Perry Varner’s HIM Men’s Fashion Week Birmingham Brings Style, Culture, and Opportunity to the City (April 29 – May 2)
Birmingham’s fashion scene is stepping into a new era—and at the center of it is Perry Varner, the visionary behind HIM Men’s Fashion Week (BMFW).
Known for curating elevated fashion and cultural experiences in Montgomery, Birmingham, and cities like Atlanta and New York, Varner is creating a platform that goes far beyond the runway.
We caught up with Varner ahead of this year’s event to talk about vision, culture, and why Birmingham is ready for a movement centered on men’s fashion, wellness, and Black creativity.
Building a Platform with Purpose
For Varner, HIM Men’s Fashion Week isn’t just an event—it’s a mission.
“My inspiration is two-fold,” he explains. “First, to elevate local creatives like designers, models, and stylists by giving them a bigger platform. Secondly, to provide access—mental health resources, men’s wellness, and connections to high-profile individuals who look like them.”
As a Montgomery native who has built a presence in major cities, offering this experience in Alabama is personal.
“I’m amazed that I was able to thrive in cities like Atlanta and New York,” Varner says. “They seem larger than life—but they’re not as big as they appear. Each city gave me knowledge and experiences that I now get to share with Alabama.”
Filling the Gap in Birmingham’s Fashion Scene
Varner saw a clear opportunity in Birmingham—one that hadn’t been fully tapped.
“Menswear, men’s retailers, and men’s wellness all exist here, but they’re disconnected from the social scene,” he says. “In reality, Birmingham has a wealth of these resources.”
HIM Men’s Fashion Week is designed to bring those elements together into one cohesive experience—something the city hasn’t seen at this scale.
A New Kind of Fashion Week Experience
So what makes BMFW different?
“Attendees can expect a high-energy, New York-inspired fashion week,” Varner says. “High-profile people, celebrities, elected officials, chic venues—and of course, lots of fashion.”
But beyond the visuals, it’s the cultural intention that sets it apart.
“By centering Black designers, it automatically makes the experience culturally relevant,” he adds. “Seeing Black-owned businesses like Perkins Law, MiBella Wellness Center, and others collaborate shows that this is not only necessary—it’s worthy.”
Showcasing Birmingham’s Creative Pipeline
This year’s lineup is a blend of regional and local talent, with a strong focus on Birmingham-based creatives.
Designers include:
- Grown & Greek Apparel
- Heru Ra LLC
- Ian Rashaud
- Shaun Hawkins
- James O. White
- Richard Dickson Collection
Along with designers from nearby Tuscaloosa, the runway reflects a diverse and growing creative ecosystem.
Models range from national names to local talent, including students from Birmingham City Schools and Birmingham Promise, with grooming support from students at Brown Beauty Barber School.
“It’s about showcasing Birmingham’s best and brightest,” Varner says.
Fashion, Culture, and Creating Our Own Lanes
Varner’s philosophy is deeply rooted in his understanding of fashion’s role in Black culture.
“Oftentimes, we have to create our own lanes,” he says. “When I saw a lack of Black designers in other shows, I created my own platform—and it lasted for two decades.”
That same mindset is driving BMFW.
His goal? To build a legacy platform that elevates Black designers in menswear while also addressing wellness and community impact.
Why Birmingham, Why Now
Birmingham’s demographics—and its cultural influence—make it the perfect city for this moment.
“Birmingham is the 5th Blackest city in America,” Varner notes. “As our national profile grows, I want our fashion scene to be part of that conversation.”
He envisions a future where visitors don’t just come for events—but to shop, connect, and invest in local brands.
“Imagine one of these designers becoming nationally recognized—on red carpets or in major retail showrooms. I believe we can make that happen.”
Beyond Fashion: Economic and Cultural Impact
Varner sees BMFW as more than a cultural event—it’s an economic driver.
“My goal is to make Birmingham a destination for fashion week,” he says. “That means hotel stays, restaurant visits, tourism—and most importantly, support for local designers and brands.”
Just as important is shifting the narrative about the city.
“Too often people only know Birmingham from negative headlines,” he says. “But I know a different Birmingham—one filled with Black excellence. BMFW is a way to showcase that.”
The Creative Mind Behind the Movement
In addition to producing events, Varner is also building his own fashion brand, the Richard Dickson Collection—a luxury vintage line blending formalwear and streetwear.
Inspired by icons like Virgil Abloh, his design approach focuses on transformation and reinvention.
“I take vintage tuxedo pieces and leather, upcycle them, and create something new,” he says. “At Richard Dickson, we believe everyone should dress like they’re already famous.”
Lessons for the Next Generation
For emerging designers and creatives across the Southeast, Varner emphasizes one key truth: the work never stops.
“There’s always something new to learn,” he says. “Every time I master something—social media, AI, design—the industry evolves again. You have to keep growing.”
Looking Ahead
For Varner, also an author of the book The Perfect Pair, success isn’t just about this year—it’s about sustainability and legacy.
“Success looks like doubling growth next year and tripling it the year after,” he says. “Eventually, I want to pass it on to someone who can take it even further.”
As for his personal goals, he’s focused on scaling his fashion brand nationally—and building something that lasts.
Why You Need to Be in the Room
For those on the fence about attending, Varner keeps it simple:
“Fashion is a universal language,” he says. “It’s not just about clothes—it’s about storytelling, community, and culture.”
And in Birmingham, that story is just getting started.
For additional information and tickets visit HIMFashionWeek.com
🗓️ HIM Men’s Fashion Week Birmingham: Official Event Schedule
Wednesday, April 29 – Shop & Sip Kickoff + Afterglow
HIM Men’s Fashion Week Birmingham kicks off with the BMFW Shop & Sip Experience at The Summit, featuring a curated designer showcase, live DJ, small bites, and a sip-and-shop experience tailored for men. The evening also includes a media mixer for influencers and podcasters, plus appearances from BMFW designers, models, and fashion insiders. The night continues with the Kickoff Afterglow at Tailored Smoke.
📍 The Summit – 214 Summit Blvd, Birmingham, AL
🕓 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
👉 RSVP: https://thesummitbirmingham.com/event/37322-sip-shop-soiree
Thursday, April 30 – Dressed to Heal: Brothers Let’s Talk
A powerful roundtable focused on men’s mental health and wellness, offering open dialogue, resources, and community support. The evening will also feature a sneak peek of 2026 menswear brands and designer presentations.
📍 Negro Southern League Museum – Birmingham, AL
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dressed-to-heal-the-psychology-of-fashion-mental-wellness-tickets-1986010933163
Friday, May 1 – Girls Night Out + The Devil Wears Prada 2 LUX Premiere
A stylish night curated with music, cocktails, and conversation centered around women in fashion and culture—while still open to all. The evening features boutique presentations, collaborations, and a red carpet premiere of The Devil Wears Prada 2. Guests are encouraged to step out in red carpet or little black dress attire.
📍 LUX Premiere Theater – Lakeshore Drive
🕓 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Red Carpet begins at 9:00 PM)
🎟️ Tickets: https://www.pccmovies.com/movies/Birmingham/The-Devil-Wears-Prada-2/DB28318-172214000070
Saturday, May 2 – HIM Runway Fashion Show + After Events
The centerpiece of the week, the HIM Runway Fashion Show is a full-scale red carpet experience featuring eight designers, 25 models, a vendor marketplace, and immersive activations including a 360 photo experience.
The night continues with the BMFW Afterglow at Hemings, followed by the official after-after party, Pink Skies at Michael’s.
📍 WorkPlay Studios
🕕 Doors at 6:00 PM | Show starts at 7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: https://cash.app/$PerryV1906
After Events:
📍 Hemings – 9:00 PM until
📍 Pink Skies at Michael’s – 10:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Sunday, May 3 – Dapper Day Party (Closing Event)
Close out the week in style at the Dapper Day Party, a Derby-inspired daytime experience. Guests are encouraged to dress in their best dapper or Derby attire for an upscale yet relaxed celebration.
📍 Michael’s Restaurant
🕚 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🎟️ No cover | RSVP required for seating
