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Actively Black Redefines Fashion with Social Justice at NYFW

From a solo apartment startup to a $30M powerhouse, Lanny Smith's brand is rewriting fashion's rules. Meet the activists who walked its runway—and its bold mission.

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2 min read
The image shows three women in black coats and hats standing next to each other, with a flower vase...
The image shows three women in black coats and hats standing next to each other, with a flower vase in the background. At the bottom of the image is text that reads "Fashions of the 1920s". The image is in black and white, giving it a classic and timeless feel.

Actively Black Redefines Fashion with Social Justice at NYFW

The fashion industry is seeing a shift as brands like Actively Black blend style with social purpose. Founded by Lanny Smith in his apartment, the company has grown rapidly, reaching over $30 million in sales within five years. Its latest New York Fashion Week show honoured civil rights leaders and featured prominent activists as models. Lanny Smith launched Actively Black on his own, facing early doubts about its success. The brand now sources cotton from Black-owned suppliers and works to create fairer supply chains. Its mission goes beyond clothing—it aims to reshape ownership in fashion while celebrating Black culture.

The third Actively Black show at New York Fashion Week closed with a tribute to civil rights figures. Models included Dr. Bernice A. King, Ilyasah Shabazz, Fred Hampton Jr., and Ruby Bridges. The event highlighted the brand's commitment to merging fashion with activism. Demand for Actively Black's products has surged, with revenues doubling annually. The company holds licenses for iconic names like Muhammad Ali, Star Wars, Black Panther, and historically Black colleges. To keep up with growth, it is now seeking investors. Another Black-owned brand, **Blk + Grn**, has also made waves since Actively Black's rise. Founded by Dr. Kristian, it focuses on clean beauty and wellness, supporting Black women entrepreneurs. The brand emphasises eco-friendly packaging and rigorous product testing. Industry trends suggest consumers increasingly favour brands with clear values over fleeting trends. Black spending on apparel and footwear is projected to hit $70 billion by 2030, totalling $445 billion from 2022 to 2030. Actively Black's approach reflects this shift, combining business with social justice.

Actively Black has grown from a small apartment project to a multimillion-dollar brand in five years. Its focus on ethical sourcing, cultural representation, and activism aligns with changing consumer priorities. As Black spending in fashion rises, the company's model may influence the industry's future direction.

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