Fashion icon to share how he stayed motivated to innovate despite challenging beginnings
Dapper Dan, fashion innovator and author, will be the EYE2EYE educational series keynote speaker at Vision Expo East 2022. Launched in 2019, the series features industry trail-blazers providing exclusive insights on topics to inform, empower and challenge meeting attendees.
On April 2 from 4-5 p.m., Dapper Dan will take the stage with Lilliana Vazquez, host of E! News' "Pop of the Morning" program with a Q&A session scheduled to follow.
“Dapper Dan is a living legend, not only in the fashion world, but as an artist and creative,” said Fran Pennella, Vice President, Vision Expo. “As we look forward to Vision Expo’s return to New York City, we are honored to provide a platform for Dapper Dan to share his story and know that attendees will be inspired by Dapper Dan’s ups and downs, ultimate successes, and palpable creative energy.”
Dapper Dan is a designer who started his career in New York City in the early 1980s. He made high-end streetwear accessible to the masses.
Due to his success, Dapper Dan became an adviser for various celebrities and athletes, such as Jay-Z, Mike Tyson, Aaliyah, and more. In 2017, his boutique reopened after a collaboration with Gucci, reviving the legacy he established in the Harlem community.
His work has been featured in various prominent venues, such as The Museum of Modern Art, The New York Times, and Vogue. His memoir, "Made in Harlem," was published by the New York Times and is a New York Times bestseller.
During his keynote speech at Vision Expo East 2022, Dapper Dan will share his personal experiences and how they influenced his work and fashion designs. He will also discuss how he stayed motivated despite his rough start.
“His incredible legacy and energy embodies the caliber of creatives, visionaries and industry icons we are bringing to Vision Expo East this spring.” said Mitch Barkley, Vice President of Trade Shows and Events at The Vision Council. “We are looking forward to sharing the full line-up of speakers and events planned for The Bridge in the coming weeks.”
For more information on Vision Expo, visit visionexpo.com