Since the inception of Fashion Bomb Daily in 2006, we have been advocates for diversity. I started FBD as a general market blog about celebrity style, but the majority of the content eventually geared towards people of color, specifically black people, thanks to my degree in French and African-American studies. Also, I’m black. I’m from Atlanta, and live in New York. FBD is a direct reflection of my upbringing and interests!
Ever since the Black Lives Matter movement reignited in 2020, we have seen a surge of advocacy for black people in the fashion industry, and the creation of a myriad of different groups, including Emerge in Color, Maison Black, and the Black Fashion Movement. True inclusion and diversity in the fashion industry can’t be accomplished alone, so I was happy to go to LA to attend the inaugural event for their Pop Up shop.
Aside from my interest in African-American studies, my love for fashion, specifically SHOPPING led me to create FBD. So while I covered the event, I also couldn’t help but pick up pieces by Undra Celeste (vest), Tribal Eyes (shades), Silver & Riley (clutch), and S McGhee collection (scarf).
As I said in this post, knowing what I know about the history of our country and the inequities experienced by our community, I am keenly aware of the importance of us supporting black brands with dollars and exposure.
Certainly wear what you like (I am also rocking Hermes flats and an Hermes bag–a nod, I think, to my love of France! And a Travelpro bag because I think they make the best suitcases!). But It’s also important for consumers to support Black Designers. But Give them grace. Many black brands have not had the LUXURY of existing in the 19th century, and perfecting their craft to the point it is today (like a Louis Vuitton). Some things may not be perfect or on time. You may pay a premium. But with community support, we can help create the next generation of luxury brands, that can exist alongside a lot of the European luxury brands we all know and love.
I am compelled to write this message on Juneteenth, the day slaves in Texas learned of their emancipation. As I look out across a beautiful field in California where I’m not picking cotton but rather working on my business, I feel blessed. We are our indeed Ancestor’s wildest dreams.
And because we are blessed, it is our responsibility to be a blessing to others.
As Tori Nichel of Maison Black said, “It [is] time to create our own space and not wait. I want to make sure I leave the industry better than I entered it. We define culture. We establish all the trends. We should have this.” I couldn’t agree more.
Visit the Emerge in Color x Maison Black x Black Fashion Movement shop at the Beverly Center, on the 7th floor, housed amongst the luxury stores. It’s right across from the Salvatore Ferragamo and MCM stores, right down from Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga.
Tell them I sent you!
Love & Light,
Images: Getty/Madwords Photo
