McDonald’s closed out New York Fashion Week with the House of Arches runway show—a celebration of Black creativity and innovation. The event was the grand finale for 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 runway featured five rising talents—Shareef Mosby, Nia Thomas, Durrell Dupard, Larissa Muehleder, and Heart Roberts. Each designer showcased collections that not only highlighted their individual artistic voices but also underscored the deep connection between Black culture and today’s most influential fashion trends.
Cultural icon Dapper Dan, fashion pioneer Misa Hylton, Grammy Award-winning musician Rapsody, and celebrated jewelry designer Bernard James were front row.
Despite Black culture serving as the foundation for global fashion movements, Black designers remain underrepresented—making up only 7.3% of American fashion designers. McDonald’s Change of Fashion program aims to shift this narrative by providing visibility, mentorship, and exclusive industry access. By offering emerging designers a platform, the initiative not only amplifies their voices but also ensures their work reaches influential industry gatekeepers and passionate fashion enthusiasts.
Each designer brought a unique perspective to the runway:
Shareef Mosby (VICTIM15): Mentored by Elaine Welteroth, Mosby’s collection fused utilitarian fabrics with urban-chic design. His pieces, inspired by his transformative journey from Richmond, Virginia to Los Angeles, were bold yet meticulously structured, reflecting his personal evolution.
Nia Thomas (Nia Thomas): Under the guidance of luxury retail executive Shawn Howell, Thomas pushed the boundaries of materiality in her 15th collection. Blending unexpected textiles like raffia into sumptuous, form-defying silhouettes, her work redefined sensuality and strength.
Durrell Dupard (Freddie Estelle): With mentorship from Justina McKee, Dupard’s Magnolia Muse collection paid homage to his New Orleans roots. His upcycled streetwear, enriched with vibrant florals and bold textures, served as a tribute to the family legacy that fuels his creative vision.
Larissa Muehleder (Muehleder): Collaborating with Jacqueline Cooper, Muehleder’s Enter Loudly, Leave Quietly collection empowered women to embrace both their feminine and masculine energies. Set for pre-order in late February, the collection embodies a graceful duality of power and elegance.
Heart Roberts (HEARTHROB): Guided by mentor Sherri McMullen, Roberts presented Apocalypse—a futuristic exploration inspired by apocalyptic cinema. His bold leathers and distressed denim reimagined resilience and reinvention, adding an edgy twist to the runway.
After the show, the celebration continued with an exclusive after-party. DJ Mr. Rogers spun classic hits as guests enjoyed an open bar and sampled fan-favorite classics from a McDonald’s food truck.
Photo Credit: Sara Kerens for Complex / Salvatore J. Demaio, Jr
