Culture

Diverse expressions: Uncovering the landscape of black-owned fashion brands

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Abstract

This research employs big data analysis to explore the distinctive characteristics of black-owned fashion brands, focusing on their unique contributions to the industry. By analyzing text data from 50 brands, the study utilizes keyword analysis and topic modeling to identify core themes and values. The results indicate these brands prioritize women's empowerment, excel in design, specialize in fabrics, engage with their communities, promote sustainability, and foster entrepreneurship. Prominent keywords include ‘women,’ ‘design,’ ‘creativity,’ ‘fabrics,’ ‘black,’ ‘community,’ 'world,' 'sustainability,' 'quality,' 'African,' 'New-York,' 'environment,' 'inspiration,' and 'small.’ Four main themes - value, artistry, products, and place - emerge, highlighting the brands' commitment to overarching values, their emphasis on creativity and craftsmanship, diverse product offerings, and their geographical roots and operational centers. This research illuminates the profound impact of black-owned fashion brands, their contributions to inclusivity, empowerment, sustainability in the industry, and their role as sources of inspiration for diverse voices in fashion.

Keywords: African American, black-fashion, entrepreneurs, diversity, text mining, big data analysis, Black-fashion, Entrepreneurs, Diversity, Text-Mining, Big Data Analysis

How to Cite:

Min, Y. & Lee, K., (2024) “Diverse expressions: Uncovering the landscape of black-owned fashion brands”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17479