SoHarlem’s 2024 annual benefit “I Am So Harlem” will honor fashion icon Bethann Hardison. The event features a debut fashion show showcasing designs from the SoHarlem Design Collective. Attendees will enjoy music, art, and delicious food during this celebration of diversity in style.
Fashion Pioneer Bethann Hardison Takes Center Stage
Bethann Hardison, a trailblazing fashion model and advocate, will be the star of SoHarlem’s first-ever fashion show. Hardison is famous for pushing for more diversity in the fashion world. Her work has helped change beauty standards and open doors for models of color.
The fashion show will highlight creations from SoHarlem’s Design Collective. South African cellist Thapelo Masita will provide live music for the event. This combination promises a night of style and culture that truly represents Harlem’s spirit.
SoHarlem Celebrates Local Talent and Creativity
Janet Rodriguez, SoHarlem’s Founder and CEO, expressed excitement about the event. She said, “SoHarlem’s entrepreneurs have been creating extraordinary work, and the three-day pop-up of their fashion lines is a wonderful reflection of Harlem’s legendary contribution to fashion.”
The benefit kicks off a weekend-long series of events. These include a pop-up showcase featuring works by SoHarlem’s Design Collective. This extended celebration gives attendees more chances to experience the creativity and skill of local designers.
A Journey Through Fashion History
Hardison’s impact on the fashion industry spans decades. She started her career in the 1960s at a New York button factory called Cabot. Her confidence and talent quickly propelled her to success.
Hardison once boldly told Bernie Ozer, a big name in the fashion retail world, “If you really want a great show, you’ll have me in it.” This attitude helped her become a favorite of top designers in New York and Europe during the 1970s.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
Hardison didn’t stop at personal success. She worked hard to create opportunities for other models of color. Along with supermodel Iman, she co-founded the Black Girls Coalition to support and advocate for Black models in the industry.
Her efforts to increase diversity in fashion have earned her many honors. SoHarlem’s recognition adds to a long list of accolades celebrating Hardison’s influential career and activism.
