WHO WE ARE
The Black Accessory Designers Alliance is an organization created in 2015 by fashion industry veterans Velvet Lattimore and Wilbur Pack Jr.
Our mission is to empower black and minority accessory designers who typically lack the funding and network connections to run thriving businesses.
Ms. Lattimore and Mr. Pack have established the bi-annual NY Fashion Week Pop Up as a platform for members to present their wares to the press and sell them to the public. Furthermore, BADA™ seeks to assist emerging designers through mentorship and partnering with organizations such as the council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), Black Retail Action Group (BRAG), and Fashion Group International (FGI). These initiatives should help to transform the fashion industry and allow for more diversity.
OUR FOUNDERS
Half a decade ago, Velvet Lattimore made a decision to have a baby. Tired of nurturing other’s fashion dreams, Velvet gave birth to her own–Vedazzling Accessories Boutique. Located at 145 Front Street in the heart of DUMBO, Brooklyn, Vedazzling became the destination for interesting and captivating pieces; including a retail platform for emerging Black accessories designers. “This industry is cut throat and it is especially hard on African Americans who are typically undercapitalized and have difficulty securing orders from mainstream retailers,” admits Velvet. Though Velvet still nurtures the dreams of others, she now simultaneously nurtures hers, too. Part cheerleader and part den mother, Velvet guides emerging designers on how to achieve a greater sell-through. Velvet recently launched a Pop-Up Shop program, help designers get first hand feedback from customers.
Wilbur Pack, Jr. stands by his commitment to provide BOLD, CLASSIC, & MODERN designs for today’s woman. The fashion design veteran began his journey in 1998 when he introduced SK WiLBUR, a contemporary line of clothes for the working woman. In 2013, after being consistently asked by curvy women to offer his elegant designs in larger sizes, Pack set his sights on creating better wardrobe options for the full figured fashionista. He now urges all women to, “Get Your Purse ON” as his evolution continues with his line of chic and colorific handbags. Classic styles comprise the collection. Bold colors, standout patterns and metal hardware lend an artisanal elegance. Handcrafted, reasonably priced, and rendered in leather, suede, and natural fabrics. You can find Wilbur’s purses sold in small boutiques around New York City, as well as on his website: www.skwilbur.com.