High School of Fashion Industries Celebrates 100 Years

CBS News' Chris Wragge visits the renowned Manhattan fashion school

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:36am

A vibrant, abstract silkscreen print featuring repeated images of a fashion sketch or sewing machine in a grid, conveying the school's focus on creative and technical fashion education.The High School of Fashion Industries celebrates 100 years of preparing the next generation of fashion industry leaders.Manhattan Today

The High School of Fashion Industries in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood is celebrating its 100th anniversary, offering students a comprehensive education in fashion design, photography, business, and more. The school prepares over 1,400 students for careers in the fashion industry through hands-on coursework, contributing to annual fashion shows, and building professional portfolios.

Why it matters

As one of the oldest and most prestigious fashion-focused high schools in the country, the High School of Fashion Industries has been a pipeline for talent entering the industry. The school's centennial milestone underscores its longstanding commitment to providing a well-rounded education that equips the next generation of fashion professionals.

The details

CBS News' Chris Wragge visited the High School of Fashion Industries to highlight the school's 100-year history and diverse curriculum. Students at the school learn a range of skills, from fashion design and photography to business and software development, all with the goal of preparing them for careers in the fashion industry. The school's annual fashion shows and student portfolios showcase the talent and creativity of its student body.

  • The High School of Fashion Industries was founded in 1926.
  • The school is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026.

The players

High School of Fashion Industries

A renowned high school in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood that has been educating students in fashion design, photography, business, and other creative fields for 100 years.

Chris Wragge

A CBS News New York anchor who visited the High School of Fashion Industries to report on the school's centennial celebration and educational programs.

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What they’re saying

“The High School of Fashion Industries has been a pipeline for talent entering the industry for the past 100 years.”

— Chris Wragge, CBS News New York Anchor

The takeaway

The High School of Fashion Industries' 100-year history demonstrates the enduring value of fashion education at the high school level, providing students with the skills and experience to thrive in one of the world's most dynamic and competitive industries.