The Journey of Jeffrey Banks: A Fashion Storyteller

Designer Jeffrey Banks has spent over five decades making waves in the fashion industry, and now he’s ready to share his journey in his memoir, “Storyteller: Tales from a Fashion Insider.” This long-awaited book captures the essence of his life in fashion, illuminating his experiences from working with iconic brands to establishing his own label.

A Legacy in Fashion

At 72, Banks is enjoying a remarkable resurgence. His design work recently gained recognition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibit “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” and he is set to relaunch his eponymous menswear line. Since debuting his label in 1976 at just 21, Banks has been a trailblazer, infusing his collections with vibrant colors and rich textures—think tartan plaid jackets and elegant furs. Back then, as one of the few Black designers in the industry, his work was not only groundbreaking but in high demand, with his clothing sold in prestigious stores like Macy’s and Bergdorf Goodman.

Evolution of the Brand

For the January relaunch of his menswear label, Banks sees a shift towards sustainable sportswear, encompassing everything from knits to underwear. “As much as I love suits and tailored clothing,” he confided to The Associated Press, “I don’t think that’s the business for now, and the business of young people.” This move reflects not just changing fashion trends but a broader awareness of sustainability in the industry.

Community Support

Banks is not alone on this journey. The fashion community has rallied behind him, evidenced by a recent celebratory conversation between Banks and fellow designer Isaac Mizrahi, hosted by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Mizrahi reflected on Banks’s influence, stating, “I was so inspired when I was working with him… he was one of the first people to do a lot of things at once.”

A Memoir for the Generations

The memoir serves as a love letter to family, friends, and mentors who have supported him throughout his career. One strong incentive for writing the book was the desire for his mother, who will turn 105 this January, to read about his life. Banks fondly recalls their shared love for fashion, recalling how, at just 10 years old, he designed a striking yellow coat and dress for her Easter Sunday.

Former CFDA President Stan Herman, 97, described Banks as a natural storyteller, joking that he “was born with a Vogue in his crib.” The memoir includes heartfelt anecdotes about his mentors and friends in the fashion world, featuring luminaries like the late designer Perry Ellis and celebrities such as Bobby Short and Audrey Hepburn. However, true to his character, Banks refrains from revealing all of his trade secrets, keeping the mystique of the fashion industry intact.

Mentorship and Growth

Banks credits industry innovators such as Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein as pivotal figures in his career. He recounts his teenage days working at a menswear store in Washington, D.C., where he first met Lauren, who famously gifted him a suit for prom. Their bond grew over shared admiration for classic Hollywood icons, with Lauren treating Banks as an equal from the start.

While attending Parsons School of Design, Banks was scouted by Klein, leading to pivotal moments in both menswear and the fashion world at large. Notably, while developing Klein’s menswear line, Banks was invited to create his own label, expanding into diverse avenues from men’s outerwear to children’s clothing.

Career Milestones

One of Banks’s early career highlights was his transformative work with Merona Sport, a family sportswear brand. Under his guidance, it skyrocketed from $7 million to an astonishing $70 million in just six months—a feat noted by Mizrahi as if Banks had “struck gold.” This marked a significant turning point in Banks’s career, marking his influence on both brands and popular culture.

Relevance in Modern Fashion

As Banks prepares to launch his revived menswear label, the fashion community is eager to embrace him once more. Fern Mallis, former head of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, affirmed, “He’s still as relevant as ever… there’s definitely a place for him in the market.” With a dedicated following among fashion enthusiasts, Banks’s upcoming collections promise to resonate with today’s audience while honoring his storied past.

In summary, Jeffrey Banks continues to impress and inspire, combining his rich experiences and distinctive voice with his passionate return to menswear. His memoir not only serves to celebrate his legacy but also as a guiding light for future generations navigating the intricate world of fashion.