In celebration of Black History Month, today we honor the life and work of Zelda Wynn Valdes, one of the most prolific and talented fashion designers of the 20th century. She worked her way up from a stockroom worker and seamstress to a well-respected designer making dresses for Maria Ellington, Josephine Baker, Marlene Dietrich, and loads of other high profile women. Eventually she became a pioneering businesswoman who worked worked creatively and tirelessly to uplift other black women in her industry.

The New York Times recently featured Valdes in their Overlooked section:

Valdes was also instrumental in forming the National Association of Fashion and Accessories Designers in 1949 to elevate other black female designers while helping them build networks, address discrimination in the workplace and promote racial diversity in the fashion industry.