Even Beyonce has been seen in the looks of some of these talented black designers.
New York Fashion Week 2022 highlighted upcoming models for spring-summer 2023 in a series of runways, presentation shows and other events. The list of participating designers expanded in diversity as the Black in Fashion Council (BIFC) gave 10 black designers the opportunity to showcase their exclusive content at this year’s shows.
BIFC, founded by CUT editor in chief Lindsay Pops and public relations expert Sandrine Charles, launched in 2020 as an initiative to represent individuals of color in the fashion and beauty industry. According to HuffPostfeatured brands created by 10 black designers showcasing their work including, Ajovang by Adrian GuilloryAtelier Follow from Waina ChanceHarbison from Charles HarbisonIzayla from I’m Dunston, Jessica Rich, Kwame Adusei, In Madame AdaMuehleder from Larisa MuehlederSammy B Designs by Samantha Blackand Vavounne from Valerie Blaise.
“We envision a workforce where people of color are represented and empowered at every level, holding jobs in both the C-suite and entry-level positions, and can work alongside allies to create diverse spaces that directly reflect how the world actually looks in general. said the BIFC website.
Mailchimp partnered with BIFC Discovery Showroom as its first sponsor, and for the council’s third appearance at NYFW this year, the 10 selected designers of color graced the sixth floor of Spring Studios with their creative contributions to the future of fashion.
One of this year’s standout designers, I’sha Dunston, founder of Izayla, spoke to sources about her brand. “Izayla is advanced contemporary women’s clothing. We are based in Los Angeles and the three pillars of the brand are empowerment, integrity and representation of women.” She added, “My philosophy is that I want to grow up with my wife. It’s a journey. We are always evolving. We are not the same woman as we were a year ago.”
The lineup also included Ghanaian luxury fashion designer Kwame Adusei. Prioritizing functionality and creativity, he showcased his gender-neutral designs to the NYFW audience.
“To me, the Kwame woman or the Kwame person is someone where I am: on the brink of achievement. You are still on the move; you are still on the rise. He or she actually wants to be seen and represented, but they also want to look sexy. When it’s time to run, you have to be ready,” he said in a statement.
Another standout at this year’s show was Valerie Blaise, creator of Vavounne. According to Ebony, The self-taught New York-based designer showcased her expertly crafted accessories this year, including sculpted Italian leather handbags.
“The Black in Fashion Council is excited to continue to help elevate emerging designers to receive the visibility and access they need and deserve, and we’re always looking for new opportunities to further their excellence,” Lindsay Peoples and Sandrine Charles, co-founders of the Black in Fashion Council, said in a statement.
