Camryn Renée McClain is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new names at New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The 26-year-old designer debuted her latest RENÉE collection, Entwine, on February 14 during an intimate presentation in Soho. However, this was more than a fashion show. It was a cultural statement.
Through bold silhouettes, braided details, and dramatic textures, McClain transformed natural hair into wearable art. Most importantly, she used fashion to tell a story about Black beauty, connection, and power.
Natural Hair Inspiration Takes Center Stage at New York Fashion Week
Entwine draws deeply from McClain’s upbringing in Washington, D.C. She grew up inside her mother’s cosmetology school, surrounded by braids, knotting techniques, and natural hair care. As a result, hair became more than a beauty practice for her — it became a design language.
“A lot of the references are for hair — especially natural hair,” McClain shared. “I grew up in a cosmetology school in D.C. My mom owns one. There are a lot of braids, a lot of knotting, and a lot of hair details in the collection.”
Because of that foundation, braiding appears throughout the collection as both texture and structure. According to the brand’s press release, braiding serves as a central motif, symbolizing connection and lineage. At the same time, bias cuts and draped silhouettes soften the looks, reframing romance as strength rather than fragility.
The ‘Entwine’ Collection Blends Culture, Romance, and NYC Nightlife
While hair is the heart of the collection, New York City energy gives it life. The Soho presentation featured live models posed throughout the room, allowing guests to see the craftsmanship up close. Drinks flowed, music played, and the vibe felt electric — much like the city itself.
One standout look was an electric blue braided two-piece set that hugged the body and highlighted the waist and midriff. The outfit felt perfect for a rooftop party or a late-night dance floor moment. In addition, a clear bubble crop top nodded to the playful bubble hair barrettes many Black girls grew up wearing. Reimagined in fashion form, the piece felt nostalgic yet daring.
Fringe also appeared in bold, dramatic ways, adding movement and attitude. Altogether, Entwine presents intimacy as both personal and cultural storytelling. It suggests that romance is not weakness — it is power rooted in heritage.
From Cosmetology School to FIT Graduate and Coach Runway Team
Although she is only 26, McClain has been preparing for this moment for nearly two decades. She said she has wanted to design since she was seven years old. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), she joined Coach’s runway team, gaining hands-on experience in the fashion industry.
Today, she works full-time as a denim designer while continuing to build her own label, RENÉE. The brand is a love letter to herself, her family, and her culture. At the same time, it reflects her love for New York nightlife and modern femininity.
By balancing a nine-to-five career with growing her independent label, McClain represents a new generation of Black designers who are building their dreams step by step.
Dressing Powerful Black Women Is Part of the Vision
When asked which celebrities she hopes to dress, McClain immediately named influential Black women.
“Rihanna—absolutely. That would be incredible,” she said with a smile.
She also mentioned artists like Doechii, Tyla, Ayra Starr, and Justin Skye. Clearly, her vision centers Black women who push boundaries in music, style, and culture.
Ultimately, Entwine is not just about clothes. It is about honoring the beauty rituals, memories, and traditions that shape Black identity. By turning braids, bubbles, and hair textures into high fashion, Camryn Renée McClain is proving that our stories belong on the runway — and at the center of global fashion conversations.
