CURATED BY SHARRA GREENE
As New York Fashion Weeks wraps up, and as Black History Month is still in full swing, I thought it couldn’t be a more perfect time to update my beloved black luxury designer directory with new gems. Read to find black excellence!
ANDREA IYAMAH
I originally learned of Nigerian designer Andrea Iyamah back in 2016, and have since fallen in love with her brand’s eclectic and vibrant aesthetic. Originally known for making amazing swimwear, the Andrea Iyamah brand now covers even more ground in the resort wear space, creating gorgeous collections full of effortlessly sultry silhouettes, luxe fabrics, and stand out prints that often pay homage to African culture, all ideal for the ultimate stylista’s vaycay. Shop andreaiyamah.com. | @andreaiyamah
ROMEO HUNTE
Image source: @romeohunte
When you think Romeo Hunte, think minimalist streetwear, turned up a notch… or two. The Brooklyn born and raised designer specializes in taking the most practical articles of clothing and making them more refined, more sophisticated, and then adding in some edge. Perhaps most known for his unique take on outerwear, the designer’s luxurious fur jackets, tailored blazers, and voluminous coats can be spotted on the likes of Zendaya, James Harden, Queen Bey, and so many more. Shop romeohunte.com | @romeohunte
SERGIO HUDSON
And now for my current ABSOLUTE FAVORITE designer in the industry right now, the iconic Sergio Hudson. You may have just gotten hip to Sergio’s work when our former and forever reigning first lady Michelle Obama shut down the inaugural in a head to toe burgundy Sergio Hudson ensemble. I truly believe that prior to that major moment, Sergio Hudson had been one of the most slept on designers of our time, but IYKYK.
Sergio’s ability to cater to the female form while creating cohesive collections that are timeless and distinctive, yet reminiscent of some of our culture’s most memorable style icons ,reminds me that glamour and femininity within today’s fashion scene are still very much alive and well. Shop sergiohudson.com | @sergiohudson
LAQUAN SMITH
And of course, I couldn’t leave out another one of my top 3 in black luxury designers. I’ve been following LaQuan Smith since way back… before many major media outlets refused to acknowledge his genius and I had to look high and low on the internet just for a simple collection review. Now one of the brands of choice for celebs and tastemakers alike, you can catch your fav public figures like Cardi B and Lizzo stepping out in a sexy bodysuit, motor pants, or a sexy sheer gown by the beloved LaQuan.
His avid eye for statement making details and just knowing how the modern woman likes to showcase her curves has brought him to the forefront of fashion. He’s another one of the few luxury designers responsible for keeping glamour and feminine sensuality alive through style. Laquan Smith’s latest SS22 offering at NYFW revealed a new partnership with sportswear brand Puma, shifting the looks to a more simplified approach that’s still sexy with a hint of streetwear influence. Shop laquansmith.com | @laquan_smith
MAH - JING WONG
Image source: @mahjingwong
As I mentioned in my Fashion Week recap, Mah-Jing is one of my favorite Project Runway veterans. I had the pleasure of viewing his latest collection in person at the Fashion Bomb Daily show a few weeks back, and through witnessing his precision of cuts and his use of quality fabrics, I had to add him to this list. MJW mixes the colorful, cheery playfulness of the Japanese fashion scene with sexy, bold silhouettes, resulting in a well-balanced, modern and luxurious look for the bold and confident woman. Shop mahjingwong.com | @mahjingwong
& SO MANY MORE…
Scroll through the rest of the images below to discover more of today’s black designer labels.
Let me know in the comments which designers you plan on supporting this season!
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Sharra,
“The definition of walking art.”
Image Sources/Courtesy: Vogue, Sergio Hudson, Romeo Hunte, Alysse NYC, Megan Renee, Hanifa, Samantha Black NYC, Fe Noel, London Couture, Nicole Shante, Voyette Lee, Kendall Miles, Monica Rose, Pyer Moss, Andrea Iyamah