This essay explores the profound influence of Black culture on high fashion while critiquing the industryâs systemic exclusion of Black designers, models, and creatives. It highlights how Black cultural aestheticsârooted in resilience and self-expressionâhave been central to fashionâs evolution, from the bold patterns of African textiles to the streetwear innovations shaped by hip-hop. However, despite this undeniable influence, the fashion industry often appropriates these elements without proper recognition or inclusion of Black voices.
The essay examines examples like Virgil Ablohâs groundbreaking tenure at Louis Vuitton, Rihannaâs trailblazing Fenty brand, and Telfarâs redefinition of luxury, showcasing Black excellence in design. Yet, it also underscores the exclusion of Black models from runways, the burdens placed on Black creatives, and the tokenism embedded in so-called diversity efforts. Drawing on critical works, it critiques cultural appropriation and calls for systemic change, advocating for a fashion industry where Black culture isnât just celebrated as a trend but respected as a cornerstone of its legacy. True luxury, the essay concludes, is not in borrowing Black culture but in ensuring Black people belong fully within these spaces.
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I really loved Patricias presentation, I appreciate how she shined light on the impact black culture has had on fashion, giving it it’s flowers so-to-speak. I enjoyed when she mentioned “fashion needs black culture to remain relevant” because it’s something agreed upon in the black community but not addressed in the european or white community. I also liked that she mentioned the lack of black hair stylists because often black models hair won’t get the same time or attention a white models hair will get or even their outfits.
Loved your presentation, especially what you said, “Fashion needs black culture to stay relevant.” What a great way to end! The video was awesome it captured your extensive knowledge with the visuals and examples you provided, as well as including and talking about your past experiences living in other cultures and how it influences your lifestyles and perceptions of places/people. You could even go into the difference in stylists and how the actors/actresses are impacted based on the stylist’s background. Keep it up; you did amazing!
From the background music to the information that was presented, I found this presentation/research very informative on black designers, black culture and overall black fashion. Im a visual enthusiast, so I really appreciate the layout of your presentation and the order each topic was presented, well done!
Your slides, including videos kept me super engaged. Your typography as well.