Harlem's Fashion Row Black Fashion History Dinner w/ Macy's

This February is the blackest Black History Month I've ever experienced. From the release of Black Panther to the unveiling of President Obama and Michelle's portraits, so much good is happening. So when Harlem's Fashion Row Black Fashion History Dinner extended an invitation to me with the Macy's team there was no way I could turn down such a historic event.

For the dinner, I opted to wear a brown designer - Rachel Roy. I'm a huge fan of Rachel Roy's plus size collection, I think the pieces are smart, designed well, and super wearable. Her clothes are great for a New Yorker like me who is always running around but still needs to look put together. I love shopping the collection at Macy's in particular because it's a physical space where I can try everything on! RR is only available online directly from the designer. The flitty skirt and blousy sleeves of this dress made it a fun piece to wear to the dinner because it wasn't too over-the-top, but just enough pizazz to fit in with the tone of the evening.

My Harlem's Fashion Row Dinner Outfit

Heading into the dinner, I had no idea what to expect so I was very pleasantly surprised to know we'd be having an intimate dinner and discussion with THE Dapper Dan. I was awestruck. 2017 was quite the year for Dapper Dan. To go from being sued by Gucci 25 years ago to his (stolen) design walking down their runway, to Gucci now backing him and his Harlem atelier. Dapper Dan's story is the Black fashion story. We create the wave and then they take it and decide it's high fashion. And that's what the dinner was about, tapping into our history and what we can do to preserve it. Thinking about the future of the fashion industry and how we can make sure Our voices are heard and we are a part of it. The Future of Fashion is Collaboration.

Me with the ladies of Macy's corporate 

This dinner had so many greats present - Beth Ann Hardison, former model and Founder of the Diversity Coalition of fashion was there. Michaela Angela Davis, writer and activist, was there. Veronica Webb. The list goes on and on. Brandice Henderson, Founder of Harlem's Fashion Row, did an incredible job curating the panel and guests for this dinner. We were also treated to a beautiful presentation from Sukeina by Omar Salam (this collection was glam to the max!).

Overall, the Harlem's Fashion Row Black Fashion History Dinner was a great success and I was honored to attend. I look forward to more events from HFR, and the future of Blacks in the fashion industry. Now is the time.

If you'd like to dig into the history of Black Fashion, Harlem's Fashion Row is offering a FREE download of their e-book "Fashion in Color". You can get it here!

This post is sponsored, but all opinions are my own!