"Breaking Barriers: The Impact of Black Women on Fashion History"
- sageandchic
- Feb 11, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 12, 2024
Black Women in Fashion
Fashion is a form of expression; it transitions to a style upon the identity of self. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to Black Women contributions to the world of fashion. Early on, we’re forced to define who we are.
As a little girl, my mother’s eyes told me who she expected me to be. Childhood traumas confirmed who I’d never be. Yet motherhood gave me strength to be. The self identification of Black Women is fabric that we weave into a style. Our essence of being is woven into protective garments that we gift to the world of fashion.
Black Women in Fashion
Black Women Fashion History
Anne Lowe {1898-1981} was the first African American woman to become a noted fashion designer. Born in rural Alabama to Jane and Jack Lowe, Anne had the blood of a seamstress. She learned designing and sewing and fashion from her mother and Grandmother, Georgia.
Together, the matriarchs ran a successful dressmaking business that catered to women of high society. At the age of 16, Anne’s mother passed away. She stepped right into her mother’s shoes and took over the family business.
Black Women Fashion History
Anne would go on to formalize her training at S. T. Taylor Design School in New York City. Despite the school’s segregation, she thrived and graduated early and opened her first dress shop.
Anne Lowe artistry led to commission work for stores such as Henri Mendel, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. Her infamous contribution to fashion was the design of Jacqueline Bouvier silk taffeta wedding dress worn in the ceremony to John F. Kennedy.
Black Women Fashion History
Black Women in Fashion
Peggy Ann Freeman {1945-1979} or shall I say - Donyale Luna, the first Black supermodel to gift British Vogue with her presence. Peggy was born in Detroit, Michigan one of three daughters who difference was identifiable early on. Her sister earliest memories was that she was weird and always lived in a fairytale.
Shortly after high school, Peggy assumed the identity of Donyale Luna. It was thought the persona was brought to life as a means to protect her from a troubled home. I’d like to think that played a small part. I see the creation of Donyale as a way to embrace her inner awkwardness.
Black Women in Fashion
Black Women in Fashion
Donyale was discovered by photographer David McCabe. His photographs would capture and define her: a fairy who transformed her body into poetic rhythms by way of arm and leg movement. Donyale modeled for Mademoiselle, worked with Designer Paco Rabanne and had her likeness sketched for the cover of Harper’s Bazaar.
She would go on to become an actress, yet her claim to fame was being the first African American model to grace the cover of British Vogue. Peggy Ann Freeman made history!
Black Women in Fashion
Black Women in Fashion
Bethann Hardison {1942- } is to the fashion industry as Medgar, Martin and Malcolm were to the Civil Rights movement. A Brooklyn native and international model became the face of activism for black women in the fashion industry. In 1967, she was discovered by African American designer Will Smith and began her career as a fitting model; she would further her career by crossing over to runway and print.
Black Women in Fashion
During the 70’s, she was featured in Frances’ battle of designers: Battle of Versailles fashion face off. Hardison continued to soar with appearances in Allure, Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue breaking barriers. She founded The Bethann Management Agency in 1984 with a primary focus diversifying the world of fashion. Her devotion to disrupting the fashion world is depicted in the documentary, Invisible Beauty streaming now on Hulu and Prime.
Black Women in Fashion
Black Women in Fashion
Black Women in Fashion
Samira Nasr {1970 - } is the first woman of color to hold the title of editor-in-chief at Harper’s Bazaar in their 153 year history. I would be remiss not to mention that Harper’s Bazaar has been my go-to fashion source for years. Matter of fact, I created a gallery wall with framed covers of monthly editions. I've been a devoted subscribers for years!
Samira moved from Montreal to New York City in the 90’s and studied journalism at NYU. She worked as a stylist assistant, did some freelance work until her keen sense of style was recognized; she became style director at InStyle and shortly thereafter, became fashion director of Elle. Samira has proven to be a powerful voice in the industry.
Black Women in Fashion
British Vogue named Chioma Nnadi {1979 - } the first black woman to hold the title head of editorial content. The Nigerian, Swiss German beauty was a favorite to replace Edward Enninful, a Ghanaian-born fashion powerhouse as editor-in-chief.
London born, Chioma studied journalism and in 2020 joined American Vogue as a writer; she wrote for the Vogue American website and co-hosted their podcast. Nnadi’s engagement grew Vogue’s social media presence to global success.
Anna Wintour would often describe her as a beloved among her colleagues due to an impeccable reputation. Chioma has changed the way we understand editorial fashion.
Black Women in Fashion
As we celebrate Black History month, I honor these trailblazers of the fashion world. These women penetrated an industry where we struggle to be seen. In the power of self love, we continue to show up and participate and contribute to the ever evolving trends of fashion. For it is the acceptance of our fullness that confirms our black as stylishly beautiful!
Be Well.
Sherese~
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