Fashion, Designers Access by NKC Fashion, Designers Access by NKC

Browne and Sumney

The sudden worldwide shift to Digital Fashion Weeks has engendered confusion and ambivalence among designers and fashion brands, particularly in regards to the content of their promotional videos.

The sudden worldwide shift to Digital Fashion Weeks has engendered confusion and ambivalence among designers and fashion brands, particularly in regards to the content of their promotional videos. The general conflict has been whether such videos should be visually appealing presentations or explorations of the inner workings of these fashion labels. Thom Browne appears to have chosen the former, as his newest video is that of musician Moses Sumney performing while wearing a white sequin wrap skirt from the upcoming Spring 2021 collection. Despite this video’s minimalist setting, Brown has striven to create a project that embodies innovation and artistry.

Sumney became acquainted with Browne at the 2018 Vanity Fair Oscars after-party while wearing a skirt suit by the designer. They developed rapport with each other over the course of several more fashion events, leading Browne to then propose his film idea to Sumney. Sumney, enamored with the 1924 Olympics-style skirt, eagerly agreed to the project—on the caveat that he would direct it.

Sumney’s involvement with the film perfectly complemented Browne’s grand artistic vision, as he brought local talent to a major fashion brand. He recruited a film crew in Asheville, including a personal friend debuting as a producer. Sumney comes from a humble background himself, and therefore he understands the struggle of navigating the glamor and exclusivity of the fashion industry while underprivileged. By employing a local film crew, he hopes to encourage major brands to extend opportunities to lesser-known creators.

Sumney also ponders the cultural implications of a black man proudly outfitted in high fashion especially during a time of such racial tumult. He contrasts his statuesque black body gleaming in the spotlight with the toppling of statues that deify America’s racist historical figures. Sumney admires the film’s subtle brilliance and gladly anticipates the discussion of race that will undoubtedly arise from audiences after viewing the final product.

Photo credit: https://www.vogue.com/article/moses-sumney-thom-browne-film

Report: Nia Hunt


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