A celebration of the best and brightest creators of color within the fashion space, ESSENCE’s inaugural Best in Black Fashion Awards shines a light on top designers, stylists, photographers, models and insiders who made an impact in 2019. The star-studded roster of honorees and nominees will gather at pre-NY Fashion Week dinner on September 4th.
There’s no denying that Billy Porter was destined to be a star. The Tony and Grammy award-winning actor, singer, and playwright knows how to masterfully use his style as a form of expression. At the 2019 Academy Awards, Porter wowed with a gender-bending Christian Siriano tuxedo gown and at the Tonys he sported a uterus-themed ensemble in support of women’s reproductive rights. Both of these looks catapulted him into style icon status.
Porter’s impressive and impeccable red carpet looks may have earned him respect in the fashion industry, but what has truly earned him the title of legend is his continuous fight for equality. A staunch advocate for LGBTQ rights, in June Queerty named him one of the Pride50 “trailblazing individuals who actively ensure society remains moving towards equality, acceptance and dignity for all queer people.”
Meet Our 2019 BIBF Trail Blazer Award Honoree, Billy Porter.
