Macy’s department store celebrates African American influence in fashion. As part of the campaign of recognition, Macy’s collaborated with Pepsi, Samsung, Kroger and 107.9 radio dj Ramona Debreaux, in Atlanta, Ga to sponsor the “Fashion Icons” fashion show in February. Featuring menswear designer Shaka King, shoe designer to the stars Etu Evans, bridal wear designer Therez Fleetwood and master tailor Jim McFarland.
Black beauty, an influence all it’s own in
fashion, was celebrated as well. Kroger and some of the co-sponsors launched a modeling competition. The beautiful young men and women donning the fashions that afternoon would go on to compete for a modeling contract with a local modeling agency.
Therez Fleeetwood
Therez Fleetwood bridal collection was all the rage. Fleetwood has earned a name for herself as the leading designer in ethnic bridal wear. Her designs combine ethnic textiles, cultural influences, European cuts and intricate detailing for a unique marriage of style, femininity and elegance.
As many great things are, Fleetwood’s collection was born out of the need for diversity in bridal wear.
“Our society is a melting pot of various cultures, but for a long time, brides wore traditional wedding dresses that did
not represent their diversity” says Fleetwood.
Fleetwood’s work has not gone unnoticed, her gowns have been featured in an array of publications, including
Essence, InStyle weddings, signature bride, Elle and Womens Wear Daily and have been showcased on the NBC Today show.
Fleetwood’s gowns are a great alternative for any bride that wishes to express their individuality and culture on their wedding day or any formal occasion.
If only the website, www.therezfleetwood.com, were more reflective of the quality and beauty of her garments.
;o(
SHAKA KING
It’s always a pleasure to be in the presence of menswear designer Shaka King. His radiant smile and baritone voice are as soothing as his menswear line. With King you can count on quality fabrication without sacrificing urban style or sex appeal.
King’s longevity in the fashion industry has earned him veteran status. Shaka’s experience as a designer is evident in each of his garment. King specializes in customized pieces -limited editions. Check out his website to see design options for a guy who could use a closet “upgrade”. shakakingny.com
King’s celebrity client list has included Lou Gossett Jr., Bransford Marsalis and NBA player Chris Webber among others.
As trite as menswear departments can be across the board, it would be refreshing to see an unsung -veteran designer like Shaka King or a fashion
neo -phytes like Mycheal Knight and other progressive Black designers in department stores like Macy’s.
These are a couple of the pieces he showed at the “Fashion Icons”
show.
ETU EVANS
Shoe designer to the stars, Etu Evans’ demeanor is as ‘sharp’ and ‘precise’ as his designs. Evans prides himself in “always exploring possibilities” and his one-of -kind couture shoes confirms just that! With exotic skins and vibrant hues, his footwear is definitely in the “shock value” family.
Evans showed orange python boots with French lace for woman. Red crocodile and electric-blue wingtips for men. Evans says “the composition of color and texture makes it very interesting conversation.” Indeed it does, Mr. Evans. ;o)
Evans has been honored by numerous organizations for his entrepreneurial and philanthropic work.
Evans credits America’s Next top models’ Tyra Banks, Madonna and Halle Berry as a few of his celebrity clients and his work has been featured in publications such as Elle, Ebony, Vibe, Honey and footwear news.
Evans leads the Solesville Foundation, a non-profit organization that assists others in living better lives and provides shoes and aid to thousands since it’s inception in 1998. What’s next on the radar for Evans? PAPI a Pediatric AIDs and Podiatry Institute.
I personally prefer a more understated foundation, but for the super stunner who wants to “customized’ her shoe game….Evans may be your man!
Check him out at www.etuevans.com. Grab your wallet, Evans’ customized footwear is priced from $500 -$3500. Yowsa!!
It looks like Etu Evans is one cobbler to watch!
Jim McFarland
Always on the prowl for that which is inspiring in fashion and style, I stumbled into master tailor, Jim McFarland’s boutique a few months back. Mr. McFarland greeted me himself and proceeded to introduce me to his work. McFarland, also known as Gentlemen Jim, was equally as charming when we spoke at Fashion Icons. McFarland’s mature style and elegance are reflected in his one of a kind custom tailored garments. Jim McFarland is rich in talent as well as history. As an African American male in the garment industry in the early 60′s, McFarland had plenty of obstacles, but his passion and skill enabled him to flourish far beyond what higher-ups in the industry had planned for him. McFarland has crafted garments for the likes of B.B. King, James Brown and Duke Ellington.
Thanks Macy’s & Pepsi and all the co-sponsors for celebrating
African American influence in fashion with the “Fashion Icon’s” show.
It was a fantastic day! The venue was packed and the audience really seemed to enjoy the show…I know I did.
Celebrating and showcasing African American talent, in such a creative and competitive industry, is definitely….mika’s choice!
mc
