Tim Gunn: Fashion Icon

    Tim Gunn

    Quick Facts:

      • 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

    • (20)
    Brandon Farbstein - Image 02 (February 17, 2026)

    Brandon Farbstein, a beacon of hope, resilience, and inspiration, hailing from the sun-kissed shores of San Diego, California. Brandon Farbstein isn’t just a speaker; he’s a catalyst for change, a voice for the voiceless, and a testament to the power of the human spirit. With a story that resonates with audiences of all ages and […]

    • Travels from: San Diego, CA
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (29)
    • (3)
    Mark Black - Image 05 (February 13, 2026)

    Mark Black is a renowned resilience expert whose life story is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and the human spirit. Born with a life-threatening heart defect, Mark faced insurmountable odds from the very beginning. He underwent two open-heart surgeries before his first birthday, setting the stage for a life marked by extraordinary […]

    • Travels from: Dieppe, New Brunswick
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (13)
    Brass Animals - Image 04 (April 27, 2026)

    Brass Animals is a cutting-edge entertainment group that takes the essence of a traditional marching band and reinvents it for a modern audience. This dynamic ensemble fuses popular hits across multiple genres with the timeless power of brass and percussion, creating high-energy, unforgettable performances. From corporate events to private functions, their performances offer an electrifying […]

    • Travels from: Nationwide
    • Speciality Acts
    • (45)
    • Featured
    • (4)
    Jennifer D. Morgan - Image 01 (April 13, 2026)

    Jennifer D. Morgan is a dynamic keynote speaker, award-winning coach, and communication strategist who helps organizations elevate how their people present, connect, and influence—driving measurable business results. Through her work, she empowers leaders and teams to transform communication into a strategic advantage. As Founder and CEO of Connective Communication, LLC, Jennifer partners with organizations to […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Communication Speakers
    • (23)
    Katty Kay Emcee

    Katty Kay is an award-winning journalist and news anchor who brings an instinctively global perspective to her observations on American politics and global affairs – a result of having grown-up living and traveling all over the Middle East, as well as reporting from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S. throughout her career. […]

    • Travels from: Washington, DC
    • Motivational Speakers
    • (7)
    Kelly Maryanski: Aerialist

    Kelly Maryanski is a Los Angeles-based powerhouse, seamlessly blending a kaleidoscope of talents into a captivating entertainment experience. As a multidisciplinary artist, Kelly defies categorization, effortlessly embodying roles as a dancer, circus artist, athlete, aerialist, storyteller, actor, singer, musician, illustrator, and choreographer. With a rich tapestry of formal training spanning ballet, contemporary dance, musical theater, […]

    • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
    • Aerial Performers
    • (15)
    DJ Joey D - Image 01 (March 24, 2026)

    DJ Joey D is a full-time DJ based in Las Vegas, NV. Licensed and insured, with over 30 years of experience in the industry, Joey is a professional who knows how to design the ultimate soundtrack. With top-of-the-line DJ gear and an extensive music library spanning multiple genres, including Top 40, Hip Hop, House, Rock, […]

    • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
    • Mobile DJ
    • (24)
    Kim Lear - Image 05 (January 23, 2026)

    Kim Lear is a leading expert on generational patterns, demographic shifts, and cultural change. She is the founder and content director of Inlay Insights, where she leads research that helps organizations understand how evolving values, behaviors, and expectations shape the future of work and consumer engagement. Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree, Kim Lear undergraduate research […]

    • Travels from: Minneapolis, MN
    • Futurists Speakers
    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.

    Speakers Inc.

    Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

    We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

    Find the Perfect Speaker

    Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

    © 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.