Wildflower by Aurora James

In her memoir, fashion star Aurora James recounts growing up the daughter of a counterculture mother to moving to Jamaica with a man her mother married when she was seven, where she learned harsh lessons about control, power and abuse. Scouted as a model when she was just in eighth grade, James became disenchanted by the industry and found power in creating for the runway, showcasing traditional African designs. Wildflower traces James's path to becoming the first Black female designer to win a Council of Fashion Designers of America Award and starting one of the fastest-growing social justice nonprofits.

Aurora James on being Canadian

4 years ago

Duration 0:39

Designer Aurora James describes to The Nationals Andrew Chang how her upbringing in Canada contributed to making her who she is today.

When you can read it: May 9, 2023

Aurora James is the creative director and founder of the luxury accessories brand Brother Vellies, founder of the Fifteen Percent Pledge and vice chair of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Born in Toronto, James lives in Los Angeles and New York City.