Harlem’s Fashion Row Transforms Cipriani Wall Street into a Must-Visit Fashion Destination

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Harlem’s Fashion Row: Building the table for Black Creatives

Harlem’s Fashion Row (HFR) marked a significant moment in the fashion industry with its 18th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards on September 9,2025,at cipriani Wall Street. This year’s event wasn’t simply a showcase of clothing; it was a resounding declaration that Black designers and creatives are not seeking inclusion, but building thier own space and leading the conversation.

The evening began with a powerful performance by the Alvin Ailey dancers, whose movements told stories of resilience, triumph, and beauty, setting a tone of unapologetic celebration of heritage.

A Haitian Showcase Takes Center Stage

This year’s runway spotlighted Haitian talent, a historic first for HFR. All three featured designers – LaTouché, Atelier Ndigo by Waina Chancy, and Daveed Baptiste – share Haitian roots, and their collections served as vibrant testaments to their cultural heritage.

* LaTouché: Presented architectural silhouettes and dramatic shapes, incorporating Love Island star Chelley Bissainthe into the show.
* Atelier Ndigo (Waina Chancy): Focused on sophisticated designs, emphasizing feminine strength through expertly tailored pieces.
* Daveed Baptiste: Bridged the gap between the streets of Port-au-Prince and the energy of New York City, experimenting with textures and rhythms.

These collections weren’t simply clothes; they were cultural statements, underscoring Haiti’s enduring influence.

Honoring Trailblazers and Future Leaders

The Style Awards elevated its recognition with two new honors. The Anne lowe maverick Award, named after the designer of Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress, was presented to costume designer Ruth Carter, whose work has redefined cinematic style. The Impact Award recognized Christiane Pendarvis,Co-CEO of Pattern Beauty,for her influence beyond the beauty industry and into boardroom discussions.

Othre notable winners included:

* Nikki Ogunnaike: Editor-in-chief, Marie Claire (Editor of the Year)
* Jason Bolden: Hollywood Stylist (Stylist of the Year), acknowledged with heartfelt tributes from Nicole Kidman and Michael B. Jordan.

Usher’s Inspiring Message

The highlight of the evening was Usher’s acceptance of the Virgil Abloh Award, presented by LVMH, for his cultural impact and commitment to empowering communities. Usher didn’t merely accept the honor; he delivered a powerful, inspiring speech.

he spoke about overcoming barriers and the importance of self-belief, famously stating, “You can’t tell me that the sky’s a limit if there’s footprints on the moon.” Usher also emphasized the necessity of supporting organizations like HFR, driving home the point that investing in Black creatives is an investment in the future.

Did you know? Virgil Abloh,the namesake of the award,pioneered a design philosophy centered around incorporating small changes to create significant impact.

A Gathering of Icons & A Future Forged

The event drew a remarkable crowd,including industry legends like Dapper Dan,Slick Rick,Keri Hilson,and Sherri Shepherd. This gathering underscored HFR’s role as a central hub for Black fashion and culture.

HFR founder Brandice Daniel succinctly captured the spirit of the evening: “This year’s theme, ‘This Is the Table,’ embodies our mission to create space for those previously excluded. This year’s event is a testament to the impact of Caribbean creativity.”

What are the biggest barriers to entry for Black designers in today’s fashion industry?

Sources:

* Loving New York: https://loving-newyork.com/things-to-do-in-harlem/

* Ebony: https://www.ebony.com/

What specific challenges did Harlem’s Fashion Row aim to address upon its founding in 2007?

The Evolution of Harlem’s Fashion Row

Harlem’s Fashion Row (HFR) has long been a pivotal force in championing diverse talent within the fashion industry. Founded by Brandice Daniel in 2007, HFR began as a platform to address the lack of depiction for designers of color. Over the years, it has evolved from intimate runway shows in Harlem to a nationally recognized organization hosting impactful events like the recent showcase at Cipriani Wall Street. This year’s event, held on September 13th, 2025, solidified HFR’s position as a key player during New York Fashion Week, attracting industry leaders, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts alike. The organization’s commitment to inclusivity and providing opportunities for emerging designers remains at its core.

Cipriani Wall Street: A New Venue, Amplified Impact

The decision to host Harlem’s Fashion Row at Cipriani Wall Street marked a significant shift. Traditionally held in Harlem, the move downtown signaled HFR’s growing influence and ambition. cipriani Wall Street, known for its grandeur and past meaning, provided a stunning backdrop for the collections.

* Increased Visibility: The Wall Street location attracted a broader audience, including major buyers, press, and influencers who might not typically venture uptown.

* Enhanced Production Value: The venue’s infrastructure allowed for a more refined production,elevating the overall presentation of the designers’ work.

* Strategic Positioning: Hosting the event during NYFW maximized media coverage and industry attention.

This strategic move underscores HFR’s dedication to not just showcasing talent, but also to integrating it into the mainstream fashion landscape.The event was a powerful statement about the evolving definition of luxury and the growing demand for diverse representation.

Designers Taking center Stage: Highlights from the Runway

The 2025 HFR showcase featured a diverse lineup of both established and emerging designers.Each collection reflected a unique perspective and showcased exceptional craftsmanship. Key designers included:

1. Telfar clemens: The celebrated designer known for his inclusive brand and iconic shopping bags presented a collection that blended streetwear with high fashion. His continued success serves as an inspiration for aspiring designers.
2. Fe Noel: Noel’s vibrant and colorful designs, inspired by her Caribbean heritage, brought a joyful energy to the runway. Her work consistently celebrates Black womanhood and cultural identity.
3. LaQuan Smith: Smith’s signature bold and glamorous aesthetic was on full display, showcasing his ability to create statement pieces that empower the wearer.
4. Emerging Talent Showcase: HFR consistently dedicates a portion of the runway to emerging designers, providing them with invaluable exposure and mentorship opportunities.This year’s showcase featured designers from the HFR Design Accelerator program.

The collections collectively demonstrated the breadth and depth of talent within the Black design community. The focus wasn’t just on aesthetics; it was about storytelling, cultural expression, and challenging conventional beauty standards.

The HFR Design Accelerator: nurturing the Next Generation

A cornerstone of Harlem’s fashion Row’s mission is the HFR Design Accelerator. This intensive program provides emerging designers with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed in the competitive fashion industry.

* Business Growth: Workshops cover topics such as financial management, marketing, and branding.

* Mentorship: Designers are paired with industry veterans who provide guidance and support.

* Production Assistance: HFR provides assistance with sourcing materials, manufacturing, and logistics.

* Showcase Opportunities: Participation in the HFR runway show provides invaluable exposure to buyers and press.

The Design Accelerator is a testament to HFR’s commitment to long-term sustainability and fostering a thriving ecosystem for Black designers. It’s not just about launching collections; it’s about building viable businesses.

Beyond the Runway: impact and Future Outlook

Harlem’s Fashion Row’s impact extends far beyond the runway.The organization actively advocates for diversity and inclusion within the fashion industry, working to dismantle systemic barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented groups.

* Industry Partnerships: HFR collaborates with major retailers and brands to promote diversity in their supply chains and marketing campaigns.

* educational Initiatives: HFR offers scholarships and internships to students pursuing careers in fashion.

* Community Engagement: HFR hosts events and workshops in Harlem to engage the local community and inspire the next generation of designers.

looking ahead, Harlem’s Fashion Row is poised to continue its growth and influence. The organization’s commitment to its core values, combined with its strategic vision, will undoubtedly shape the future of fashion. The move to Cipriani wall Street wasn’t just a change of venue; it was a declaration of intent – a signal that Harlem’s Fashion row is here to stay and is ready to lead the charge for a more inclusive and equitable fashion industry. The organization’s continued focus on emerging talent, coupled with its advocacy efforts, will ensure that the voices of Black designers are heard and celebrated for years to come.