Bishme Cromartie, the acclaimed African American fashion designer and “Project Runway” Season 20 winner, made a remarkable debut at the New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024 with his collection titled “Faye’s Quantum.” Drawing inspiration from the fusion of streetwear with avant-garde elements, Cromartie presented an array of bold, feminine, and abstract designs that challenged conventional fashion norms while embracing both masculine and feminine sensibilities.
The collection was a testament to Cromartie’s unique design philosophy, showcasing structured cropped jackets paired with playful Y2K-style miniskirts, fitted denim cargo pants, and high-low pieces that balanced downtown cool with haute sophistication. The use of jade, black, and metallic hues added a classic yet futuristic flair to the ensembles, further enhanced by feminine shapes and statement embellishments like bustier-style tops and exaggerated shoulders. The designer concluded the show with his signature “winning moment” — two striking looks that blended sculptural edge with classic romance, using sheer fabric and elaborate tulle (Bravo TV Official Site).
Cromartie’s approach to fashion is deeply personal and reflective of his own lifestyle and interests. As a designer, he engages in various creative outlets such as drawing, painting, writing music, and meditating, which help him stay centered amidst the hectic pace of Fashion Week preparations. He also finds solace in watching cartoons like “Rick and Morty” and black and white films, with “Stormy Weather” starring Lena Horne being one of his all-time favorites. This eclectic mix of influences is evident in his work, where artistry and trend-forward styles converge to create pieces that are both innovative and deeply expressive (Essence).
The show at the Mezzanine in New York City on September 12th, 2023, was not just a display of Cromartie’s design prowess but also a celebration of individuality and diversity in fashion. The collection, known for its intricate details, unexpected textures, and bold silhouettes, invited attendees to embrace their unique style journeys and challenge the conventional expectations of beauty and fashion (New York Style Guide).
Cromartie’s debut at the New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024 was a momentous occasion, marking the arrival of a fearless and innovative designer who is unafraid to push the boundaries of style and self-expression.
