Where the past and future collab.

There are countless talented Black designers trying to make it in fashion. But for many of them, the industry is impossible to access.

That needs to change.

Now Harlem’s Fashion Row and the People’s Place Program are taking a deeper look into the Black community’s contribution to American cool and prep—all while championing brand new voices in the industry

New York City-based designer Clarence Ruth has been named as the winner of the first New Legacy Challenge.

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Three emerging designers reimagined iconic prep styles alongside world-class mentors.

Join us, and watch a new legacy begin:

Episode 1: THEIR STORIES BEGIN

Episode 2: GOING THREAD-TO-THREAD

Episode 3: DESIGNING THEIR FUTURE

Episode 4: WE HAVE OUR WINNER

Clarence Ruth | DESIGNER NYC

New York-based fashion designer, artist and author

Clarence’s work can be seen throughout North America and Asia. No stranger to the fashion world, he’s worked with the likes of Tom Ford, John Varvatos, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton. Clarence views the Tommy Hilfiger prep styles as classic, sporty, and spirited with the ease of relaxed silhouettes. It’s true fashion and function. He aims for designs that are unmistakably Tommy, but reimagined through his unique lens. With an approach that leverages the past to inspire the future, Clarence is an inspiring choice for the New Legacy Challenge.

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Megan Smith | DESIGNER Kansas City

Bold prints, colors and clean lines

Behind Megan’s design philosophy is the desire to empower and celebrate bold, unapologetic femininity. It’s all about twisting the expected, like silhouettes introduced in surprising ways. Megan views prep as timelessly Tommy, and intends to approach the New Legacy Challenge with iconic pieces reinvented through fresh colors and prints. Drawing her inspiration from art, travel and strong women, we believe Megan is ready to take on the challenge and start a new legacy.

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Johnathan Hayden | DESIGNER NYC

Human-centered, person-first design philosophy

From an introduction at The Met to debuting in Tokyo, Johnathan’s attention to graphic visuals and textures show a vision of the future for today. His take? Prep is American sportswear—but today we are redefining who gets to be American. His goal is to make designs that are truly accessible, like Tommy Adaptive, and intends to introduce looks that don’t just consider the needs of one, but all. Johnathan is here to push and challenge our preconceived notions. A natural fit for the New Legacy Challenge.