The Black Lives Matter protests this month have forced us to look at and reexamine many sectors of society, from law enforcement and social service programs to the fashion industry itself. Unfortunately, the fashion industry has earned a bad reputation for being elitist, snobbish, and having an extremely narrow view of beauty, which has resulted in many creative voices being left out of the high fashion conversation. One conversation that has arisen over the past month is the need for more diversity within the fashion industry, from the models who wear the clothes to the fashion editors who dictate the trends, to the designers who create the latest fashions.
The industry won’t change overnight, but by learning about and supporting designers from diverse backgrounds, we can work to make the fashion industry an inclusive and representative space where everyone can feel chic and beautiful.
Here are five black fashion designers to watch.
Laquan Smith
LaQuan Smith’s collection is worn by models during New York Fashion Week on Saturday, February 8, 2020. (Associated Press… [+] Photo by Eduardo Muñoz Alvarez
Associated Press
Laquan Smith launched his eponymous brand in 2013 when he was just 21 years old, and has since built a following of fashion icons like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga. With his penchant for fabrics (think rich velvet and iridescent silk) and ’80s and ’90s influences, it’s no wonder his work is a favorite of some of the world’s most popular pop stars.
UPDATE: If the ready-to-wear line is out of your budget, Smith also just launched a capsule collection with Revolve, all under $400.
“Brother Veries” by Aurora James
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 10: A look at the full vibe at Brothers Berry’s… [+] Spring 2016 New York Fashion Week Presentation at JACK Studios in New York City on September 10, 2015. (Photo by Brenna Weeks/Getty Images)
Getty Images
If you’re looking for the most stylish shoes and accessories, you’ve come to the right place. Founded in 2013 by the always fashionable Aurora James, Brother Vellies products are created using traditional African design techniques and hope to maintain this tradition of craftsmanship for years to come. The shoe designs reflect the brand’s global inspiration and are also beautiful statement pieces. These cowhide boots are my current favourite.
Cushney
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 08: A model walks the runway at the Cushnie fashion show held at the New York Convention Center. [+] New York Fashion Week in New York City on February 8, 2019. (Photo by Peter White/FilmMagic)
Film Magic,
For women who want to feel glamorous and elegant, look no further than CUSHNIE. Founded in 2008 by Carly Cushnie, the brand is known for its timeless designs, including draped one-shoulder tops, wide-leg silk pants, and beautiful jewel-toned cocktail dresses. In addition to ready-to-wear, CUSHIE also has a bridal collection featuring sculptural wedding dresses.
Christopher John Rogers
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 08: A model walks the runway at the Christopher John Rogers Ladies Collection. [+] Worn at the Fall/Winter 2020-2021 Fashion Show in New York City on February 8, 2020. (Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
Gamma Raffo via Getty Images
Christopher John Rogers is one of the biggest breakout designers of recent years, already winning a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award and a host of celebrity fans including Michelle Obama, Lizzo and Tessa Thompson. His designs are almost unmistakable, featuring neon silk and fun, exaggerated proportions, and it’s easy to see why he’s quickly become a favorite among celebrities and magazine editors alike.
Fae Noel
NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 04: Models walk the runway at the Fe Noel fashion show during New York Fashion Week. [+] A week at the Capital, New York City, September 4, 2018. (Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images)
Getty Images
Brooklyn-based Fe Noel is inspired by her Granada roots, and her influence is clear in her breezy, tropical designs. From Caribbean blue shorts with sheer pant hems to ruched balloon-sleeve crop tops, her designs perfectly combine the laid-back vibe of Caribbean afternoons with urban sophistication, making these outfits perfect for warm-weather getaways or strolls around SoHo.
