Fashion Icon Jeffrey Banks Relaunches Label, Shares Memoir

Menswear designer Jeffrey Banks is celebrating a significant year with the relaunch of his eponymous label and the release of his memoir, "Storyteller: Tales from a Fashion Insider." The book chronicles over 50 years of his career, from his early days working for industry giants like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein to launching his own influential brand in 1976.

Banks' relaunch emphasizes sustainable sportswear, moving away from his signature tailored suiting. This new direction reflects a contemporary focus, acknowledging the evolving market. His career has been marked by innovation, playing with color and texture, and achieving widespread retail presence in major department stores, a significant feat for a Black designer at the time.

Currently, Banks is being honored in multiple ways. His work is featured in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" exhibit, and the fashion community, including peers like Isaac Mizrahi and Fern Mallis, is celebrating his enduring relevance and contributions to the industry.