Ms. Wintour stated, "Naomi's bravery has benefited the entire fashion industry." Anna Wintour did leave the event before Naomi Campbell arrived due to a resulting time conflict. Those in attendance witnessed Samira Nasr - Editor-In-Chief of Harper's Bazaar, graciously and skillfully make an impromptu introduction for Ms. Campbell.
During her speech Ms. Campbell said, "I just want to thank Brandice Daniel and your entire team of Harlem's Fashion Row...your commitment to elevating diverse voices in fashion is dependable". As Ms. Campbell expressed her thanks to Anna Wintour for taking a chance on a young black girl from South London and giving her a shot, she went on to say "...I thank you for your influence, and your continued support, and pushing fashion forward also."
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| Teyana Taylor at Harlem's Fashion Row 2024. Shawn Punch Photography/Photo Image Press |
Actress, singer, creative director - Teyana Taylor, won the Virgil Abloh Award presented by LVMH. Samira Nasr was honored as Editor of the Year. Stylist, costume designer & consultant - Shiona Turini, received the award for Stylist of the Year.
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| Nicole Benefield Portfolio Spring Summer 2025 Shawn Punch Photography/Photo Image Press |
The awards ceremony was followed by a fashion show showcasing the Spring Summer 2025 collections of three lovely brands: Nicole Benefield Portfolio by Nicole Benefield, A. Potts by Aaron Potts; and LaTouché by Jimmy LaTouché. The Nicole Benefield Portfolio featured 16 womenswear looks that were all urban chic; stylish and very wearable. Men and women modeled the 21 looks for the A. Potts collection. The designer demonstrated the fluidity of his pieces.
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| LaTouché Spring Summer 2025 Shawn Punch Photography/Photo Image Press |
The LaTouché collection went for a funky mix of 70's Soul Train with several models sporting large beautiful afros, while wearing 80's style double-breasted suits for men and for women. It worked. The 30 looks were creative and fun.
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| A. Potts Spring Summer 2025 Shawn Punch Photography/Photo Image Press |
Harlem's Fashion Row provides a platform for black designers and other designers of color to be recognized, grow and to make sales in the fashion industry, which often excludes these groups from full participation. Let's all kick the door of opportunity open some more. Click to view more images from New York Fashion Week Spring Summer 2025.
