Harlem Festival of Culture X Steve Madden Collab
In February 2023, Steve Madden partnered with the Harlem Festival of Culture, inviting Harlem-based creatives to a design challenge. DaQuane Cherry’s work stood out with playful contrast of textures, a strong sense of personal history, and signature use of primary colors. Cherry and the Steve Madden design team produced 3 fashion statement pieces showcasing today’s vibrant Harlem.
DaQuane Cherry Collab with Steve Madden’s Design Team
The fashion looks transforms the artist’s creativity into wearable art. As DaQuane explains, “My painting titled ‘The Phantom of The Child’ embodies a dreamy nightmare, to know where you came from and where you are now. To invoke emotions that need to be shouted to the heavens.”
The merch includes “The Phantom,” Black Unisex Combat Boots, a messenger style bag titled “The Shadow,” and a unisex Jean Jacket called “The Mirage,” all donning Cherry’s art!
HFC X Steve Madden Design Challenge
Additionally, in Spring 2023, the Harlem Festival of Culture Foundation collaborated with the famous lifestyle clothing brand to launch the official HFC X Steve Madden Design Challenge. It is in celebration of Harlem local creatives, providing them access to mentorship and industry knowledge.
From numerous applicants, five finalists emerged, and on March 8, 2023, they presented their design concepts at the Finale event. DaQuane Cherry’s exceptional vision and artistic prowess led him to be selected as the winner by a distinguished Selection Committee. The committee consisted of Steve Madden executives, HFC Co-Founder Musa Jackson, and Harlem-based fashion experts.
According to HFC, DaQuane received $10,000 in cash and a three-month fellowship with Steve Madden, Ltd. During his fellowship, he worked with the design team to create the street fashion looks, showcasing the rose that grew from the concrete type concept.
As an act of generosity, Steve Madden, Ltd. has produced a limited production of the merch to be donated to the Foundation. It is available for purchase online and during the Harlem Festival of Culture here.
Harlem Festival Of Culture in Harlem, NY
Moreover, the reimagined Harlem Festival of Culture is taking place from July 28th to 30th. The festival will feature urban musical acts from yesterday and today’s time. The funds raised from these sales will support the Foundation’s charitable programs. Further promoting the growth and nurturing of creative talents within the Harlem community. See the headliners of who is performing at the Harlem Festival of Culture on Randall’s Island in Harlem here!
