CULTURE | FEB. 23, 2024

A Howard Alumna is Setting This Season’s Hottest Trends at Urban Outfitters

Image via ADW

By Tamryn Sainten

Adriana Williams, a proud Howard University graduate and visionary behind the lifestyle brand ADW, recently scored an exclusive partnership with Urban Outfitters, unveiling a captivating collection just in time for Black History Month.

Hailing from Kensington, Pennsylvania, Williams, a 2019 Howard alum, shared the genesis of ADW in a recent interview with streetwear giant Snipes USA. Her journey, however, began as a seamstress in 2015, as she revealed in a candid conversation with Rolling Out last December. Since then, ADW has transcended boundaries, finding its place in renowned fashion outlets such as Urban Outfitters, Macy’s, and Wolf and Badger.

Despite the whirlwind success of her burgeoning brand, Williams remains deeply connected to her roots. In an admirable display of community commitment, she champions her self-taught course, Sew With W. This initiative is not merely about stitching fabric; it’s a tailored program aimed at empowering Philadelphia's youth with sewing skills and offering invaluable small-business classes. In Sewing 101, a brainchild of Williams, students embark on a creative journey in everything from Balaclava to bespoke Brand Tags.

Williams' fashion imprint on Howard University resonates profoundly with emerging designers like Taylor Wright a Chemistry major hailing from Baltimore, Maryland.

Wright draws inspiration from Williams' trailblazing legacy. She expresses, "It's like a 'I can do that too' moment. Her 'why' is to create and have fun... I think that's definitely something I'm doing." 

The collaboration between ADW and Urban Outfitters introduces the exclusive ADW UO Exclusive Dub Baby Tee. This standout piece boasts a multi-media graphic, complemented by trucker hats and the acclaimed handmade Gami Bag, touted as 'top-rated' by the retailer. The quilted handbag, available in green, charcoal, white, and black, ranges from $110 for the smaller size to $150 for the large, making a bold statement in the realm of fashion.

Image via ADW 

If you're looking to buy a Gami bag, you may have to wait. Despite the last restock being on February 10, the high-demand item is sold out on both ADW's website and retailers that carry her designs.

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