This month, I had the privilege of attending Atlanta Fashion Week and getting a front-row experience of the Adidas Spring/Summer 2026 ATLFW Originals show. This event was more than just a fashion show; it was a celebration of Atlanta’s culture and rich history in the arts.
Atlanta has been a fashion hub for a long time, yet it’s often gone unrecognized compared to the city’s fashion counterparts. Its influence goes far beyond music, becoming a rising capital for fashion and self-expression. Since its founding in 2006 by Angela Watts, ATLFW has evolved into a platform for storytelling, giving voice to the artists who have shaped the city’s creative communities. As one of the featured ATLFW artists, Fani stated, “Atlanta has a lot of pillars of culture…not just music, but fashion, too. It’s long overdue for the recognition it deserves. We just need more press down here, because that’s what creates value in fashion. People need to understand the nuance of creative content, of good photography and editorial storytelling over just content.”
This year, Adidas joined that mission, presenting a show that spotlighted HBCU student designers Naima Starr, Ja’Rory Purnell, and Chance Sanderlin. The collection merged sportswear heritage with a modern spin. This collection was crafted by students who reinterpreted Adidas’ legacy through their own understanding of identity, pride, and modernity.
One of my favorite pieces reimagined the classic Adidas tracksuit into a dramatic high-slit gown, its flowing red trails behind the model like flames, symbolic of power and movement. Another standout fused denim, pearls, and streetwear hardware, transforming casualwear into a statement of strength for the contemporary woman. There were also softer, more ethereal takes on athletic femininity, including a romantic tulle corset dress that presented the “Adidas woman” as both powerful and angelic.
Midway through the show, a live performance by Wade Brown shifted the energy of the room. His smooth, soulful vocals complemented the collection’s celebration of creativity and community, adding an emotional layer to the experience.
Ultimately, the ATLFW Originals show was a testament to representation, resilience, and the creativity that thrives when Black designers are given space to tell their own stories. Adidas created a moment in history that celebrated how far the Atlanta fashion community has come, what it represents today, and its continued growth for future designers.
Words by Mishi Ali
Graphic by Eve Friday