Self-Representation—How Can It Expand the Boundaries of Black Fashion?

There are many ways to explore and talk about Black history, and Steven Barter, the designer of Barriers, is telling his stories through clothing—specifically, streetwear. Many people of a younger generation—okay, fine, my generation—don’t know the difference between Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, let alone who Fred Hampton or Bobby Seale were. Barter, aware of this fact, takes recognizable photos of these Black historical figures and creates a collage of their images plus any other visually important content on a background of boldly colored apparel. One of the best-selling items is the lavender-colored hoodie with Angela Davis and Assata Shakur.

In addition, when he launches a new collection, he also puts up an accompanying art installation that goes with the theme of the launch, and moving forward, he wants to go deeper than just Black history, creating art and design that explores all untold stories.

“I wanted to be inspired by these images, but not to create something super referential; to think about how I could move these influences forward, while bringing a sense of optimism and style to something to move in.”

Grace Wales Bonner has been pushing the boundaries around menswear since her first collection debuted. Now, she’s taking optimism and inspiration from West Africa portraiture in the 70s to create a vibrant and optimistic SS22 collection. Bonner tells British Vogue one of her biggest inspirations is Malick Sidibé and how his photography centers around self-representation.

Bonner’s SS22 collection isn’t the only project she’s working on. Earlier this year, Bonner partnered with Adidas to create an elevated collection of sneakers and athletic clothing. In reference to Sanlé Sory’s photographs and her own inspiration, she states, “people are wearing Adidas trainers and T-shirts. When I look at research, sportswear is always somehow integrated into the wardrobe.”

In case you’ve never owned a pair of Pumas, have been living under a rock, or just genuinely don’t know who she is, let me put y’all on to June Ambrose. Not only is she the creative director of Puma, but she’s an all-around style icon and epitome of Black Excellence. Within that excellence comes a level of confidence to which we can all aspire. #30DaysofJune is the clever hashtag she gave her namesake and birthday month, and this year, Ms. Ambrose turned 50. “The biggest misconception is that 50-year-olds are old, that they’re not relevant, and they have to live in a mature state of mind,” she told Vogue. “This isn’t true; I still get the giggles of the little girl that I am inside!”

Her 50th birthday party was filled with star-studded celebs dressed to impress and ready to party. From Beyoncé and Jay-Z to DJ D Nice and Kelly Rowland, everyone was out to celebrate June and the next chapter of her life.