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New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is officially here. As one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year, this September’s edition will be no different.
According to the Council of Fashion Designers of America, the week will feature more than 70 designers showcasing their collections through presentations, runways, and activations. With so much style, trend, and surprises ahead, all eyes will be on the Big Apple for the next ten days.
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One of the highlights of NYFW is its star-studded celebrity guest list.
Celebrity favorites like Zendaya, Gabrielle Union, Beyoncé, and Kelly Rowland, to name a few, have been spotted at several NYFWs. Their attendance—and head-turning looks—make us gag every year.
These “it girls” not only bring a sense of coolness and relevancy to the event, but they also significantly impact industry and culture. Their attendance at designer shows can make or break a brand’s success.
Black celebrity “it girls” have the power to set trends and elevate brands.
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A prime example is the viral moment created by Queen Latifah and Janet Jackson at Thom Browne’s show in February 2024. The image of the two powerhouses sitting together in the front row at the show spread like fire. Together they signified what happens when fashion, culture, music, and swag merge.
Amid the conversation about the designer’s trends and collection, there was chatter about who attended, why they attended, and what they wore. Even a legacy brand like Thom Browne benefitted from a little star power.
Similarly, Sergio Hudson’s runway shows have become the most anticipated of the NYFW schedule. Much of this excitement stems from both the style on the runway and the celebrities in the front row. Attendees like Bresha Webb, Marsai Martin, Lala Anthony, Coco Jones, and June Ambrose, have all attended Sergio’s shows, making him the “it girl” designer to watch.
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The influence of celebrities at NYFW also extends beyond the runway.
Celebrity appearances can propel designers to global recognition and transform their NYFW show into a full-on media event. The buzz generated by celebrity sightings drives coverage, starts social media chatter, and sparks trends that often define the next season.
In an industry where image can be everything, the presence of Black Hollywood cannot be denied. Celebrity attendees, like the powerful women listed above, not only set trends but also drive diversity and inclusivity in the fashion world.
More of this – please!
So, as NYFW kicks off, all eyes will be on the streets, runways, AND the front rows. Let’s look at some of our favorite celebrity attendees – and looks – from past NYFW seasons.
1. Beyonce
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Beyoncé took her now signature cowboy couture to the front row of New York Fashion Week in February 2024. The Renaissance leader surprised fans while attending the Luar runway show, where her nephew, Daniel Julez J. Smith, Jr. debuted on the runway.
2. Lala Anthony
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Lala Anthony is all about fierce femininity and sexiness in this LaQuan Smith bodysuit and coat. In 2022, she owned the runway and the front row.
3. Nicki Minaj
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Nicki Minaj is all about details, colors, and volume at the Marc Jacobs NYFW event in February 2022. Her fall style here is 10 out of 10 plus 10.
4. Gabrielle Union
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Gabrielle Union is a Michael Kors celebrity favorite. While attending the February 2024 New York runway show, the Bring It On actress wears an adorable cropped lace shirt and mini skirt set.
5. Queen Latifah
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We still can’t get over Queen Latifah‘s look to the February 2024 Thom Browne show. The Living Single star’s voluminous duster and clock purse are everything.
6. Kelly Rowland
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Kelly Rowland accepted the Harlem’s Fashion Row Fashion Icon in full glam couture. Her hair is a vibe, her makeup is tea, and her dress is unforgettable.
7. Serena Williams
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If there is one thing, Serena Williams is going to do, it’s to slay in pink. Get into her tailored hot pink suit worn to Michael Kors.
8. Ciara
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Ciara slayed at the DUNDAS x REVOLVE NYFW runway affair in 2021. Her deep green monochromatic look gives us fierce attitude and unapologetic style.
9. June Ambrose
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June Ambrose is a New York Fashion Week favorite who doubles as a stylist and celebrity we love to watch. Here, she shows her personality and unique style with an oversized jacket, dramatic hat, and relaxed-fit pants.
10. Keke Palmer
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The gag is Keke Palmer always serves the girls a look. While attending a Michael Kors runway show, the Password host looks adorable in a warm yellow-orange jacket and midi-length dress.
11. Janet Jackson
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Janet Jackson oozes sophistication in this Thom Browne suit. From its perfect tailoring to its tasteful details, Janet’s ensemble is a moda moment.
12. Coco Jones
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Coco Jones shut down the red carpet at The Cut’s NYFW Finale in September 2023. She is an absolute vision in all white. Sis melanin is popping – and we love it!
13. Cardi B
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It’s giving very demure, very mindful. Cardi B shows her sultry and sexy style with this monochromatic black dress. Paired with sleek dark hair, the “Enough” rapper gives us a whole lewk we can’t stop staring at.
14. Lil’ Kim
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Lil’ Kim will forever be the muva of hip-hop fashion. Here, she is pictured leaving the Christian Siriano show in an ornate red and black 3-d flower mini-dress ensemble.
