Harlem's Fashion Row Celebrates Usher, Haitian Designers at 18th Annual Show and Style Awards

Harlem's Fashion Row Kicks Off New York Fashion Week with 18th Annual Show and Style Awards

Harlem's Fashion Row (HFR) made a bold statement as it kicked off New York Fashion Week early Tuesday night with its 18th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards at Cipriani Wall Street. The event, supported by industry leaders like H&M, brought together designers, brands, and creatives to celebrate multicultural talent and honor those shaping the future of fashion.

Brandice Daniel, CEO and founder of HFR, opened the program with a warm 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 then introduced the theme of the night: “This Is the Table.”

“This is not our table, because that’s too small, and not their table, because we’re done with that,” she said. “This is the table: the one you want to be at, the one where culture is currency and collaboration is the foundation. And the people at this table — in this very room — are shaping fashion, shaping music, shaping film, shaping culture and shaping what’s next for designers of color.”

The energy in the room was palpable as the program opened with a performance by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Their rendition of "Wade in the Water," an African American spiritual dance, resonated deeply with the audience, bringing them to their feet.

Celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine took the stage to present the first award of the evening, “Stylist of the Year,” which went to Emmy-winning makeup artist, stylist, and author Jason Bolden. In his acceptance speech, Bolden reflected on his journey and the pioneers who came before him. He emphasized the power of fashion as a tool for self-expression and a reflection of the world. His closing message was a call to action: “Tonight, I want everyone to make a vow to themselves. When you take the elevator up, don’t just go left and right…send it back down.”

Lola Ogunnaike, a former journalist for 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 expressed her gratitude and called on young Black and brown individuals to dream beyond just a seat at the table, but to build their own.

Christianne 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 progress being made and the opportunities created for diverse voices.

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, crediting her for reshaping the image of American design.

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. Known for his hit album “Confessions,” Usher mixed wisdom with humor during his remarks, offering lines like, “You can’t tell me the sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.” He also humorously referenced a viral cherry-feeding segment from his concerts.

Usher concluded his speech by acknowledging the efforts of those working to advance equity in fashion, saying, “For everyone here who does the work to support and elevate Black designers, creators and businessmen and women in this industry, I give you your flowers.”

Following Usher’s remarks, the runway lights came up for the evening’s design presentations. Waina Chancy debuted her womenswear collection “Atelier Ndigo,” featuring romantic florals, delicate chain details, and a vibrant palette that shifted from moodier tones to striking Barbie pink. Jimmy LaTuché, a returning HFR designer, showcased his menswear and womenswear line, “LaTuché,” blending sharp tailoring with bold, fashion-forward silhouettes. His collection included gender-fluid pieces suitable for both work and nightlife.

Closing out the runway was Daveed Baptiste, whose self-titled collection reimagined everyday denim with a high-fashion lens. Models adorned in silver and blue body paint added an ethereal touch to the collection, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.

As the night drew to a close, Brandice Daniel returned to the stage for her final remarks, joined by her daughter. She urged the audience to remember the power they hold, emphasizing the importance of investment over mere admiration. “Don’t just admire the work. Buy it. Wear it. Talk about it. Fund it. Because visibility is powerful, but investment is what moves the needle.”