About Us

Break Free NYFW is a runway show with a cause. We are looking to lead the discussion on mental health and substance use disorders within the fashion industry through fashion as our artistic medium. For each runway show we host, we invite mental health and substance use disorder activists to not only walk on the runway as models, but to be featured designers showcasing their collections for the world to see.

Leading up to the event, there will be a series of virtual panels for the designers and models to take part in discussing topics ranging from substance use within the fashion industry to how to self-care for yourself during NYFW to avoid burnout.

Break Free NYFW was founded by Alexandra Nyman. In 2019, Nyman made her official premiere as a designer during NYFW under the moniker LadyCat. Alexandra wanted to use this platform she was provided with the spread a deeper message about mental health and titled her first collection "Therapy". 

The inspiration for “Therapy” came from her brother and his mental health journey. "He has faced so much since being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and I am in awe of his strength every day. He is my driving force and main inspiration in all I do. In collaborating with my brother, I have learned how to be a better mental health advocate and how to ensure he gets the care he needs. 

"I wanted this collection to inspire others to seek help and to take their mental health as seriously as my brother does. He has learned to be vocal about his needs and how to support him on his mental health journey. This collection served as a visual reminder of the need for all to do the same," Alexandra recalled when she thought back on the launch of "Therapy". And though it wasn't perfect, it was a learning experience for her that sparked the inspiration behind Break Free. To create a space for sober and mental health advocates to share their art with other like minded individuals in a showcase during NYFW. And to lead the conversation on substance use disorder and mental health within the industry. 

The first showcase for Break Free NYFW was held on Monday, February 14th, 2022 and featured six designers. The showcase sold out and had around three hundred people in attendance. The show was held at Ideal Glass Studios and was embraced by members of the press with coverage in Forbes, E Online, Seventeen Magazine Online, Time Out New York, Yahoo, Digital Journal, Fashion Week Online, and No Kill Magazine to name a few.