Kahlana Barfield Brown has been named one of TIME's 100 most influential digital voices of 2026, acknowledging her significant impact on the fashion industry through her clothing line and social media presence.
Brown, who grew up in Seattle, transitioned from a career in media, including her role as beauty director for InStyle, to pursue her passion for fashion full-time. Her initial foray into retail collaborations was as part of the first cohort of Target’s Future Collective guest designers. These initial collections proved so popular that the partnership evolved into the launch of KBB by Kahlana in the fall of 2025.
The KBB by Kahlana line is characterized by its streetwear-inspired aesthetic, affordability, and commitment to size-inclusivity. Both online and in stores, the brand's releases have consistently sold out, a success attributed in part to Brown's direct engagement with her audience. She maintains a strong following on social media, particularly Instagram, where she shares her design process and incorporates feedback from her 360,000 followers, fostering a sense of community and co-creation.
In addition to her fashion ventures, Brown has expanded her brand collaborations to include partnerships with beauty companies such as Dove and Lancôme. She also collaborated with Starbucks on a weighted vest designed to promote the company’s protein-focused beverages. Her social media content frequently features outfit inspirations and styling tips, further cementing her influence in the digital fashion space.