Harlem’s Fashion Row Hosts 18th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards
Harlem’s Fashion Row (HFR) recently kicked off New York Fashion Week with its 18th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards at Cipriani Wall Street. The event, supported by major industry players like H&M, brought together a diverse group of designers, brands, and creatives to celebrate multicultural talent and recognize pioneers shaping the future of fashion.
Brandice Daniel, CEO and founder of HFR, opened the program with an enthusiastic welcome. She celebrated the designers being honored that evening, playfully waving a Haitian flag in recognition of the three Haitian creatives featured in the show. Daniel introduced the theme of the night: “This Is the Table.” She emphasized that this was not just “our table” or “their table,” but rather the one where culture is currency and collaboration is the foundation. She highlighted how the people in the room were shaping fashion, music, film, and culture, as well as the future for designers of color.
The program began with a performance by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, which captivated the audience with “Wade in the Water,” an African American spiritual dance that carries deep cultural and historical significance.
Celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine presented the first award of the night, “Stylist of the Year,” to Emmy-winning makeup artist, stylist, and author Jason Bolden. In his acceptance speech, Bolden reflected on the path that led him to success and acknowledged the pioneers who came before him. He emphasized the power of fashion as a tool for self-expression and a reflection of the world we live in. Bolden concluded with a call to action, urging everyone to make a personal vow to push forward and challenge the status quo.
Lola Ogunnaike, previously associated with outlets like The New York Times and Time, presented her sister Nikki Ogunnaike with the “Editor of the Year” award for her work as editor-in-chief of Marie Claire magazine. Ogunnaike viewed the award as a starting point rather than an endpoint, encouraging young Black and brown individuals to dream of building their own paths.
Christiane Pendarvis, co-CEO of Pattern Beauty, received the “Corporate Impact Award,” presented by Mark Breitbard, president and CEO of Gap Brand. Pendarvis shared her journey in the industry, expressing gratitude for the opportunities she has had and acknowledging the progress being made in the fashion world. She credited HFR and others in the industry for creating a more inclusive environment.
Linda Dixon presented the inaugural “Ann Lowe Maverick of the Year” award to acclaimed costume designer Ruth Carter. Although Carter could not attend in person, she sent a recorded message honoring the late fashion designer Ann Lowe. Carter expressed her gratitude for the opportunities that Lowe’s groundbreaking work provided and recognized all creators who have contributed to the industry despite challenges.
Corey Smith, head of diversity and inclusion for LVMH North America, closed out the evening by presenting the “Virgil Abloh Award” to Grammy-winning artist Usher. Usher delivered a mix of wisdom and humor, offering insightful quotes and playful jokes about his signature tour moments. He also thanked those working to advance equity in fashion, acknowledging their efforts and calling for continued support.
Following Usher’s remarks, the runway presentations began. Waina Chancy debuted her womenswear collection “Atelier Ndigo,” featuring romantic florals, delicate chain details, and a shift from moodier tones to vibrant Barbie pink. Jimmy LaTuché, a returning HFR designer, showcased his menswear and womenswear line “LaTuché,” balancing sharp tailoring with bold silhouettes. Daveed Baptiste closed the event with his self-titled collection, reimagining denim with high-fashion elements and an ethereal atmosphere. His final look received a standing ovation, marking a memorable moment of the night.
Brandice Daniel returned to the stage for her final remarks, joined by her daughter. She urged attendees to remember the power they hold, emphasizing the importance of supporting and investing in the work of designers of color. She encouraged them to buy, wear, talk about, and fund the creations they admire, highlighting that investment is what truly moves the needle in the industry.
The evening celebrated not only the achievements of individual designers and professionals but also the collective effort to create a more inclusive and diverse fashion landscape.
