Network,
I began my time with TFN my freshman year. On a campus so large, I was desperate to find a community of people like myself. Creatives who were stepping out of their comfort zone and pushing the boundaries of what art and fashion mean. It was by chance that I heard about TFN and after attending the info night I knew I had finally found that community I was in search of.
I started modestly as an alternate graphic designer for issue 11, by issue 12 I had earned a spot as a shoot designer. Ethereal Auras was 40 pages of design. Never in my life had I taken on such a large design project, I didn’t know where to even start. I had not been very confident in my skills as a designer and I knew I had much to learn. With the guidance of Olivia Sims I was able to achieve what I never thought capable of myself. At the end of the process, I had finally created a design work that I was proud of. I felt my confidence as a designer grow as did my hunger to keep improving.
The position of Creative Director of Design came with its own set of challenges. Designing 40 pages is vastly different from designing an entire magazine, this seemed like another impossible feat. However, one thing I have learned about being a designer is that if you don’t push yourself you will never grow. So I took on the challenge with the support of my fellow exec members. When brainstorming they never asked, “do we think we can do this?” it was always “how do we do this?” If there is an idea, it can be brought to life no matter how impossible it may seem. TFN continues to push the limits and won’t stop.
I am eternally grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with a group of such incredibly talented and creative individuals. This magazine is a passion project made possible by each and every one of you. My incredibly talented peers on the exec board who have put their blood, sweat, and tears into this club and continue to do so. The wonderful designers for this project: Hallie Thomas, Katrina Boyce, Alexandra Limov, and Julianne Castillo. As well as every member of this club. No matter how big or small your role may seem, your work is not overlooked, and it is a crucial part of the many unique pieces that make up TFN. This position has been a blessing, and TFN continues to be a significant source of growth and inspiration for me. This community and my time spent here will always hold a special place in my heart, as it helped me fall back in love with being a creative. There is no better feeling than this.
This is just the beginning. A club like this would never exist without dreamers, people who won't take, “it can't be done” as an answer. So, keep dreaming. Keep challenging yourself. Keep doing what you love. Keep being creative. Keep improving.
Made with love, from my hands to yours, TFN issue 14.
Best wishes,
Madison Edwards TFN Creative Director of Design SP24-FA24
