Every NYFW, one of my favorite things to do is chronicle and watch some of my favorite black designers. Of course, the push for black designers and black models of color has always been a consistent and necessary step in adding to inclusive discussions. And this year, there were a ton of natural hair moments and beautiful, decadent makeup looks that we saw.
A collection I am always on the lookout for is Maki Oh. This season, the designer Amaka Osakwe featured only women of color in her beautiful collection that boasted Nigerian textiles and prints. This season, the brand collaborated with Marc Jacobs Beauty (who has recently launched a series of beauty products that many Black youtubers have been reviewing) for the makeup looks, using the Shameless Youthful Look 24-hour Longwear Foundation. Let’s also note that this collection has 29 shades; thankfully, quite a few selections for women of color.
As you can see, the show (and models backstage) were nothing short of #BlackGirlMagic personified.
The Nigerian textiles of the show can in a variety of rose golds and blues, with detailing really focused on print and texture. Oh, did we mention that the collection was called Ala Koba, translating to, “someone who gets you in trouble.” With exquisite tailoring of coats, blazers, and yes, lacy skirts, the collection was one that I truly loved from start to finish.
The Aveda team was in charge of making the beautiful looks for the models. Hairstylist Darren Summors told TheBlondeMisfit, “The inspiration behind the look was very much an everyday, professional working woman who had come home at the end of the day, thrown her hair up in a hair net ready to relax, or run down to the bodega.” He noted that the look was also “very real, relaxed, and undone with a touch of cool.” We certainly agree.
For the show, we definitely saw some A-list models make their appearance, including Deandra Forrest and Michelene Auguste. It was amazing to see so much magic happen, especially when we so often see only one dimensional idea of what a “model of color” looks like. Shows like this prove that the importance of having a diverse cast that is truly reflective of the Diaspora is one that is very near and dear to Black designers. Additionally, chronicling our beautiful heritage during NYFW AND Black History Month is a great thing to have.
Bravo to Maki Oh and Marc Jacobs Beauty for showing beauty in all tones!
All images courtesy of Maki Oh.
