Black Issues Takes a Stand at NYFW

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NYFW is known obviously for its elaborate and eye catching fashion choices, but sometimes the styles can speak a little louder than the eye can see. When fashion is able to evoke emotions it brings a whole new level to style which is something this designer has done at this year’s fashion week.  
Stylist/activist Shayla Hill has brought black issues to NYFW and we are totally loving her for it!

With each of her models color coordinated, each lady sported a different style and flair with an unforgettable message thought to challenge the fashion world for change.

With pieces like a sleek sparkly pink jacket with writing on the back that read: “Vogue Doesn’t Care About Ebony Issues” to “Racism Is Out Of Style” declared on a black denim jacket, along with many other quotes and powerful messages that she chose to help her Slay For A Change Movement.

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According to Yahoo Style associate editor Jihan Forbes, Shayla expressed that she got the concept for these designs after the wrongful death of Sandra Bland.

“I knew that I was planning on going to Fashion Week and thought it would be great to make a bold statement that showed my solidarity. I ended up talking myself out of doing it last year. But when Alton Sterling and Philando Castile happened, I decided to move through my fear.” Hill stated.
 
She chose to use NYFW as her platform since this is a world that is so silent about black issues. A place like fashion week with such powerful names, what a better place to make a statement.

“I feel like it’s an industry that utilizes our celebrities, our culture, our style but seem to be silent about our issues. My hope for this movement was to keep the conversation going. I wanted to let the world know I’m still thinking about all of them. Sandra Bland and I graduated from the same college. At around the same time. I will never forget her!” stated Hill, according to an article by blogarama.com.

www.blogarama.com

​To showcase her inner workings at NYFW, Hill and her sister April Joi (who is a director) are producing a documentary entitled Fashion Weak. A film that will bring racism and fashion to the forefront as well as  discussing the lack of diversity, cultural appropriation, and the silence surrounding black issues.

Hill expressed that she hopes this film will share her perspective on what it’s like to be a black woman that loves the artistry of fashion and showing her journey through Fashion Week.

“I have always said that fashion is my voice. I hope to achieve a message of enlightenment and awareness through my garments. I want to show the world a strong, positive image of four black women who are brave and ready for a change.” Hill stated.

By using the world of fashion to help her voice the need for conversion, this Slay for a Change Movement is only the beginning.  Now that is what you call a real fashion STATEMENT.