Jackson Lewis Lee, the 28-year-old son of acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee, made an unexpected runway debut at New York Fashion Week on September 13, 2025. The creative director walked for J. Press, a 123-year-old Ivy League clothier, at the historic Explorers Club on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Lee, who runs production company and creative agency Indigo212, initially hesitated when approached to model for the upper-crusty brand. However, his background at York Prep, a New York City prep school with mandatory khaki uniforms, made the opportunity feel familiar. “I understood it for the first half of my life,” Lee explained before the show.
From Production to Runway
The show marked J. Press’s first collection under new creative director Jack Carlson, founder of Rowing Blazers. Fellow model-personalities included influencer Caroline Calloway, Black Ivy author Jason Jules, and menswear expert Mordechai Rubenstein.
Despite his modeling debut, Lee’s primary focus remains his production work. He has directed short films and collaborated with major brands including Rimowa, Nike, and Jordan, designing several sneakers for the latter. He’s also worked alongside his sister, 30-year-old Satchel Lee.
Staying Grounded on the Catwalk
Lee’s approach to his runway debut reflected his laid-back attitude. “My mantra is like, ‘Nothing matters. No one cares about me,'” he joked. “Even if I trip, no one gives a shit anyway. Just go out there and enjoy it.”
While Lee appreciated experiencing fashion week from a model’s perspective, he confirmed his preference for behind-the-scenes work, stating he enjoys “the production side so much more.”