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Harlem's Fashion Row Announces Its 19th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards

On September 8, 2026, Harlem's Fashion Row (HFR), a premier platform dedicated to celebrating and advancing designers of color, will host its 19th Annual Fashion Show and Style Awards at The Glasshouse in New York City. This event marks an exciting kickoff for New York Fashion Week, focusing on honoring emerging talent, industry icons, and nearly two decades of significant impact on fashion and culture.

The theme for this year's celebration is 'Peace by Piece', a reflection of HFR's philosophy that sustainable organizations are cultivated through intentional decisions and trusted relationships. It symbolizes a commitment to building a vibrant community that includes designers, partners, and supporters who have fueled HFR's remarkable legacy over the past nineteen years.

A Launchpad for Emerging Designers

One of the highlights of the evening will be the introduction of the Spring/Summer 2027 collections from three talented designers participating in the Runway Ahead Designer Fellowship, an initiative presented by ICON360, HFR's nonprofit branch. This program, recently established through the support of the PVH Foundation, provides emerging designers with essential resources like grant funding, executive mentorship, and strategic business development, aimed at propelling their brands toward long-term success.

The featured designers for this year include:
1. Atelier Ndigo – founded by stylist Waina Chancy, this womenswear label is known for its artistic craftsmanship and sculptural silhouettes, influenced by culture and the beauty of indigo.
2. Rey Jaiteh – a luxury brand founded by Lamin "Rey" Jaiteh, specializing in handcrafted garments that merge tailored design with vibrant creativity.
3. Chuks Collins – a luxury fashion house by Nigerian designer Chuks Collins, emphasizing African heritage with contemporary aesthetics, known for its sophisticated craftsmanship.

Throughout the fellowship, these designers have benefited from mentoring in various sectors of the fashion industry, such as marketing, finance, and production, equipping them to unveil their collections to a prestigious audience. This runway debut will offer valuable visibility within a pivotal timeframe of the fashion calendar, attended by editors, industry leaders, and cultural icons.

The Runway Ahead Prize

A highly anticipated moment of the evening will be the awarding of the Runway Ahead Prize, which includes a $100,000 grant designed to accelerate the growth of one selected designer’s brand. The recipient will be chosen by a committee of respected fashion and business professionals, further validating their creative vision and potential.

Honoring Industry Leaders

In addition to showcasing upcoming talent, the Fashion Show and Style Awards will honor trailblazers within the creative community. Categories include Editor of the Year, Stylist of the Year, Designer of the Year, and the newly introduced Breakthrough Award, which recognizes innovative newcomers who shape the future of fashion.

Brandice Daniel, the founder and CEO of Harlem's Fashion Row, emphasized, "'Peace by Piece' is a celebration of our collective efforts that have shaped HFR over the past 19 years. This year's show is not only a reflection on our journey so far but also a look towards an inclusive and innovative future."

A Tradition Continues

Pattern Beauty and DIOR are joining this year's event as official sponsors, lending their expertise in beauty to enhance the creativity of HFR's celebration. As Harlem's Fashion Row enters this milestone year, their commitment remains focused on creating pathways for designers of color while elevating their presence in the fashion world.

About Harlem's Fashion Row

Founded in 2007 by Brandice Daniel, HFR stands as a leading force in recognizing and showcasing multicultural designers. The organization, through its innovative runway shows and partnerships, continues to empower diverse talent, shaping the industry's landscape. "Peace by Piece" serves as both a tribute to HFR's enduring legacy and a pledge to invest in the future successes of emerging designers.