James is a NY-based Black Creative Director and Writer. His mission is empowerment through knowledge of self by any means necessary.

“Even in fashion, I feel a responsibility; I won’t ignore the injustices as storied and truer than the fabrics we adorn ourselves in. Words and Style are tools to liberate.”
– James R. Sanders

James’ work has appeared in Vogue, GQ, Blavity, HuffPost, and Complex as News Editor. He’s covered the 2008 presidential election, race, entertainment, and fashion.

As a celebrity stylist, James has worked all the major red carpets during awards season—dressing the biggest names in music, TV, and film.

In 2020 during the protests for the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, James created the Knowledge of Self: A Guided Journal. Filled with writing prompts, playlists, mental health resources, and photos; this journal functions as a Black Power time capsule and is available everywhere books are sold.

Most recently, James began teaching fashion journalism and styling workshops at Columbia University Barnard College. His students excel and go on to enter graduate programs at some of the top colleges in the country—and internationally.

James has a BA in Journalism and an MA in English. His collection of essays and fashion photography entitled Reparations: Style + Soul (Lineage Multimedia 2022) is number 1 in Essence Magazine.