The 2027 Relaunch

Then. Now. Next.

Two Boston runway shows in 2014 and 2015. A long pause. Now a sensory-friendly, inclusive return inspired by founder Rica Elysée's journey with her son.

Then

2014–2015

Two Boston shows, starting in 2014

Kids Rip the Runway debuted on October 11, 2014 at Boston's Back Bay Events Center, with 45 youth models and five kids' designers, and the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston as charity partner. A second show was held in 2015.

The pause

After 2015

A long pause, then a new purpose

After the 2015 show, the runway took a long pause. Founder Rica Elysée's journey with her son has since inspired a new direction: a show that makes room for more young people and their families.

2027

A sensory-friendly return

Kids Rip the Runway 2027 is being reimagined as a sensory-friendly, inclusive youth fashion show and an autism fundraiser. We are aiming to take the runway during Boston Fashion Week 2027; dates and venue are to be announced. Families and designers can join the interest list for updates.

Young Kids Rip the Runway participants and organizers smiling together after an original show.

What we're holding onto

The same heart, a much bigger stage.

Kids first, always: Every production decision is measured against one question: is this good for the child on stage?
Representation on purpose: Casting reflects Boston — every neighborhood, every body, every ability, every background.
Real craft, real standards: We are working toward thoughtful lighting, sound, styling, and photography that respect young participants' needs.
Access over exclusivity: Sponsor-funded and scholarship spots so a family's budget isn't the deciding factor.

From the archive

The pride was real from the beginning.

On October 11, 2014, a member of the Kids Rip the Runway team shared this message as the show came together. It captures what families and collaborators built: young people doing the work, an energized team behind them, and a community proud to see them shine.

October 11, 2014 · Community history

A 2014 social media post celebrating the Kids Rip the Runway team and the work the children put into the event. — An original team post shared during the 2014 Kids Rip the Runway show.

Dates: to be announcedVenue: to be announced

Be on the list before the announcement.

Interest-list families and designers get first notice when 2027 casting, submissions, and ticketing open.