A model wearing a long red dress with red veil.

Bishme Cromartie Transforms Grief into Art with His Latest Collection

In Fashion Features, Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week by Victoria Roberts

Following his celebrated win on Project Runway All Stars Season 20, designer Bishme Cromartie returns to the runway with a deeply personal and thought-provoking collection for Spring/Summer 2025. Titled “Brutal Cry,” the collection delves into Cromartie’s emotional journey, revealing an intimate and profound exploration of grief. Through this collection, Cromartie transforms his personal loss and heartache into a powerful artistic statement, channeling his emotions into fashion that resonates with raw intensity and creativity.

“Brutal Cry” represents a major evolution in Cromartie’s career, marking the third significant collection since his Project Runway triumph. What makes this particular collection stand out is Cromartie’s masterful ability to channel his own vulnerability into his work, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of fashion as an emotional outlet. By turning his grief into something tangible, Cromartie presents a body of work that is not only visually striking but emotionally charged as well.

Each piece in the “Brutal Cry” collection reflects different phases of the grieving process, from the initial shock and denial to confusion and, ultimately, triumph. These emotional stages are mirrored in the collection’s designs, which range from powerful, structured garments to softer, more fluid silhouettes. The result is a collection that juxtaposes strength and fragility, creating a balance between opposing forces that speaks to the complexity of human emotions. Cromartie’s unique ability to blend these elements into his designs is what sets him apart as one of today’s most visionary designers.

Cromartie describes his design philosophy as “Street Garde,” a term he coined to reflect the fusion of streetwear’s raw, urban energy with the sophistication and artistry of avant-garde fashion. This innovative blend is evident throughout the collection, where masculine and feminine elements are harmoniously intertwined. The garments—ranging from tailored pants and dramatic skirts to structured tops and flowing dresses—challenge traditional fashion norms while offering a fresh, dynamic take on modern style.

The collection’s emphasis on proportions and function is equally noteworthy. Cromartie experiments with exaggerated silhouettes and unexpected shapes, creating garments that push boundaries while remaining wearable. Whether through voluminous skirts or sharply tailored pants, each piece exudes a sense of empowerment, allowing the wearer to make a bold statement in any setting. This adaptability speaks to Cromartie’s vision of the modern woman: someone who is unafraid to embrace both strength and vulnerability, masculinity and femininity, in her personal expression.

Moreover, “Brutal Cry” blurs traditional gender boundaries, a hallmark of Cromartie’s approach to fashion. By incorporating both masculine and feminine elements into his designs, Cromartie challenges societal expectations and offers a more fluid, adaptable vision of fashion. This emphasis on inclusivity reflects not only a broader cultural shift but also Cromartie’s belief that fashion should be a vehicle for self-expression without limits.

Bishme Cromartie has steadily built a formidable reputation within the fashion industry. His rise to prominence has been marked by high-profile achievements and a growing list of celebrity clients. A-listers such as Ciara, Lizzo, and Jennifer Hudson have been seen wearing Cromartie’s designs, further cementing his status as one of fashion’s rising stars. His ability to appeal to both the avant-garde and mainstream markets has made him a sought-after designer for those looking to make a statement.

Beyond his design work, Cromartie is also dedicated to giving back to his community. He actively engages with aspiring designers through educational initiatives, mentorship programs, and charitable contributions. By offering his time and resources to help nurture the next generation of fashion talent, Cromartie ensures that his influence extends far beyond the runway. His commitment to inspiring young designers speaks to his broader mission of using fashion as a tool for empowerment and expression.

MODELS WEARING THE BISHME CROMARTIE NYFW SS25 COLLECTION.

In many ways, “Brutal Cry” encapsulates the essence of Bishme Cromartie’s journey as both an artist and a designer. It is a collection that not only reflects his personal growth and evolution but also offers a bold, inclusive, and emotionally resonant vision for the future.

See collection images below:

Photography: Courtesy of Bishme Cromartie.

 

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About Victoria Roberts

Born in Brazil, Victoria moved to the United States to pursue her dream of working in the fashion industry. She is now the Communications Manager at Fashion Mingle and resides in Los Angeles.

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Victoria Roberts

Born in Brazil, Victoria moved to the United States to pursue her dream of working in the fashion industry. She is now the Communications Manager at Fashion Mingle and resides in Los Angeles.