BDR Black is more than just a clothing line—it’s a movement centered around breaking fashion norms, providing versatile and stylish pieces, and supporting a community of individuals who embrace persistence and resilience. With a focus on quality and a clear vision, the brand continues to thrive, reshaping how we approach everyday fashion and paving the way for future growth in the fashion industry.
Brian Robinson shares his thoughts.
How did BDR Black come to life?
The initial idea for BDR Black dates back to the winter of 2016. While the concept was developed back then, the line officially launched in March 2020. The vision was to create a brand that combines modernity and functionality with an effortlessly cool aesthetic. We wanted to give people an elevated everyday wardrobe that could seamlessly transition from a nine-to-five workday to more casual settings while maintaining a strong fashion-forward edge.
What was your goal with BDR Black, especially in terms of breaking fashion norms?
The idea was to redefine everyday apparel. We wanted to create athleisure pieces that were both modern and functional, and ones that incorporated unique twists. For example, our clothing features built-in technology to keep you cool and sweat-free, which is something you don’t typically see in everyday fashion. As for the color scheme, black is central to the brand—though BDR Black is not about every piece being black. It’s about creating classic, signature looks that are polished, memorable, and make a statement, much like the timeless little black dress.
How did the collaboration with Bloomingdale’s come about?
Our journey with Bloomingdale’s began after a successful pop-up event during Atlanta Fashion Week in 2020. We showcased our all-black collection and received an overwhelming response. People were intrigued by the meaning behind our brand and our ‘Push Through’ mantra, as well as the story behind items like our Black-Owned t-shirts. After that event, the support we received helped us build a loyal following and solidify our presence in the Atlanta market, which eventually led to our partnership with Bloomingdale’s.
How do you view Atlanta’s role in the fashion industry?
Atlanta has been incredibly supportive of emerging designers. Coming from Baltimore and New York, I wasn’t used to seeing such a welcoming, tight-knit community that’s genuinely excited to support new brands. In Atlanta, I had the chance to collaborate with established fashion figures and tap into a market that was eager to discover fresh perspectives. The city has really embraced BDR Black, and the success of our first pop-up and debut in Bloomingdale’s has been a testament to the city’s evolving fashion scene.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or individuals wanting to break into the fashion world?
Persistence and resilience are crucial. You’re going to face a lot of rejection, but it’s all about pushing through and getting that ‘yes’ from the people who truly understand your vision. It’s also important to evolve constantly—not just for the community, but for yourself. When I started BDR Black, it was all about athleisure, but now we’re expanding into ready-to-wear collections while still keeping that unique edge. The key is to keep redefining yourself and stay in tune with what resonates with both your audience and your own creative vision.
How can people follow the BDR Black movement?
We’ve partnered with Angela Watts for PR, and we’ve made huge strides with our e-commerce presence via BDRblack.com. Our partnership with Bloomingdale’s has also been instrumental, allowing us to reach a wider audience. Atlanta is a hub for many professionals, travelers, and transplants, which has helped increase our brand visibility. Whether through word-of-mouth, press coverage, or just a visit to Bloomingdale’s, people are discovering BDR Black and learning more about the vision behind the brand.
