Ruth E. Carter and PLC Detroit Launch Apparel STU/DEO at National Black Footwear Forum

September 29, 2025

Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter has partnered with Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design (PLC Detroit) to launch the Apparel Creation STU/DEO by adidas, unveiled during the National Black Footwear Forum. Carter, the first Black woman to win multiple Academy Awards for her costume design work on films like "Black Panther," aims to provide mentorship and creative opportunities for aspiring designers.

Who is affected

Students at Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design (PLC Detroit)
Black and Brown creatives in the footwear and design industries
Specifically, PLC Detroit students Angel Buckens and Rodney Banks who contributed to the studio design
Aspiring designers who will use the new Apparel Creation STU/DEO
The Detroit creative community

What action is being taken

Ruth E. Carter is partnering with PLC Detroit to launch the Apparel Creation STU/DEO by adidas
PLC Detroit is hosting the sixth annual National Black Footwear Forum
Carter is providing mentorship to students at the design college
Detroit artist Sydney G. James is creating a mural for the new studio space
Adidas is collaborating on the project as part of their commitment to supporting creative spaces

Why it matters

The partnership provides opportunities for students to learn directly from a two-time Academy Award winner
It represents investment in the only design-focused HBCU in the country
The studio creates a space for nurturing new design talent with cultural storytelling at its center
The collaboration demonstrates how corporations can meaningfully invest in creative education
It furthers Detroit's growing reputation as a global center for design
The initiative connects Carter's legacy of groundbreaking costume design with education and mentorship

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle