In spite of the limited gallery space, there is a certain sense of excitement one may experience upon viewing this show, as many of the designers featured are relatively unknown to mainstream fashion circles, yet the narrative behind the exhibition is quite engaging, making me think that somehow, with their important contributions and all, that many of them have been left out.

Sure, I grew up knowing Willi Smith and Patrick Kelly, but how could I have missed Ann Lowe, who actually designed the dress that Jacqueline Bouvier wore when she married John F. Kennedy in 1953? Or new designers like Laura Smalls and Grace Wales Bonner? This show didn't fail to inform and delight. 

"Black Fashion Designers" is on view through May 16, at The Museum at FIT.

Click on the photos below for a full screen view

photos: © 2017 Arturo Veloira