Today, Forever 21 launched its first-ever Black History Month collection, a collaboration with three Black artists — Stormy Nesbit, Ashley Sky Walker, and Henry Jones. The limited-edition capsule collection features a mix of vibrant hoodies, matching sets, and tees that capture the range, power, and beauty of Black artistic expression.
You'll find a visual array of pieces communicating meaningful messages and celebrating influential Black figures such as Malcom X and Miles Davis. As the struggle to end systemic racism continues, this collection has a particularly emotional resonance. The striking artwork, visible on each item, was designed by the creatives who were fully immersed in the entire process. As Nesbit shared with us over email, "Forever 21 allowed me to create from my heart and present my most authentic self without any reservations, so my excitement is an understatement."
A strong advocate for representation, Nesbit draws inspiration from the people who surround her, and portrays Black women in all of their vivid glory. Every single piece she worked on was created after someone she personally knows and loves. "My art generally focuses on expressing the beauty in melanin, so when I was asked to create pieces for Black History Month, I didn't need much convincing," she shared.
"Showcasing artists or artwork that speaks to a little girl who's never seen her silhouette on a T-shirt, or a boy who sees a kid that looks like him on a sweater, is incredibly impactful."
"I'd like to see brands promote and collaborate with more Black creatives," she continued. "Showcasing artists or artwork that speaks to a little girl who's never seen her silhouette on a T-shirt, or a boy who sees a kid that looks like him on a sweater, is incredibly impactful. Push Black stories, Black creatives, Black businesses. Releasing a statement or changing a profile picture feels empty if there is no other action to go with it."
Let's explore the collection.
This Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Hoodie ($23) is a powerful and necessary reminder that Black women's lives matter.
This Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee ($20) features stunning artwork in earthy shades and an important message, which makes it an ideal everyday choice.
This Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Pullover ($30) looks ultra comfortable.
This bold Ashley Walker Black History Pullover ($15) will quickly become a favorite.
The back of this Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee ($20) is a gentle reminder to love ourselves.
You'll want to live in this Stormy Nesbit Black Women Matter Graphic Hoodie ($30).
This Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Tee ($23) is a literal pop of sunshine.
These Ashley Walker Bandana Print Shorts ($20) are effortlessly cool.
Get the Ashley Walker Leimert Park Graphic Tube Top ($15) to complete your edgy look.
Fans of RuPaul will obsess over this RuPaul Graphic Tee ($20).
Keep a reminder of your favorite activist with this Malcolm X Graphic Tee ($18).
We love the message of this Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Tank Top ($15).
Get the matching Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Joggers ($28) for the ultimate (and coolest) sweatsuit.
We also love that this Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Hoodie ($28) comes in white.
Pair it with these Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Shorts ($18) for a crisp edgy look.
We love everything about this Ashley Walker Art Print Tank Top ($18): the bold art print, scoop neckline and fit.
You can't forget the matching Ashley Walker Art Print Biker Shorts ($20).
Meet your new everyday Black History Graphic Tee ($18).
This Henry Jones Art Graphic Hoodie ($30) starts an important conversation.
Say it loud, say it proud with this Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee ($18): Black Lives Matter.
Show your values with this Ashley Walker Peace Unity Graphic Tee ($18).
Fans of Miles Davis's music will wear this Miles Davis Graphic Tee ($20) over and over again.
We love the tie-dye print of this Ashley Walker Afro-Futurism Graphic Tee ($25).
You'll reach for this Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee ($23) every day.
Our closet would seriously feel incomplete without this Stormy Nesbit Queen Graphic Pocket Tee ($18).
We love the earthy colors of this Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee ($20).
Show your admiration of the late activist with this Malcolm X Graphic Tee ($18).
This Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee ($20) is so powerful.
This Stormy Nesbit Magic Graphic Tee ($23) will bring you joy.
This Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee ($15) makes a meaningful statement.