Upon arrival, all attendees are asked to check in at the designated registration area, where you’ll receive your event credentials and access materials. Please have your ticket confirmation and photo ID ready for a smooth check-in process.

There are three ticket tiers, and each will be directed to its respective check-in lane:

• Student – Access to all mainstage programming. Please bring a valid student ID.

• General Admission – Access to all panels, talks, and public programming throughout the day.

• VIP – Expedited check-in and exclusive access to the VIP lounge, reserved seating, and the closing reception presented by Crown Royal.

Our staff will be on-site to assist with any questions and ensure you have everything needed to experience the full day of Black Fashion Forward.

This conversation brings together the visionary Black stylists, photographers, editors, and creative directors who are redefining how Blackness is represented in fashion media. Together, they’ll discuss the power of editorial imagery in shaping cultural narratives, challenging industry norms, and building a more expansive, nuanced visual language for Black identity and style.

A forward-looking conversation on the evolution of Black-owned beauty brands—exploring how Black-owned brands are navigating the industry, building lasting impact, and setting new standards for innovation, inclusivity, and ownership in beauty.

This panel explores how fashion functions as more than just clothing—it’s a living, breathing form of cultural expression and protest. Centering the voices of Black designers and creatives, the discussion will unpack how fashion communicates heritage, influences politics, and shapes the cultural landscape both locally and globally.

In this intimate conversation, Brandon Blackwood shares his journey of building the bag—both literally and figuratively. From launching statement-making accessories to scaling a globally recognized brand, we’ll explore the pivotal moments that shaped his business and the decisions that fueled its growth. The conversation will cover everything from product innovation and brand differentiation to strategic expansion and what’s next on the horizon—all while navigating the pressures and opportunities of the luxury fashion space.

VIP ticket holders are invited to an exclusive Cocktail Reception celebrating the inaugural Black Fashion Forward symposium. This intimate experience offers a final moment to connect, reflect, and raise a glass with fellow creatives, industry leaders, and changemakers.

Guests will enjoy a curated cocktails courtesy of Crown Royal, alongside light bites and sounds by selected DJ’s, in a setting designed to foster meaningful conversation and collaboration. This is a unique opportunity to network with key figures across fashion, media, and culture — and toast to a day of bold ideas, dynamic dialogue, and Black excellence.

Access is limited to VIP ticket holders.