Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is nearing an end in New York, but that’s not stopping the fashion celebration. Harlem’s Fashion Row is holding their annual designer presentation, and this year’s roster of finalist is nothing short of amazing.

Meet Jakia Handy. The Philadelphia Moore College of Art and Design graduate will debut her collection, Ingram Talley, which is inspired by her work at Rachel Roy, Tracy Reese, Ports 1961, and her curatorial work at Bill Hodges Gallery.  

A native of Harrisburg, Pennslyvania, Handy has always had a love for art. A veteran of the Harlem Fashion Row scene–she assisted the company’s Creative Director for two years–Handy is no stranger to the annual fashion event.

Founded in 2007, Harlem’s Fashion Row is a company comprised of 30 young fashion stylists, merchandisers, and industry professionals working together to introduce emerging designers of color to the global fashion community. The objective of HFR is to aid its designers in production, develop retail sales strategy, and provide media exposure and market share for each designer.

This year’s event entitled, “Beautifully Out of Place” will be held this Friday, September 16, 2011, and Centric will be on hand to capture all the fashion madness.

To learn more about Harlem’s Fashion Row, visit harlemsfashionrow.com

TAGS: Harlem Fashion Row, Jakia Handy, mercedes benz fashion week, New York, New York Fashion Week, Philadelphia, Rachel Roy, Spring/Summer 2012, Tracy Reese