We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Thomas McClure. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Thomas below.

Thomas, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?

In today’s fashion landscape, often dominated by images of immaculate models in lavish, high-end attire, there’s a noticeable gap between these stylized portrayals and the genuine human element inherent in fashion. Behind each flawlessly crafted image lies real lives…real people — each person, from the seemingly impeccable models to the designers and artists behind the scenes, there’s a rich narrative teeming with authenticity.

Our society is evolving, gravitating towards a ‘human-first’ ethos, seeking out narratives that resonate with truth and genuine experiences. While a beautifully composed photograph is undeniably a work of art, it’s the human stories behind these images that are increasingly capturing the public’s imagination. Questions arise: What journeys have these designers embarked on? What adversities have they overcome to reach this level of success? What does a day in the life of a model truly entail? How did the makeup artist forge their path in this competitive industry?

To truly resonate in the modern fashion world, our approach must transcend beyond the allure of aesthetics. Authenticity in our messaging is imperative. It’s about delving deeper, beyond the surface allure of a mesmerizing image. It’s about narrating the stories, the struggles, and the triumphs of the human beings behind each photograph. This is the key to connecting with our audience on a more profound, human level.

Thomas, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As the founder of the Columbus Fashion Council and its flagship program, Fashion Week Columbus, I’ve been at the forefront of a transformative journey in the fashion landscape. Columbus, renowned for its vibrant fashion industry and ranking third nationwide in fashion designer residencies, only behind Los Angeles and New York, has been the backdrop for this remarkable story. Since our inception in 2010, my driving ambition has been to infuse heart and authenticity into an industry often perceived as superficial and pretentious.

The non-profit organization’s mission is to elevate local and emerging fashion designers, while simultaneously offering scholarships to budding fashion design students. Our vision extends to nurturing these small businesses with essential services, resources, and opportunities. This endeavor has not only stimulated Central Ohio’s fashion economy but has also positioned fashion as a pivotal element of the city’s cultural identity. Having collaborated with nearly 300 fashion designers, 2,000 models, 2,000 volunteers, and 1,000 industry professionals, and by providing over $60,000 in scholarships to fashion design students, we have cultivated a dynamic fashion ecosystem in Central Ohio. This has transformed the region into a thriving hub for both seasoned and aspiring fashion professionals.

Now, after a 14-year journey passionately dedicated to this mission, the time came for me to entrust the leadership to a new Executive Director. As the founder and now board member emeritus, my connection to the organization remains unbreakable, and I continue to be its fervent advocate. My next endeavor scales this mission nationally, aiming to replicate the success of the Columbus Fashion Council and Fashion Week Columbus with other cities and other leaders. This includes launching a new fashion show platform, educational fashion masterclasses, and providing a vast network of connections and resources.

My newest fashion show platform, ‘The Fashion Shows,’ debuted at Art Basel Miami, showcasing exceptional Central Ohio fashion talent whose work redefines the concept ‘Fashion Is Art.’ The event was met with resounding acclaim. As my team and I gear up for the next show, we understand that an excellent fashion show isn’t just about the spectacle for the audience to enjoy. It’s about ensuring a positive and enriching experience for our models, designers, and crew before, during, and after the event. This human-first approach is crucial; without it, a fashion show risks being a fleeting success.

As Maya Angelou said, ‘At the end of the day, people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.’ This philosophy is the cornerstone of our work, ensuring that every event we create leaves a lasting, heartfelt impact.

Have you ever had to pivot?

The art of adaptation is crucial in the dynamic realms of non-profit leadership and fashion show production. In these fields, pivoting isn’t just a strategy; it’s a necessity. It demands a deep trust in one’s intuition and a wealth of experience. The instinct to listen to that inner voice and boldly move forward becomes a guiding force. In my latest fashion show endeavor, the concept of pivoting was put to the test repeatedly. We encountered a series of challenges, a natural course for a pioneering fashion show platform debuting at Art Basel, the world’s largest arts festival.

Having a cohesive team, where there’s a mutual sense of trust and understanding, is transformative. It’s about cultivating a synergy where you’re attuned to your team, and they’re equally responsive to you. Leadership in such high-stakes environments isn’t just about directing; it’s about fostering an atmosphere where team members are empowered to lead in their areas of expertise. This is a critical element of my approach – recognizing that while you may be the captain of the ship, the crew’s insights and decisions are what truly navigate it through turbulent waters.

This philosophy isn’t confined to the runway or boardroom; it’s a lesson that transcends professional boundaries and seeps into our daily lives. Embracing the ability to pivot, to adapt swiftly and confidently to life’s unpredictable twists and turns, is what ultimately carves the path to success.

Any advice for managing a team?

Mastering the craft of team management, whether in a non-profit or a corporate setting, is an art form. The foundation of this art lies in the nuanced skill of identifying and placing the right individuals in roles that align with their strengths and passions. The act of hiring is not just about filling positions; it’s about creating a culture where each member thrives and feels a profound sense of belonging and contribution.

Achieving this harmony within a team sets in motion a domino effect of positivity and productivity. Individuals, when rightly positioned, not only excel in their roles but also develop a deep sense of ownership and commitment. This is the crux of effective team management – fostering an environment where every member feels invested and integral to the collective vision. Such an atmosphere ignites a shared passion, aligning personal ambitions with the goals of the organization.

Empowering team leads or managers to cultivate their unique processes is vital, as long their processes align with the organization’s policies and culture. This empowerment is a testament to trust and respect for their expertise and judgment. These individuals were chosen for their unique talents and perspectives. Allowing them the freedom to navigate their paths within the organization’s framework not only boosts morale but also enhances productivity and innovation.

Remember, effective leadership is not about micromanaging but about creating an environment where talent can flourish, ideas can blossom, and collective goals are achieved seamlessly.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.TheFashionShows.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallytommytime/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialThomasMcClure
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcclure-81766812/

Image Credits
Headshot by Tim Trace
Fashion Photography by Dysheen Davis with 3DM Photography & Tony Bentivegna & Paul Bivens featuring designer looks by Anastasi Fashion & Xantha & Joan Madison