The fashion industry is mourning the irreotbring loss of Sha’Vi Lewis, both a skilled designer and former participant of the reality television program Project Runway. Born Lewis on February 25, 2025, the talented designer was 39 years old when he last breathed his last. His family let the public know about this sorrow, but did not say the cause of the passing to the media.
Early Life and Passion for Fashion
Sha’Vi Lewis also known as Franklin ‘Sha’Vi’ Lewis Frierson Jr. was born in the city of Hillside, in the US state of New Jersey. He was brought into a world of creativity from an early age. The father was a musician, while the mother was proud of the fact that she was a mom and a thespian as well.
Sha’Vi Lewis was only seven years old when he started his journey to the top of the fashion industry. His grandmother, who was a tailor, had been the first person to teach him how to sew. This beginning was the base upon which he built his career. He enrolled at Clark Atlanta University but did not finish, given that his passion and ability were enough to launch his successful fashion career.
Career and Project Runway Experience
Sha’Vi Lewis’ quest for fame as a fashion designer began long before he became a contender on the Project Runway TV show. He launched his own collection carrying his brand name and assuming the role of creative director in an Italian menswear outfit, Stephen F. His work gained traction when it appeared on the red carpet at the Emmys and on the hit TV series Pose. He has also modelled at the Bermuda Fashion Festival.
Sha’Vi Lewis’ fashion and career journey actually began before his competing appearance on the TV show Project Runway. He had already become famous by launching his collection on the market. He was invited to major fashion shows such as He Paris Fashion Week which attracted celebrities and the media flexing on one of the most luxurious campaigns theses runways have ever seen. Additionally, a multitude of stars have been wearing his designs on the red carpet, Grammy ceremonies, and throughout fashion weeks. Besides, one of his handiworks has been presented in a show in Fashion Week. Finally, Sha’Vi Lewis has also come across different fashion shows that target different genders, such as the Bermuda Fashion Festival.
Tributes from Friends and Family
Everybody including his relatives and colleagues sent their condolence messages when it was announced that he was no more. The most emotional tribute was made by his aunt, Deidra “DivaDoll” Elkerson, who wrote a message on Facebook. She lamented that “My fabulous, talented nephew, Sha’Vi Lewis is gone from this place… Rest in joy, nephew, knowing that you left a hell of a mark on this Earth!!!”
Brittany Allen, the Project Runway contestant, also wrote on Instagram saying she was deeply sad that “I don’t have the words. My heart aches. The world and this industry will be dim without your light in it.”
Nancy Volpe Beringer, another co-star of his, reminisced about their friendship. She shared that “If you are lucky, you meet a person who immediately fills your heart and soul with a love so strong, you know it will last forever. Sha’Vi Lewis, you were that person.”
A Lasting Legacy
Sha’Vi Lewis will be remembered for his love, artistry, and kindness. The compositions he made were beautiful with a touch of contemporary elegance. Through his work and the way he thought, Sha’Vi touched many.
He may not be here, but fashion will keep his influence because he was a big part of it. Many fashion designers and fans will always be there paying tribute to his accomplishments.
The death of Sha’Vi Lewis is difficult for the fashion community to come to terms with but it is his art and the people he affected that will keep his memory alive.
