Categories: Pat Stevenson,
Harlem’s fashion community gathered in full force on February 12 for the “Fashion Show Panel Reception,” an evening that blended style, storytelling, and entrepreneurial wisdom at the newly opened Hilton George Hotel. The event drew designers, models, retailers, and local tastemakers eager to hear from a panel of accomplished women whose careers reflect the resilience and innovation that define Harlem’s creative legacy.
The conversation was guided by moderator Novi Brown, an actress and producer best known for her role as Sabrina Hollins on the BET comedy-drama series Sistas, whose presence brought both warmth and authority to the room. Brown’s own journey, set the tone for a night centered on evolution, reinvention, and the power of owning one’s narrative. With her signature poise, she encouraged each panelist to speak candidly about the realities behind their success.
The first panelist, Princess Jenkins, is a name synonymous with Harlem fashion. As the owner of The Brownstone and Nobel NY boutiques on 125th Street, Jenkins has spent 27 years shaping the retail landscape of the neighborhood. Her boutiques have long served as cultural hubs—spaces where fashion, community, and empowerment intersect.
Jenkins spoke openly about the perseverance required to sustain a business for nearly three decades, especially in a neighborhood that has undergone constant transformation. She reflected on the early days of her career, when she was learning the rhythms of retail and building trust with customers who would eventually become loyal supporters. Her message emphasized longevity through adaptability, and she reminded the audience that success is rarely linear. “You have to love what you do enough to grow with it,” she shared, underscoring the importance of passion as a stabilizing force in entrepreneurship.
Next, the audience heard from Victoria Seabrooks, founder of Model Insider, whose career began in front of the camera. Seabrooks described her path into modeling as both exhilarating and challenging, shaped by an industry that often lacks transparency for newcomers. Her experiences inspired her to create a platform that demystifies the modeling world and provides resources for aspiring talent.
Seabrooks spoke about the responsibility she feels to guide others, particularly young women, through an industry that can be both glamorous and unforgiving. Her work with Model Insider focuses on education, access, and empowerment, offering tools that help models navigate contracts, castings, and career development. Her story resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom connected with her commitment to lifting others as she climbs.
The final panelist, Joy Frazier, brought an international lens to the conversation. Born in London and now the owner of Keis to Joi, Frazier has carved out a niche as a designer of French-inspired luxury handbags. Her brand blends European craftsmanship with her own multicultural influences, resulting in pieces that feel both classic and contemporary.
Frazier discussed the challenges of entering the competitive world of accessory design, particularly as an independent creator. She spoke about sourcing materials, building relationships with artisans, and staying true to her aesthetic vision while navigating the business realities of fashion. Her journey illustrated the courage required to pursue a creative dream across borders and industries.
What made the evening memorable was not just the expertise of the panelists but the honesty with which they shared their stories. Each woman spoke about setbacks as openly as triumphs, offering a nuanced look at what it means to build a career in fashion. Themes of resilience, mentorship, and community echoed throughout the conversation, reminding attendees that success is often a collective effort. The Sponsor of the event was
HRLM Champagne (www.HRLMchampagne.com)
The Hilton George Hotel provided a fitting backdrop for the event, sleek, modern, and rooted in Harlem’s cultural renaissance. Guests mingled before and after the panel, exchanging ideas, networking, and celebrating the achievements of the women on stage.
By the end of the night, the “Fashion Show Panel Reception” had become more than a discussion; it was a testament to the power of storytelling and shared experience. Attendees left inspired, energized, and reminded that Harlem remains a vibrant center for creativity, entrepreneurship, and fashion innovation.
