Highlighting black designers is my big passion (above I’m wearing La Quan Smith!). I have done some previous posts in the past Black designers you should know! In honor of Black History Month, I’d like to highlight some black designers you definitely shouldn’t be sleeping on!! Although the fashion industry has 15% Pledge (created by Aurora James), there is still a long way to go. Here are some of the designers I’ve had my eye on (and you should too)!
La Quan Smith
Born in Queens, Laquan Smith rose to fame quickly after celebrities started wearing his 3D leggings. Although Laquan Smith’s attempt to break into the fashion industry was not easy (rejected by Parsons and FIT), today he is one of the most famous designers! Those who love hot and girly outfits cheer up!! Laquan’s mission has always been to empower women through his designs (we can’t miss the connection that his grandmother and many other women were his role models growing up as how). Do sparkly miniskirts, leather corsets, and edgy jumpsuits appeal to you? Then check out his carousel of his latest pieces – his SS23 collection is his attempt to give women “a little air”. He declares in him fashion magazine interviews that his collection is “about feminine form, about sensuality and femininity, which is what we’re here to celebrate today”.
Christopher John Rogers
Christopher John Rogers (CJR) is quickly becoming a household name thanks to his design aesthetics. One thing you can be sure of when it comes to CJR is that you will always be in for some no-repent plays! However, what critics and buyers love most about his designs is how he is adept at creating beautiful pieces without being fussy or complicated. In addition, CJR is not afraid to be unique by using unusual fabrics and blending seemingly opposite inspirations. In other words, he broke through because he’s looking to break all the usual stereotypes.
Heron Preston
The final designer (though there are many more!) I’m keeping an eye on Black History Month is Heron Preston! If you know the late Virgil Abloh and Matthew Williams, you’ll no doubt know Heron Preston, the co-founder of the streetwear group Been Trill. Preston has prided himself on his creative acumen as a DJ and artist alongside a designer who graduated from Parsons. After swimming in the ocean, realizing the polluting effects of the fashion industry, Preston launched a sustainable streetwear brand. He’s one of the few designers who isn’t afraid to comment on environmental issues, internet youth, and fake culture. We stand!
