Who: Latisha Daring
What: The name Latisha Daring may ring a bell to those familiar with the Brooklyn boutique Pieces which Daring owned for 10 years. The Brooklynite closed that chapter to start the next one – Ashtyn by Latisha Daring, a line of edgy dresses and seperates named after her daughter. Ashtyn, stays true to Daring’s funky Brooklyn style, which the designer gave us a taste of in her Spring 2013 collection.
Ashtyn Spring 2013 runway show.
Who: Omar Salam
What: Sukeina, which translates to bright light, exuded just that in Salam’s Spring 2013 collection. Impressive tailoring and innovative design flooded the Harlem’s Fashion Row runway. After seeing his intricate ruffled jackets and showstopping jumpsuit, we were certainly impressed with what Salam had to offer.
Sukeina by Omar Salem Spring 2013 runway show.
Who: Joseph Bethune
What: Inspired by his dad – a mechanic who paired crisp white button down shirts with worn overalls, is where Joseph Bethune and his brother came up with the idea to create their sportswear collection. Bethune Brothers elevates everyday streetwear by refining closet staples like polo shirts, denim and button-downs with fine tailoring while staying true to that element of All-American blue collar swag.
Bethune Brothers Spring 2013 runway show.
Who: Nzinga Knight
What: Evening elegance and regal were the words Nzinga Knight used to describe her collection. And it was obvious from her rich-colored silk gowns and peasant-style dresses that she wants every woman to look and feel like a queen.
Nzinga Knight Spring 2013 runway show.
Who: Maki Oh
What: The 26-year-old Nigerian designer took home the ARISE award for Designer of The Year, and if you take one look at her Spring 2013 collection you’ll know why. Maki Oh’s pieces were stunning. The designer continues to master a combination of sexy silhouettes and fabrics with a subtle undertone of African aesthetique without ever being too cliché.
Maki Oh Spring 2013 runway show.
Who: Folake Folarin-Coker
What: Nigerian native Coker launched her line Tiffany Amber line in ’98 and has steadily expanded ever since. For the past 13 years the designer has been slowly building her empire with a diffusion line and a couture label under her belt, as well as a handful of fashion awards and accolades. For Spring 2013 Coker sought to re-interpret non-traditional African prints on all-over chiffon gowns and chic suit-separates that would make anyone the center of attention,
Tiffany Amber Spring 2013 runway show.
