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.
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
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
Competitive Performance Expert | Keynote Speaker | Hospitality Powerhouse | Six- Time Bestseller From Olympic Trials swimmer to one of the first female broadcasters with CBS Sports to Mrs. American, Deborah Gardner knows what it takes to compete, win, and lead. Today, she’s a sought-after global keynote speaker and CEO of DG International, where she […]
DJ Melione is a trailblazing Asian-American hip-hop artist whose talent, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made her a standout figure in the music scene. Hailing from Southern California, DJ Melione is not only a captivating performer but also a gifted songwriter who crafts her own music, ensuring her work resonates with authenticity and […]
Lily Brasch is a living testament to the power of resilience and determination. Born with a rare congenital condition and told she would never walk, Lily has turned impossibilities into achievements that inspire audiences worldwide. Her journey is a beacon of hope, proving that the human spirit can overcome even the most daunting challenges. From […]
In the dynamic landscape of professional speaking, few voices resonate as profoundly as that of Valorie Burton. A beacon of wisdom and empowerment, Valorie is renowned as a life strategist and international speaker, spearheading transformative conversations that transcend boundaries and inspire audiences worldwide. As the CEO of the Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute, her […]
Phillip Koontz, a former Navy SEAL with over six years of service, stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and adaptability. Through the crucible of SEAL training, Koontz honed his skills and acquired invaluable life lessons that he now imparts to others, helping them navigate the challenges of their personal, professional, and family lives. Phillip […]
Diana Nyad, a name synonymous with unyielding determination and indomitable spirit, is a true embodiment of the human potential to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Her remarkable journey to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage is a testament to her unshakable resolve, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to […]
As a humanitarian, Mallory Brown uses empathy and a focus the person, rather than the problem, to create the positive change. Her current documentary series, “Walk A Mile”, embarks on a global marathon for women’s empowerment. As a keynote speaker, Mallory shares the humanitarian mindset, with real-life stories of human connection, to provide tools to help […]
Nick Santonastasso is a medical miracle. Not only is he one of four people with the rare genetic condition, Hanhart Syndrome, the inspirational keynote speaker is an internationally known bodybuilder and fitness model—despite missing both his legs and one arm since birth. Nick did the unthinkable when he became a varsity wrestler in high school. […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
