McDonald’s brought New York Fashion Week to a powerful conclusion with the House of Arches runway show—a dynamic celebration of Black creativity and innovation. The event marked the grand finale of Change of Fashion, McDonald’s year-long mentorship initiative dedicated to elevating emerging Black designers by pairing them with some of the industry’s most influential figures.
The showcase featured five rising talents—Shareef Mosby (VICTIM15), Nia Thomas (Nia Thomas), Durrell Dupard (Freddie Estelle), Larissa Muehleder (Muehleder), and Heart Roberts (HEARTHROB)—each delivering collections that exemplified their unique artistic voices while underscoring the deep connection between Black culture and today’s most influential fashion trends.
Front row luminaries, including cultural icons Dapper Dan, Misa Hylton, Grammy Award-winning musician Rapsody, and celebrated jewelry designer Bernard James, applauded the designers as they unveiled their collections, each a testament to resilience, heritage, and the power of self-expression.
A CATALYST FOR CHANGE IN FASHION
Despite Black culture serving as the foundation for global fashion movements, Black designers remain underrepresented, accounting for just 7.3% of American fashion designers. McDonald’s Change of Fashion program aims to shift this narrative by providing visibility, mentorship, and access to the industry’s most exclusive platforms. This initiative has not only given a stage to these brilliant designers but also ensured their work reaches industry gatekeepers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Each designer brought a distinct vision to the runway:
Shareef Mosby (VICTIM15) — Mentored by Elaine Welteroth, award-winning journalist and former Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue, Mosby fuses utilitarian fabrics with urban-chic design. His collection was inspired by his journey from Richmond, Virginia, to Los Angeles, a transformation reflected in his bold yet structured pieces.
Nia Thomas (Nia Thomas) — Guided by Shawn Howell, a seasoned luxury retail executive, Thomas pushes the boundaries of materiality in her 15th collection. Her pieces redefine sensuality and strength, blending unexpected textiles like raffia into luxurious, form-defying silhouettes.
Durrell Dupard (Freddie Estelle) — With mentorship from Justina McKee, founder of Matte Collection, Dupard’s Magnolia Muse collection honors his New Orleans roots. His upcycled streetwear pieces blend rich florals, bold textures, and heirloom craftsmanship, a tribute to the family legacy that shaped his artistry.
Larissa Muehleder (Muehleder) — Working alongside Jacqueline Cooper, COO of LaQuan Smith, Muehleder’s Enter Loudly, Leave Quietly collection empowers women to embrace masculine energy while preserving their femininity. This collection, available for pre-order in late February, embodies the duality of power and grace.
Heart Roberts (HEARTHROB) — Mentored by Sherri McMullen, founder of McMullen boutique, Roberts crafted Apocalypse, a futuristic exploration inspired by apocalyptic cinema. Bold leathers and distressed denim redefine resilience and reinvention in fashion.
MORE THAN A RUNWAY SHOW: AN ENDURING LEGACY
Following the show, McDonald’s and the designers hosted an exclusive after-party featuring a high-energy early 2000s-inspired soundtrack by DJ Mr. Rogers, an open bar, and a McDonald’s food truck serving fan-favorite classics.
Beyond the runway, the Change of Fashion initiative continues to create lasting industry impact. In partnership with The Thurgood Marshall College Fund, McDonald’s has committed to providing scholarships for students at HBCUs pursuing careers in fashion, ensuring the next generation of Black designers receives the support needed to thrive.
As Change of Fashion concludes its first year, the program has solidified its place as an industry disruptor, proving that when Black designers are given the platform they deserve, they don’t just participate—they lead.
© 2025, Seth "Digital Crates" Barmash. All rights reserved.
