Saks Launches Second Year of Emerging Designer Accelerator Program, The New Wave

The New Wave program develops and supports high-potential independent brands in accelerating their growth at Saks, and ultimately across the greater fashion industry. This year, participating designers were sourced from all categories, including women’s, men’s and gender-fluid ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories.

Participants were identified by the Saks leadership team as brands that possess significant growth potential and would benefit from additional support to scale their businesses. The program also aims to amplify BIPOC voices and furthers Saks’ commitment to increasing representation in its merchandise assortment.

This year, six of the eight participating brands are Black-owned businesses, and Saks has ensured that at least half of the program participants will be BIPOC brands each year.

“We are excited to continue using our platform to uplift emerging brands and support BIPOC designers,” noted Tracy Margolies, Chief Merchandising Officer, Saks. “This incredible program provides a unique opportunity for up-and-coming designers to accelerate their growth at Saks and across the fashion industry…