Harlem’s Fashion Row hosted its 6th Annual Designer Retreat from May 8-10, 2024, providing underrepresented designers with a unique opportunity to connect with industry stakeholders and gain valuable insights. Around 75 designers from across the country gathered in New York City for this highly anticipated three-day event. Sponsored by PVH Corp., the parent company of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, as well as Nike, the retreat offered a wealth of opportunities for designers to learn, network, and advance their careers. Throughout the retreat, designers had the chance to interact with industry executives and take exclusive visits to executive offices.
Tommy Hilfiger headlined a group of esteemed guest speakers, including Inga Beckham, co-founder of the brand Sergio Hudson, and business strategists Ifiok Inyang and Monk Inyang. These experts shared insights and strategies for achieving success in the fashion industry. Some of the sessions included:
- A Fireside Conversation with Tommy Hilfiger, which offered intimate insights into the creative process and the journey of turning dreams into reality.
- A Fireside Chat with Calvin Klein Leadership, which delved into the brand’s approach to incorporating brand values into its designs and marketing.
- Empowering Black Creatives by Decoding Generative AI, led by industry experts aiming to revolutionize the landscape of creativity.
- Strategies to Attract Ideal Business Collaborators.
Lance LaVergne, Chief Diversity Officer at PVH, expressed pleasure in building upon the partnership with Harlem’s Fashion Row with this event, fostering valuable knowledge-sharing and connections to fashion industry experts for the next generation of BIPOC designers. PVH and its iconic brands, Calvin Klein and TOMMY HILFIGER, remain committed to increasing access to opportunities within the industry for underrepresented communities.
Additionally, designers had the exclusive opportunity to participate in Industry Stops during the retreat, which included tours of esteemed corporate offices such as PVH Corp., Calvin Klein, Macy’s, Saks, and Louis Vuitton. These visits offered a unique glimpse into the inner workings of some of the industry’s most influential brands, providing invaluable insights and networking prospects.
The Annual Designer Retreat is a cornerstone initiative of Harlem’s Fashion Row. Brandice Daniels, CEO of Harlem’s Fashion Row, expressed pride in hosting the event for the sixth year in a row. “This retreat is where inspiration meets opportunity,” she said. “We are extremely grateful to our sponsors PVH and Nike and to the experts who partnered with us to make this a reality.”
