Black designers are bringing authentic substance and style into the fashion industry. Still, their influence has significantly expanded over the last few years due to the support of creatives and stylists leading on social media. These Black designers and creatives lead the conversations of diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry to open more opportunities for future innovators.
As we move through 2021, here are 14 Black designers and creatives that are taking the fashion industry to new heights.
Telfar became THE brand of 2020; even in a pandemic, their iconic shopping bag managed to sell out in seconds and go viral with every new drop. The designer, Telfar Clemens, created the ready-to-wear brand in 2005 under a 100% unisex label and has taken the fashion industry by storm.
Influencer and Model Salma J wearing Telfar
Salma J (StreetJabi on Instagram) is a Finnish-Somali model known for her innovative style that often captures viral attention.
Anifa Mvuemba created Hanifa in 2012 for women who want to experiment with bold colors and silhouettes that accentuate their unique body types. Her collections are designed for a “Woman Without Limits,” and this sentiment is clear in the versatility of her editorial and runway projects that spotlight women of color with curvy figures. In 2020, Hanifa brought virtual runways to social media after gaining widespread attention for her summer collection.
Fashion “Resale Expert and Influencer, Shayla Janel wearing Hanifa
Freelance Stylist, Style Blogger, and Fashion Activist Shayla Janel Hill founded Random&Chic. She is the creator of the revolutionary style movement #SlayForAChange, which promotes lifting voices against social issues through fashion.
Pyer Moss, under designer Kerby Jean-Raymond’s direction, has been a staple in the recent fashion scene. He defines his brand as an “art project” that gives a specific platform to amplify the Black community’s voices. This is evident through the social commentary made in his inclusive fashion shows and editorial designs.
Creative and Stylist, Kia Marie wearing Pyer Moss
Kia Marie is an NYC-based digital content creator, stylist, and influencer. She uses her platform to empower women and girls to challenge traditional beauty standards and embrace their most authentic selves.
Queens-born designer LaQuan Smith has become a celebrity go-to designer for the red carpet . He is known for his glamorous statement pieces that are unapologetically sexy and form-fitting. His unique designs have attracted stars such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian.
Creative and Content Creator, Elisa Johnson wearing LaQuan Smith
Elisa Johnson created Selected by Elisa from a desire to connect a wider community of people. Through her platform, Elisa plans to expand her reach beyond the images of Instagram.
Designer Carly Cushnie is an artistic innovator who brings femininity to new levels in the fashion industry by incorporating vibrant fabrics and colors into her designs. Cushnie’s clients include Michelle Obama and Elaine Welteroth.
Multimedia Journalist Lindsey Granger wearing Cushnie
Lindsey Granger has interviewed tastemakers from across the globe for more than a decade. She’s worked as a producer and reporter for MSNBC, national correspondent for The List, and hosted segments for AOL, People, USA Today, and Time Magazine.
Designer Teniola “Tia” Adeola is a recent college graduate who has launched her career with inspiration from the Renaissance. Adeola’s collection is known for its feminine ruffles that appear as bold color basics to sheer looks.
Youtuber and Content Creator, Yvonne Victoria
Yvonne is a UK- based YouTuber who has gained her following through high-end modeling and styling.
Designer Dumebi Iyamah is deeply inspired by the patterns and traditional colors of her home country, Nigeria. Her designs are statement pieces that feature a unique feminine flair.
Fashion & Lifestyle Blogger, Titilola Sogunro
Titilola Sogunro, a fashion blogger, created what has become one of the most well-known lifestyle and fashion blogs in Atlanta. Titi’s Passion began as an outlet to connect with other individuals with similar interests such as fashion, beauty, food, natural hair, and travel.