Amsale Aberra, the Ethiopian-born fashion designer whose minimalist aesthetic revolutionized modern American wedding dresses, left an indelible mark on the industry.
Among her numerous achievements, Amsale is on record as the first Black designer to participate in both the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and the Bridal Council.
Breaking Barriers and Shattering Glass Ceilings
“@amsale was the first black designer to participate in the CFDA and Bridal Council. She was a trailblazer who opened doors for many black designers in the 21st century.”
Amsale’s inclusion in these influential organizations was a significant milestone, breaking down barriers and paving the way for greater representation and diversity in the fashion world. Her trailblazing efforts opened doors for countless Black designers, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and challenge the industry’s norms.
A Legacy of Elegance and Simplicity
While most wedding dress designers in the 1980s were creating elaborate, tulle-and-lace affairs, Amsale’s designs stood out for their simplicity and minimalism. Her dresses featured sleek, strapless silhouettes with sheer illusion necklines, eschewing excessive fluff and flounce.
As Constance C. R. White wrote in The New York Times in 1997, “To be sure, the leg-of-mutton dress, the traditional, high-neck, puff-sleeve number, still has its strong support base, but there is now the option of a sleeker and more sensuous spirit embodied in a narrower shape, bare arms and shoulders and subtle adornment, if adorned at all.”
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Industry Leader
Starting from her Manhattan garment district loft, Amsale built a thriving business under the company name Amsale, opening her first store on Madison Avenue and acquiring and expanding into new lines. Her dresses graced the bodies of celebrities like Halle Berry, Julia Roberts, Katy Perry, and Ariana Grande, and appeared in numerous television series and films.
Amsale’s impact extended beyond her designs, as she became a leader in New York’s Black business community. She was twice included on Ebony Magazine’s “Power 150” list of influential African-Americans and received a legacy award at the 2012 Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit.
