Millennial Fashion & Beauty Founders Put Community First at NYFW

Millennial Fashion & Beauty Founders Prioritize Community Over Clout at NYFW At New York Fashion Week (NYFW), a shift in focus was evident among millennial founders in the fashion and beauty industries. Rather than prioritizing spectacle and clout, these entrepreneurs centered their efforts on community, purpose, and partnership. Gina Lewis, founder of Freetown (FRTWN), exemplified this approach. Her brand's goal is to spark curiosity about the African diaspora through scholarship, commerce, and cultural memory. "We're not just a fashion brand; we're an extension of a lifelong project," Lewis said in an interview. "Our name, Freetown, refers to the city in Sierra Leone, and it's a nod to our heritage." Lewis' commitment to community was evident at NYFW, where she partnered with other like-minded brands to create immersive experiences that celebrated cultural diversity. This approach resonated with attendees, who appreciated the authenticity and substance behind these efforts. According to Maude Okrah Hunter, founder of Black Beauty Roster, this shift in focus is a response to the changing landscape of the fashion industry. "There's been a backlash against DEI initiatives, and brands are reevaluating their priorities," Hunter said. "We're seeing more emphasis on community building and partnership, rather than just trying to go viral." This trend is not limited to NYFW. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of cultural sensitivity and authenticity in fashion and beauty. Brands are being held accountable for their actions, and consumers are demanding more from the companies they support. As budgets continue to tighten, millennial founders like Lewis and Hunter are finding innovative ways to stay ahead of the curve. By prioritizing community over clout, these entrepreneurs are not only building successful businesses but also contributing to a more inclusive and equitable industry. The impact of this shift is already being felt. According to a recent survey, 75% of consumers prefer to support brands that prioritize social responsibility and community engagement. As the fashion and beauty industries continue to evolve, it's clear that millennial founders will play a key role in shaping the future of these sectors. In conclusion, the millennial founders who attended NYFW demonstrated a commitment to community, purpose, and partnership. By prioritizing these values over clout, they are not only building successful businesses but also contributing to a more inclusive and equitable industry. As the fashion and beauty industries continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends unfold. Sources: Jasmine Browley, "How Millennial Fashion & Beauty Founders Navigated NYFW—With Community Over Clout," Forbes Maude Okrah Hunter, founder of Black Beauty Roster Gina Lewis, founder of Freetown (FRTWN) *Reporting by Forbes.*