LaQuan Smith’s Fall-Winter show at New York Fashion Week kicked off with a message to remember:

“When you think LaQuan Smith, you think fashion! When you think LaQuan Smith, you think glamour! When you think LaQuan, you think sex!” And LaQuan is all that indeed. He launched his eponymous label in 2010, but it wasn’t until more recent times that he’s captured the attention of the fashion world with his version of glamour and sexy street style. Smith’s clientele is a celebrity who’s who, from Beyonce Knowles to Cardi B, and private clients from LA to Lagos. They live LaQuan’s mantra: “My style is rich! My girls are rich!”

Editor’s Note: In honor of Black History Month, we highlight some of the most influential forces in fashion, in no specific order. Their impact on the culture is undeniable – and we use this time to tip our hats off to their Black excellence.