Saks is ready to roll out the second year of The New Wave, its emerging designer accelerator program, which includes an amplification of BIPOC talents.
The eight new-to-Saks brands are: Claude Kameni, KEEYAHRI, Ludovic de Saint Sernin, Nalebe, SUNNI SUNNI, Undra Celeste, Who Decides War, and Zeynep Arcay. Six of these brands are Black-owned businesses.
The designers will be featured in a marketing campaign kicking off today, including digital channels and a dedicated window installation at the Saks flagship on Fifth Avenue.
Highlights include an onboarding bootcamp; cross-functional advisory sessions with Saks leaders; mentoring from industry experts, including Joseph Altuzarra, Brandice Daniel, and Andrew Lister; a roundtable discussion with James Harden, access to CFDA professional development, and more.
They also have an opportunity to receive a $10,000 grant to support their business operations and growth.
“We are excited to continue using our platform to uplift emerging brands and support BIPOC designers,” said Tracy Margolies, Chief Merchandising Officer of Saks. “This incredible program provides a unique opportunity for up-and-coming designers to accelerate their growth at Saks and across the fashion industry. At the same time, it furthers our commitment to increasing representation in our assortment and delivering fresh, compelling fashion to our customers.”
We checked in with Claude Kameni and Undra Celeste to hear about their experiences.
Claude Kameni
What has been the highlight of being a part of the New Wave program?
For me, the highlight of the program has been meeting and working one-on-one with all of the mentors. Each mentor brings something new to the table, and it has been an enriching experience to learn about the different components of the fashion industry. Another highlight was meeting the CEO of Saks. Marc Metrick is an inspirational individual, and I envision myself and my brand reaching the levels he has set for himself and Saks.
What are some key learnings from the program that you are applying to your business so far?
The New Wave program has helped me learn how to design and market my brand for a wider audience. Claude Kameni specializes in African prints which are traditionally printed on wax fabric and can be uncomfortable and rigid in design. Through the program, I have learned how to be innovative in the way that I create my pieces. I started printing my own custom African print designs on jersey fabric, silk and even satin. This allows for the fun and flair of African print to be worn in a comfortable way by more people.
Another key takeaway from the program has been learning new techniques of networking. All of our mentorship sessions have emphasized the importance of following up with clients, publishers, media contacts and sponsors after an initial meeting. This has helped me maintain and even strengthen my business connections.
How has the program changed your perspective as you build your fashion brand?
This program has motivated me to keep going and has helped me realize that I am on the right track and my work is not going unnoticed. I was just in New York City for Saks’ NYFW party and I met a handful of people who told me they had purchased my items and there was even a guest at the party who was wearing one of my designs! This boosted my confidence as a self-taught designer and made me feel seen.
The program has also changed my perspective about working in the fashion industry. I felt like I was the only one going through the stress of worrying if I’m on the right track, if my brand is succeeding or if I am doing enough. The mentors I have met through this program have taught me to do things on my own terms, not to rush into something that I’m not ready for, and most importantly to always ask questions. I have learned that it is okay to make mistakes and not everything has to be perfect 100 percent of the time.
