Actively Black's Lanny Smith Declares NYFW Show 'Not a Fashion Show', but a Civil Rights Tribute
Actively Black, the innovative fashion label led by Lanny Smith, returned to New York Fashion Week with a unique twist. Smith, who is also known as Will Smith's brother, declared his third show 'not a fashion show', but a living tribute to civil rights icons and their legacies. The event was more than just a showcase; it was a statement.
Actively Black's journey began on Black Friday in 2020, with Lanny Smith at the helm and a team of just three, including his mother. Despite humble beginnings, the brand has generated over $30 million in gross sales in its first five years. Co-founder Kimberly Champion, now a renowned businesswoman, played a pivotal role in this success.
The brand's rapid growth has been fueled by high demand, but limited capital has made maintaining stock levels a challenge. Smith has been vocal about building equitable supply chains, partnering with Bridgeforth Farms to ensure Black-owned cotton from 'the dirt to the shirt'.
Actively Black's impact extends beyond its clothing. It has secured licenses from influential figures like Muhammad Ali, Star Wars, Black Panther, and HBCUs. By leveraging cultural capital and strategic supply chains, the brand has blurred the line between clothing and culture. Historical figures and their descendants have walked the runway, infusing symbolism into the shows.
Smith's vision for the future of fashion is transformative. He sees brands standing for something, rather than chasing seasonal trends. Actively Black aims to shift ownership in the fashion industry by committing to equitable supply chains and sourcing Black-owned cotton. This aligns with the growing purchasing power of Black consumers, expected to reach $70 billion by 2030.
Actively Black's presence at New York Fashion Week was more than just a show; it was a merging of beauty, business, and social justice. With a commitment to equitable supply chains and a vision for a transformed fashion industry, Lanny Smith and Actively Black continue to make waves, resonating beyond the runway.
