Meet Michelle Adepoju: The 29-Year-Old Black Woman Who Just Held Her First NYFW Runway Show

Source: CREDIT GEREMY DUBENSKI // The Green Show // Mastercard

At 29, Michelle Adepoju , founder and creative director of KÍLÈNTÁR , made her New York Fashion Week (NYFW) runway debut this season. At an age when many are still figuring out what they want to do, Michelle is already creating a significant impact in the fashion industry.

Others dream and imagine, but this Nigerian designer is making her passions a reality.

“It felt both beautiful and overwhelming. I was a little nervous, but I knew my work deserved to be on that stage. The experience was deeply fulfilling,” Michelle shared with HB after her debut September 6 show.

“It’s a celebration of African artistry and the incredible women behind the fabrics,” she continued. “It was a moment of immense pride, and I’m excited about the journey ahead.”

Michelle Adepoju Celebrates Black Beauty And Femininity At NYFW With KÍLÈNTÁR’s Spring-Summer 2025 Collection

Michelle’s runway collection debut for KÍLÈNTÁR was presented by The Green Show and Mastercard . She showcased “Mama Ìbẹ́ta,” a presentation that paid homage to African craftsmanship and her brand’s commitment to ethical fashion practices. Each garment was handwoven, dyed, and beaded by skilled women artisans.

The pieces tell a powerful story of culture , heritage, sustainability, and style.

“I’ve been deeply inspired by the incredible women artisans I’ve met across West Africa. Their dedication to preserving traditional techniques has empowered me both personally and professionally,” Michelle explained when asked about the inspiration behind her collection. “And my mother has always been a pillar of strength, teaching me resilience and grace—lessons that stay with me every day .”

Michelle’s Spring and Summer 2025 radiated Black beauty and femininity in all its forms. We loved its bright colors, flowing fabrics, and slinky silhouettes.

Her collection felt perfect for a vacation, a carefree day, or even a moment of self-care. The finale garments— a series of intricately beaded column dresses with sheer underlay—were the ultimate showstoppers.

See our runway coverage of every look here.

With a slaying fashion future ahead, Michelle’s ambitions extend beyond the runway. And if her newest collection is any indication, she is definitely a designer to watch.

Michelle looks forward to dressing celebrity it girls and powerhouse Black women. She told HB that fashion icons like Solange Knowles, Michelle Obama, and Lupita Nyong’o are her dream clients.

Explaining why Michelle said these women, “are not only fashion-forward but [they] also represent strength, authenticity, and cultural pride.”

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