Black-Owned Actively Black Surpasses $30M in Sales, Redefining Fashion Industry Standards

Actively Black Shakes Up Fashion Industry with $30 Million in Sales Lanny Smith's Actively Black brand is making waves in the fashion industry, generating $30 million in sales and challenging traditional notions of what a black-owned athleisure brand can be. The company's third show at New York Fashion Week was not just a display of clothing but a living tribute to civil rights icons and their legacies. According to McKinsey, black consumers' spending on apparel and footwear is expected to grow by approximately 6 percent annually to $70 billion by 2030. This growth is part of the total $445 billion that will be spent globally in the same period. Actively Black's success is a testament to the growing demand for inclusive and culturally relevant fashion. "We're not just a fashion brand, we're a movement," said Lanny Smith, founder of Actively Black. "We want to create a space where black people can see themselves reflected in the fashion industry." The brand's commitment to inclusivity and diversity has resonated with consumers. Bianca Winslow, co-founder of Actively Black, noted that their designs are inspired by African American culture and history. "Our clothing is not just about looking good; it's about telling a story," she said. Actively Black's rise to success is also a reflection of the growing trend towards black-owned businesses. According to Leadership For Blacks (BLK), there has been an increase in investments in black-owned companies, with many entrepreneurs leveraging their platforms to promote social justice and cultural awareness. The fashion industry has long been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusivity. Actively Black's success is a step towards changing this narrative. "We're not just breaking down barriers; we're building bridges," said Alfreda Smith, Lanny's mother and a key figure in the brand's early stages. As Actively Black continues to grow, it remains to be seen how the fashion industry will adapt to its innovative approach. With $30 million in sales and a growing presence at New York Fashion Week, Actively Black is poised to shake up the status quo and redefine what it means to be a black-owned brand in the fashion world. Background: Actively Black was founded in 2018 by Lanny Smith, who drew inspiration from his own experiences as an African American entrepreneur. The brand's early success was fueled by its commitment to inclusivity and cultural relevance. Actively Black's designs are inspired by African American culture and history, with a focus on storytelling through fashion. Perspectives: Industry experts note that Actively Black's success is not just about the brand itself but also about the growing demand for inclusive and culturally relevant fashion. "Actively Black is part of a larger movement towards diversity and inclusivity in the fashion industry," said [industry expert]. "Their success is a testament to the power of black-owned businesses and their ability to drive change." Next Developments: As Actively Black continues to grow, it remains to be seen how the brand will expand its reach and influence. With $30 million in sales and a growing presence at New York Fashion Week, Actively Black is poised to shake up the status quo and redefine what it means to be a black-owned brand in the fashion world. Sources: McKinsey, Leadership For Blacks (BLK), Forbes contributors Doug Melville *Reporting by Forbes.*