Top 10 Fashion Designers in Ohio: From Local Talent to National Icons

Introduction: Fashion in the Heart of the Midwest

Ohio has long been a hub for creativity — from art and architecture to music and now fashion. While it may not rival New York or LA in scale, it stands out for authenticity, craftsmanship, and bold regional expression.

In this list, we spotlight the top 10 fashion designers in Ohio, including famous fashion designers from Ohio, local creators, independent labels, and top emerging designers who are making their mark both statewide and nationally.

1. Dapper Dan (Daniel Day)

Connection: Originally from New York, Dapper Dan has significant Ohio roots and influence via HBCU partnerships and design mentorships in Cleveland.
Style: Street-luxury, cultural storytelling
Why He Stands Out: A pioneer of hip-hop fashion and Gucci collaborator, he’s one of the most famous designers connected to Ohio’s urban fashion legacy through education and mentorship.

2. Wendy Pepper (Project Runway)

Hometown: Dayton, OH
Style: Feminine, artistic, bold
Why She Stands Out: A finalist on Project Runway, Wendy’s legacy continues through her influence on Ohio-based women’s design. She remains one of the most famous fashion designers from Ohio.

3. Valerie Mayen (Yellowcake Shop)

Based In: Cleveland, OH
Style: Urban chic, functional fashion
Why She Stands Out: Valerie gained national attention on Project Runway and now leads a thriving Cleveland-based brand. She is one of the top clothing designers in Ohio with a cult local following.

4. Cierra Boyd (FRISKMEGOOD)

Based In: Columbus, OH
Style: Upcycled, avant-garde streetwear
Why She Stands Out: Cierra is a top emerging designer in Ohio, known for reworking vintage items into wearable art. Her brand has been worn by Cardi B and featured in major fashion publications.

5. Jeffrey Dickerson (Streetlight Clothing Co.)

Based In: Cincinnati, OH
Style: Streetwear meets social justice
Why He Stands Out: With a brand built around community, empowerment, and purpose, Jeffrey stands out as a leading independent fashion designer in Ohio with real cultural influence.

6. Kelli Martin (ANTI-Label)

Based In: Columbus, OH
Style: Punk-luxe, bold couture
Why She Stands Out: A Project Runway alum and Columbus College of Art & Design graduate, Kelli is one of the best fashion designers in Ohio, fusing attitude with craftsmanship.

7. Brittany Allen (Allen Ray Studio)

Connection: Ohio-born, now Texas-based but strongly tied to Midwest fashion shows and colleges
Style: Bold colors, athleisure couture
Why She Stands Out: A designer and Project Runway finalist, Brittany represents Ohio-bred talent making national moves, often returning to mentor fashion students in the state.

8. Tessa Clark (Idylwild)

Based In: Cincinnati, OH
Style: Minimalist, sustainable fashion
Why She Stands Out: Tessa gained national recognition on Project Runway and has become a leader in sustainable design. She is a proud advocate for local fashion designers in Ohio.

9. Macy McNeely (MADE by MACY)

Based In: Akron, OH
Style: Colorful casualwear and gender-fluid pieces
Why She Stands Out: Macy represents a younger generation of independent fashion designers in Ohio creating inclusive, small-batch collections for modern consumers.

10. Alexis Mone’t (Alexis Mone’t Fashion House)

Based In: Cleveland, OH
Style: Couture & formalwear
Why She Stands Out: Known for custom gowns and high-end tailoring, Alexis is a standout among leading fashion designers in Ohio, with designs featured in fashion shows across the Midwest.

Why Ohio Fashion Designers Are Gaining National Attention

Columbus ranks as one of the largest U.S. fashion hubs (thanks to brands like L Brands, Abercrombie & Fitch)
Strong design schools: Columbus College of Art & Design, Kent State University
Diverse representation: Streetwear, couture, sustainability, and Afrocentric fashion
Affordability for creatives: Many designers choose to build brands in Ohio instead of NYC or LA
Supportive events: Fashion Week Columbus, Cleveland Fashion Week, and local art markets foster community

FAQs About Fashion Designers in Ohio

Q1. Who are some famous fashion designers from Ohio?
Wendy Pepper, Valerie Mayen, and Brittany Allen are widely recognized for national TV appearances and influential work.

Q2. Where can I shop from local Ohio fashion designers?
Look for pop-ups in Columbus, boutiques in Cleveland, or online via Etsy, Instagram, and local shops like Yellowcake or Idylwild.

Q3. What styles are trending among Ohio’s top designers?
There’s a strong focus on sustainability, upcycled streetwear, inclusive sizing, and artistic couture — often handmade or locally produced.

Q4. Are there any emerging designers in Ohio to watch?
Yes! Cierra Boyd, Macy McNeely, and Alexis Mone’t are creating buzz across fashion festivals and social media platforms.

Conclusion: Ohio’s Fashion Scene is Midwest Modern

From high-end custom gowns to gender-fluid streetwear and upcycled innovation, the fashion designers in Ohio are redefining what it means to create with intention, vision, and community. Whether you’re shopping sustainably, dressing boldly, or seeking style with substance — Ohio has a designer for you.

Support indie brands. Shop Midwest. Wear Ohio with pride.