In the world of fashion, few names resonate as strongly in the Washington, D.C., fashion scene as Ean Williams. A multi-talented designer, model, actor, and entrepreneur, Williams has built a legacy that has not only transformed the local industry but also gained international recognition. As the founder and executive director of DC Fashion Week, he has created a platform that has elevated countless designers and positioned Washington, D.C., as a global fashion hub.
Williams’ journey into fashion was unconventional. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, and raised between Chicago and Memphis, his early years were shaped by classic Hollywood films featuring icons like Lena Horne, Marilyn Monroe, and Dorothy Dandridge. This love for timeless elegance influenced his creative vision, but his path to fashion was anything but direct. Initially, he pursued a career in technology, working as a computer engineer for NASA after serving as an intelligence analyst in the U.S. Air Force. However, his passion for fashion never faded. From modeling in high school to becoming a designer and producer, Williams carved out his space in the industry through sheer determination and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
In 2004, he established DC Fashion Week, filling a void in the city’s fashion industry. At the time, Washington lacked professional platforms for designers to showcase their work. Williams saw an opportunity to change that. Despite minimal initial support, he personally funded the event for nearly a decade, turning it into one of the top five fastest-growing fashion weeks in the United States. Today, the event attracts designers from across the globe, reinforcing Washington’s place in the fashion world. With the city’s rich international presence—home to over 170 embassies—Williams envisions D.C. Fashion Week as the “Olympics of fashion weeks,” representing styles and designers from around the world.
His contributions to fashion extend beyond organizing events. As the creative director of Corjor International, a luxury red-carpet brand named after his sons Corey and Jordan, Williams has built a label known for its sophistication and impeccable craftsmanship. His designs have been worn by celebrities such as Fantasia, Omarosa Manigault Newman, Nyle DiMarco, and Tamar Braxton, gracing red carpets and prestigious events worldwide. He also leads Magnum Underwear, a brand that redefines men’s intimate wear with a focus on comfort and enhancement. Williams describes it as the equivalent of a push-up bra for men—designed to provide support while remaining stylish and comfortable.
Despite his numerous accolades, including being named one of LA Weekly’s top entrepreneurs to watch and securing a place on Forbes’ Most Successful Regional Fashion Weeks, Williams remains grounded in his mission. He views his work not just as a career but as a legacy—one that he hopes to pass down to his children. His sons have already collaborated with him on a streetwear collection, marking a new chapter in the Corjor International story.
Williams’ success is a testament to his ability to merge creativity with business acumen. His background in technology has played an integral role in his approach to fashion, from digital marketing to event planning. He credits his transition from IT to fashion to the book Rich Dad, Poor Dad, which helped him navigate his dual passions before making the leap full-time.
For Williams, fashion is deeply personal. He designs with the goal of making his clients feel as special as a bride on her wedding day—whether they’re wearing an intricate gown from Corjor International or an impeccably tailored suit. His attention to detail, fabric quality, and silhouette mastery set him apart in an industry that is constantly evolving.
As he looks toward the future, Williams envisions expanding DC Fashion Week’s global reach while maintaining the exclusivity of Corjor International. His ambition is not just to grow his brands but to solidify Washington, D.C., as a true epicenter of international fashion. He hopes to secure more partnerships and sponsors who share his vision while continuing to inspire the next generation of designers.
Williams’ influence in fashion goes far beyond the runway. His story is one of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. From his beginnings as a high school model to becoming a visionary leader in fashion, he has proven that success is not defined by where you start but by how far you’re willing to go.