

The world does not progress without Black creativity, and that’s nowhere more apparent than in the fashion industry. Throughout history, Black men and women played pivotal roles in creating and advancing technical aspects within the fashion industry, while simultaneously demonstrating previously unseen innovation. Despite mainstream acceptance or acclaim, there isn’t a sector of this industry that a Black person hasn’t significantly impacted.
From couturier Ann Lowe - who created the wedding gown that Jackie Kennedy wore to marry JFK in 1953 - to global icon André Leon Talley - the first Back male creative director at VOGUE; the past several decades are saturated with intriguing and brilliant Black creatives.
With the first fashion season of the year in full swing, it proved to be the perfect time to highlight the impact of Black creativity in fashion. From editorial to show production to styling, the business of fashion is complex and requires departments to perfectly align in order to deliver an exceptional product.
Keep reading to learn about 7 Black creatives that are making moves in the industry while constantly creating spaces for others to flourish.
Shelby Ivey Christie
For years, Shelby Ivey Christie has been a staple in the social discourse, especially the intersection of fashion and race. As a fashion and costume historian, Shelby was recognized by Forbes' ‘30 Under 30’ and an honoree for the VOGUE Business 100 Innovator. On Twitter and Instagram, one can find Shelby delivering insightful and thoughtful commentary in a hilarious and digestible way.
From incredible deep dives into Black fashion history to hilarious takes on fashion’s breaking news, Shelby delivers insightful and thoughtful commentary in a digestible way, which has helped to solidify her status as a powerful emerging player in the fashion industry.
Ivy Coco
At this point, what can’t Ivy Coco not do? As the founder of the clothing line ‘House of Ivy’ and the newest stylist for her mother Sheryl Lee Ralph, Ivy Coco is an emerging force in the fashion industry. But, she doesn’t just serve looks, she also serves her community. For years, Ivy has been the creative director for WalkGood LA, an organization dedicated to bringing people together from all walks of life to fight for racial equity. Because of her work, Ivy was recently named in the CCNYC’s 2023 Creative Class, which celebrates Black culture-shifters across a variety of disciplines.
Aïssata Diallo
Dubbed the Internet’s “Mother Nature,” Aïssata Diallo is a dynamic content creator and model with close to 1M followers across her social platforms. Aïssata focuses on modest dressing, incorporating extraordinary shapes and textures to achieve style icon status. Aside from showcasing exceptional outfits and looks, Aïssata utilizes her platform to bring awareness to places and issues close to her heart.
Gabby Prescod
A veteran in the fashion industry at this point, Gabby Prescod is a fashion editor with a strong presence across all social media platforms, for both her fearless looks and equally witty commentary. Rising through the ranks of the editorial world, Gabby is currently working as the fashion director at large for Blanc Magazine. And if you still can’t get enough, be sure to watch her debut season on the Bravo hit show Summer House, airing now!
Jessica Cruel
Another veteran in the editorial industry, Jessica Cruel is the current Editor-In-Chief for Allure magazine and had a huge impact in creating diversity and inclusivity at one of the biggest magazines in fashion. When she’s not updating her audience on the latest fashion news, she’s dishing out advice on home ownership and home renovations, aptly named #LandlordLesssons by her following.
Sandrina Charles
With over 14 years of expertise specializing in fashion and lifestyle communications, Sandrine started her own business in 2016, Sandrine Charles Consulting. While building a business that centers on championing emerging brands, Sandrine saw a lack of opportunities for Black creatives in fashion and decided to help. In 2020, she co-founded Black In Fashion Council with Lindsay Peoples, to represent and secure the advancement of Black individuals in the fashion and beauty industry.
Toronto Shay
If there’s one person who understands the importance of representation in fashion, it’s content creator-turned-entrepreneur, Shannae Ingleton-Smith - better known as @TorontoShay to her loyal followers. After building a community of engaged fashion enthusiasts and dominating the industry for years, Shannae saw a huge gap in the marketing world for Black and brown creatives. This is the idea that led to the creation of Kensington Grey Agency, a boutique influencer agency rooted in diversity.
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Feature image by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images for Allure
Courtney is a contributing writer, based in Puerto Rico by way of Tennessee. Interested in the intersection of fashion and culture, she has an affinity for fashion, empowerment, and really good tacos. Keep up with her on Instagram (@hautecourtxo).
From '106 & Park' To Prime Time, Rocsi Diaz Is Still That Girl
Rocsi Diaz is no stranger to the camera. From her iconic run on 106 & Park to interviewing Hollywood heavyweights on Entertainment Tonight, she’s been at the center of culture for years. Now, she’s back in the hosting chair alongside none other than Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders for We Got Time Today, a fresh talk show exclusive to Tubi.
The show is exactly what you’d expect when you put a media pro and a sports legend together—a mix of real talk, unfiltered moments, and guest interviews that feel like family kickbacks. As the duo wraps up their first season, Rocsi sat down with xoNecole to talk about teaming up with Deion, the wildest moments on set, and why streaming platforms like Tubi are shaking up the talk show world.
Scoring the Gig & Clicking Instantly with Deion
Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence
Deion Sanders had been dreaming of hosting a talk show, and when Tubi came calling, it was only right he made it happen. But before he found the perfect co-host, he held auditions with different women for the spot.
Lucky for us, Rocsi threw her hat in the ring, and the connection was instant. “You just can’t buy chemistry like we have,” she tells us. “We are legit like big brother, little sister—fighting, cracking jokes, telling each other off. When you watch the show, it’s like watching family.”
Mixing News, Culture & Sports—Minus the Snooze
With We Got Time Today, Rocsi and Deion cover everything from the latest headlines to celebrity tea and, of course, sports. But instead of stiff, rehearsed segments, the show keeps it loose and unpredictable.
“We’re not breaking the mold—it’s not rocket science,” Rocsi jokes. “We just bring our own flair, our authenticity, and our personalities to it. Deion has firsthand experience in sports, so when we talk about athletes, he brings a different perspective.”
And the best part? Unlike traditional talk shows that rush through quick interviews, We Got Time Today actually takes its time. “A lot of shows might give you one or two segments with a guest,” Rocsi says. “With us, we actually sit down and have real-life conversations.”
Her Top Guests (So Far!)
From music icons to relationship experts, the show has already had some unforgettable guests—but a few stand out for Rocsi.
“Ice Cube was our first guest, and he’s just legendary,” she says. “Kirk Franklin had us cracking up when he broke into a full choir freestyle for our Christmas special. And anytime we get Dr. Bryant on to put Deion in the hot seat? That’s my favorite!”
And of course, there’s Nick Cannon. “Nick was amazing,” she adds. “You already know he’s going to bring the energy and say something wild.”
Tag-Team Hosting with Deion: The Inside Scoop
While Deion Sanders is best known for his football greatness, Rocsi says he’s also one of the funniest people she’s ever worked with.
“He’s goofy—like, really goofy,” she laughs. “A lot of people didn’t know that side of him, but now they do. He can crack a joke, and if you’re too sensitive, good luck, because he will go in. But the best part? I throw it right back at him! Sometimes we just look at each other like, ‘Okay, that was a good one.’”
But beyond the laughs, she admires his insane work ethic. “Watching him juggle everything he does is just super admirable,” she says.
How "We Got Time Today" Brings That "106 & Park" Energy
Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images
For those wondering if We Got Time Today feels like 106 & Park 2.0, Rocsi says it’s a whole different vibe.
“The only comparison I’d make is that it’s a destination for the culture,” she explains. “It’s a platform where our people can come, feel safe, and have real conversations. But other than that, this is Deion’s world—we’re just having fun in it.”
The Talk Show Shake-Up: Why This Show Hits Different
Unlike traditional networks, We Got Time Today lives exclusively on Tubi, proving that streaming platforms are changing how we watch talk shows.
“Tubi is giving more people opportunities and making content more accessible,” Rocsi says. “Deion is a huge Tubi fan—he literally loves Black cinema—so it just made sense for him. And honestly? He’s got me watching it too!”
Real Ones Only: Women Holding Each Other Down
Rocsi credits her best friend, Chantelle, for always keeping her grounded. “She kept pouring into me, reminding me of who I am,” she shares. Even Deion Sanders makes sure to give her flowers, often calling her “the hostess with the most.”
In the industry, she’s built lasting bonds with women like Julissa Bermundez, Angie Martinez, and Angela Yee. “Julissa and I still kick it—her house is basically Sephora, so I just shop there,” she jokes. She also cherishes her friendships with Melyssa Ford and Robin Roberts, who have offered unwavering support. “Robin has always been there for me,” Rocsi says, reflecting on the wisdom she’s gained from the legendary journalist.
With the show’s first season wrapping up, Rocsi is grateful for the experience and excited for what’s next. “We’re having a good time, and the audience can feel that,” she says.
And if you haven’t tuned in yet? Well, Rocsi and Deion got time—so you might as well make some too.
Catch We Got Time Today now streaming on Tubi!
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They say bodies are made in the winter, but if you’re the type that waits a few months before the summer because “you work well under pressure” or you just enjoy moving your body altogether, then keep reading.
With the summer quickly approaching, there are so many ways to stay active and have fun doing it. There’s hiking, biking, or just simply walking around the neighborhood. However, there are way more things you can do and it’s free too.
I live in Atlanta and I have discovered a variety of free fitness activities that can help you burn calories, get in touch with your inner child, and maybe even make a new friend.
These activities range from roller-skating to Pilates to dancing. Check out a few of these places below:
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Thompson Hotel
Located in Atlanta’s posh Buckhead district, Thompson hotel offers complimentary yoga classes on Saturday and free Pilates classes on Sundays. Both classes are on the hotel’s rooftop, so you’ll get a good sweat while taking in the gorgeous views.
Atlanta Beltline
The Atlanta Beltline is a 22-mile path throughout the city that traverses trails, parks, and many neighborhoods. It recently announced its line-up of free fitness classes in different locations on the beltline. These classes encompass a diverse range of activities like tennis, roller-skating, Zumba, HIIT, and many more.
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Atlantic Station
Atlantic Station is also offering free fitness activities through its Wellness Wednesday program. Every Wednesday, you can explore various fitness class like dance, self-defense, bootcamp and more.
The Battery
The Battery, home of The Atlanta Braves stadium offers free yoga on Mondays as part of its Wellness Series.
Atlanta isn’t the only city that offers a range of free fitness classes. Make sure to check out your city’s social media pages or search TikTok or Google, and type in “free fitness classes in insert city.” Alternatively, join different Facebook groups that highlight events throughout the city.
Check these out and have fun.
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