9 emerging black American and African designers Michelle Obama should try

theGRIO REPORT - Here are nine young designer brands we think deserving of the Michelle Obama Effect.

Jun 19, 2012

One of the most remarkable things about the first lady Michelle Obama’s well-documented style is her patronage of little-known and undiscovered designers. From her decision to wear Jason Wu to the inauguration to her choice to rock Duro Olowu on her historic visit to Southern Africa, she has catapulted niche designers into the annals of history, and expanded awareness of ready-to-wear labels like Tracy Reese and Rachel Roy. Her impact has also been financial — adding nearly $3 Billion of value to the brands and retailers she wore in the first half of her husband’s first term. Here are nine young designer brands we think deserving of the Michelle Obama Effect — and they all happen to be of African and African-American descent. What do you think of these looks for Mrs. O?

Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond is a fashion blogger and the author of ‘Powder Necklace.’ Follow Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond on Twitter at @nanaekua