Just as I sat down to talk with Raise Fashion CEO Felita Harris , during the nonprofit organization’s New York Fashion Week event at the House of Sound, she politely excused herself to say goodbye to a group of individuals as they were leaving. “Emerging designers are doing this [showcase] for the artistry and creativity, yes, but also to sustain a business,” says Harris, as she joined me, once again. “So when I see someone from one of the participating retailers walk by I make it a point to thank them for being here.
They are a piece of the process.” It’s a small but meaningful gesture, which I instantly identified as a testament to how Harris, thoughtfully fosters her network—a key detail when working with new talent. This close attention to detail is just one of the things that separates Raise Fashion from other designer mentorship programs.
Since its inception in 2020, Harris and her team have been dedicated to advancing the equity of BIPOC fashion talent, using pro-bono advisory services, grant resources, and access to its inner circle of industry professionals. And what better way to get emerging designers into a room with editors, stylists, buyers, and other prominent people in fashion, than by hosting an experiential showcase and cocktail hour during New York Fashion Week, sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch. “We are proud to be supporters of Raise Fashion and this incredible [event], celebrating Black Talent, including our very own Abercrombie designers .