Inspiring Conversations with Thomas McClure of Columbus Fashion Council

Today we’d like to introduce you to Thomas McClure. 

Thomas, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My fashion career journey began in 2010 when I founded the non-profit Fashion Week Columbus, the city’s premier fashion event and program, which helped platform local and emerging fashion designers and provided scholarships to fashion design students. Fashion Week Columbus brought the dazzle and artistry of the fashion world to Ohio, helping local talent and inspiring fashion enthusiasts alike. 

After several years of growing the Fashion Week Columbus platform and developing Central Ohio’s fashion eco-system, Thomas created the Columbus Fashion Council to oversee Fashion Week Columbus as its flagship program and to develop additional high-impact programs such as The Fashion Industry Conference. The Columbus Fashion Council was instrumental in fostering the fashion ecosystem in Central Ohio, partnering with community entities, and making substantial contributions to the local fashion economy. 

Under my leadership as the executive director, the organization prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), making these principles more than buzzwords – they were (and always have been) at the core of the organization’s mission, driving operations and shaping the entire community…pushing fashion to the forefront of our city’s culture. 

Recently, during the Business of Fashion Roundtable hosted by the Columbus Fashion Council, I announced my resignation from the organization, drawing the curtain on an impressive 14-year chapter of making an impact through fashion. But my next act in my fashion journey promises to be just as thrilling, and it’s not too far removed from my previous work. 

I’m now focused on showing other cities how to create their own Fashion Weeks, drawing on my rich experience in Columbus. My vision is to help these cities develop their own fashion ecosystems, incorporate fashion into their cultural narratives, and bring their community together. 

Moreover, I have an exciting schedule of fashion shows planned throughout 2023 and 2024. My continued involvement in the fashion industry is a testament to my undying passion and commitment to fostering fashion as a tool for social change, community development, and cultural enrichment. 

My story should be an inspiration to all who see fashion as more than mere aesthetics. My journey, marked by audacious dreams, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to fashion, has truly transformed Central Ohio’s fashion scene and promises to do the same for other cities. My next chapter will undoubtedly continue to be a thrilling journey of fashion, community, and transformation. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As with any non-profit, there were some growing pains in the beginning. Starting a non-profit in the fashion world was not an easy task. But thankfully, I had a few amazing mentors, a dedicated board, and passionate volunteers who helped the Fashion Week Columbus and the Columbus Fashion Council become the well-respected platform and organization it is today. One doesn’t start a non-profit organization to become rich or famous. Those who have started non-profits know all the invested blood, sweat, tears, and personal dollars is done out of having a passion to make an impact on others. The best we can hope for as non-profit leaders is to impact as many people as we can through our efforts. In my opinion, the most valuable ROI is when those we serve are genuinely grateful for the opportunities, connections, and community we’ve created for them. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Columbus Fashion Council helps designers and other fashion-related brands become sustainable businesses in Central Ohio, contributing to the city’s economic growth and to American Fashion as a whole. Our flagship program, Fashion Week Columbus, is a very necessary platform (the largest platform of its kind in Ohio) for small businesses in the Central Ohio fashion community (designers, models, makeup artists, hair professionals, photographers, and others) to launch their brands and be part of the Central Ohio fashion ecosystem and fashion economy we’ve been helping to build since 2010. 

As the founder/executive director, my role is to lead the organization alongside the board of directors to ensure we continue to meet our non-profit mission and vision. 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I like to start my mornings off with at least 20 minutes of listening to a podcast focused on self-improvement. A few experts/gurus I listen to are: Eckhart Tolle, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Jay Shetty, Ed Mylett, Mel Robbins, and so many more. Then, I’ll check in with my body to make sure I’m physically doing well. Then I’ll do a 2-to-5-minute manifestation mediation while listening to manifestation binaural beats. This sets the tone for my day. I try to not check my email, messages, or social media first thing in the morning. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://beacons.ai/tommytime
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallytommytime/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tommymc
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcclure-81766812/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNKbBp580CepcFxVGOyEQHg

Image Credits
Bobby & Isolda Photography
Tony Bentivegna
Brian Hockensmith
Scott Heffner