Áwet New York, a Black, refugee-founded lifestyle brand, has partnered with Kenneth Cole to host a holiday pop-up showcasing small Black-owned businesses, starting Friday.
Áwet New York, founded by Áwet Woldegebriel, launched in 2020 during the pandemic to support New York’s garment workers. Woldegebriel created a line of what he describes as “livewear,” which consisted of hoodies, joggers, T-shirts and hats all made in New York and focused on timeless and genderless designs.
Woldegebriel was forced to flee his native country Eritrea in 1998, becoming a refugee and migrating from camp to camp. In 2000 he was granted asylum to the U.S.
In September, the brand launched at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Cole has served as a mentor to Woldegebriel and the Áwet New York brand since its inception.
“Áwet is as talented designer who is also a good friend and fellow activist,” said Cole. “Our personal values, and those of our brands are aligned and it has been great watching him build his business.”
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“Supporting young talent is something I am proud to be able to do, and I am grateful to have our store space that we can offer up in support for these Black-owned businesses and to helpfully connect them with consumers this holiday season,” Cole added.
The pop-up will feature 10 small-Black owned businesses, in addition to Áwet New York. They are Adey-Abeba, handwoven and embroidered garments made in Ethiopia; McKenzie Liautaud, a Haitian-American precious gems jewelry designer; Adolophine, bespoke luxury African goods; Marco Hall, ready-to-wear couture clothing designs; Royal Jelly Harlem, African-inspired clothing and home decorating line; Kristian Lorén Lopez, classic silhouettes in elaborate fabrics; Julian Joseph Kyle, limited-edition releases fusing art, fashion and history; Don’t Let Disco, whimsical jewelry, and 2.4.1. Cosmetics, a clean beauty line.
The holiday pop-up will be located at the Kenneth Cole store at 328 Bowery. The event takes place from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Friday through Sunday.
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