The 78th Primetime Emmys are underway, and several stars are sizzling and slaying television’s biggest night.

Among the evening’s standouts was Zendaya, who debuted a chic pixie cut and continued her seemingly unstoppable style streak in a custom Prada naked gown covered in crystals and intricate beading.

Her famed image architect, Law Roach, also confirmed that the new short ‘do was inspired by none other than Halle Berry.

“She’s debuting a new haircut,” he told Keltie Knight on Live From E!: 2026 Emmys. “It’s better tonight. She cut it a little bit more, and we’re paying homage to another great African American, beautiful actress.” 

As previously reported, Zendaya was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her performance as Rue in Euphoria, marking her third nomination in the category and sixth Emmy nod overall. She previously made history with wins in 2020 and 2022, becoming the youngest winner in the category and the first Black actress to win it twice.

She also hit the stage to present.

Also serving sumptuous style was Niecy Nash, who brought her bangin’ baaaaaaaaawdy to the carpet in a ravishing red gown while posing for pics with her HERSband, Jessica Betts.

Another style stunner was Chase Infiniti, who made a memorable Emmys entrance of her own in a custom Louis Vuitton bustier gown featuring black organza covered in copper gemstone embroidery.

She credited stylists Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald (Wayman + Micah) for the metallic moment.

The carpet marked an especially major moment for Chase who earned her first Primetime Emmy nomination for her performance as Agnes in Hulu’s The Testaments. She’s competing for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series alongside Zendaya, Carrie Coon, Keri Russell and Rhea Seehorn.

Last, but certainly not least, Sheryl Lee Ralph shimmered in a multicolored sequined Sergio Hudson column gown.

The Abbott Elementary actress sparkled from every angle in the curve-caressing creation while celebrating Abbott’s Outstanding Comedy Series nomination.

More on the flip!

The post Style Standouts: Celebs Sizzle & Slay The 2026 Emmys appeared first on Bossip.

Residents in Jackson, Mississippi, a city that is roughly 82% Black, have been grappling with an ongoing water crisis — a public health crisis caused by infrastructure neglect, severe weather, and a deteriorating water system — since the near-collapse of its water treatment plant in 2022. This month, the U.S. court system responded to the issue the same way America has always responded to Black people in crisis: by telling them they don’t have the right to live.

Well, OK, what actually happened is the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled in a  10-5 decision that the alleged contamination of Jackson’s water system did not violate rights protected by the 14th Amendment.

“The Constitution does not provide redress for every governmental wrongdoing,” Circuit Judge Kurt Engelhardt wrote in response to a lawsuit filed by residents over the city’s lead-contaminated water system in 2022. According to 8 News Now, plaintiffs Priscilla Sterling, Raine Becker, Shawn Miller and John Bennett argued that the city knowingly allowed residents to drink unsafe water, and the court basically decided that, even if that’s true, the U.S. Constitution doesn’t directly say city leaders aren’t allowed to do that.

Actually, Jackson’s water woes began long before 2022. Journalist Madiba K. Dennie, the Deputy Editor and Senior Contributor at Balls & Strikes, provided some of that history in a piece published Friday:

In 2014, Willie Bell, the interim director of Jackson’s Department of Public Works, alerted Mayor Tony Yarber that the river’s pH levels were causing a dangerous increase in the amount of lead in the water supply. Bell warned that the city urgently needed to upgrade its corrosion control program, and that the city’s residents were at high risk of lead poisoning. 

Yarber did not pass on these warnings to the public. He instead fired Bell and expanded the city’s use of the low-pH river water. As a result, the people of Jackson—more than 80 percent of whom are Black, and a quarter of whom live below the federal poverty line—kept drinking and cooking with and bathing in water that they didn’t know was poisoning them.

In June 2015, the Mississippi State Department of Health found that 22 percent of homes in Jackson had elevated levels of lead in the water, meaning the danger was even more widespread in Jackson than in Flint, Michigan. Still, no one told Jackson residents until early 2016. And even then, city officials downplayed the risks and told the public that the water was safe. “The system is not the issue,” said Yarber at a February 2016 city council meeting. “We are not even close to being Flint.”

That last part was interesting, because, if you’re like me, many of you were reading that excerpt and thinking, “Damn, Jackson is sounding just like Flint

The plaintiffs’ lawsuit specifically alleged that “the city had endangered their fundamental right to bodily integrity as well as their right to be protected from state-created dangers, as guaranteed by the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment,” as Dennie wrote. But in June 2024, the District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi dismissed the case, finding that the residents hadn’t proven their Constitutional rights were violated. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, on the other hand, ruled in November 2025 that while the city “plausibly violated the Constitution,” but was entitled to qualified immunity.

Now, the court is essentially saying there was no constitutional violation at all. So, at what point are we willing to admit this is necropolitics at work?

This is the same energy the Trump administration had when its Justice Department ended a wastewater settlement for a mostly Black Alabama town, falsely calling it “environmental justice as viewed through a distorting, DEI lens,” simply because environmental racism was addressed in the reaching of the settlement.

The post Jackson, MS Residents Not Legally Protected From Poisonous Water Supply [Op-Ed] appeared first on Bossip.

We’re back with more of the finest (and flyest) tastemakers, culture-shifters, and stars who served winning looks at this year’s super star-studded US Open.

This time around, Coco Jones set the tone in Thom Browne, along with Love Island‘s Core 4, Jordyn Woods, Victoria Monét, Coi Leray, SZA, and Big Mama Latto who caused quite the commotion with her first official outing with baby daddy boo thang 21 Savage.

While Latto was dripping in Burberry with a white Birkin and Loubotins, 21 Savage rocked an interesting collection of red, white and blue stripes with a matchy-matchy Atlanta hat.

Naturally, social media erupted with messy reactions to the duo’s first official pop-out which, based on most of the tweets, didn’t go as planned.

Once the smoke cleared, Big Mama clapped back with the seemingly unbothered caption, ‘I thought I told yall get off my jock,’ on a post showcasing her snazzy US Open look.

And for those waiting for a response from 21, well, you might be waiting forever since he barely posts online.

What was your reactions to 21 Savage and Latto finally popping out together? Which celebs had your favorite looks from the US Open (so far)? Tell us down below and enjoy MORE sporty stunners who served winning looks at the US Open on the flip.

The post Pretty Girls Love Tennis! A Second Serving Of Fly Girlies, Honey Deuce Hotties & Sporty Stunners Who Caused A Racket At The 2026 US Open appeared first on Bossip.

“I recently spoke to Kim. I think it was last week,” Leakes said. “I just hit her up, wanted to know how she was doing… and made sure she was okay with what her son is dealing with. I know that’s a tough time, and I know she’s not okay.”

Their communication is unexpected given the tension that’s existed between NeNe and Kim for years. According to Page Six, the two famously feuded during their overlapping seasons on “RHOA” before NeNe exited the franchise in 2020. Their history grew even more contentious in April 2022, when Leakes filed a lawsuit alleging that Bravo and executive producer Andy Cohen had “encouraged” a work environment in which Kim made “racially offensive and stereotypical” comments toward her and other cast members. NeNe eventually dismissed the lawsuit “without prejudice” a few months later.

Despite that history, NeNe’s comments suggest the two have moved into a more civil, if not fully repaired, place in their relationship, especially as Leakes recently made her own return to the Housewives franchise for a cameo in “Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.”

NeNe Leakes And Kim Zolciak Put Their Drama Aside

The situation Kim is navigating is undeniably heavy. Her 15-year-old son, Kroy “KJ” Biermann Jr., whom she shares with her estranged husband, Kroy Biermann, was arrested on August 21st on charges of aggravated sexual battery and sodomy following allegations that he assaulted a female classmate in a coed sauna at a Life Time fitness center in Alpharetta, Georgia. Kim spoke out shortly after his arrest, calling the allegations “reckless and deeply troubling” and stating that her son “categorically denies ever being involved with this woman or engaging in the conduct she has alleged.”

KJ was indicted on September 3rd on seven felony charges, including aggravated child molestation, aggravated sodomy, aggravated sexual battery, false imprisonment, and three counts of aggravated sexual battery against a child under 16. Kim was later spotted arriving at Fulton County Superior Court for her son’s bond hearing, where an eyewitness described her as “stone-faced” throughout the proceedings while seated beside her daughter, Brielle.

During that same hearing, prosecutors revealed additional disturbing allegations, claiming investigators found videos on KJ’s phone allegedly showing him having sex with an underage relative. He was ultimately granted a $200,000 bond, with conditions requiring him to stay off social media and cell phones entirely, live at Zolciak’s home, and attend school virtually.

NeNe Leakes is no stranger to her children making headlines and facing legal troubles. Her eldest son, Bryson, has publicly struggled with addiction, with the latest arrest regarding unpaid child support. For now, it seems like the two are choosing compassion over old conflict during an uncertain chapter for Kim’s family.

The post NeNe Leakes Reconnected With Ex-RHOA Rival Kim Zolciak Amid Son KJ Biermann’s Sex Assault Case: ‘She’s Not Ok’ appeared first on Bossip.

Every year, National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from Sept.15 through Oct. 15, offers an opportunity to recognize the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, including the many Afro-Latino voices that have helped shape them.

Afro-Latinidad is incredibly diverse, spanning generations, countries and cultures. From Hollywood heavyweights and chart-topping musicians to television stars and rising actors, Black Latinos are continuing to make their mark, all while challenging long-standing ideas about what Latino identity is supposed to look like.

The celebrities featured here come from different backgrounds and have taken very different paths to the spotlight. But they share a common thread: each has helped bring greater visibility to Afro-Latino identity and shown that there is no single way to be Latino, or Afro-Latino. 

Here are 12 Afro-Latino celebrities you need to know. 

1. Amara La Negra

If you’re talking about Afro-Latina representation in pop culture, Amara La Negra deserves a spot near the top of the list. The Dominican-American singer, actress, dancer and television personality became widely known through Love & Hip Hop: Miami, but she’s been performing since childhood.

Amara has never been afraid to talk about colorism, anti-Blackness and the challenges darker-skinned Afro-Latinas face in entertainment. She’s used her platform to proudly celebrate her Dominican and African heritage and push back against the idea that being Black and Latina are somehow separate identities.

Her visibility is particularly significant because darker-skinned Afro-Latinas have historically had fewer opportunities to see themselves represented in mainstream Latino media. 

Read more after the flip!

The post Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month: 11 Afro-Latino Celebrities You NEED To Know appeared first on Bossip.

With bright lights, pictureqsue skylines and long city streets paved with art, NYC is the perfect playground for fashion. All of which is why stylistas, celebrities, reality TV personalities, influencers and stars alike descend upon the Big Apple for NYFW. From runway shows around the city to hot afterparties, the annual week of fashionable festivities brought out baddies like Tracee Ellis Ross, Nene Leakes, Brandy, Coco Jones, Danielle Brooks, Saweetie, Yvonne Orji, and more.

Brandy at Christian Siriano

Brandy proved blondes do have more fun when she popped out at Christian Siriano’s show in the front row beside Whoopi Goldberg and Tiffany Haddish. In true NYFW spirit, she popped out afterwards at the after party where she was serenaded by the designer himself.

NeNe Leakes Front Row

Sergio Hudson brings out the girls and his front row reflected that. NeNe Leakes, Crystle Stewart, Paris Chea, Bianca Lawson were some of the beautiful faces who showed up and showed out at Hudson’s show.

HB was on the scene at shows like Alice & Olivia, Sergio Hudson, Romeo Hunt, Son Jung Won, Harlem’s Fashion Row, Fashion Bomb Daily and more.

Keep scrolling to see who wore what to where at this year’s NYFW.

NeNe Leakes

From ATL to NYC. NeNe Leakes stunned at Sergio Hudson rocking her signature blonde tresses and a corset dress that cinched her at the waist and put her girls on display.

The post NYFW Street Style: Celebs Serving Looks Around The City appeared first on Bossip.

Hollywood has come a long way in its depiction of Black culture, going from an era where we couldn’t even be hired to portray our own race to becoming award-winning actors and actresses in our own right.

Unfortunately, we still deal with controversy when it comes to stereotypical roles reserved specifically for Black people. Although many thespians of color have shown autonomy in what acting jobs they choose to take or deny, the recent developments in artificial intelligence are threatening to add yet another hurdle to clear.

Famed director Paul Schrader proved that with his decision to use A.I. as a replacement for actors in his upcoming film, Three Guns At Dawn. His reason? No Black actors wanted to play the lead roles, which include a corrupt cop, a drug dealer and a sexual deviant.

RELATED: Black Actor Sir Lenny Henry Shares Survey That Says 64% Of Minorities In Hollywood Are Racially Profiled

Bad Boys Director Says Sony “Had No Faith” In The Film’s Success With Two Black Stars

“We sent it out to actors, and no Black actors wanted to play in a movie where there are no good Black people,” Schrader said in an interview with The Playlist, going on to blatantly add, “And it sort of died. But then AI came along, and I didn’t need Black actors.” The film, which originally had Antoine Fuqua attached to produce it, will reportedly be completely AI-generated. Schrader sees this decision as the project’s main source of pushback, completely ignoring the fact that Black actors simply don’t want to put on a performance that further perpetuates false characteristics of our race.

The Taxi Driver director’s affinity for A.I. has been brewing for a hot minute, even defending the use of it back in 2025 when he wrote on Facebook, “I just asked chatgpt for ‘an idea for Paul Schrader film.’ Then Paul Thomas Anderson. Then Quentin Tarantino. Then Harmony Korine. Then Ingmar Bergman. Then Rossellini. Lang. Scorsese. Murnau. Capra. Ford. Speilberg [sic]. Lynch. Every idea chatgpt came up with (in a few seconds) was good. And original. And fleshed out. Why should writers sit around for months searching for a good idea when AI can provide one in seconds?”

A few days ago, he added to the theory after getting self-satisfying results from ChatGPT on a prompt for a screenplay adaption of the Russell Banks novel, Affliction. “To ignore AI is to ignore the future,” he wrote as a closing statement. Our only rebuttal is, what about ignoring human decency?

The post IKYFL! Director Turns To AI For Stereotypical Roles Black Actors Won’t Take appeared first on Bossip.

Brian Steel might want to check his notifications because the streets, social media and hip hop are collectively singing his praises. Here’s everyone from social media to hip hop’s biggest stars celebrating Lil Durk’s attorney post his acquittal. 

According to Complex, after Lil Durk was acquitted on all five federal charges in his Los Angeles murder for hire case, attention quickly shifted to the Atlanta defense attorney standing beside him. Steel has become one of the most recognizable defense lawyers in hip hop and recently helped Durk’s legal team successfully challenge the prosecution’s case and the credibility of cooperating witnesses.

“22 months ago, Durk and I made an agreement. That we would make history with the greatest verdict in this country, and it happened today. Durk is not guilty of all charges,” Durk’s defense lawyer said.

And social media was not about to let the moment pass without giving the lawyer his flowers.

Steel has been practicing criminal defense since 1991, but his celebrity attorney era really took off during Young Thug’s YSL RICO case. His courtroom clash with Judge Ural Glanville became one of the trial’s most viral moments after Steel was held in contempt. The Georgia Supreme Court later unanimously reversed that contempt order, and Judge Glanville was eventually removed from the case.

Now add Durk’s acquittal to the résumé.

According to the publication, Steel joined Durk’s defense team in March 2026 alongside lead attorney Drew Findling. Young Thug even said he was responsible for sending Steel to help Durk, writing on X that he sent Brian to “take the case.”

During the trial, Steel went directly after the credibility of cooperating witnesses who testified against Durk. The defense argued that the prosecution’s witnesses had their own credibility issues and challenged the government’s version of events. After three days of deliberations, the jury returned not guilty verdicts on all five federal charges.

That was enough for social media to start treating Steel like the defense attorney version of a fourth-quarter superstar.

“The feds have what a 94% conviction rate?”

Brian Steel: “not with us”

The reactions circulating online have essentially turned into a Brian Steel appreciation club, with fans and hip hop watchers pointing to his track record in some of rap’s biggest courtroom battles. His client list has included Thug and Sean “Diddy” Combs, making his latest courtroom victory another major chapter in his increasingly famous career.

Still, there is an important footnote. Durk’s acquittal does not mean all of his federal legal troubles are over. Complex reports that he remains in custody ahead of another racketeering-related murder case, with that trial scheduled to begin Oct. 5 in Los Angeles.

For now, though, Brian Steel is enjoying another very loud courtroom victory. And judging by the internet, everybody has suddenly got his number on speed dial.

RELATED: Lil Durk Found Not Guilty In Murder-For-Hire Case

The post Steel Is Teflon! Everyone From Social Media To Hip Hop Stars Can’t Get Enough Of Praising Untouchable Attorney Brian Steel After Lil Durk’s Acquittal appeared first on Bossip.

Lil Durk‘s trial came to a dramatic close Friday, September 11th, when a Los Angeles jury found the Chicago rapper not guilty on all five charges in his federal murder-for-hire case. The verdict sparked an emotional outpouring from his family, who had been by his side throughout the proceedings.

According to TMZ, Durk’s father, Big Durk, spoke to cameras outside the downtown Los Angeles courthouse just minutes after the verdict was announced, saying he was “bursting with joy” and that the entire family was on a “high” following the outcome. He added that his son always believed this day was coming, and the family now plans to celebrate the win in a big way.

As previously reported, the case stemmed from allegations that Durk had orchestrated a hit on rival rapper Quando Rondo in retaliation for the 2020 death of his friend, King Von. Prosecutors claimed the gunmen fired 18 shots at Quando Rondo’s Escalade outside the Beverly Center in 2022, but the shooting ended up killing Quando’s cousin, Saviay’a Robinson, instead. Durk’s defense argued that his former assistant, Kavon Grant, was actually behind the shooting, allegedly acting on his own in an attempt to impress his boss.

After three days of deliberation, jurors cleared Durk of conspiracy, stalking using a dangerous weapon, stalking resulting in death, and two separate murder-for-hire charges. Reports noted that Durk broke down in tears once the verdict was read, and his mother became emotional as well, with his wife, India Royale, reportedly wrapping her arms around her in the courtroom.

Lil Durk’s Trial Ends With Heartfelt Messages From His Family

India Royale wasted no time showing her support once the verdict came in. TheShadeRoom reported that she shared a throwback photo on her Instagram Story showing Durk kissing their daughter Willow on the cheek, captioning it simply, “Thank You God,” alongside a praying hands emoji.

Durk’s eldest son, Angelo Banks, also shared a heartfelt message following the win, posting a throwback photo of himself and his siblings with their father. “I love you dad,” he wrote. “I always believed in you.” Angelo has been a consistent source of support throughout the trial, having also shared a Father’s Day tribute back in June.

Durk shares Angelo and daughter Bella with Nicole Covone, while he shares Willow with India Royale. In total, Durk has seven biological children, including Skylar, Romeo, Zayden, and Du’Mier Banks.

Despite the win, Durk’s legal battles aren’t over. He remains in custody as he awaits a separate RICO trial set to begin October 5. High-profile supporters like Ye and Machine Gun Kelly publicly celebrated the verdict, with fans gathering outside the courthouse throughout the trial calling for Durk’s freedom.

The case also involved two other men, Deandre Wilson and David Lindsey, who were convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit stalking, stalking using a dangerous weapon, and stalking resulting in death, though they were acquitted on the murder-for-hire charges connected to the same shooting.

For now, Durk’s family is celebrating a major legal victory, even as they brace for the next chapter of his ongoing legal challenges next month.

The post One Trial Down! India Royale & Lil Durk’s Family Celebrates Not Guilty Verdict In Murder-For-Hire Trial appeared first on Bossip.

We’re willing to bet that rapper Lil Boosie appearing on 60 Minutes wasn’t on your 2026 bingo card. The Baton Rouge rapper was on the storied — yet recently compromised — program and needless to say, the social media delegation who is keenly aware of when someone is being exploited was not amused.

And there’s also the snitching allegations.

Boosie’s appearance on the news program is scheduled for Sunday (Sept. 13) evening, but thanks to an early clip making the rounds on social media, the outrage has already started. In the promo, Boosie tells OG journalist Leslie Stahl that he gave a pair of men $600K to facilitate a presidential pardon that never materialized.

Back in July 2026, news broke that the “Wipe Me Down” rapper was suing far-right lobbyists for failing to deliver on the aforementioned pardon. Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman are who Boosie claims he paid $600,000 via their firm, JM Burkman & Associates. Allegedly, they linked with Boosie after an intro from a “Trump insider.”

Obviously, Boosie should have spotted the scam from the moment he heard “Trump,” respectfully.

Wohl & Burkman were introduced to Boosie as Trump insiders who had the president’s ear and would appeal on his behalf in support of gaining a pardon.

While the issue of suspect pardons is problematic, getting Boosie to speak on the topic seems nefarious considering the outlet doing so is CBS. Since the arrival of Barri Weiss to the network, it has started skewing heavily conservative, and has face criticism for it, even from its own employees. So using Boosie to speak on a legit topic reeks of cynicism and the highest of jibs.

And in other news, Boosie was kickin’ it with the LSU football team.

The post Boosie Appears On ’60 Minutes’ About Alleged Presidential Pardon Scam, Social Media Debates Whether It’s Self-Snitching Shenanigans appeared first on Bossip.

The Real Housewives are supposed to be enjoying a glamorous trip across the country, but the fun quickly took a turn on the latest episode of RHUGT: Roaring 20th. As the ladies continued their getaway, tensions between Lisa Barlow and Gizelle Bryant reached a new level when the two found themselves face-to-face over some serious allegations.

What happened between Lisa Barlow and Gizelle Bryant on the latest episode of RHUGT: Roaring 20th?

On the Sept. 13 episode, Gizelle confronted Lisa over claims that she has been leaking information about her fellow cast members to the blogs. While Gizelle made it clear she wasn’t necessarily saying the rumors were true, she had a warning for Lisa: “You need to stop!”

The accusation didn’t exactly land softly. Lisa immediately pushed back, strongly denying that she fed information about the cast to blogs or was in cahoots with the media to spread rumors. And she wasn’t shy about making her position crystal clear.

“I don’t. Why would I do that?” Lisa shot back.”There’s nothing that comes from me on my show. On God, strike me dead right now, if I do.”

The drama goes back to Episode 6, when Gizelle had already confronted Lisa over her refusal to take accountability for the group’s late departure in Atlanta. Then, just when it seemed like that disagreement might be behind them, the blog-leaking accusations resurfaced as the group was eating lunch. 

Gizelle claimed that some of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City Season 6 cast had previously claimed they had proof that Lisa was “the source of all the dirt” that had made its way into the press about them over the years. Lisa denied those claims, but Heather Gay and Angie Katsanevas stood by their accusations while discussing the situation with Gizelle Bryant during the Atlanta portion of RHUGT: Roaring 20th.

Making sure Lisa understood that she was addressing the possibility rather than declaring the rumor as fact, she added:

“If anything is coming out about this group, I’m only gonna have to look at you.”

Lisa Barlow doubled down on her innocence

Lisa made it crystal clear that if she did in fact have “something to say,” she would “say it with this mouth or these hands.”

When Gizelle asked Lisa to explain what she meant by “hands,” Lisa made it even clearer that she would rather speak for herself than secretly pass information along.

“I’ll tweet it, I’ll message it myself. I don’t hide behind things. I don’t live my life in the dark. I live my life in the light. I’m not worried.”

Lisa also addressed the confrontation during her confessional, pointing out just how quickly things seemed to change between her and Gizelle Bryant, who she thought she had been getting along with since the start of the trip.

“Gizelle and I started this trip having the time of our lives. Like, we hit it off so easily. We could talk about anything. I don’t know how you go from that to being like, ‘You’re a leaker to the blogs.’ Like, because I was late getting on a van, like, all of a sudden, my character is s–t? Make this make sense.”

But Lisa wasn’t the only Housewife wondering whether there was any truth behind the allegations. Kyle Richards wanted to know if the information supposedly making its way to the press was actually accurate.

“Or is it just lies?” Kyle asked during the cast lunch. “Just because people say something, doesn’t make it true.”

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills OG later offered a more cautious take in a producer interview. 

“I’ve never heard this rumor, but that is a big no-no. I mean, you do not do that. So, if that is true, I don’t blame Gizelle for calling her out. But if it’s not true, that’s a pretty harsh accusation.”

Lisa’s RHUGT bestie Teresa Giudice also appeared to have Lisa’s back. In a separate confessional, Teresa said, “I mean, I don’t think Lisa has any reason to do that. I don’t think she would ever do that.”

For now, the blog-leaking mystery remains unresolved, so viewers will have to tune in to see whether the feud between Lisa Barlow and Gizelle Bryant gets any messier. The next episode of RHUGT: Roaring 20th is set to air Sept. 20 at 9:00 PM ET on Bravo. Will you be watching?

Viewers should gear up. There might be more drama on the way, too. Read more after the flip.

The post #RHUGT Ruckus: Gizelle Bryant Confronts Lisa Barlow Over Explosive Blog-Leaking Allegations appeared first on Bossip.

The latest addition to the Mayers clan, Rocki Irish, is officially 1!

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky celebrated their daughter’s first birthday on Sunday, Sept. 13, throwing their baby girl a party surrounded by family and friends.

Fans got to catch a glimpse at the festivities thanks to Rihanna’s longtime friend Melissa Forde, who shared photos from the celebration. Her snaps from the celebration included an adorable picture of Rihanna holding and kissing her baby, along with the mother-daughter duo coordinated in pink for the occasion.

Rih and Rocki were wearing matching, custom Dior outfits for the party, as pointed out by many eagle-eyed viewers on social media. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as baby Rocki also wore custom Dior for her W Mag cover in April.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky welcomed Rocki, their first daughter, on Sept. 13, 2025, but Rihanna waited until Sept. 24 to announce her arrival. Together, the couple also share boys RZA Athelston, 4, and Riot Rose, 3.

The “Diamonds” singer announced Rocki’s arrival by posting the first photo of herself holding her newborn, along with a second image of tiny pink boxing gloves, letting the world know she finally got her girl.

Long before Rocki’s arrival, her father made it clear that he and Rih were hoping baby No. 3 would be a girl.

“I hope it’s a girl. I really do. We’re praying for a girl,” he told Elle while Rihanna was still pregnant. “I hope it’s a baby girl, man. I need that.”

Weeks after she was born, the rapper made it clear just how much having his first daughter already meant to him.

“My daughter. That’s my favorite thing I created this year,” he told Complex at the time. “Shout out to Rocki Irish, man.”

When November came, he was openly enjoying life as a girl dad.

“Thank you, Lord, that we had a very successful birth. I’m in heaven right now. Life is great,” Rocky told Elle at the CFDA Fashion Awards.

Happy Birthday, Rocki!

The post Mommy-Daughter Dior! Rihanna & Baby Rocki Look Pretty In Pink Wearing Matching Outfits To Celebrate Her First Birthday appeared first on Bossip.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett apparently looked at Chris Brown’s long, messy history and decided, “You know what this needs? A Congressional Record.”

The Texas Democrat is catching serious backlash after honoring Brown during his recent R&B Tour stop at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where the singer performed alongside his co-headliner Usher. Crockett, joined by Texas state Rep. Venton Jones and producer RoccStar, presented Brown and Usher with congressional recognition celebrating their contributions to music and culture. And while we can all recognize Usher is hardly controversial or problematic, the decision to give Brown an official congressional nod has people understandably asking what, exactly, Crockett was thinking. We get it, the two are on a joint tour together and it might be socially awkward to honor Usher and exclude Chris Breezy, however, as author Ta-Nehisi Coates is now virally famous for saying, was silence not an option?

Brown’s history is not some obscure footnote buried on page 47 of his Wikipedia entry. He pleaded guilty to assaulting then-girlfriend Rihanna in 2009, and since that time his rap sheet has continued to grow in most disturbing and heinous ways, much of which is again targeting women. Yet Crockett stood onstage grinning, embarrassingly embracing Brown, and enthusiastically declaring that the crowd was experiencing “Black joy at the highest level.” She also called Brown “a real one” before presenting him with the honor.

And therein lies the bewilderment.

Black joy is real. Black artistry is worthy of celebration. But surely there were approximately 14 billion other ways to celebrate Black culture without handing a congressional honor to a man whose history of violence against women is front-and-center whenever his name is brought up. The backlash was as fast as Florence Joyner in the 100-meter dash, with critics accusing Crockett of platforming an abuser and questioning why Brown’s record apparently wasn’t enough to give her pause.

Others argued that Rep. Crockett was doing her job by meeting people where they are and introducing them to an important down ballot candidate with whom they might be unfamiliar like state Rep. Venton Jones who is openly gay, surviving HIV, and fighting for at-risk members of the LGBTQ community.

For someone who has built a political identity around fighting for marginalized communities, this particular choice feels especially jarring. All the “practical” rationale in the world won’t square that circle. There is a difference between acknowledging that Chris Brown remains wildly popular and using the machinery of Congress to publicly celebrate him. It would have been just as easy to ask Chris and Usher if they would indulge her a brief intermission to talk to the crowd without all the pomp and circumstance of the “honor.”

Nobody is suggesting Crockett needed to storm the stage and confiscate his microphone. But an official congressional recognition? For this man? Ma’am…

The post What You On, Gang? Rep. Jasmine Crockett Takes Major Heat For Honoring Chris Brown During Texas Tour Stop appeared first on Bossip.

After spending the last few months away from the microphone, the Emmy nominated radio and television personality is returning to V 103’s “The Big Tigger Morning Show” alongside co host Francesca Amiker on Monday, Sept. 14. The popular morning show airs weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m.

The return marks a new chapter for Tigger, whose real name is Darian Morgan, following a challenging summer that included his arrest and subsequent decision to step away from the show.

Morgan was arrested by Sandy Springs Police in June and charged with aggravated battery and third degree cruelty to children in connection with allegations involving his estranged wife. Tigger publicly denied the allegations and later announced in July that he would temporarily step away from the morning show to focus on his family and allow his legal team space to handle the matter, according to CBS News.

Earlier this month, the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office declined to prosecute the case. According to a Sept. 4 court document obtained by The Atlanta Journal Constitution, prosecutors reviewed the facts and evidence before deciding not to move forward with prosecution.

Now Tigger is ready to get back to work.

He took to Instagram to thank the people who supported him throughout the difficult period.

“I want to thank everyone who stood with me and kept faith over the last couple of months,” Morgan said in a statement. “It’s been one of the most difficult times for my family and I, but happily, I can finally exhale and close this chapter.”

While Tigger may have been absent from the V 103 studio, he certainly was not sitting still.

The veteran media personality spent part of his time away trading the microphone for a bicycle as he documented his cycling journey on Instagram. Tigger participated in the American Cancer Society’s 300 mile challenge on behalf of his Big Tigger Foundation, continuing his commitment to promoting health, fitness and community involvement.

The Big Tigger Foundation focuses on uplifting young people through education while encouraging healthy lifestyles through mental and physical fitness.

That mission also comes to life through Big Tigger’s Beltline Bike Fest, an annual community event that brings Atlantans together for a bike ride through the city. The event includes free health screenings, music, performances, giveaways and celebrity guests, while 300 deserving children receive free bicycles from Huffy Bicycles.

Outside of his community work, Tigger has also seemingly been soaking up one of his newest and most important roles: fatherhood.

The new dad has shared glimpses of life with his baby boy on social media and has made it clear that raising his son in a positive and loving environment remains a priority as he moves forward.

“As I continue to work through everything that has happened over the past few months, my full attention from this point forward will be focused on raising my son in a positive, loving environment, and my work on and off air.”

After months away, Atlanta listeners will once again hear a familiar voice bright and early Monday morning.

Welcome back, Tigg.

The post Welcome Back! Big Tigger Returns To Atlanta Airwaves After Case Comes To A Close appeared first on Bossip.

BlizzCon 2026 was the gaming convention’s triumphant return after a three-year hiatus and lived up to all the hype and beyond. Kicking off Saturday, Sept. 11 with an opening ceremony that featured breaking news about beloved Blizzard Entertainment titles like Diablo and World of Warcraft, it was all gas and gaming culture for the two-day convention in Anaheim, Ca.

The opening ceremony was set off by Blizzard president Joanna Fairies, who delivered a heartfelt message of unity and family that resonated with the thousands upon thousands of attendees united by a love of gaming. It wasn’t lost on many that while the world is in flux, at the Anaheim Convention Center (ACC), those in attendance were tapped in together with their people.

It also didn’t hurt that she dropped breaking news that Blizzard was teaming with Netflix to create an animated Diablo series. Also in the works, are projects with the streamer that will feature World of Warcraft and Overwatch.

Along with the aforementioned, StarCraft and Hearthstone, the latter a collectible card video game, make up the core of the BlizzCon experience. WOW fans alone are enough to fill out a convention center’ but the ACC’s massive hauls were up to the task of hosting the 30,000 expected guests of the sold-out event.

As for the vibes, they were immaculate, whether you consider yourself a serious gamer, a cosplay savant or a newb (or noob) taking it all in, there was space for you with no judgement. Besides the awe-inspiring activations, attendees also got the chance to get their hands on the sticks and mouses to play just released and upcoming titles like World of Warcraft: Forever (out Nov. 4), Diablo IV: Season of Hell’s Legacy (out Sept. 15) and Heroes of the Storm (a new hero, Xal’atath, arrives Sept. 28), amongst others.

And as for Overwatch, besides news of a couple of new and improved characters, there was a whole Overwatch World Cup that featured T-Pain presenting the winning team with the championship trophy.

For the exceptionally devoted, there was even a bank of tattoo artists inking fans with their favorite logos and characters from the Blizzard universe. We wouldn’t take it that far, but we understand.

See imagery from the festivities below.

The post BlizzCon 2026 Is An Epic Return For Gaming Convention appeared first on Bossip.

During the season premiere of the OWN TV series, Holt got right to the point, introducing Curry and making it clear where their relationship stands.

“Guys, before you start coming for me, yes, that’s Arionne,” he said in his confessional. “Yes, that’s my queen. So, I got my lady Arionne and our son, Maverick, in a new place and at this moment, we’re not living together. I wouldn’t do that until we got married and I’m looking forward to that as well.”

For those who may new to the LMAH drama, Holt was once married to his costar, Dr. Melody Shari, before a bombshell cheating scandal, in which Curry was the other woman, caused the pair to split. During his affair, he also fathered the child he mentioned during the premiere. Needless to say, his sudden desire to do things the traditional way before moving in struck many as questionable, at best.

Though they have seemingly been together for a few years now, Martell’s decision to introduce Arionne on the show still came as a surprise for many viewers and his discussion of marriage, even more so.

He also made sure to show himself getting a new house of his own too to really drive home the “not shacking up” angle. Ok, Martell!

It’s unclear if Arionne will be joining the show in a real way or if she’ll simply be part of Martell’s storyline as the season progresses. Fans seem to be split on Martell’s still being part of the cast himself, with some feeling like he should have been shown the exit when his original marriage ended, especially amid claims that he was harassing his ex-wife as she tried to move on with her life. However, others seem to enjoy his presence and feel he has the right to stick around.

“Like him or not, Martel deserves a win. We all h8 how he’s done his ex-wife, but life goes on. I pray he moves on and leaves his ex-wife alone and in peace,” one user commented on the show’s official IG page.

“He left his family to be where he at now so sad they say a man dont come a man until 60 70 years old,” said another.

Either way, the cameras will be rolling and it seems that Martell intends to bring his new life into the fold.

The post And I…Oop: ‘Love & Marriage: Huntsville’ Star Martell Holt Introduces ‘Queen’ Arionne Curry After Cheating Scandal, Says He’s Waiting For Marriage To Cohabitate appeared first on Bossip.

According to Page Six, Deputy District Attorney Caitlin McGillicuddy told the court that investigators had found videos on KJ’s phone allegedly showing him engaging in sexual activity with a family member under the age of 12, and that the footage allegedly included “predatory, derogatory” language directed at the victim. McGillicuddy also revealed that this would mark the second time KJ has faced allegations of a serious sexual nature, noting he had previously been charged with sexual battery involving a victim under 16 and had been under court supervision since October 2025.

KJ’s lawyer, Jason Sheffield, quickly issued a statement disputing how the prior juvenile case was being portrayed in court. “The characterizations made in court regarding the prior juvenile matter involving KJ Biermann grossly misrepresent both the facts and the ultimate resolution of that case,” he said, describing the incident as “inappropriate, crude behavior involving two middle-schoolers” that did not result in an adjudication for statutory rape or a comparable offense. TMZ reported that Sheffield also characterized the alleged conduct captured on video as “boundary crossing” rather than anything more serious.

Kim Zolciak’s Son Was Granted Bond With Strict Conditions

Despite the new allegations, the judge ultimately granted KJ bond, setting it at $200,000. As part of his release conditions, he must live at Kim Zolciak’s home, attend school entirely online, avoid all social media and cellphone use, wear an electronic monitoring device, and have no contact with anyone age 16 or under, a restriction that reportedly extends even to his own younger siblings.

The case stems from an April 23rd incident at a Life Time fitness center in Alpharetta, Georgia, where KJ allegedly assaulted a female classmate in the facility’s co-ed sauna. He was indicted on seven charges on September 3rd, including aggravated child molestation, aggravated sodomy, aggravated sexual battery, and false imprisonment. Following his August arrest, Sheffield maintained that KJ was “100% innocent,” and Kim Zolciak publicly defended her son as well, calling the allegations “reckless” and “deeply troubling.”

During Friday’s hearing, a statement from the alleged victim in the April incident was read aloud, describing her ongoing fear over alleged threats that KJ would retaliate against her and her family if released. “The thought of him being released scares me more than I can put into words,” the statement read.

KJ, who has been held at Atlanta’s Metro Regional Youth Detention Center since his arrest, reportedly remained emotionless throughout the hearing. He was supported in court by his father, retired NFL star Kroy Biermann, while Kim and her daughter Brielle Biermann also appeared in the courtroom gallery. Sheffield has separately requested that the case be moved to juvenile court rather than have KJ tried as an adult.

The case remains ongoing, and it’s unclear when additional hearings will be scheduled as both sides continue to navigate the serious and evolving allegations.

The post Kim Zolciak & Kroy Biermann’s Son KJ Realeased On Bond For Sexual Battery Case, Prosecutors Allege He Filmed Separate Assault Of Underage Relative appeared first on Bossip.

Latto and 21 Savage finally stepped out together as a couple for a US Open date night; however, social media still found a reason to get a few jokes in.

Despite the new parents silencing the longstanding whispers around their lack of public outings, the internet had a few words for their outfit selections. While Latto rocked a head to toe Burberry look with a ice white Birkin and Loubotins, 21 Savage put together a hodgepodge of red, white and blue threads. Social media immediately went in on their choices for their first official pop out and it truly seems like they would have been better off remaining a mystery.

All eyes have been on the two since their first collaboration, “Pull Up,” in 2020 and things have only intensified over the years as internet sleuths have noticed small imprints of each of the rappers in the other’s social media content. Ahead of announcing her pregnancy, Latto seemed to finally confirm their relationship by referring to him as her “husband” during a paparazzi interview. Earlier this year, she announced her pregnancy alongside the promo for her album Big Mama and included 21 in several visuals.

Still, fans had questions about his alleged marital status as well as why they were still focused on remaining private. Well, Latto seems to feel that her privacy era is slowly coming to an end. During an interview on The Breakfast Club, she spoke about being more willing to let the public in following the birth of her child.

“I got a baby, I can only be so private,” she said. “I feel like I still am private to a certain point… But I feel like once you start reaching different milestones in life…”

A baby is definitely an indication of a little more than just a working relationship. She also sat down with Apple Music just weeks after giving birth and made sure to reveal that the couple’s first child together, and 21 Savage’s fourth, was “planned.”

For 21 Savage, this also marks a first time experience in that he lives in the same home as his child and, by his own admission, is more involved in her raising than he was with his other three children.

“My first three [kids], I was younger, running around in the street. It was different,” he said on The Pete Davidson Show. “Now, I’m in the house, I had the baby all night, making her bottles, changing her diapers. It’s kinda like a different bond type shit.”

A little growth never hurt anybody! Maybe Latto and 21 Savage will be popping out a little more often now that they’ve broken the seal.

The post Love, 15! Latto And 21 Savage Drown Out The Racket With US Open Date Night, Social Media Calls Outfit Choices A Double Fault appeared first on Bossip.

Preppy style has carried a certain air for generations. One solely shaped by Ivy League campuses, old-school traditions, stuffy blazers, pleated skirts and a vision of status that historically centered on a certain group of people.

J. Press president and creative director Jack Carlson admits that history himself.

“I think there was a time, maybe when I was a kid, when it had a little more of an air of elitism or something,” Carlson told HelloBeautiful. “I think we’ve hopefully moved past that.”

His Fall/Winter 2026 runway at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) showed what moving past it can look like.

J. Press gave us the quality and tailoring longtime customers expect. The label also brought trend and personality to the runway, while reflecting the people who wear the clothes.

“I think Ivy style is for everybody,” he told us. “It looks great on everyone.”

J. Press’ NYFW Runway Reinforced ‘Ivy Style For Everyone’

Sitting front row, it was hard not to notice who went down the runway.

We saw models with gorgeous locs and natural kinky curls. Others wore sleek hair, braids, beach hair and glossy tendrils. Silver foxes walked alongside young men. Women and men both werked the runway in their own right. And for a second, we even thought we saw Bad Bunny.

The models represented different generations, ethnicities, walks of life and approaches to style, while all looking good in J. Press. The casting reinforced Carlson’s point: Ivy style on everyone.

“For me, I believe it’s for everyone, and I want that to be reflected on a runway,” Carlson said.

The collegiate fashion house has always played across generations. Carlson said the brand has long skewed toward an older customer, while its origin story begins with students at Yale.

“J. Press has skewed for a long time to a slightly older customer, and I want to honor that and be embracing of that,” he said.

Carlson added, “J. Press started as a brand for students, for Yale students. So I really want that to be reflected on the runway also.”

That intergenerational reality is part of what makes J. Press interesting.

The brand may have started with young Ivy League men, but its runway now reflects a much wider customer base. Older and younger models, men and women, different ethnicities and different approaches to style all fit naturally into the J. Press world.

J. Press Is Keeping The Classics In Rotation While Adding Newer Styles

And J. Press’ world is all about the clothes.

The Fall/Winter 2026 collection traced Ivy style back to its British roots. Shetland Shaggy Dog sweaters, Irish Aran knits, Harris Tweeds, Scottish cashmere and English flannels filled the collection.

On the runway, we saw tweed and deep blue blazers, striped rugby knits, loafers and layered outerwear. Wide-leg charcoal gray pants brought volume and movement, reflecting the fuller silhouettes taking over fashion right now.

Color gave the classics some personality, too. Orange popped up on outerwear. Green, burgundy, red and navy appeared across sweaters, scarves and layered separates.

J. Press also introduced pieces made with longtime partners and traditional English makers, including Barbour, Gloverall and Lavenham. The collection also went global, featuring a Made-in-Japan capsule.

Carlson’s own connection to British style helped shape the collection.

“I grew up partially in the UK, so I’ve always liked British style,” he said. “Even though J. Press is quintessentially American, invented Ivy style, there’s so much in its origins that is British.”

Those influences show up in the fabrics, construction and pieces built to stay in your closet. The classics are still there, but so are new proportions, color and styling that feel right now.

And Now Women Are Officially Part Of The J. Press Conversation

The show also brought a major update: womenswear.

J. Press introduced its first women’s capsule in the American market since the 1960s. Carlson started with some of the pieces the brand already does best.

And women are not entirely new to J. Press history. The brand once made Oxford cloth shirts for one of the original it girls, Marilyn Monroe.

“Launching women’s was very exciting,” Carlson told us. “We started small. It’s a small women’s capsule.”

“I wanted to start with the things that we’re really good at. The Oxford shirt, the Shaggy Dog sweater, the blazer.”

For women who already love prep, menswear-inspired dressing and classic pieces with styling potential, the capsule opens up a new part of the J. Press closet.

“We have a lot of things coming up for 2027 that are really exciting, but they’re true to the J. Press DNA,” Carlson said.

The post NYFW Exclusive Interview: How A Preppy Brand Made For Yale Students Became ‘Invented Ivy’ Style For Everybody appeared first on Bossip.

Few artists have left a mark on hip-hop quite like 2Pac. From his powerful lyrics and unapologetic storytelling to his influence on the culture, 2Pac became more than a rapper he became a voice for a generation. Even 30 years after his death, his music, style and presence continue to influence hip-hop and pop culture.

TRENDING: B-Side Bangers: 2Pac

And while fans still celebrate the legend he was, there’s another conversation that comes up every time those classic photos resurface: 2Pac was 90s fine. With the bandanas, tattoos, signature smile, toned physique and effortlessly cool style, Pac had a look that remains unforgettable.

TRENDING: Underrated Tupac Movie Roles Fans Should Revisit

As we honor the 30th anniversary of his death, we’re taking a trip down memory lane and appreciating some of the looks that made 2Pac one of hip-hop’s most iconic heartthrobs.

The post 2Pac Was 90s Fine: 30 Years Later, We Remember His Best Looks appeared first on Bossip.

The situation started after Chingy appeared on “The Jason Lee Show” on September 2nd, where he publicly identified Russell-Bailey as his youngest son. Rather than acknowledging the moment, Isaiah instead posted a tribute to his mother, dancer and choreographer Brittany Perry-Russell, crediting her as the parent who had consistently been there for him. According to TheGrio, the noticeable omission sparked online speculation, prompting Chingy to suggest in follow-up comments that manipulation may have played a role in his son’s silence.

Isaiah didn’t hold back once he decided to speak. In a lengthy statement, he made clear that his father’s public comments didn’t reflect the reality of their relationship. “Saying something publicly does not make it true,” he wrote, adding that years of “absence, neglect, or lack of involvement” can’t be undone with a few paragraphs about love and support.

TheShadeRoom reported that Isaiah was especially firm in defending his mother against Chingy’s insinuations. “The claims about my mother are completely false,” he wrote. “She did not manipulate me into disliking my father. A parent doesn’t have to turn a child against someone who was already absent. My feelings are my own, and they come from my own experiences.”

He also made a point of separating his career from the conversation entirely, emphasizing the sacrifices he and his mother made along the way. What bothered him most, he explained, was the implication that he was somehow endorsing a public image of their relationship that didn’t match reality. His response to that idea was blunt: “I. DO. NOT.”

Chingy’s Son Makes His Status With His Father Clear

Chingy has now addressed the situation directly as well. Speaking exclusively with TheShadeRoom, he made clear he doesn’t believe private family matters should be aired out publicly, but felt he needed to respond to some of what was being said. “I can know that I tried while Isaiah can still feel that he needed more from me. Both can be true,” Chingy said. “My intentions do not erase his experience, and his pain does not erase the love I have always had for him.”

Chingy also revealed that he’s contributed more than $200,000 in child support over the years and maintained that he made genuine efforts to stay involved in his son’s life. Still, he acknowledged that financial support alone doesn’t replace a father’s physical or emotional presence, and he expressed a willingness to take accountability and have an honest, private conversation with Isaiah moving forward.

Despite the back-and-forth, Isaiah made clear in his original statement that he has no interest in continuing the conversation publicly. He said he wouldn’t expose “every private detail” of the relationship just to win an internet argument, but he also wouldn’t allow anyone to speak for him or use his name, or his mother’s, to paint a false picture for attention. He closed his statement by saying the people who were actually present in his life already know the truth, and that he wouldn’t be addressing it again.

Chingy, for his part, ended his own statement on a similar note of hope for reconciliation rather than continued public back-and-forth, writing simply, “Your father loves you. I always have, and I always will.”

The post Isaiah Russell-Bailey Sets The Parental Record Straight On ‘Years Of Neglect,’ Chingy Re-Enters The Chat appeared first on Bossip.

Harlem’s Fashion Row (HFR) kicked off New York Fashion Week (NYFW) exactly how we needed it to: with culture, couture and some serious coin.

The 19th Annual Fashion Show & Style Awards took over The Glasshouse on Tuesday, September 8. The night felt like a homecoming for HFR supporters, fashion insiders and culture shifters who return each year to celebrate Black designers and representation.

That homecoming came with plenty of star power. Gunna, Tracee Ellis Ross, Justine Skye, Sheinelle Jones, Loren LoRosa, Mikki Taylor, Achieng Agutu, Bevy Smith, Amaya Espinal, Jackie Aina and Azariah “Azzy” Cartagena were among the familiar faces filling the room.

This year, HFR also put more money behind its mission, turning community support into a major investment in Black design talent.

Brandice Daniel Welcomed The Village In Sergio Hudson

HFR founder Brandice Daniel opened the night looking fabulous in Sergio Hudson. She wore a fitted black blazer and matching rhinestone-covered skirt from his latest collection. Her hair was chic and cropped in her signature blonde pixie.

Brandice spoke candidly about HFR’s highs and lows, along with the economic opportunities the organization creates. She did not sugarcoat the difficult seasons or shy away from how HFR survived them. She also acknowledged the challenges it still faces today.

Brandice credited “the village” with inspiring and sustaining HFR for nearly 20 years. That village filled the room Tuesday night.

“There is nothing that we can’t do if we decide right now to do it together,” she told the well-dressed crowd.

Brandice’s vision for the future also came to life through 11-year-old designer Brooke Sumpter. Through HFR’s partnership with American Girl, Brooke introduced her Cherry Blossom Couture Collection and showed young Black girls they can help shape the brands they already love.

Harlem’s Fashion Row Gave Its Honorees Their Flowers

For Brandice and her team, working together also means recognizing those already changing the game. HFR honored several of them Tuesday night.

These names fill our social media feeds, group chats, headlines and, in some cases, shopping carts. Their work keeps Black influence, excellence and creativity in the fashion conversation. They are changing the industry, whether they know it or not.

HFR honored Erykah Badu with the Fashion Icon Award. Wisdom Kaye received the Virgil Abloh Award, presented by LVMH. Brandon Blackwood earned Designer of the Year.

Audrey Smaltz received the Ann Lowe Maverick Award. Jahleel Weaver earned Stylist of the Year, while Recho Omondi received Editor of the Year.

The speeches brought vulnerability, humor and stories about the sacrifices behind each career. Honorees recognized their supporters and the Black creatives who opened doors before them.

Three Designers Put Their Futures On The Runway

The stylish soirée ended with what we could hardly wait for: fashion.

Three designers sent collections down the runway: Chuks Collins, Atelier Ndigo by Waïna Chancy and Rey Jaiteh. All three participated in the Runway Ahead Designer Fellowship from ICON360 and the PVH Foundation. For the first time, HFR backed its investment in emerging talent with a $100,000 check.

Chuks opened the runway portion with a collection titled Archival of Love. The pieces explored his love for people and fashion through fabric. Gorgeous silhouettes appeared in orange, blue, cream and olive green. Handbags throughout the presentation surprised attendees. Exposed stitching and three-dimensional details gave the clothes even more character.

Harlem-based Rey showed handmade menswear and womenswear with sharp tailoring and an updated approach to luxury. His pieces played with our love affair with denim and streetwear.

His proportions felt current, and his models oozed swagger. Rey chose deep indigo denim to tell his story.

Waïna presented the winning collection, a love letter to Haiti and her mother. In a preview video, she explained that her mother’s method of washing clothes inspired the collection. The designer translated that memory through indigo blue and white. Her clothes moved like water, bringing energy and spontaneity to the runway.

High waists, see-through knit skirts and sheer fabrics gave the bold It girls plenty to want to snag right off the runway. The looks slayed, and so did the night.

We put it on, took pictures, hugged people we hadn’t seen in a while and left The Glasshouse ready to dream a little bigger. Culture and couture kicked off NYFW, and the fashion girls are just getting started.

The post Harlem’s Fashion Row Brought The Village Together In Style To Kick Off NYFW appeared first on Bossip.