Joseph McRae doesn’t just design clothes; he creates statements. His latest collection, Growth, showcased at New York Men’s Day during NYFW, is an unapologetic celebration of occupying space—physically, emotionally, and artistically. With his signature sculptural silhouettes and bold drapery, McRae redefines gender fluidity and identity, crafting pieces that demand attention and inspire confidence.
A self-taught designer, McRae’s path into fashion was anything but conventional. Originally studying Electrical Engineering at North Carolina State University, he made a bold pivot to design in 2015, answering his creative calling. Since then, his work has been defined by fearless experimentation with shape, structure, and texture. Upholstery fabrics are his signature medium, reinforcing his commitment to architectural, avant-garde fashion. Now based in New York City, McRae continues to push boundaries, proving that fashion is more than aesthetics—it’s about self-actualization.
The Collection
True to its name, Growth is a visual metaphor for self-discovery and transformation. “This collection is about taking up space,” McRae explains.
“We blur the lines of masculinity and femininity to create a safe space for daring creativity and expression. It’s about living—being your boldest self and not being afraid.”
Joseph McRae
McRae’s storytelling extends to his strategic color palette. The collection opens with vibrant shades of lime, olive, and jade—symbolic of new beginnings and fresh foliage. As the runway journey unfolds, deeper tones of mocha and copper emerge, grounding the narrative in resilience and deep-rooted identity.
Standout Looks
McRae’s signature motifs—exaggerated drapery, dramatic silhouettes, and structured details—are the heartbeat of Growth. Standout pieces include Look 22 and Look 26, where rich mocha and copper hues envelop the body like organic roots, a nod to the foundation required for expansion and self-actualization.
Meanwhile, Looks 4, 6, and 10 burst into fluid forms, resembling blooming flowers, reinforcing the idea of flourishing when given the space to thrive.
Beyond their symbolism, these garments demand acknowledgment. They challenge the industry’s preference for minimalism and instead celebrate the power of maximalist self-expression. McRae’s designs are not simply worn—they occupy space and demand to be seen, embodying his philosophy that fashion should be as unapologetic as the people who wear it.
In today’s socio-political climate, where marginalized communities are often pressured to shrink themselves, McRae’s work feels revolutionary. Fashion, at its best, is a vehicle for defiance—a means of carving out space in a world that often seeks to erase.
Growth isn’t just about clothing; it’s about permission—the permission to be seen, to take up space, and to exist unapologetically.
McRae’s debut at New York Men’s Day signals the rise of a designer committed to radical self-expression. His work challenges fashion’s status quo and serves as a bold reminder that true style isn’t just about garments—it’s about presence.
And if Growth teaches us anything, it’s that we all deserve to take up space.
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