"Le Catoul" - A Parisian Night of Elegance, Empowerment, and Social Change

The Parisian fashion scene witnessed a truly remarkable event on June 27th, 2024, where the prestigious showroom was transformed into a grand stage for “Le Catoul,” the celebrated brand by Berny Martin. This event was about more than just fashion; it was a reflection of Martin's deep commitment to a cause that resonates at the core of his brand's ethos. Under a meticulous creative direction, the night’s theme—an “exquisite ball”—was brought to life in a way that captivated not just the eyes but the minds of all who attended. As models gracefully glided down the runway, the collection revealed itself in all its splendor—a mesmerizing blend of sleek long couture dresses rich with gold embroidery, and tuxedos adorned with metallic accents. The showroom, more than just a backdrop, became a hub of intellectual and cultural exchange; it embodied a cause deeply rooted in Berny Martin’s brand ethos. The showroom, transformed into a grand stage, became a vibrant hub of intellectual and cultural exchange. Influential guests, including thought leaders, activists, and artists, gathered not merely to admire the artistry of the collection but to engage in a broader dialogue about fashion’s role in society.
 

Berny Martin’s designs, infused with traditional elements from his African heritage and combined with contemporary flair, stood as powerful testaments to the vibrant cultural roots that inspire his work. The 17 womenswear and 4 menswear looks, crafted from luxurious fabrics and punctuated by vibrant pops of color, paid homage to a rich cultural legacy. The collection seamlessly blended into the Parisian backdrop, creating a unique and powerful identity that resonated with the evening’s theme of elegance and empowerment.
In a world often consumed by the fast consume aspects of fashion, “Le Catoul” reminded everyone that true elegance lies in the values and ideals that underpin the creation of each piece. This evening became a convergence of minds, where the power of fashion to shape narratives and inspire change was not just discussed but experienced firsthand. For Martin, fashion has always been a powerful medium through which stories of empowerment, resilience, and cultural pride can be told. His commitment to championing Black excellence is not just a thematic undercurrent in his work. His vision for “Le Catoul” extends far beyond the runway—it reaches into the heart of communities, it was a movement, a celebration of the power of fashion to uplift, inspire, and unite.

As the night drew to a close and as the last guests departed, the legacy of “Le Catoul” left an indelible mark, proving that in the world of high fashion, true elegance lies not just in the clothes we wear but in the stories we tell and the communities we uplift.

Berny Martin's journey into the world of fashion is one marked by passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. Growing up, Martin's love for fashion was nurtured by his grandmother, who not only encouraged his interest but also helped him sew his first design—a simple pair of jeans that would ignite a lifelong passion. Despite initially pursuing a safer career path in the tech industry after earning a degree from Purdue University, Martin realized that his true calling lay in fashion. This realization led him to the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, where he began laying the foundation for what would become his internationally-recognized brand, Catoul, named in honor of his grandmother.

In 2005, Martin took a leap of faith and launched Catoul, LLC in Indianapolis, Indiana. It was a bold move, considering the Midwest was not known for its fashion scene at the time. Yet, Martin’s determination to bring fashion to Middle America led him to establish Midwest Fashion Week in 2006, a platform that TIME Magazine later recognized as the leading fashion week in the Midwest. Through this platform, Martin not only showcased his own designs but also provided opportunities for emerging designers, stylists, models, and photographers to shine—individuals who might otherwise have been overlooked in the fashion industry. Over the years, Berny Martin's designs have graced runways around the world, from Paris to New York, Hong Kong to Dubai. His work has been worn by international celebrities and featured in acclaimed media outlets. His contributions to the fashion industry have earned him numerous accolades, including the United Nations Association Young Professionals Award, the Best Menswear Designer in the Midwest by the Fashion Group International (FGI), and The Couture Man Excellence Award. Today, from his home in Evansville, Indiana, Martin continues to design with the same passion and dedication that has driven him for nearly two decades, playing a vital role in the ever-evolving global fashion industry. As he often reflects, “It’s not always easy, but it’s worth every second.”