World English rights to award-winning fashion designer and founder of Black Designers of Canada, George Sully’s Designing in the Dark, have been acquired by Michael Holmes at ECW Press, represented by Léonicka Valcius and Brenna English-Loeb at Transatlantic Literary Agency. The book chronicles Sully’s groundbreaking career, uncovering the talent, perseverance, and resilience it takes to succeed as a Black man in the often insular and elitist world of fashion.
Largely self-taught, George Sully rose from Ottawa’s west-end public housing projects to the international stage through sheer grit and creativity. His career spans roles as a musician, photographer, videographer, and magazine editor, as well as being the visionary behind brands like Limb Apparel, TCHAD Magazine, Sully Wong Shoes, and House of Hayla. In Designing in the Dark, Sully reveals the systemic racism he faced throughout his career—often unseen and unnamed—that stalled his progress and obscured his contributions to the industry’s cultural fabric. Yet, through it all, his determination never wavered, and today, Sully stands as a trailblazer and advocate, holding the door open for the next generation of creatives.
In addition to his remarkable career, George Sully is the founder and creative director of the luxury travel brand Sully & Son Co. His footwear and travel bags are featured in Canada’s most iconic retailers, including Harry Rosen, Holt Renfrew, Hudson’s Bay, and Saks Fifth Avenue U.S. In 2020, he founded Black Designers of Canada (BDC), the first comprehensive index of Black designers in the nation’s history, amplifying their talent and stories.
Sully’s accolades include the CAFA Changemaker Award, a George Brown Honorary Degree, the FGI Visionary Award, induction into the Bata Shoe Museum, and recognition as one of Shifter Magazine’s Outstanding Black Men in Canada. Born in Ottawa, George Sully has called Toronto home for over 25 years, where he now resides with his wife and sons.
Designing in the Dark is a powerful narrative of creativity, adversity, and unwavering determination, offering an inside look at what it takes to forge success and inspire others in an industry fraught with challenges.
George is represented by Léonicka Valcius and Brenna English-Loeb.
Congratulations, George!