Around Town with Madelyn

Austin Fashion Week made history from April 18th to 20th, 2024, by hosting its inaugural Black Fashion Designer Showcase, featuring twelve exceptional designers. The event was a celebration of diversity, individuality, and raw talent, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

The showcase featured a diverse lineup of designers, including 2LuvHer, Bow Inertia, Davis Atelier, Explore Her By Dora, Fashion Disorder, House of Chelette, Love Story Bridal, M. Jeanne Apparel, TopTierFashion, UNTDX, Virtuous, and Young Gods. Each designer brought a unique perspective to the runway, with garments that exuded glamour, sophistication, and edginess—qualities reminiscent of high-profile fashion capitals like New York and Paris.

For many of the designers, this showcase marked a significant milestone, as it was their first-ever opportunity to present their work to the public. The energy in the room was palpable, with a standing-room-only crowd captivated by the creativity and craftsmanship on display. The atmosphere was electric as the audience was treated to an awe-inspiring display of talent and innovation.

Standing room only, the event drew attention from all corners, with Terry P Mitchell and Tamara Jones leading the runway as style ambassadors for The Black Fund, representing a celebration of talent, grace, and cultural pride.

Among the designers, Didi Ruffin of Bow Inertia shared a deeply personal story of how design became her lifeline, helping her escape an abusive relationship and find purpose and joy. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and resilience.

Another standout was 2LuvHer, an emerging talent who transitioned from designing swimsuits in high school to creating elegant gowns for all occasions. Her daughter, serving as a model in the showcase, added a poignant touch to the event, symbolizing the passing of creativity and inspiration from one generation to the next.

The showcase also welcomed Young Gods, a mother-and-son duo hailing from New York City, whose whimsical and inspiring designs for children stole the hearts of attendees. Their message of empowerment and self-discovery resonated deeply, reminding us all of the importance of embracing our uniqueness and potential.

As I spoke with designers and models alike, it became evident that this showcase was more than just a fashion event—it was a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and pride. Austin Fashion Week provided a vital platform for these Black designers to shine, and the impact of their work will undoubtedly be felt far beyond the runway.

The Black Fashion Designer Showcase was not just an event; it was a transformative experience that left a lasting impact on all who attended. As we reflect on the wonderment and excitement of the showcase, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in these designers’ journeys.

To Austin Fashion Week, I extend my gratitude for providing a platform to amplify Black voices in the fashion industry while spotlighting the remarkable talents within the Black community.  The resounding success of the Black Fashion Designer Showcase is a testament to the boundless creativity and talent within the community, and I eagerly anticipate the remarkable creations yet to come.