A Beautiful Reminder of Why Craft Still Matters

Last week, I had the absolute pleasure of attending an event in Washington, DC that left me feeling inspired, connected, and incredibly proud of our community. Hosted by Crystal Mayanja of Color Coded Style, this was one of those rooms you’re glad to be in—not just for the fashion (which was phenomenal), but for the meaning behind it.

The event was part of The Style Maker’s Series, an intimate conversation spotlighting sustainable designers of color who are pushing fashion forward while staying rooted in heritage. This time, the spotlight was on Ivy Tettegah, co-founder of iLORM—and let me just say, she’s a force.

iLORM is a brand built with heart and history. Founded by two Ghanaian-born sisters now based in Maryland, the brand honors the skill of traditional African artisans by working with handwoven textiles like Kètè/Kente and Aṣọ òkè—fabrics that carry deep cultural meaning. Ivy spoke about the importance of protecting this craftsmanship, reminding us that these techniques are not only beautiful but sacred. In her words, “It’s a true skill—and it shouldn’t be lost.” I couldn’t agree more.

What I love most about iLORM is their commitment to community. Their production team is based in Ghana, while design and marketing are led from the States. It’s a transatlantic operation that not only creates stunning pieces but also generates real opportunities for underrepresented artisans. Every garment tells a story—of culture, of connection, and of purpose.

And of course, I have to give Crystal her flowers. Since launching Color Coded Style in 2022, she’s been doing the work—creating space for Black and Brown designers to be seen, heard, and supported. Her mission is to highlight the fashion of the African diaspora because, as she says, “Style and color are coded in our DNA.” Last night was proof of that.

I left the event reminded that fashion isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about what you preserve. Who you support. And how you show up. Thank you, Crystal and Ivy, for creating a space that honored all of that and more.

If you haven’t already, go explore @ilormstudio and @colorcodedstyle5. These are the kinds of brands and voices we need to uplift—because they’re not just creating fashion. They’re creating legacy.

Style Makers Series host and creator Crystal Mayanja speaks with Ivy Tettegah of iLorm.

Ashley Taylor; Ivy Tettegah, lead designer of iLorm; Sheryl Scruggs, founder and chief curator of Meyvn.