Today, Forever 21 [1] launched its first-ever Black History Month collection, a collaboration with three Black artists — Stormy Nesbit [2], Ashley Sky Walker [3] and Henry Jones [4]. 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 [5] 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 people of colour 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.
Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Hoodie
This Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Hoodie [7] ($23) is a powerful and necessary reminder that Black women's lives matter.
Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee
This Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee [8] ($20) features stunning artwork in earthy shades and an important message, which makes it an ideal everyday choice.
Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Pullover
This Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Pullover [9] ($30) looks ultra comfortable.
Ashley Walker Black History Pullover
This bold Ashley Walker Black History Pullover [10] ($15) will quickly become a favourite.
Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee
The back of this Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee [11] ($20) is a gentle reminder to love ourselves.
Stormy Nesbit Black Women Matter Graphic Hoodie
You'll want to live in this Stormy Nesbit Black Women Matter Graphic Hoodie [12] ($30).
Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Tee
This Stormy Nesbit Art Graphic Tee [13] ($23) is a literal pop of sunshine.
Ashley Walker Bandana Print Shorts
These Ashley Walker Bandana Print Shorts [14] ($20) are effortlessly cool.
Ashley Walker Leimert Park Graphic Tube Top
Get the Ashley Walker Leimert Park Graphic Tube Top [15] ($15) to complete your edgy look.
RuPaul Graphic Tee
Fans of RuPaul will obsess over this RuPaul Graphic Tee [16] ($20).
Malcolm X Graphic Tee
Keep a reminder of your favourite activist with this Malcolm X Graphic Tee [17] ($18).
Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Tank Top
We love the message of this Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Tank Top [18] ($15).
Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Joggers
Get the matching Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Joggers [19] ($28) for the ultimate (and coolest) sweatsuit.
Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Hoodie
We also love that this Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Hoodie [20] ($28) comes in white.
Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Shorts
Pair it with these Ashley Walker Community World Graphic Shorts [21] ($18) for a crisp edgy look.
Ashley Walker Art Print Tank Top
We love everything about this Ashley Walker Art Print Tank Top [22] ($18): the bold art print, scoop neckline and fit.
Ashley Walker Art Print Biker Shorts
You can't forget the matching Ashley Walker Art Print Biker Shorts [23] ($20).
Black History Graphic Tee
Meet your new everyday Black History Graphic Tee [24] ($18).
Henry Jones Art Graphic Hoodie
This Henry Jones Art Graphic Hoodie [25] ($30) starts an important conversation.
Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee
Say it loud, say it proud with this Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee [26] ($18): Black Lives Matter.
Ashley Walker Peace Unity Graphic Tee
Show your values with this Ashley Walker Peace Unity Graphic Tee [27] ($18).
Miles Davis Graphic Tee
Fans of Miles Davis's music will wear this Miles Davis Graphic Tee [28] ($20) over and over again.
Ashley Walker Afro-Futurism Graphic Tee
We love the tie-dye print of this Ashley Walker Afro-Futurism Graphic Tee [29] ($25).
Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee
You'll reach for this Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee [30] ($23) every day.
Stormy Nesbit Queen Graphic Pocket Tee
Our closet would seriously feel incomplete without this Stormy Nesbit Queen Graphic Pocket Tee [31] ($18).
Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee
We love the earthy colours of this Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee [32] ($20).
Malcolm X Graphic Tee
Show your admiration of the late activist with this Malcolm X Graphic Tee [33] ($18).
Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee
This Henry Jones Art Graphic Tee [34] ($20) is so powerful.
Stormy Nesbit Magic Graphic Tee
This Stormy Nesbit Magic Graphic Tee [35] ($23) will bring you joy.
Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee
This Stormy Nesbit Graphic Tee [36] ($15) makes a meaningful statement.