• by Teresa Buyikian , September 4, 2024

Most wouldn’t expect the largest fast food player in the U.S. to take a seat at the notoriously ritzy New York Fashion Week (NYFW). But not only is McDonald’s attending, it is promoting its Change of Fashion program, an initiative that aims to address the underrepresentation of Black fashion designers in the U.S.

Per the announcement, “only 7.3% of fashion designers in the U.S. are Black.” In response, McDonald's USA created its Black & Positively Golden (B&PG) Change of Fashion program, which pairs five rising Black designers with five fashion industry insiders for mentorship and more.

This year marks the program’s first foray into NYFW, with activations that include pop-up shops and panel conversations “led by industry mavens.”. On Sept. 8, the brand will hold a "Designer Meet & Greet" in Times Square. On Sept. 10, fans can attend the McDonald's Change of Fashion State of Fashion Symposium, at Moonlight Studios in New York City.

Fans not lucky enough to be at NYFW can still participate. As part of a partnership with Black Owned Everything, “an organization on a mission to elevate the visibility of Black-owned brands,” per the release, McDonald's fans are encouraged to shop the Change of Fashion designers’ collections, as well as raise awareness of the issue by donning a “Show Up and Show Out” badge.”

"It's time for the industry to shine a light and pay homage to the incredible creativity, tenacity and accomplishments of Black fashion designers," said Black Owned Everything founder Zerina Akers.

While supplies last, fans can get the badge "Show Up and Show Out" in several ways, including by making a purchase, requesting a free physical badge, or by downloading a digital badge, all at ChangeofFashion.com.

Fans can also support the movement by tagging @WeAreGolden and @BlackOwnedEverything on social media.