The Black in Fashion Council’s Discovery Showroom celebrates 10 years of supporting 75+ global designers.
This initiative has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for Black creatives, who have historically faced numerous barriers within the industry.
In honor of this milestone, ten talented Black designers showcased their Fall 2025 collections, each reflecting the council’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion.
The Black in Fashion Council was established to advocate for the advancement of Black individuals in the fashion and beauty sectors. It aims to create a workforce where Black people are represented at all levels, from junior positions to executive roles. The Discovery Showroom serves as a vital platform for emerging designers to gain visibility and connect with industry leaders, ultimately helping to reshape the narrative surrounding Black representation in fashion.
This season’s showcase featured a diverse array of designers, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Notable among them was Nia Thomas, known for her exquisite crochet knitwear. For her Fall 2025 collection, Thomas introduced innovative leather pieces alongside her signature designs, showcasing her ability to transform challenging textiles into wearable art. Her creations, including a striking lilac leather halter top and a slip dress resembling a fishing net, exemplify her dedication to crafting an immersive sensory experience through fashion.
Aaron Potts, another standout designer, reflected on his journey since first exhibiting with the council five years ago. He emphasized the importance of building independent communities of creatives amidst a changing political landscape. His Fall collection featured vibrant colors and playful motifs, signaling a shift towards deeper connections among people rather than mere superficiality in fashion.
Fumi The Label’s Fumibon shared her inspiring story of launching a size-inclusive brand during the pandemic despite initial hesitations due to a lack of representation. Her collection included hand-knitted coats and body-hugging dresses that celebrate individuality and resilience.
Heart Roberts transitioned from modeling to design during the pandemic when he sought to create clothing that fit him personally. His debut collection, titled “Apocalypse,” explores themes of community and resilience through upcycled materials and innovative design.
Busayo Olupona’s journey from law to fashion illustrates the transformative power of community support. Her brand intertwines practicality with artistic expression, as seen in her tailored shirt dresses and vibrant woven pieces that pay homage to her Nigerian heritage.
The collaborative efforts of designers Mosby and Cope from Victim reflect their shared understanding of vulnerability in fashion design. Their collection challenges conventional norms while fostering an environment where individual perspectives are valued.
As these designers showcased their work at the Discovery Showroom, they not only celebrated their personal achievements but also highlighted the collective progress made by Black creatives in an industry that still has much work ahead. The ongoing commitment of the Black in Fashion Council to nurture talent and promote diversity is crucial in paving the way for future generations.
