NYFW 2017
When I was 16 years old, I got the chance to travel with my 10th grade history class to New York City, New York. Before then, the only thing I knew about NYC was what I saw on television, and I was excited to go based on my partial perception. I didn't know what NYC totally had in store, and I didn't know that I was about to experience a love affair that would never end. When I got to the city, my heart melted. I felt like I was home.
Ever since that summer of '98, all I did was talk about NYC. I began listening to every New York rapper I could find. I watched tons of movies that were based in NYC. My brother thought I had gone crazy; he was correct. I was obsessed. I went so far as to declare my first child's name would be Brooklyn (yes, New York was that serious to me). A lot of people go to NYC and fall in love with the tourist attractions and aesthetics. Those things didn't move me at all. The tall buildings didn't excite me nor did the bright lights make me beam. What got me was the hustling vibe I felt. I was amazed at the fact that everyone was on the move, and they were laser focused on their journeys. Worrying about what other people were doing didn't seem to be on New Yorkers' agendas at all. They concentrated on getting where they had to go to handle what they had to handle - this was definitely my type of place.
Fast forward years later, and I have visited NYC several times. I've sat in small cafes in Brooklyn, brunched with some fly girls in Harlem, partied at the 40/40 club in Manhattan, and walked aimlessly through the Bronx. However, my recent visit tops all of the other ones because I GOT THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE NEW YORK FASHION WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
“Every year the women of New York leave the past behind and look forward to the future...this is known as Fashion Week.”
Fashion Week in NYC was just like I imagined it to be; full of fashion. I landed Friday morning, saw my girl walk in a show Friday evening, caught some sleep, and did it all over again the next day.
On that Saturday, I was invited to attend a presentation by fashion designer M. Diggs titled The Mahogany Collection. The ensembles that were featured had a 70's-inspired, glamorous aesthetic. I was intrigued as I viewed the looks. See below.
Pictured above is Malcolm Diggs, the designer of the collection featured. He stated that his inspiration for this collection actually came from the movie Mahogany, starring his favorite entertainer Diana Ross. Malcolm's past designs have been seen on celebrities like Lauryn Hill and Fantasia Barrino. His latest endeavor includes designing looks for the The "Colored" Girl Campaign which highlighted African American women and denounced the sterotype of blatant colorism portrayed by the media.
To shop this collection, visit www.malcolmscloset.com. Also, you can follow the brand on Instagram - @mdiggsnyc.
Above is a better look of what I wore to the event. I kept it sleek and simple in an all black ensemble with gold accessories.
Overall my trip to NYC was bomb. I always miss the city when I'm gone, but I was excited to get back to NOLA for some upcoming activities....I'll update you all soon!!
Outfit Details: Imitation Leather Skirt // Black Turtle Neck // Tamar Necklace // Booties with all black look (Steve Madden outlet store, not available online) // Booties with vintage fur
xo
- Samjah Iman