The Black in Fashion Council (BIFC) has been a driving force for change in the fashion industry, promoting diversity and supporting emerging Black designers. In its 10th season, the council is showcasing the work of 10 Black-designed labels, with co-founders Lindsay Peoples and Charles aiming to create a sustainable future for Black fashion professionals.
The showcase features a range of designs, from post-apocalyptic sweaters by Victim15 to whimsical hand-crocheted pants paired with severe leather puffers. The council’s mission is to provide a platform where designers can share their ideas, receive feedback, and gain exposure.
Peoples emphasized the importance of inclusivity in fashion, stating that “if you care about fashion, if you care about designers, you should also be making the time to see up-and-coming Black designers.” The council’s efforts have already borne fruit, with some designers gaining recognition, such as Diotima, which won the CFDA’s 2024 Womenswear designer of the year.
The BIFC is not just a platform for showcasing designs but also a support network for designers at all stages of their careers. People from the council provided feedback and guidance to Larissa Muehleder, encouraging her to expand her designs from neoprene. Similarly, Nia Thomas credited the council with helping her push her designs beyond beach-centric items to woven leather pieces.
Peoples and Charles also aim to create a sense of community among Black fashion professionals. They organized Zoom calls that led to the creation of the BIFC and are now working towards building on this foundation. The co-founders emphasize that their goal is not just to support designers during Black History Month but to create a lasting impact throughout the year.
By providing a platform for emerging designers and fostering a sense of community, the BIFC is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/style/fashion/2025/02/14/black-in-fashion-council