Tim Gunn: Fashion Icon

  • Highlights:
    • Beloved TV Personality: Tim Gunn gained international fame as the co-host and mentor on the Emmy-winning series Project Runway, where his catchphrase "Make it work!" became iconic.
    • Fashion Industry Leader: With decades of experience, Gunn has been a transformative figure in fashion, serving as a mentor to aspiring designers and a voice of authority in the industry.
    • Author of Bestselling Books: Gunn has authored multiple books, including Gunn’s Golden Rules: Life’s Little Lessons for Making It Work and Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste & Style, offering timeless insights on fashion and life.
Reading time: 3 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • **Fee range: $75,001 - $100,000

Keynote Topics

A Conversation with Tim Gunn

As America’s favorite reality TV co-host and mentor to scores of design hopefuls, Tim Gunn is known for his kind but firm approach in providing wisdom, guidance, and support.

With his signature warmth, candor and wit, Tim shares valuable lessons learned throughout his personal and professional life and challenges he overcame along the way.

At all stages of his career – from educator to television host – Tim has always lived by his catchphrase “Make It Work.”

In this inspirational talk, he will leave audiences with the tools they need to “Make It Work” in their career, relationships, and life.

Tim Gunn is the Emmy-winning co-host and mentor for Lifetime’s Project Runway, where he also serves as one of the show’s producers. He and co-host Heidi Klum won the 2013 Emmy Award for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program, nabbing the award after his first nomination. In addition to his television prowess, he served as Fashion Dean at Fifth & Pacific, where he was responsible for attracting, retaining and developing the creative talent within the portfolio of brands.

Fashion Design
Prior to his office at Fifth & Pacific, he was the Chief Creative Officer at Liz Claiborne Inc. Gunn served as a member of the administration and faculty at Parsons School of Design for 29 years and has a rich and deep history with the institution. In August 2000, Gunn was appointed Chair of the Department of Fashion Design at Parsons with the charge of retooling and invigorating the curriculum for the 21st century.

Under his direction, the department was repositioned as the indisputable leader in fashion design education in America and as one of only a handful of leading programs in the world. Upon leaving Parsons, Gunn received the title of Honorary Chair of Fashion Design at the school. In addition, Liz Claiborne, Inc. endowed a scholarship in his name.

Media
Gunn has lectured widely on fashion and lifestyle design and, especially, Parsons’ profound role in putting America on the global design map. His interviews have appeared in a wide range of publications, from Newsweek and The New York Times to Entertainment Weekly and Martha Stewart Living, as well as Women’s Wear Daily, Fortune and Fast Company.

Popular Host
In 2009 he delivered the keynote at Harvard Business School’s Conference on Luxury Retail in 2009. He has also covered the red carpet at the Academy Awards, Emmy Awards and Golden Globes for The Today Show and Entertainment Tonight, and he co-hosted the Official Oscar Red Carpet Pre-Show in 2009 and 2011 for ABC. Tim is also the executive producer and star of Project Runway: Under the Gunn, the newest of the Runway franchise on Lifetime.

Tim Gunn | Fashion Icon

Books
Gunn is also a New York Times best-selling author penning Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste and Style, Gunn’s Golden Rules: Life’s Little Lessons for Making It Work and Tim Gunn’s Fashion Bible: The Fascinating History of Everything in Your Closet. Tim released his fourth book, Tim Gunn: The Natty Professor: A Master Class on Mentoring, Motivating, and Making It Work! in Spring 2015.

Publications
He has written articles for Elle, Seventeen, People, US Weekly and Fortune and has a monthly feature in People Style Watch and Marie Claire. The now 61 year-old was named one of People magazine’s “Sexiest Men Alive” in 2006.

Finally, Marvel comics made him a superhero in their 2009 revival of Models, Inc. with a special feature, “Loaded Gunn,” in which he dons the Iron Man armor to fight crimes against fashion.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

View further speakers

  • (21)
  • (5)
Matthew Luhn

Matthew Luhn is a master storyteller, keynote speaker, and former Pixar story artist who has helped shape some of the most beloved animated films of all time. With over 25 years of experience in the art of storytelling, Luhn has worked on iconic projects like Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, and Up. His expertise […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Branding Speakers
  • (33)
Lori Harder

Lori Harder is a leading expert in the field of fitness, transformational work, mindfulness, and self-love. She has grown two multi-million dollar businesses as a successful entrepreneur and network marketing professional. She is also an author, cover model, and three-time fitness world champion, who offers a carefully curated set of practical tools to promote sustainable […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (6)
Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is a cultural icon and a multifaceted entertainer whose influence spans across music, film, television, and business. With a career that has flourished for over three decades, Snoop Dogg has become synonymous with innovation and versatility. As a speaker, he captivates audiences with his unique perspectives on creativity, […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Celebrity Speakers
  • (34)
Jen Bricker - Image 04 (January 27, 2026)

Born without legs, Jen Bricker defied every conceivable limitation from the very beginning. Adopted by a loving family who instilled the empowering mantra, “Never say can’t,” Jen has consistently transformed challenges into achievements. Fueled by a passion for gymnastics, Jen found inspiration in her idol, Olympic gold medalist Dominique Moceanu. In a twist of fate, […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (25)
Whitney Johnson

Whitney Johnson is the CEO and co-founder of Disruption Advisors, a tech-enabled talent development company. Whitney is a globally recognized thought leader (named by Thinkers50 as a top #10 management thinker), author, keynote speaker, executive coach, and consultant; Whitney is the WSJ, USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of Smart Growth: How to Grow Your People to Grow Your Company (Harvard Business Press, […]

  • Travels from: Lexington, VA
  • Business Speakers
  • (14)
  • (4)
Dr. Todd Dewett

Dr. Todd Dewett is renowned globally as a leadership expert, authenticity advocate, best-selling author, and captivating speaker. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Todd has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide through his powerful talks, insightful writings, and unwavering commitment to fostering authentic leadership. Todd Dewett stands out as an authenticity expert, […]

  • Travels from: Houston, TX
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (23)
Tye Caldwell

Dr. Tye Caldwell stands at the forefront of innovation in the beauty industry, wielding a potent combination of entrepreneurial acumen, technological prowess, and a profound commitment to empowering beauty and barbering professionals worldwide. As the Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of ShearShare, Dr. Caldwell has etched his name as a visionary leader, dedicated to revolutionizing […]

  • Travels from: Buffalo, NY
  • Entrepreneurship
  • (95)
Satcha Pretto

Satcha Pretto stands as a beacon of excellence, a seasoned anchor whose presence illuminates the screens of millions across the globe. With a career spanning over two decades, Pretto has solidified her place as one of the most respected and admired personalities in broadcast journalism, particularly as an anchor for “Despierta América” on Televisa Univision. […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Business Emcees
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.