In the realm of high fashion, few designers manage to encapsulate the essence of both strength and sensuality as effectively as LaQuan Smith. Emerging from Queens, New York, Smith has carved out a niche that celebrates unapologetic femininity, rendering his designs a favorite among women who aren’t just looking to dress up, but aim to communicate a strong sense of self and allure. As he explained in a recent discussion, his creations serve as a powerful messenger for women aiming to exude confidence through style, particularly on nights when they want to feel their most glamorous.
Attending high-profile events—like the recent 2024 CFDA Awards—Smith’s presence alongside celebrated figures in the entertainment industry reaffirms the connection between fashion and empowerment. For instance, singer Victoria Monét, who donned a striking black maxi dress characterized by daring cutouts, exemplified this synergy. Smith’s creativity intertwines with Monét’s musical prowess, illustrating how fashion can harmoniously reflect the themes of the art it decorates.
Smith remarks on the significance of the CFDA Awards, often referred to as the Oscars of American fashion, emphasizing it as a foundational moment for designers to not only celebrate their achievements but also acknowledge the journey of the fashion industry itself. His excitement at attending the event for the fifth time highlights the growth of his label and the vast changes within the fashion landscape, particularly as it pertains to representation. In a world that historically favored a narrow vision, Smith’s work challenges traditional notions of beauty and accessibility, paving the way for a new narrative where diversity thrives.
At the CFDAs, the integration of technology and fashion was also on full display, particularly through Smith’s collaboration with Samsung. His spring 2025 collection featured innovative semi-sheer silk sleepwear—a testament to how fashion designers are now blending style with wellness. The Galaxy Ring, which promotes the importance of health and sleep, serves as both a fashion statement and a wellness tool, aligning with his ethos of empowering women through robust choices in both fashion and lifestyle.
LaQuan’s impact on American fashion extends beyond the runway. His ability to dress powerful women—such as Vice President Kamala Harris and global superstars like Rihanna and Beyoncé—serves as a significant milestone not just for his brand but for the broader framework of modern femininity. Dressing Harris in an elegant sequined gown for a Congressional Black Caucus event underscores Smith’s commitment to celebrating women in positions of authority, while simultaneously showcasing their elegance and strength.
Through his design choices, Smith embodies the need for attire that resonates beyond artistic expression; they become symbols of empowerment. For instance, he highlights the influence of Harris, who frequented his designs in the past, portraying the designer’s creations as a vehicle for uplifting narratives around Black excellence and women’s empowerment in significant public and private moments.
Smith’s dedication to dressing women who celebrate their bodies and individuality resonates profoundly within his work. He believes that wearing LaQuan Smith should evoke an empowering transformation, imparting a sense of confidence that transcends typical occasions. His designs are characterized by a blend of boldness and subtlety; he ensures that women feel not only sexy but also seen and valued. He interprets sultriness as a natural extension of empowerment, rather than something forced, allowing the wearer’s inner strength to shine through in a seamless manner.
In retrospect, last year’s successful ventures, such as dressing celebrities during the “Renaissance” tour, only served to reinforce Smith’s brand ethos. Seeing Beyoncé in his designs—whether it be on the red carpet or in intimate settings—reiterates Smith’s belief in fashion as a daily celebration of self. Each piece is a narrative, each outfit a testament to the woman wearing it; that embodiment defines Smith’s contributions to both fashion and empowerment.
Looking ahead, LaQuan Smith remains committed to advancing the message of empowerment through fashion. He aims to cultivate a culture where women of all backgrounds can revel in their uniqueness and express themselves boldly through clothing. As he continues to innovate, pushing boundaries and intertwining technology with design, Smith is set to remain a key player in not only redefining what it means to be a fashion label but also what it means to be a powerful woman in a constantly evolving world. Through his artistry, he crafts an inclusive narrative that inspires vibrant self-expression and collective empowerment, redefining the standards of beauty and femininity along the way.