For Charles Harbison, fashion is an expression of joy, optimism, and reverence. As the creative director and founder of Harbison Studio, the 2024 Ready-to-Wear Award winner fosters intimate moments with his long list of clientele to create looks that stun at any occasion. A graduate of North Carolina State University, Harbison moved to New York City after college, where he launched his namesake brand Harbison. After years designing in New York City, the North Carolina-born designer took a much-needed mental, physical, and spiritual reset in Los Angeles. His relocation to The City of Angels led to him creating a look for award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay and a collaboration with Banana Republic. In 2022, Harbison relaunched his brand as Harbison Studios, with Harbison becoming the go-to designer for a range of stars across TV, film, music, and sports. This year, his designs were worn by Met Gala attendees like Audra McDonald, Mindy Kaling, Simone Biles, and Jordan Casteel. Ayo Edebiri wore one of his pieces in Vogue’s “Superfine” photoshoot and Nicole Ari Parker rocked a Harbison look in HBO’s And Just Like That. From travels to Lagos, Nigeria for GTCO Fashion Weekend to dominating red carpets with his designs, Harbinson’s brand is clearly here for the long haul.