It’s hard to imagine a world without the influence of Black designers in the fashion industry. History shows us that many of the major celebrities, athletes, and models have showcased designs created or deeply influenced by Black creators. From zoot suits to tracksuits to sweatsuits, numerous modern fashion trends owe their popularity to these pioneering visionaries. Black designers have been a foundational part of fashion, but their representation doesn’t reflect their impact. As of 2021, only 7.3% of designers in America are Black, facing systemic and racial barriers despite their significant contributions.
Those who have succeeded in this field have done so through immense struggle, hard work, persistence, and overcoming substantial obstacles. Even with growing awareness of these disparities, it remains difficult for new designers to make a name for themselves. To address this, McDonald’s USA has introduced the ‘Black and Positively Golden Change of Fashion’ program. This initiative aims to support five up-and-coming Black designers by providing resources to help them achieve greatness.
The program features emerging designers from across the nation including Durrell Dupard, Shareef Mosby, Larissa Muehleder, Heart Roberts, and Nia Thomas. They will be paired with experienced mentors, have access to masterclasses, one-on-one mentorship, be showcased on major platforms, and have the chance to create two merchandise lines, including a capsule collection set to launch in 2025.
These designers made their presence felt at New York Fashion Week in September, through various events like a live Meet and Greet at the Times Square McDonald’s store, a pop-up shop, and a short film premiere at the ‘Black & Positively Golden Change of Fashion Symposium’. There’s also “A Toast to Black Excellence” reception hosted by the Black Excellence Brunch. McDonald’s teamed up with luxury design house LaQuan Smith for a week-long apprenticeship for the designers and sponsored his runway show afterparty, offering Chicken McNuggets and fries to guests. Committed to elevating Black-owned brands, McDonald’s also launched the “Show Up and Show Out in Black” initiative, where patrons of Black designers received an “I Support Black Fashion Designers” pin with their purchase. During NYFW, they encouraged everyone to shop from Black-owned brands and share their purchases on social media.
Now, let’s get to know these talented designers and the mentors who will help shape their future careers.
**Nia Thomas**
Nia Thomas’s label, bearing her own name, symbolizes her commitment to the industry and her customers. She prioritizes quality over quantity, aiming to make everyone who wears her designs feel powerful while using eco-friendly fabrics. This New York native is mentored by retail executive and buyer Shawn Howell, whose experience as VP Divisional Merchandise Manager at Saks Fifth Avenue positions him to significantly boost Nia Thomas’s global growth, which has already reached over 30 countries.
**Shareef Mosby**
Shareef Mosby’s designs are best described as “unconventional.” Born in Harlem and raised in Richmond, Shareef is the CEO of VICTIM15, a brand that merges avant-garde designs with streetwear. Starting his journey at 15 in Richmond, Virginia, Shareef’s brand grew into an immersive experience showcased in New York City and Miami, aiming for global recognition. He is guided by Elaine Welteroth, the second youngest Editor-in-Chief in Condé Nast history, who will help him push boundaries and achieve lasting success.
**Heart Roberts**
Heart Roberts believes there are no rules in fashion. He creates unique pieces by mixing, matching, and manipulating materials. Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Heart launched his brand HEARTHROB with a goal to break into previously inaccessible spaces and redefine industry norms. His mentor, Sherri McMullen, CEO and Founder of McMullen, a luxury retail store, has a keen eye for emerging talent and a deep commitment to uplifting Black designers from her 20+ years in the industry.
**Larissa Muehleder**
Larissa Muehleder’s diverse background and global experiences inspire her fashion journey. Born in Germany with Austrian and Nigerian roots, and having lived in Paris before settling in Brooklyn, her designs reflect a worldly perspective. Her brand, Muehleder, empowers those who wear her designs and the broader community. She is mentored by Jacqueline Cooper, COO of Laquan Smith, whose strategic approach will help Larissa’s luxury brand grow further.
**Durrell Dupard**
Hailing from New Orleans, Durrell Dupard elevates sewing and crocheting into high fashion. Inspired by his family’s craft, Durrell’s unique designs are part of his brand, Freddie Estelle. His mentor, Justina McKee, CEO of Matte Collection, acts as a “big sister,” offering guidance and expertise to help Durrell navigate the industry and sustain growth in his business.
Follow the journey of these designers on Instagram @wearegolden.