Editorial Diversity | A Conversation

I haven't been down with the hype that is NYFW for some time now, but I had to make my way to the city to hear some very insightful, inspiring black women speak on diversity within fashion from their point of view. Presented by Harlem's Fashion Row, and sponsored by Pandora Jewelry, Danielle, Nicole, Azede, and Rajni gave the audience great advice on how to maneuver within an industry, that although seemingly progressing, is still lacking diversity. 

All of these women left me with something to take home and think about, but I especially connected with Designer, Azede Jean-Pierre. She stated, "Although we are conscience and aware that these things exist (discrimination based on race), we shouldn't let them bother us." Azede recounted her experience submitting her collection to WWD  (which was picked up) and followed up by stating "No one knows your color." Azede keeps moving forward, when something doesn't produce the results, she doesn't dwell. 

For those budding/emerging designers looking to gain exposure from these major fashion publications, Azede shared that for her brand, it was important to know who they were reaching out to and why they are reaching out to them. It is imperative that you know your brand and where it will fit. 

Rajni Jacques, Creative consultant and Freelance Fashion editor also shared some very vital information for those looking to get into the fashion editorial world. In the beginning she shared that she had missteps, and made mistakes - "a misconception of what being creative meant."

Fast forward to today, Rajni stated, "The way you look, and how you present yourself is important. You can educate, and prove that you can do what anyone else established can do." Rajni also shared that we should encourage, associate, and be friends with people who look like us within the industry. 

Telling of one of her most challenging moments working for a small magazine as Fashion Editor; Ranji booked two of the hottest "new faces" at the time (one Asian, and one Black), only have it shut down. The EIC told Ranji that "This isn't Vibe Magazine," and they did not run the story. Could you imagine? 

As trying as the situation might have been at the time,  Rajni informed us that it is important to "learn how to choose your battles to win the war."

Likewise Danielle Prescod, Fashion Editor for Elle.com determination to persevere from her youth till now has most definitely gotten her where she is today. She took to the ground running, and told us of how she composed a list of over 200 professionals within the fashion editorial world to contact. Interning and working her way up the ranks,  and making her presence known.

Nicole Chapoteau, Accessories Director at Allure kept it all the way funky with us stating, "It is going to take a long time for things to change, and people are still not willing to hire the black girl within the fashion magazine industry." However, all is not lost. As harsh or a reality as that may be, according to Nicole, she is starting to see a small shift. 

Now that she is in a position to bring people on to her team, she makes it a point to hire fairly and to bring on the best person for the job. A little advice from her to you, "know your fashion history", and for those of you social media kings and queens, be sure to "do the foot work, not just leave a comment on social media." Cause that aint gonna cut it lol.  
 

"There is never an excuse, you can always do your best." ~ Nicole