Prince Prajjé Oscar is a Haitian American fashion designer who brings his culture to the forefront through his designs. The “Eritye” runway presentation took place at Fleisher Art Memorial in Philadelphia with some of the most stylish people attending to get a peek at the Project Runway designer’s latest Spring/Summer collection.
With Haitian music playing in the background, beautiful models glimmered under the lights as they showcased stunning garments that boasted bold colors, eye-catching patterns, and nods to Oscar’s cultural background. The stunning looks incorporated hand-done flowers, intricate beadwork, and lace.
“This two-part collection reclaims Haiti’s regal heritage and the grandeur of Africa, without the idea of colonization,” Oscar tells BrownStyle Magazine exclusively, adding that the collection was a fusion of craftsmanship with modern ancestral reinvention. “With Haitian Vodou details inspired by the sacred Paket Kongo and the Minokan Veve, infused with symbolism, the collection incorporates Haitian Drum and the Ason as accessories—transforming spiritual power into a couture expression.”
Oscar emerged to a standing ovation, offering heartfelt thanks before walking down the runway and exchanging warm handshakes and hugs with front row guests. “It always feels good to be recognized for the work done. I felt honored that everyone saw and appreciated my vision and point of view as it relates to fashion. It was a great moment that solidified the work and gave me the confidence to continue being myself and moving fashion in Philadelphia forward my way,” the Massachusetts College of Art and Design Grad shares.
Ahead, learn about Prajjé Oscar— including the inspiration behind the new collection, how he prepares for a show, and what you can expect next from the evolving brand.
The Intention Behind The Eritye Collection
Prajjé Oscar shared that his new collection is designed to uplift and affirm. “I want my girl or guy to feel prosperous and empowered, no matter what’s happening around them,” he explains.
He hopes the designs will serve as a reminder of identity and legacy and inspire wearers to step into their power. “We do belong. We do contribute a great deal to the wealth of our world,” he affirms.
Behind the scenes, Prajjé emphasizes that this vision is never a solo effort. The emotional and creative weight of the collection is carried by a dedicated team and a supportive community.
“If I can take a moment to thank my team, and our sponsor/patron for their support—none of this is possible without the village,” he adds. “I want them to know that they are appreciated.”
Self-Care Before A Fashion Show
Prajjé Oscar approaches every fashion project with the discipline of an athlete. “Preparing for any fashion-related project is like training for a marathon for me.” His self-care routine includes running the Ben Franklin Bridge daily, prioritizing good food and plenty of sleep.
He emphasizes the importance of staying grounded as a leader: “Being able to lead and find solutions is my job, so I remain calm and positive at all times. I learned that problem-solving is by far the most significant piece of the job, so my mind and body need to be on point so I can be a decent leader/designer.”
Empowering Emerging Talent With The Atelier Prajjé Oscar Apprentice Program
Although the father of a beautiful girl has a lot on his plate as the Creative Director for Philly Fashion Week and Haitian band ZILE, he also makes time to teach as a professor at Drexel University, Thomas Jefferson University, and Harcum College. He is also the mentor and program director of the Atelier Prajjé Oscar Apprentice, a collaboration between the Atelier Prajjé Oscar and fashion design programs from various schools.
“We provide students with extra studio hours and an immersive experience to hone their craft while working in a professional design setting. It is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice, offering participants an opportunity to elevate their skills and aspirations,” he explains.
The program give students hands-on experience with real projects from Prajjé Oscar, including “the last coordinated design for this season’s print,” Oscar shared the full concept—the piece, the story, and inspiration—then invited students to present their own perspective before refining the work for market. “It ran like a design team at a fashion house,” he adds.
At the end of the program, two standout candidates earned a paid summer internship in New York with Nora Caliguri Pagel at Authentic Lifestyle. Oscar described it as “a pathway for them to get their feet in the fashion world and secure either contacts or a job after graduation.”
What’s Next for Prajjé Oscar
Prajjé Oscar shared that he is rebranding and has launched a GoFundMe campaign to reestablish the Atelier Prajjé Oscar Haiti.
He is also working on Eritye Majè (The Grand Heiress), the follow-up to Eritye. Looking ahead to next season, he confirmed that Part Two will feature “more couture, primarily being created in Haiti.”
On the creative front, Prajjé is selecting a new apprentice class, preparing for an exhibition in Miami for Art Basel, and gearing up to “headline in Vegas Fashion Week.” He also mentioned personal milestones like finishing up school and rejoining his band (Zile) back on tour.
Prince Prajjé Oscar is designing garments threaded in legacy, reverence, and culture into every seam. In a city known for its grit and grace, this moment reminded us that fashion can be sacred, and storytelling can be stitched.
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
