Maurice Gattis, the visionary designer behind Fort Mosé 1738, has unveiled his Spring/Summer 2025 Collection, a vibrant celebration of unbounded freedom and the artistry of contemporary African textiles. The collection, which debuted at DC Fashion Week, pays homage to the rich heritage of Fort Mosé, America’s first free, legally recognized black settlement established in 1738.
Gattis’s latest creation is a testament to his commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. The collection features exquisite garments crafted from hand-woven Kente, a traditional textile reserved for royalty in Ghana, and 100% cotton. The vibrant color schemes, inspired by the radiant African landscape and the historical significance of Fort Mosé, celebrate the spirit of freedom—both historical and creative.
The collection is more than just beautiful clothes; it’s a platform for economic empowerment. Gattis emphasizes his desire to shine a light on the textile artisans of Ghana, highlighting their extraordinary talent and contributing to their economic well-being.
“It is my goal to shine a light on the textile artisans of Ghana, that’s my vision for Fort Mosé 1738,” states Gattis. “I am committed to boosting the economic empowerment of these artisans by helping to build awareness in the USA for their extraordinary talent. The collection celebrates their exuberant use of color as it honors freedom of creative expression, an endangered freedom that I believe is vital to maintain all over the world.”
The “The Color of Freedom” collection includes a range of garments for both men and women. For men, the collection features elegant suits made from hand-woven Kente with gold thread highlights, as well as more relaxed options in 100% cotton. These are available as separates, with jackets and coordinated trousers offered in sizes small to XXL.
For women, the collection showcases cotton dresses and pantsuits in shimmering Kente. These also range from sizes small to XXL, with cotton dresses starting at $200 and luxurious Kente pantsuits available for about $600.
Gattis’s designs cleverly marry traditional African elements with contemporary fashion, offering sophisticated choices for discerning customers. The collection is a powerful statement about freedom, creativity, and the enduring legacy of Fort Mosé. It is a testament to the power of fashion to inspire, empower, and connect us all.
You can browse the full collection and find a new retail outlet at www.fortmose1738.com and through The Folklore Group, a burgeoning digital community dedicated to connecting global creators with the marketplace.
