ACTIVELY BLACK returns to New York Fashion Week with “THE BLACK MIXTAPE: VOLUME 2,” debuting iconic collaboration celebrating 50 years of hip-hop and black culture
New York, NY – September 6, 2023 – Actively Black, the pioneering Black-owned luxury athleisurewear brand, is set to make a powerful statement at New York Fashion Week with the launch of several groundbreaking collaborative collections. Titled “The Black Mixtape: Volume 2,” the highly anticipated event is a dynamic celebration of 50 years of hip hop, Black culture and talent. The fashion show promises to be a transformative cultural experience that amplifies the influence of music that has shaped generations since its origins in Africa, where the rhythm of the beat began.
Actively Black has partnered with The Shade Room, a leading Black culture and news media company, to present “The Black Mixtape: Volume 2,” live on TheShadeRoom.com during NYFW. The collaboration aims to disrupt the exclusivity of Fashion Week by expanding access to a global audience. The show will offer a one-of-a-kind fashion experience, meticulously curated to showcase the rich tapestry of Black culture and its profound impact on the world.
One of the cornerstones of Actively Black’s success is meaningful collaborations with iconic figures and cultural touchstones. This year’s show will debut collaborations with Marvel’s Black Panther, the Muhammad Ali Foundation, Allen Iverson, various HBCUs, the Malcolm X Foundation, the Notorious BIG Biggie Foundation, and more. The meticulously curated experience will also feature renowned Nigerian artist Laolu and Nigerian Olympic gold medalist Seun Ogunkoya. Homage has been a running theme for the brand, and the show is no exception, honoring those who have led the culture for the past 50 years with choreographed segments. “Actively Black would not exist without Fubu, so we felt we had to pay tribute to the brand and the person behind it,” says Smith. Each partnership and segment of the show speaks to Actively Black’s commitment to celebrating Black excellence and making a positive impact.
Since its launch in November 2020, Actively Black has experienced explosive growth and gained widespread recognition. The brand has been ranked among the top 100 fastest growing brands on Shopify and the top 10 fastest growing athleisure brands in the country. Worn by the Obamas, Stephen Curry, Deion Sanders and more, it is a favorite among athletes, celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike. Born from the vision of former professional athlete Lanny Smith, who recognized the need for authentic representation and empowerment in the sports and fashion industries, he set his sights on making just that happen. Frustrated by the lack of inclusivity among major sportswear brands, he embarked on a journey to create a brand with a mission to uplift and reinvest in the Black community.
The launch of “The Black Mixtape: Volume 2” at New York Fashion Week represents a significant moment in Actively Black’s journey. It symbolizes the brand’s dedication to celebrating Black culture, promoting diversity and inclusion, and providing a platform for Black talent to flourish around the world. The event highlights Actively Black’s mission to not only create great athleisure wear, but also to inspire change and uplift the Black community.
Actively Black will debut notable collaborations at New York Fashion Week. Expect an unforgettable display of fashion, culture and creativity. Join us on Friday, September 8, 2023 at 8pm at Sony Hall for an event celebrating 50 years of hip hop and the lasting impact of Black culture.
For more information, visit www.activelyblack.com.
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