Black History: Influential Blacks in the Fashion Industry

It's obvious that Blacks are outnumbered within the fashion industry. But what is even more obvious, is the lack of knowledge people have about influential Black people in fashion. So I have dedicated this post to the Black women and men who have helped shaped and mold the billion dollar industry to what it is now (some you might know and some you may have heard of for the first time!) Happy reads! 

Clothing Designers

Willi Smith (February 29, 1948 - April 17, 1987) - Known as one of the most successful clothing designers in American history. Smith founded Williwear Ltd which sold ~ $25 million of clothing per/ year.  Smith was responsible for designing Peter Parker's beau, Mary Jane Watson's wedding dress in the famous comic book, Spiderman. Additionally, Smith contributed his love for fashion when he created suits for Edwin Schlossberg and his groomsman when he married Caroine Kennedy. Smith also dabbled in costume design; designing uniforms for Pont Neuf and School Daze.

Rachel Roy - Shortly after college, Roy took a leap of faith to follow her fashion dreams in the busy city of New York. Shortly after relocating, Roy interned at the urban fashion label Rocawear which she soon rose to the creative director. In 2005 she launched her own fashion line, Rachel Roy. Roy recently released an additional line, Rachel by Rachel. 

Tracy Reese - One of the most prominent fashion designers in the industry! Some of Reese's clients include: Jessica Simpson, Beyonce, Alicia Keys, and Eva Longoria. Tracy Reese established her line in 1998. Her aesthetic can be described as youthful, feminine and delicate. The thing that makes Reese so great is that she has four different fashion labels! She is a force to be reckoned with!