DISRUPTING THE FASHION INDUSTRY

Hems & Brims empowers the next generation of Black creatives to use their talents to build a lasting legacy in fashion.

Spring/Fall Cohort Opens March 2026

Spring/Fall Cohort Opens March 2026

Join our waitlist to be the first to access the application when registration opens on September 15, 2025.

Countdown to Registration Opening Day: September 15, 2025

Please note: This countdown timer is based on Eastern Standard Time (EST)

Join an Info Session!


Our info sessions are specifically for educators and nonprofit leaders or staff who are interested in learning more about Hems & Brims.

During the session, we will review the program schedule and overview, explain how our Spring/Fall 2026 Cohort can support your students, and explore potential partnership opportunities with you.

If you’d like to join, please complete the interest form and we’ll send you the Zoom link once you’ve registered.

If you're not able to attend any of the info sessions, please send us an email to request a recording.

In partnership with Black Girls Know Best and Black Girls in Archives, we’re excited to support the launch of the inaugural cohort for the Black Girlhood Archives. Led by Black Girls Know Best, this research project invites Black girls (ages 16-22) to explore Black dandyism, fashion history, and archival storytelling, culminating in an exhibition aligned with the 2025 Met Gala.

Selected participants will receive mentorship, archival research training, and the opportunity to help shape an exhibition in New York City.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

  • Black Dandyism & The Politics of Dress

  • Archiving & Preserving Black Fashion History
    Black Girlhood & Style as Resistance

  • The Art of Self-Styling & Personal Expression

  • Cultural Critique & Media Literacy

PROGRAM DETAILS

Wednesdays: April 2, 9, 16, 23 (Virtual Sessions)

Final Exhibit & Showcase: May 3-5, 2025 (NYC Met Gala Weekend)

Events

Saturday, May 31, 2025 | 5 PM EST

Join us for an exclusive virtual talk with Dr. Rikki Byrd, founder of the Fashion & Race Syllabus and the Black Fashion Archive.

Dr. Rikki Byrd, a distinguished writer, educator and curator in Black studies and fashion history, will share insights on how archiving our past empowers us to preserve our legacies and support future Black creatives.

This event is in support of Hems & Brims and Black Girls Know Best, with a minimum $25 donation to help advance our missions.

Don't miss out—register today and join us in preserving Black fashion history and Black girlhood.

Support us here:

  • Keanna H.

    "Hems & Brims has been a wondrous experience that has taught me the determination and discipline needed to be fruitful in the fashion industry."

  • Kayla B.

    Keep doing this program for as long as you possibly can. This program has the ability to change lives."

  • Ayanna A.

    "You all are great! This program and what it stands for is amazing."

  • Jadora A.

    “I love my mentor so much. I'm so appreciative for Hems & Brims for providing such a safe space and long-term connections for students.”

  • Savannah A.

    “I loved this program, all the classes and mentoring sessions were great. I learned a lot in both the classes and in my 1:1 sessions.”