What a Time to Be Black in fashion
This season, NYFW made me even more proud to be black. Is it because the industry is super inclusive and serves all communities—No. Fashion is still very white and full of politics that benefit white men but this season 2 designers in particular made me come to the conclusion that it’s an amazing time to be black in fashion.
After showing up to a show I wasn’t invited to, requesting a standing ticket, and snagging a “no show” seat, I was sitting 2nd row at Christopher John Rogers. Prior to NYFW, I saw the show schedule and squealed when I peeped that CJR was making his official NYFW debut. Last season he hosted a magical presentation offsite in Chinatown. Within that time, CJR became a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist and dressed prominent women like Lizzo and Tessa Thompson. It was no surprise that his art would make it to the official venue, Spring Street Studios, and I had to be there to witness all the magic.
Sitting in my borrowed seat 😉, I witness black people joy. From the collection that allowed CJR to be his full self, the parade of black models, to sitting behind Pyer Moss designer Kerby Jean-Raymond supporting his friend front row, I began to understand this wasn’t just any NYFW.
With my mind blown from witnessing the CJR show, that feeling was repeated the very next day. On Sunday Sept 8 at 9pm I arrived at Kings Theater for Pyer Moss Collection 3. When I arrived, I was wonderstruck by the beauty and size of the crowd waiting to get in. The line was a testament to the joy designer Kerby Jean-Raymond brings to the black community. The feeling continued with this collection. Opened with empowering words by writer Casey Gerald, the mood was set. His chanting words of black empowerment lead us into the litest choir rightfully name Pyer Moss Drip Choir Drenched in the Blood. The choir filled the room with songs from Anita Baker, Tonex and Missy Elliott as Collection 3 blessed the runway. To cap off the night, directly after the show Kings Theatre turned into the livest party. With Hennessy flowing and the dj curating the vibe, an unwavering feeling came over me. A feeling and understanding that we were reaping what our ancestors sowed.
What I came to understand is we are making history to a magnitude greater than ourselves. It is powered by those who came, struggled, and concurred before us. Those who desired and fought for what we are experiencing. It is so refreshing being in the industry with other unapologetically black creatives. People who understand their talent is beyond themselves. It is a tool to bring the community together and encourage each other to be our full shelves. We are no longer caught up in what people outside of the community think. Our only concern is celebrating and uplifting each other.
What I Wore During NYFW
