B Michael
A Visionary Designer
B Michael, born in 1957 in Durham, Connecticut, grew up in a close-knit family that encouraged creativity and ambition. His mother, a real estate agent, possessed an impeccable sense of style, which served as one of his earliest sources of inspiration. His father, a certified public accountant, emphasized the importance of discipline and hard work, values that B Michael would carry into his groundbreaking career in fashion.
Family and Early Life
Raised in a suburban community, B Michael displayed a keen artistic sensibility from an early age. His mother’s eye for fashion and her ability to create beauty from simple materials deeply influenced his future path. Although his family was not directly involved in the fashion industry, their support for his creative interests laid the foundation for his remarkable journey.
Education and Early Career
After graduating high school, B Michael attended the University of Connecticut before transferring to the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Though he initially began his professional life as an account executive on Wall Street, he quickly realized that his passion lay in the creative realm. Leaving the corporate world, he ventured into millinery design, crafting hats for esteemed designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Louis Feraud, and Nolan Miller.
His talent and dedication earned him significant recognition, especially for his contributions to the 1980s television soap opera Dynasty, where his hats became synonymous with high glamour and sophistication. This success paved the way for his appointment as creative director of the Aldo Hat Corporation.
Founding a Fashion Empire
In 1989, B Michael launched his namesake millinery line, marking the beginning of his independent journey in the fashion industry. A decade later, in 1999, he expanded his brand to include couture with the support of Eleanor Lambert, the renowned publicist who helped shape the modern fashion industry. His couture collections, characterized by elegant silhouettes and timeless sophistication, quickly gained a loyal following among celebrities, socialites, and fashion connoisseurs.
B Michael’s designs have graced prominent figures, including Cicely Tyson, Lena Horne, Beyoncé, and Whitney Houston. His work reached the global stage, with his b michael AMERICA Couture collections showcased in Beijing, Korea, and Shanghai. Additionally, his ready-to-wear line, b michael AMERICA RED, brought his signature style to a wider audience through Macy’s department stores across the United States.
Awards and Honors
In 1998, B Michael was inducted into the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), a testament to his influence and innovation in the industry. He has also been a sought-after lecturer, sharing his expertise and inspiring the next generation of designers at the Fashion Institute of Technology and other institutions.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
B Michael has been deeply committed to giving back to his community. He serves on the advisory boards of several organizations, including the Dream Yard Project, the Cicely Tyson School of Performing and Fine Arts, and the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), supporting education and the arts for underserved youth.
His humanitarian efforts extend to creating opportunities for young designers of color and advocating for greater diversity in the fashion industry. Through his work and mentorship, B Michael has become a powerful voice for inclusivity and representation.
Legacy and Personal Life
B Michael resides in New York City with his life partner, Mark-Anthony Edwards, and their two daughters, Saferra and Mychal. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is an avid collector of vintage books, photography, and artifacts, reflecting his love for history and the arts.
B Michael’s enduring legacy lies in his ability to blend classic elegance with modern innovation while championing representation in the world of fashion. As a trailblazer and mentor, he has not only shaped the industry but also empowered others to dream big and break barriers.