The Indiana Black Expo hosted a dynamic runway presentation during WNBA All-Star Weekend 2025, spotlighting local talent and national designers in a celebration of Black excellence and style. The show brought out bold silhouettes, vibrant prints, and showstopping eveningwear that electrified the crowd and highlighted the creative depth within the community. Held in the heart of Indianapolis, the runway was a convergence of fashion, culture, and empowerment.
Among the standout designers was Nikki Blaine, who showcased a lineup of embellished looks full of texture, structure, and flair. From voluminous sleeves to intricate appliqué details, each piece embodied a unique sense of sophistication and high-fashion drama. Nikki Blaine’s craftsmanship was evident in every stitch, as models floated down the runway in looks that commanded attention and celebrated individuality.
The presentation featured a wide array of designers, all contributing their own signature take on contemporary style. From avant-garde tailoring to flowing gowns and statement accessories, the runway offered something for every fashion lover. The show served as a vibrant reminder of the talent and vision that thrives within Black fashion spaces, especially during cultural moments like All-Star Weekend.
Read on for a rundown of some of the participating designers:
Shekela, the visionary behind Velame Fashions, describes herself as a “country homegirl with big city dreams,” bringing a distinct flair to the fashion world with her vintage-inspired, modern-meets-chic designs. Known for turning “V fashion” into a full-on vibe, her label has also embraced sustainability, incorporating recycled materials and renewable energy into her creations. At the Indiana Black Expo, Shekela made her runway debut—a dream realized—by showcasing a range of pieces that celebrated both her artistic vision and the beauty of the models who wore them. Her presentation was a standout moment, blending timeless style with contemporary edge. You can catch a glimpse of her collection across social platforms and in Hoppee Gift Shop (22 Patterson Plaza), with a full site coming soon at TheVelameExperience.com. As Shekela says: make room in your closet for Velame!
For the designer behind LvLotss High Fashion, fashion has always been a part of her DNA—“even before I knew I had it, I HAD IT!” Known for her bold personality and even bolder designs, her aesthetic fuses chic, vintage elements with high-class, high-fashion flair. At Indiana Black Expo, she debuted vibrant, head-turning pieces inspired by none other than herself, bringing color, confidence, and couture to the runway. A major career milestone, she says the highlight was seeing her work on such a grand stage—and receiving a personal compliment from Claire Sulmers left her in absolute awe. You can support her brand on Instagram at @luvlotsss or reach out via email at luvlotsss@yahoo.com.
Allen & Allen Men’s Clothing is redefining menswear by tailoring style to the individual and their profession. Founder G. Allen got his start by turning his church clothes into fashion statements as a young man, eventually evolving his look into a signature style while attending Broadripple High School. Inspired by a blend of business, casual, and designer fashion, Allen creates high-quality, eclectic looks that elevate men to their highest level of style. His proudest moment? Watching his runway looks spark a trending statement. Discover more at allenandallenmensclothing.com or visit the shop at 7860 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis.
BruceGlen brought bold energy to the Indiana Black Expo runway with a standout moment featuring coordinated looks for mother and daughter. One model strutted in a fierce leopard print button-down and matching shorts set, paired with red heels, while her mini-me accompanied her in a playful printed dress that combined the same animal print with colorful patchwork details. The look perfectly captured the brand’s signature mix of vibrant prints and joyful expression, making it a highlight of the show and a celebration of Black fashion, family, and individuality.
Stacy Hogan, the visionary designer behind Built by Stacy, made a powerful impression at the Indiana Black Expo with her latest collection, Electric Poise. Known for blending storytelling with elevated style, Hogan’s journey into fashion began with a personal need for self-expression—altering clothes for herself and friends before evolving into a full-fledged designer with a distinct voice. Her design aesthetic, which she describes as “elevated expression,” balances regal structure with softness, and each piece is crafted to evoke empowerment and authenticity. The Electric Poise collection explored themes of grace and strength through bold silhouettes, vibrant color palettes, and culturally rich details—culminating in a showstopping moment when a model stepped out in a blue and yellow African print train blazer and headpiece, shifting the entire energy of the room. To follow and support the brand, visit www.BuiltByStacy.com or find her across all platforms at @BuiltByStacy.
Whether you came for the fashion or stayed for the energy, the In Black Expo runway left a lasting impression. With designers like Nikki Blaine leading the charge, the future of fashion looks bold, unapologetic, and rooted in excellence.
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📸: IG/Reproduction
