PEORIA (25News Now) – Peoria Fashion Week is receiving a major boost with one of the industry’s biggest names leaving his mark on the River City’s fashion scene.
Co-founder of the streetwear brand FUBU, J. Alexander Martin, was named the event’s official host.
The goal is to put midwest fashion on the map and create opportunities for local designers and business owners.
“To have a co-founder be here, I think it just speaks volumes. What they are doing for Peoria, bringing a new level of attention, and credibility,” said Mariama Ford, a Peoria Fashion Week judge.
Bringing Martin to Peoria is about star power and more.
“Being here with him, being able to meet him, it’s like meeting a hero,” said Assyrian Brunson, headline designer for Velt’Larant.
Martin has appeared as a guest investor on “Shark Tank,” where he has mentored and invested in emerging businesses. He recently shared his journey in a memoir, “Made in Harlem: A Memoir of the Creative Revolution,” detailing his path from Harlem to building one of the most influential names in fashion.
Organizers credited the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce for its partnership and sponsorship in helping bring Martin to Peoria.
Organizers said this is just the start of their efforts to grow a fashion and entrepreneurship pipeline in central Illinois.
To learn more about Peoria Fashion Week, click here
You can watch 25News – any newscast, anywhere – streaming LIVE on 25NewsNow.com, our 25News mobile app, and on our WEEK 25News SmartTV streaming app. Learn more about how you can get connected to 25News streaming live news here.
Copyright 2026 WEEK. All rights reserved.