Runway Renaissance: High Fashion x Hip Hop Marketplace was produced by Lish 2X & AllFemaleHipHop, and the night delivered exactly what the culture demands when it gathers with intention: ownership, excellence, and representation — For Us, By Us.
Runway Renaissance Packed PenthouseHouse NY
The PentHouse NY filled quickly with designers, artists, influencers, stylists, and media, creating the kind of room that signals something meaningful is happening. Every fashion label presented on the runway was led by designers of color, a deliberate choice that reflected the event’s foundation and FUBU’s legacy. The atmosphere felt less like a typical fashion show and more like a cultural marketplace where creativity and commerce met on equal footing.
Lish 2X opened the evening by walking out to “Bought A Bag,” the record she shares with longtime collaborator Steph G, a symbolic nod to independence and partnership. Moments later, rising R&B artist Flyt took the stage with smooth vocals and rich tone that pulled the audience into the night before the first model stepped onto the runway.
Runway Renaissance Designers Brought the Vision to Life
Elevatus set the visual language with sleek black cropped hoodies for the women and lightweight polo-style button-ups for the men. The collection proved that minimalism and streetwear can coexist with polish. SM Leathers followed with the longest lineup of the night, sending women’s leather sets, men’s jackets, and even custom looks for young runway stars Kali Atkinson and Aubree Noelle down the catwalk. Gold-selling singer SUZI also walked for the brand, adding star power to a segment that already commanded attention.
Children’s designer Lady Cyfa debuted custom pieces made just days before the show, while luxury powerhouse Ron Dyce brought an entire glam squad to the runway. His presentation paired refined tailoring with a live beauty demonstration from Ron Dyce Beauty, which added a layer of spectacle and precision. Seven Bullion elevated the mood with rare, one-of-one streetwear pieces that felt like wearable art, each look designed with exclusivity and intention.
NaturalBorn brought the streets to the runway with a debut that had strong backing from well-known rappers and influencers. Torch London delivered a diverse, high-impact collection that ranged from evening gowns to animal prints, with Aisha Hall walking for the line. Designer Coco surprised the room by gifting models the pieces they wore, including lace dresses and gowns, a generous gesture that resonated deeply.
The runway closed with Comatose Rose, founder of AllFemaleHipHop, who launched Vintage Spray. The collection carried edgy, underground energy that fans of experimental fashion would recognize as bold and fearless.
The Hip Hop Apart of Runway Renaissance
Music moved the night forward as Johnnie Floss and 730RS delivered gritty, crowd-moving sets. Stunna Dior, the Ghanaian princess, followed with confident performances that kept the room buzzing. When Steph G returned to the stage to perform “Bought A Bag” with Lish 2X, then freestyled over “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop,” the moment felt unmistakably New York. The anthem grounded the evening in the city’s spirit and ambition.
A Full-Circle Honor for Dorian Jihad
A standout moment came when Dorian Jihad received a plaque honoring his influence on fashion, public relations, and visual culture. Known for shaping the city’s “It Girls” and for his Times Square billboard runs, Dorian was celebrated by peers and collaborators. Holiday The GoldenChild presented the tribute, delivering a heartfelt acknowledgment while Stunna Dior and Steph G watched from the crowd. The recognition felt earned and deeply rooted in community.
Runway Renaissance’s Marketplace
The marketplace matched the runway’s energy. Chef Taisia Bailey kept guests satisfied with elevated plates, while KeKe The Foodie became a crowd favorite with her all-natural sauces. Ant Strong, also known as 5ive Mics, showcased Fly Elite, his sneaker brand backed by ambassadors such as Timbaland, Freeway, and DJ Kid Capri, reinforcing the night’s theme of Black-owned excellence.
Behind the scenes, celebrity stylist and creative director LooksByLunden managed model and designer flow with precision, ensuring the show moved with rhythm and control.
Runway Renaissance For Us, By Us — And Built to Last
Runway Renaissance was more than a fashion show. It was a living statement about what happens when creators of color own their narratives, their products, and their platforms. Fashion met hip hop. Community met commerce. Vision met execution. For one night, the culture did not wait for permission — it took center stage.
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