The 18th annual Harlem Fashion Row (HFR) Fashion Show & Style Awards kicked off New York Fashion Week with a powerful celebration of fashion, culture, and inspiration. This year’s theme, “This Is The Table,” highlighted unapologetic elegance and recognized designers and industry leaders shaping the future of fashion.
Usher Honored with the Virgil Abloh Award
Among the distinguished honorees was R&B superstar Usher, who received the prestigious Virgil Abloh Award. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, the 45-year-old crooner reflected on his journey, crediting family members and faith for guiding his ambition and imagination, particularly in fashion. He acknowledged that his recent creative resurgence, including his Las Vegas residency, was a testament to time and dedication, especially during periods of creative drought.
Usher drew inspiration from Abloh’s famous “three-percent rule” – the idea that changing something by just three percent can create something new. He applied this philosophy to reinvent his own ideas, transforming them into fresh, passion-based expressions. He expressed gratitude for being recognized for this creative evolution.
A Message to His Younger Self
The father of four also shared a profound message, urging everyone to live for their 17-year-old selves. For Usher, that younger version of himself continues to be a source of fearlessness and encouragement. He spoke about his father giving him his name but not a roadmap, forcing him to define his own legacy and make it matter.
He extended gratitude to his mother, Jonnetta Patton, for her unwavering support, and to all those who contribute to fashion and their respective industries. His speech was a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship, self-discovery, and staying true to one’s passions.
Celebrating Fashion’s Future
The event also honored other notable figures, including Nikki Ogunnaike (Editor-in-Chief of Marie Claire), Christiane Pendarvis (Co-CEO of PATTERN Beauty), and costume designer Ruth E. Carter, who received the Ann Lowe Maverick Award. Celebrity stylist Jason Bolden was named Stylist of the Year. The evening celebrated the designers and creatives who are actively shaping the future of the fashion industry.
The HFR Fashion Show & Style Awards continues to be a vital platform, bringing together influential figures and emerging talent to foster community and drive innovation within the fashion world.
What did you think of Usher’s speech and the honorees at this year’s Harlem Fashion Row Awards? Share your thoughts in the comments below!