NYFW 2024 Events Spotlight Black Culture in Fashion
Black creatives have played a pivotal role in shaping and influencing fashion globally, infusing the industry with rich cultural narratives and innovative aesthetics. Fashion, particularly in terms of apparel and footwear, is not only a form of self-expression but also a reflection of personal and cultural identity.
Historically, Black Americans have set trends that resonate beyond their communities, impacting broader fashion tastes and influencing designers and brands worldwide.
The economic significance of Black consumers cannot be overlooked. Projections indicate that spending on apparel and footwear by Black consumers will grow by approximately 6 percent annually, reaching $70 billion by 2030. This growth is part of a larger trend, with an anticipated total of $445 billion in nominal dollars available for fashion spending from 2022 to 2030, which includes a remarkable $50 billion in new expenditures. This economic power underscores the importance of Black voices in the fashion narrative, prompting brands to acknowledge and celebrate this demographic.
"Black culture is the wellspring of fashion. We have always created and inspired fashion through our unique aesthetic, our style, and our understanding of what beauty means."
Andre’ Leon Talley
As we explore the showcases and events of NYFW 2024, we witness the celebration of the Black diaspora's impact on the fashion industry. Events highlight the contributions of Black designers, models, and creatives, reaffirming their roles as trendsetters and cultural innovators.
ESSENCE FASHION HOUSE
Essence Venture CEO Constance White, A$AP Ferg, Dapper Dan and Kory Jarvis
Essence Fashion House made a stunning return to New York Fashion Week under the theme “Luxury Undefined,” offering a bold celebration of Black creativity, opulence, and innovation. The event merged cultural heritage with avant-garde design, redefining luxury in a way that centered Black voices, designers, and brands.
Creative Director/Designer June Ambrose
With star-studded appearances from host Eva Marcille, Dapper Dan, and June Ambrose, the event was a true celebration of style and culture. Attendees enjoyed panel discussions, and DJ sounds, while browsing the SOKO MRKT, which spotlighted emerging fashion brands. The experience, both vibrant and inspiring, was also made accessible to a wider audience through a livestream, making it a must-see event of the season.
The SOKO MRKT included new fashion collections and exclusive product lines. It was an opportunity for guests to not only shop but also meet the creatives behind the brands shaping the future of fashion.
The Fashion Talks were another highlight, bringing the essence of Black creativity to life. Influential figures in the fashion industry, such as Edvin Thompson (Designer and Founder of Theophilio) and Soull & Dynasty Ogun (Founders of L’Enchanteur), participated in lively discussions. These visionaries shared their unfiltered thoughts on fashion, culture, and what it means to push the boundaries of luxury.
Networking was another core element of the event, with a Networking Hour that gave fashion enthusiasts the chance to build meaningful connections with others who share a passion for fashion. Whether guests came alone or with friends, they found a space designed for collaboration, conversation, and community.
To add to the ambiance, DJs set trendsetting tunes throughout the evening, creating the perfect backdrop for shopping, networking, learning, and celebrating the ever-evolving world of fashion. Essence Fashion House once again proved to be a dynamic platform for celebrating Black creativity and reshaping the global conversation around luxury.
HARLEM’S FASHION ROW
HFR Founder Brandice Daniel, Naiomi Campbell and Samira Nasir
HFR celebrated its 17th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards with the theme 'Night of the Legends,' featuring a star-studded audience, including Vanessa Williams, Anna Wintour, and Tracee Ellis Ross. Guests enjoyed collections from designers Aaron Potts, LaTouché, and Nicole Benefield, along with a capsule collection by Naomi Campbell. Awards honored key figures in fashion: Samir Nasir, Shiona Turini, Naomi Campbell and Teyana Taylor.
At Harlem’s Fashion Row, it was revealed that Louis Vuitton, H&M, and Nike, in an unprecedented collaboration with HFR’s nonprofit arm ICON360, provided grant funding to the designers showcasing their collections. This partnership is designed to support designers of color, helping bring their creative visions to life on a larger platform while championing diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry.
As part of a multi-year partnership with ICON360, Nike’s involvement extends beyond the event, focusing on initiatives that nurture Black talent in fashion. This comprehensive collaboration aims to empower emerging designers and fashion programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), offering essential resources and opportunities for growth and development.
RAISE FASHION
RAISEFashion RAISEFashion hosted an immersive showcase during this year's NYFW to spotlight emerging BIPOC designers. Founded in 2020, RAISEFashion utilizes grants, complimentary advisory services, and access to exclusive networking opportunities to elevate these designers and their work. In addition to the showcase, they organized a cocktail hour sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch. Among the brands represented were the hand-decorated swimwear label Tara Matthews, luxury footwear brand Kendall Miles, Torlowei, Fe Noel, and more.
EMERGE!
The Emerge! Fashion Runway Show, established by Dionne Williams thirteen years ago, serves as a platform for designers to showcase their work on both national and global stages. This year, Emerge! will honor Bethann Hardison, one of the first Black models celebrated by European and New York designers, and celebrity stylist Kollin Carter, who will receive the Fashion Innovator Award and Fashion Trailblazer Award, respectively, in recognition of their significant contributions to Black creatives in the fashion industry.
MEFEATER FASHION GIRL SUMMIT
MEFeater is hosting its annual NYFW Fashion Girl Summit under the empowering theme “Creativity is your Superpower.” The event featured engaging panel discussions with fashion icons and influencers, providing insights and inspiration to attendees. Summer Dennis performed, adding a lively touch to the day’s activities. Following the summit, an exclusive VIP after-party will took place, offering a chance for networking and celebration. Through this initiative, MEFeater continues to foster creativity and support emerging voices in the fashion industry. .
OFF-WHITE “DUTY FREE” SS25
Inspired by a transformative trip to Ghana, Off-White’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, crafted by Ib Kamara, encapsulates the essence and emotions of New York. As a "utopia of opportunity" in the collective African imagination. Collaborating with contemporary Ghanaian artist Nana Danso, the collection boldly showcases African futurism infused with athletic influences, resulting in functional yet striking clothing. Models adorned with braids, natural hairstyles, and other culturally significant looks beautifully celebrated the richness of the African diaspora, creating a powerful visual narrative that resonates with heritage and innovation.
The fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, bold patterns, and unique narratives seen in these showcases not only honors Black heritage but also pushes the boundaries of mainstream fashion. Through collaborations and dedicated platforms, the fashion industry is increasingly recognizing the significance of Black creativity, fostering an environment where diverse voices can thrive and inspire future generations.
Ultimately, the influence of Black creatives on fashion is a testament to their resilience and artistry, shaping a global industry that continues to evolve through their contributions.
Photography: Jonathan Becker,HFR, Theo Wargo and Bennett Raglin/Getty Images
