A long-defunct program at Texas Southern University (TSU) is slowly finding new life.
TSU’s Fashion Design and Textile Technology program is being revitalized at a time when such programs are in high demand nationwide, especially on HBCU campuses. Ironically, fashion and design programs were among the most sought-after fields of study at HBCUs, particularly from the 1970s to the 1990s. This surge in popularity coincided with major shifts in Black student expression, including rising Black pride and a boom in HBCU-branded fashion.
Credit: Courtesy Dr. Michon Benson.
“Fashion and textiles used to be one of the most valuable classes on campus. It was a part of the College of Liberal Arts and Behavioral Sciences (COLABS),” TSU professor and administrator Dr. Michon Benson. “As the assistant dean of COLABS, I have been charged with revitalizing the fashion and textile programs.”
Comeback story
Recently, TSU’s COLABS hosted Cultural Renaissance 2026, a fashion “experience” to provide support for the TSU Fashion and Textile Program.
True to its nature, the event, held at TSU’s University Museum, featured fashion designers Kameereo Crisp, Brent Law, Nicholas Nguyen, Remy Toh, and multiple TSU student designers.
One of the individuals honored at the event, Dr. Destry Dokes, sounded more excited about TSU’s program than his personal recognition.
“I think this program is extremely important because it’s another avenue for folks who are interested in the fashion scene to be able to have an opportunity to learn and to grow in their creative side,” said Dokes. “There is so much to learn about fashion. And if you know anything about TSU, you know it is a historical Black college that has done a lot and offered a lot of programs. This is just another opportunity for those who want to expand their horizon in the fashion scene to come out and be part of this TSU Fashion program.
“It is a phenomenal program. I’ve had a chance to talk to the chair of the program, as well as the dean, and I’m excited about what’s happening.”
Credit: Aswad Walker/Defender.
And apparently, Dokes was not alone in his excitement, as attendees heralded the event a success, and a precursor to a once again impactful TSU program.
“The success of this show confirms that we are doing more than just teaching students how to sew or to design,” shared Benson. “We are teaching them that their creativity is a form of stewardship. When we choose responsibly-sourced fabrics, we honor the hands that came before us and the environment that sustains us. The TSU Fashion and Textile program is reclaiming a narrative wherein aesthetics, excellence, and ethical consciousness move together.
“We are proving that our community can lead the way in a fashion industry that values people and the planet as much as it values the final look.”
Mr. and Miss TSU were on hand for the festivities.
Credit: Aswad Walker/Defender.
“The theme is Black Renaissance to show up and show out not only for TSU, but for all things fashion,” said Zyias Richards, Mr. TSU. “I want the student body to know that not only can they represent well in the classroom, but know they can put on a fly fit any day of the week.”
Carmon Nelson Grimes, Miss TSU, wanted to participate in the fashion show, but was unable due to scheduling conflicts.
“Still, I was excited to see the different outfits they brought out and styled,” said Grimes.
Credit: Aswad Walker/Defender.
History
Benson said TSU’s C.S. Lane Building, past and present home of TSU’s fashion and textile program, housed several other highly-demanded programs, including dietetics and nutrition, and a child development lab.
The Lane Building also had a clothing closet. Students who needed professional attire for an interview but lacked it could access top-of-the-line businesswear donated by local professionals. Students could even have their chosen clothes tailored to fit by fashion program students.
Dr. Michon Benson
“The TSU Fashion and Textile program is reclaiming a narrative wherein aesthetics, excellence, and ethical consciousness move together. We are proving that our community can lead the way in a fashion industry that values people and the planet as much as it values the final look.”
But the main feature of the Lane Building was its fashion lab, where students could bring their sketched ideas to life.
Though the 1970s through the 1990s were a high-water mark for many such programs, they have even deeper roots across HBCUs nationwide, dating back several decades before the 1970s. Universities like North Carolina A&T State, Clark Atlanta, and Howard were home to renowned fashion design and merchandising programs.
Supporters envision TSU’s program stepping into that conversation as a national leader and facilitating graduates’ entry into various careers in the fashion and apparel industry.
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The program at a glance
Housed within COLABS, the program offers courses in clothing construction, textiles, and merchandising. The curriculum emphasizes both the creative and technical aspects of fashion, including textile studies, costume design, and industry-focused apparel studies.
“Students can enroll in certain courses now, as the Fashion Advisory Board hosts workshops in sewing, merchandising, and manufacturing, and we take students on outings,” said Benson.
Petra Alexander, a fashion industry professional, is part of that Fashion Advisory Board. She, like Benson and others, is committed to providing students with the support needed for success.
“My role is to revitalize the fashion department by monitoring the students, mentoring the students, and helping them catapult their future,” said Alexander. “I, myself, have been in the fashion industry for 30 years. So, my duty is to make sure I pass along my knowledge and lessons from experiences to our current students.”
