Harlem’s Fashion Row kicked off NYFW with a reminder that they are committed to further uplifting black people within the fashion industry. In a celebration of hard-working individuals within the sphere, Harlem’s Fashion Row held a brief awards ceremony crowning Teen Vogue’s Lindsay Peoples Wagner as Editor of the Year, Pyer Moss’s Kerby Jean-Raymond as Designer of the Year, British Vogue’s Edward Enninful as Maverick of the Year Award, and publicist Nate Hinton as Publicist of the Year Award.
Harlem’s Fashion Row founder, Brandice Daniel rolled out a new slogan that will definitely be echoed throughout the year: #BlackistheNewBlack. Boy does that ring true in the renewed attention to black-owned brands, black creatives, black professionals, and the unique and masterful perspective they bring to the industry.
Not one to miss out on the fashion, Brandice introduced three blooming designers who are sure to explode onto the fashion scene!
RichFresh
You may remember Rich Fresh as the designer who designed the internet-breaking suit that Zaya Wade wore in March.
Once again, Rich Fresh wows us in debuting a collection that featured bold, vibrant prints and rich fabrics. Viewers actively complimented Rich’s irresistible tracksuits but the stylish coats and robes should equally get a good deal of attention.
The designer detailed how he pivoted from using cheaper, lower quality fabrics in previous collections to the high quality and added detail that went into this collection.
Kristian Lorén by Kristian Lopez
Kristian Lopez of Kristian Lorén debuted an eye-catching collection featuring vibrant hues and iridescent fabrics. My personal favorite look is the sea-green blazer paired with teal pants.
Speaking of her collection, Kristian said: “The color schemes come from desert sunsets.”
Kimberly Goldson
Wrapping up the night, Kimberly Goldson debuted a unique collection featuring 3D artwork by Ramsie Taylor. The artwork depicted voluminous classic black hairstyles including a double afro buff and beaded cornrows.
Collection standouts were a trumpeted black skirt with sheer sequined paneling and a hot pink suit with tassels all over!
Not to be forgotten, HFR preambled the week with Iconversations with fashion industry mavens such as Shelby Ivey Christie, Fashion & Costume Historia, and Misa Hylton, Fashion Architect. What a wonderfully Black start to NYFW!
For an encore presentation of HFR’s awards and shows, tune in on Saturday, September 19. More details on their Instagram.
