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Willi Smith

African American fashion designer (1948-1987) · United States · On the map · Designers · Died at 39

Willi Donnell Smith was an American fashion designer. At the time of his death, Smith was regarded as one of the most successful African-American designers in the fashion industry. His company, WilliWear Limited, launched in 1976 and by 1986 grossed over $25 million in sales.

Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

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After Smith's death, his business partner, Laurie Mallet, continued the line with various designers creating collections. Without Smith, the company floundered and due to financial problems and poor sales, WilliWear Limited ceased production in 1990. WilliWear was the first clothing company to create womenswear and menswear under the same label. The accessibility and affordability of Smith's clothing helped to democratize fashion.

Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Country
United States
Category
Designers
Type
Designer
Status
Deceased
Dates
Lived 1948 to 1987 · aged 39