Next Saturday, Neiman Marcus will welcome the return of Black Creatives in the Lou (BCL) for an evening that blends high fashion with local artistry. The collective, founded by Yolanda “Yoro” Newson, will debut its latest designer exhibition from 4 to 7 p.m. on January 31. Guests can expect sweet treats, fashion‑forward fellowship and a showcase of storytelling designs that will remain on display throughout the month of February.
Attendees can look forward to a first‑ever designer showcase, where one garment from each featured creative will be brought to life on the runway. The presentation gives guests — and potential buyers — an intimate look into each designer’s collection and artistic vision.
This Black History Month fashion exhibition will highlight eight designers presenting couture, up‑cycled pieces and, of course, signature streetwear. The showcase also includes work from four jewelry designers and four visual artists, rounding out a multidisciplinary celebration of Black creativity.
Photo courtesy of BCL
The kickoff event will feature a live‑painting activation and music by the Blackbird Ensemble, founded by the late Tyler “Tai” Davis. As a close friend of Newson, she says his presence remains deeply felt — and she has planned a special surprise as part of the tribute to honor his life, artistry and legacy.
Producing this event — and building the partnership between BCL and Neiman Marcus — carries special meaning for Newson. “I consider myself a bridge builder and a gap filler,” she said. “I’m always working to build bridges and fill gaps so no one misses an opportunity for people to truly see who they are.”
Her vision extends beyond the runway. “I want the community to be unified,” she continued. “Even though this is for Black History Month, we are all part of Black history — no matter our color or who we are.”
Last year’s event drew nearly 300 fashion and art enthusiasts, and Newson expects an even larger turnout this time around.
Her own journey in fashion began as a jewelry designer, crafting bold rings and statement necklaces. Invitations to show her work came quickly, and while she loved the experience, she also faced challenges.
“Being part of a fashion show as an accessory designer, it’s kinda hard to have the models look cohesive,” she said. “I found myself thrifting and sourcing pieces just to pull the looks together. That’s how I got into styling — because I had no other choice,” she added with a laugh.
Through that process, she became an avid thrifter. “I was in control of both aspects of it,” she said. “Thrifting helped me build a collection of clothing that truly complemented my jewelry.”
Her styling didn’t stop at fashion shows. Newson has gone on to dress local officials like former congresswoman Cori Bush and Black entertainment royalty such as Kinloch’s own Jenifer Lewis. Her wardrobe work has appeared in commercials, television shows and films, including the 2025 release “Soul on Fire.”
She credits her father, Willie Lee, as a foundational force behind her creativity. A carpenter by trade, he often fashioned metals into fishing sinkers while she watched from the floor at his feet. “I sat under his feet for years, and watching him — and his philanthropy — became entwined with who I am,” Newson said. “Like the weaves of a basket, I can see all the threads of my parents — their love, support and guidance — shaping me.”
Through BCL and collaborations with high‑end department stores like Neiman Marcus, Newson is putting that philosophy into practice.
In a city searching for healing and connection, Newson is stitching together a future where creativity becomes the bridge.
“I feel like the city is hurting in many ways,” Newson said. “And I’m trying to be part of the solution.”
Black Creatives of the Lou will take place from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Saturday, January 31 at Neiman Marcus.
Living It content is produced with funding by the ARPA for the Arts grants program in partnership with the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and the Community Development Administration.
