fashion

Black History Month is always a good time to revisit the accomplishments that black people have made for centuries. The contributions of the black community certainly do not exclude the fashion industry. While those contributions should be learned and noted every day, it’s evident that all of these major steps are not necessarily well-documented, and taking the time to note these steps of progress are necessary for future generations. It’s important for all of us to know where we’ve been, and have faith in where we’re going. It’s necessary to know what paths were blazed by our ancestors and forerunners, in order to know what trails are yet to be burned down.

Here are just a few of the most iconic and important moments in fashion black history. (Note, these accomplishments are not in chronological order rather grouped by significance.):

1. 1861 – 1865 Elizabeth Hobbes Keckley is the personal dressmaker and confidant of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln.

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Did you know that Poetic Justice participated in BET’s first fashion show which was was hosted here in Los Angeles, CA? You may have heard of the BET Experience, a lively festive event hosted by Black Entertainment Television (better known as the BET Network). Annually, the community and celebrities joins together for few days to partake in what could be described as the ultimate block party with Snoop Dogg dunking on Justin Bieber in one room and live performances from Jill Scott in the other. The latest Los Angeles food trucks pulls into the convention center to add flavor to the festivities. The year we participated, there was a dance-off and a film festival. Not only did the entire city of Los Angeles come to L.A. Live to take part in the jamboree (which lead up to the BET Awards), people flew in from around the country to get a taste of the action.

Our team was approached for an invitation-only premiere e