Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Brandon Blackwood is the Founder, Creative Director, and CEO of his namesake brand.

He is first generation American and was born to Jamaican and Chinese parents, which continues to be a large inspiration in his designs.

While studying neuroscience at Bard College, he secretly pursued a career in fashion, interning at magazines such as Elle and Nylon.

Following his graduation, he started working at a consignment shop where he decided to create something people could be proud to wear.

In 2015, after wanting to create the perfect backpack for himself (The Portmore) and being constantly asked about where to purchase he created Brandon Blackwood NYC.

Brandon Blackwood NYC is largely influenced by Brandon’s personal life as all of his bags are named after his close friends, family or places he lived.

After his first collection was featured in Essence magazine he has expanded within the fashion industry with features including NY Times, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Forbes, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Instyle, WWD and Marie Claire.

He was also recently nominated for a CFDA Award for Best Accessory Designer and has since expanded his company into eyewear, outerwear and footwear.

His celebrity friends of the brand include Kim Kardashian, Lala Anthony, Jessica Alba, Cardi B, Chloe Halle, City Girls, Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo and more.