In Lieu of Black History Month, I thought it would nice to give a special tribute to one of the most successful African American fashion designers, Willi Smith. Although his clientele included wealthy and prominent people, his principal aim was to design clothing that was stylish and affordable for the average person. In fact he even once said: "I don't design clothes for the Queen, but for the people who wave at her as she goes by."
Sadly, Willi is no longer with us—he died unexpectedly in 1987 after contracting AIDS—but his wonderful memory still lives on.
A few of his awards include:
- Two scholarships to attend Parsons School of Design in 1965.
- The Coty American Fashion Critics' Award for women's fashion (1983).
- The Cutty
- Honored with a bronze plaque for Fashion Walk of Fame along
1 comment:
I really like the perspective you write from in speaking to the experiences from which designers make their clothes. Willi Smith appeals to me. Deena, your greatest strength is being able to weave a rich narrative about the creative intellects who craft the fabric of our lives.
One complaint I have is that your site misses an opportunity to represent the everyday woman. I feel strongly that if the models featured on your site varied in size many plus-size women would also be able to benefit from a dress suggestion as much as I would.
Thanks again for daring to express yourself. Any story ideas for women’s history month? I look forward to your next post.
P.S. I also plan on trying the new Downy.
P.P.S. Do you have any advice on keeping blacks lint free?
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