For the first time ever, the 15 Percent Pledge held its third annual gala in Los Angeles, celebrating Black excellence at Paramount Studios with many celebrities in attendance. Creative Director and activist Aurora James started this initiative to encourage retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. With over 28 retailers participating, nearly $14 billion in revenue has been redirected to these businesses.
Big names like Nordstrom, Sephora, Vogue, and Bloomingdales are among the companies that have signed the pledge, and the list keeps growing.
Fashion Bomb CEO Claire Sumers wore a stunning Matopeda gown from Nigeria to the black-tie event. Claire mingled with industry stars, including Kelly Rowland, who dazzled in a Mohamed Benchellal gown with chocolate and gold tones. Kelly’s bob haircut, gold statement earrings, and lioness rings completed her chic look.
Tracey Ellis Ross also wore brown tones in a Fear of Gold fur coat, cinched with a leather belt, paired with mocha Saint Laurent heels. Aurora James, the event’s leading figure, wore a Christopher John Rogers outfit featuring a cream blouse with a teal 3D flower and an avant-garde skirt. Teal strappy sandals and Bulgari jewels added to her elegant ensemble.
Jordyn Woods chose neutrals, donning a Harbison.Studio dress with multi-colored buttons, complemented by black gloves, capturing the black-tie vibe perfectly. She took selfies with Claire, rekindling their connection from Paris Fashion Week.
Emma Grede, Chairwoman of the 15 Percent Pledge and Co-founder of Good American, stunned in a black Aliette blazer dress adorned with a 3D organza rose. Among the attendees was model Ashley Graham, who showcased her curves in an emerald green sequined and feathered gown with cutouts.
Sabrina Idris opted for a sophisticated look in a Kwame Adusei maxi dress, pointy stilettos, and a black mini bag. Media personality Angela Rye shimmered in a futuristic gold Dolce & Gabbana outfit with a built-in corset. Monique Rodriguez, CEO of Mielle Organics, lit up the room in a colorful Christopher Rogers dress paired with a Judith Leiber clutch.
The 15 Percent Pledge is crucial for ensuring major retailers commit to showcasing African American brands, often overlooked due to systemic racism. It’s about making sure the companies we support are promoting inclusiveness, and that’s why this non-profit organization is so important. To learn how to contribute and get involved, visit 15PercentPledge.org.