The Fifteen Percent Pledge returned to Paramount Studios for its annual fundraising gala, anchoring the organisation’s 15th Street Block Party Weekend with an evening that blended glamour, gratitude, and tangible impact. The event honoured Tina Knowles for her decades of leadership and advocacy, while also awarding a $100,000 grant to Black owned beauty brand MAED.
Great Idea, Poor Fit
Setting aside her strongest Balenciaga moments, there is often something slightly off when it comes to a Meghan, Duchess of Sussex red carpet look, and this custom Harbison Studio gown is no exception. Do I hold her to a higher standard than most? Yes, I do. The bust fit is awkward and unflattering, and the breaks through the skirt do little to improve the overall effect. This should have been so much better. The idea was solid, but the execution fell short.
I’m speechless when it comes to what is going on here with her Stuart Weitzman Nudist sandals.
Almost Perfect
As much as I love that Olandria Carthen continues to spotlight designers outside the mainstream, this House of Marvee fringed and beaded orange gown was let down by one glaring issue. The bustier is simply too tight, and it becomes impossible to ignore. Styling is about balance, and you cannot sacrifice fit in one area to make the rest work. This would have been a standout had that been addressed.
Styled by The Reismans
A New Take On Feathers
Ayra Starr wore a striking gown by Nigerian designer Tia Adeola. I love how the feathers are applied upside down on the bodice, adding texture and movement without overwhelming the silhouette. The look was styled with Akano jewellery.
Styled by Elly Karamoh
One Of Her Best
Chloe Bailey wore a Weiz Dhurm Franklyn dress that blended African heritage through a contemporary lens. The ruching is beautifully executed, and the overall effect ensured that this ranks among her strongest red carpet looks to date.
Styled by Jason Rembert
As Expected
Lake Bell wore LaQuan Smith, which will come as no surprise given the designer’s penchant for body conscious silhouettes and dramatic plunges. The look delivered exactly what the label is known for.
Ruffles To Last A Lifetime
Quenlin Blackwell made ruffles her love language in this Tia Adeola two-piece look. Playful and expressive, this choice felt entirely in keeping with her personal style.
Styled by Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald.
Not Aligned With The Moment
As much as I love Ryan Destiny, this Alaïa and Ferragamo pairing did not quite land for me. It failed to read as gala ready and did not align with the spirit of the event, which centres Black and African designers. Yes, Maximilian Davis is at Ferragamo, but the intent still felt slightly misaligned. Every other stylist did their homework and made an effort.
Styled by Law Roach
Honouree With A Caveat
Tina Knowles, who was honoured on the night, also wore Harbison Studio. The fit was spot on, but the length needed to be about two inches shorter. A small adjustment would have elevated the look significantly.
Third Time’s The Charm
It was, perhaps, third time’s the charm for Harbison Studio, as Winnie Harlow’s bustier dress avoided the fit and length issues seen elsewhere.
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