McDonald’s supports Black fashion designers in the NYFW initiative

With only 7.3% of U.S. fashion designers identifying as black, McDonald’s is working to fill the fashion industry’s diversity gap.

The international fast food chain’s Change of Fashion Black & Positively Golden (B&PG) program launched its “Show Out and Show Out in Black” initiative during New York Fashion Week (NYFW) in September, but its mission to support and highlight diverse designers goes beyond the most vital fashion month.

Through the B&PG program and its latest initiative, five Black designers have turn out to be protégés of seasoned fashion insiders. These professionals, like LaQuan Smith, shared their insights to achieve insight into the industry.

During this yr’s NYFW, experts organized a gathering and symposium during which they told their stories. This was accompanied by the “Show up and show up in black” movement. All events are designed to advertise future generations of Black pioneers in fashion.

“Seeing the challenges and underrepresentation that Black designers face in the fashion industry, I am thrilled to support their incredible talent through McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden Change of Fashion program,” said journalist and former editor-in-chief Elaine Welteroth, in a press release. “During New York Fashion Week, a highly coveted moment on the fashion calendar, I look forward to fans joining the Show Up and Show Out in Black movement, using their style and platforms to support Black designers. It’s time to celebrate the community’s contributions and drive meaningful change towards a more inclusive fashion industry.”

McDonald’s has also partnered with Black Owned Everything for fans patronize these clothing brands. People on the platform who make a purchase order can even receive a “Show Up and Show Up in Black” badge, spreading awareness of the movement.

“It’s time for the industry to shine a light and pay tribute to the incredible creativity, perseverance and achievements of Black fashion designers,” said Black Owned Everything founder Zerina Akers. “Black Owned Everything is proud to support McDonald’s Show Up and Show Out in Black movement to celebrate Black-owned businesses, community and inclusion.”

You can learn more ways to support and take heed to the journey of those emerging designers through ChangeofFashion.com.