When the Coronavirus pandemic escalated in March, a lingering question swept over the fashion industry: What does this mean for fashion week? We’ve since seen fashion almost fully immerse itself in the digital world, from Hanifa’s revolutionary 3D Instagram runway show in May, to designers who have recently showcased their Resort 2021 collectiond, along with some Spring 2021 showings. After the July confirmation that the show would go on for New York Fashion Week (NYFW) this fall, CFDA has announced the official NYFW schedule, beginning on September 13 and ending on September 16 — as you might imagine, the list is shorter than usual, and most shows will be digital.
In the wake of the worldwide health crisis, brands faced unprecedented challenges from factory shutdowns to significant drops in sales, leading some brands to cancel or push back collections. Additionally, the industry’s current state prompted a much needed conversation around just how often fashion shows should take place. As a result, many designers have opted out of fashion week this go round, some to presumably showcase their spring collections at a later date.
Though NYFW typically boasts the most diverse lineup across all four fashion capitals, of course, a reduced calendar means fewer Black-owned brands on the catwalk this season as well (Pyer Moss, Telfar and Christopher John Rogers are among the designers who have opted out). Conversely, there are fifteen new additions to the NYFW schedule this fall — Doux, Frederick Anderson, Frère, Oak & Acorn and Theophilio among the few, bringing the number of Black designers showcasing at Fashion Week this fall to 10 out of 60. Ahead, here’s all of the Black designers participating in New York Fashion Week in September.
Harlem’s Fashion Row (Digital) – 9/13 – 7:30 PM
A post shared by HFR (@harlemsfashionrow) on Aug 24, 2020 at 1:19pm PDT
Harlem’s Fashion Row (HFR), founded by Brandice Daniel, is a creative platform serving multicultural designers, aiding them in presenting and selling their collections. HFR will celebrate their 13th annual Style Awards & Fashion Show, as well as showcase collections from BIPOC designers Kimberly Goldson, Rich Fresh, and Kristian Lorén.
Dur Doux (Digital) – 9/14 – 4 PM
“The Official NYFW Schedule launches on Sunday, September 13th,with Jason Wu and Harlem’s Fashion Row’s virtual fashion experience, and concludes with Tom Ford on Wednesday, September 16th. Returning designers and brands include Alabama Chanin, Alice + Olivia, Anna Sui, Badgley Mischka, Bibhu Mohapatra, Carolina Herrera, Chromat, Claudia Li, Dennis Basso, Eckhaus Latta, Jonathan Simkhai, LaQuan Smith, Marchesa and Marchesa Notte, Naeem Khan, Nicole Miller, Veronica Beard, and Zero + Maria Cornejo. Ten names are new to the schedule: Aknvas, Anne Klein, Colleen Allen, 
DUR DOUX, Duncan, Frederick Anderson, Frère, Imitation of Christ, Oak & Acorn, Venicew, Wiederhoeft, and Wolk Morais.”Stay Tuned for more details A post shared by DUR DOUX (@dur_doux) on Aug 27, 2020 at 5:38am PDT
Presenting designs that empower the coexistence of avant-garde and wearability, signature design elements for Parsons design school alum, Najla Burt, include unexpected shapes and intricate fabrication. Already under the radar of the likes of Elle and Vogue, this mother daughter duo (Burt’s mother, Cynthia Burt, runs Dur Doux’s operations) is the statement brand to keep your eye on.
APOTTS – 9/15 – 9 AM
A post shared by APOTTS (@apottscollection) on Jul 21, 2020 at 3:39am PDT
APOTTS was birthed by Aaron Potts, who got a start in design working with brands such as Anne Klein, Tamara Mellon and Escada. APOTTS puts a fashion-forward spin on staple pieces, often using neutral colors elevated by strong silhouettes. According to the designer, APOTTS‘ pieces are meant to serve as freeing garments consumers can wear everyday.
Frederick Anderson (Live) – 9/25 – 2 PM
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Sleek silhouettes and uniquely feminine elements come to find a home at Frederick Anderson. The FIT alum’s fall collection took an edgy approach on fashion-meets-lingerie, with a strong usage of lace, sheer fabrics and silk.
Oak & Acorn (Digital) – 9/15 – 4:30
@danthony_photography 
@straightwalkrunway 
@simonalcantara 
@marlontaylorwiles 
@harlemsfashionrowA post shared by O&A | Only for the Rebelles
(@oakandacornofficial) on Oct 1, 2019 at 4:57am PDT
Oak & Acorn is a sustainable denim-centered brand based in Harlem, rooted in telling the untold history of the contribution of indigenous Americans and enslaved Africans to the denim industry. Led by Miko Underwood, Oak & Acorn is anything but your typical denim line. Instead, artfully crafted pants and ponchos marry upscale elements with streetwear.
Frère (Digital) – 9/15 – 5:30
A post shared by FRÈRE (@frere) on Jun 7, 2019 at 11:20am PDT
As one of the most influential names in menswear, designer Davidson Petit-Frère’s creations have been seen on the likes of Michael B. Jordan, Jay Z, Terrance J., and more. Elegant finishes and clean lines create a statement look with even the brand’s most casual pieces.
Kenneth Nicholson (Digital) – 9/15 – 6 PM
A post shared by Kenneth Nicholson (@kenneth.nicholson) on Aug 3, 2020 at 9:15am PDT
Kenneth Nicholoson’s eclectic designs aren’t for the faint of heart, but that’s what makes them so good. From zig-zag lace tops, to checkered pants with a ‘70s flare, the Houston-bred designer does not disappoint with his extreme attention to detail. Use of textures and movement take his designs to the next level.
LaQuan Smith (Digital) – 9/15 – 9 PM
Spring20 collection now available at @shopthekingdom 
A post shared by LaQuan Smith- Designer (@laquan_smith) on May 8, 2020 at 5:50pm PDT
LaQuan smith challenges so-called fashion rules with out of the box, risque designs such as sheer maxi dresses and bodysuits, and transparent, latex mini dresses. Quickly becoming a go-to name in the fashion industry, Smith’s designs have been worn by the likes of Cardi B., Winnie Harlow and Rihanna.
Who Decides War (Digital) – 9/16 – 11:30 AM
A post shared by WHO DECIDES WAR (@whodecideswar) on Aug 20, 2020 at 8:33am PDT
Most known for his hand-embellished pieces, designer Ev Bravado approaches streetwear with a distinct and crafty eye, using elements such as contrast stitching, glitter, and unexpected pockets and patchwork to turn everyday pieces such as denim and crewneck sweaters into statement works of art.
Theophilio (Digital) – 9/16 – 3:30 PM
Happy Independence Day Jamaica Home is where my heart is 
A post shared by New York Brooklyn (@theophilio) on Aug 6, 2020 at 4:40pm PDT
Jamaican, New York based designer Edvin Thompson’s line is a pleasing-to-the-eye tribute to his time in Jamaica during his youth, marrying the concept of upcycling with contemporary dressing. Colors play a strong part in Thompson’s designs, along with stand-out adornments such as fringe and metal details.
The post Black Designers Showcasing At NYFW This September appeared first on Essence.
