In honor of Black History Month, last night, Harlem Fashion Row (HFR) transformed the Macy’s Herald Square flagship into HFR House for one night only. The night included engaging panels, a fashion show, marketplace, and opportunity to showcase 18 different black-owned brands at the Herald Square Flagship. Starting today, Bruce Glen, Megan Renee, and Kaphill will be on view in the window display in the heart of Times Square.
But this was far more than a commemorative moment. The activation became a statement about where cultural visibility meets commercial access, and what it looks like when Black designers are given the space to grow, not just survive. The collaboration further drives home Harlem Fashion Row founder Brandice Daniel’s mission—of bridging the gap between Black design talent and the fashion industry’s mainstream infrastructure—of the last two decades.
Each selected designer represents a distinct facet of Black design excellence. From Kaphill’s transitional day-to-night pieces for women “who live well,” to Tayion’s tailored menswear built around interchangeable wardrobes at accessible price points, these were not symbolic placements. They were strategic partnerships designed to drive real sales, long-term retail relationships, and sustainable growth.
For designers historically shut out of mainstream retail channels, window placement at Macy’s represents more than exposure—it’s validation. It affirms that Black design belongs in the commercial fashion ecosystem year-round, not solely during heritage months.
For Kaphill founder Krystal Phillips, the moment was deeply personal. “I started part of my career at Macy’s,” she says. “Transitioning from making products for their brand to showing my own products feels like a full-circle moment—especially highlighting Black creatives. It’s not just about Black History Month. It’s about all of my experience finally being seen.”
Designer Montee Holland of Tayion echoed that sentiment. “I’ve been dreaming of being in that window forever,” he says. “To do it during Black History Month is an honor, but I live my life in celebration every day. Being able to represent that in person is incredibly meaningful.”
Nwamaka Ngoddy, whose Nigerian culture is embedded in her brand, incorporates Igbo names to give her designs “longevity.” While sharing her culture with the world, she notes the importance of expanding beyond narrow definitions. Her eyewear line initially focused on Black and African features but evolved when she realized “a lot of people felt left out in the optical industry.” That said, she’s expanding her vision to accommodate diverse facial features while maintaining luxury craftsmanship.
With HFR House, Harlem Fashion Row is directly addressing the fashion industry’s most persistent barriers for Black designers. While runway representation has increased, wholesale accounts, shelf space, and long-term retail partnerships remain difficult to secure.“HFR House represents what we believe fashion can be—culturally relevant, community-centered, and economically impactful,” Daniel shared in a press release. “Partnering with Macy’s during Black History Month allows us to meet consumers where they are while continuing our mission to elevate and support designers of color.”
Be sure to shop and support these designers at Macy’s Herald Square location in NYC throughout the month of February.
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