From breaking entertainment news at TMZ to hosting Nightly Pop and moderating intense Love & Hip Hop reunions, Nina Parker has carved an undeniable space for herself in television. But beyond the bright lights and viral moments, she’s also a trailblazer in fashion, making history as the first Black designer to launch a plus-size collection exclusively with Macy’s.
Her journey is one of bold moves, breaking barriers, and staying true to her voice—whether on-screen, on the red carpet, or in the world of fashion. As Friday Night Vibes returns and her influence continues to grow, we sat down with Nina to talk about the pivotal moments in her career, the evolution of The Nina Parker Collection, and what it truly means to create space for yourself in industries that still have work to do.
You’ve had an incredible journey in entertainment, from TMZ to hosting Nightly Pop and Love & Hip Hop reunions. Looking back, what has been the most pivotal moment in your career?
Nina Parker: Thank you! It’s been a true journey. There have been SO many, and television jobs come and they go and I appreciate them all— you learn from each experience. But I think the most significant change has come from making big leaps of faith. Quitting my 9-5 to move to LA will forever be the decision that completely changed the trajectory of my life.
Your plus-size fashion line with Macy’s was groundbreaking as the first by a Black designer exclusively at the retailer. What was your vision for The Nina Parker Collection, and how has it evolved since its launch?
My initial vision was just to provide options. I never wanted to reinvent the wheel, I just wanted to give plus women more options to style themselves and be their best. Now we get to focus on trends and take risks and that’s really fun.
As someone who has personally designed your own red carpet looks, how important was it for you to create a collection that truly represented plus-size women in the fashion space?
I know what it feels like to be left out of conversations or have people decide FOR you. It sucks. And I just want to make plus women a full priority and make a commitment to them that someone from the inside is OUTSIDE working for them!
Friday Night Vibes is back! For those who may not be familiar, can you share what makes this show so special and what viewers can expect this season?
The chemistry between my co-host Kev and I is just unmatched. We have so much fun, and we literally laugh the entire time we’re filming. When you’re watching us, it’s like you’re with your cousins. It’s relaxed and it’s real! We watch movies, we comment, we have snacks— we’re your extended TV fam!
From fashion to television, you’ve built a career centered on authenticity and representation. What advice do you have for women who want to break into industries that still lack diversity?
It’s really unfortunate that in 2025 we are still experiencing “firsts,” but it’s a reality. There are times when what you desire or the position you want simply doesn’t exist. It’s up to you to create what you want. Sometimes, the position you begin in isn’t the one you stay in. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.
Confidence is something you radiate, but in today’s climate—with so much division —how do you personally hold on to your confidence and encourage others to do the same?
I allow myself to feel all the things. There are days when I don’t feel great about myself, and I used to really judge that. Now, I allow myself to feel what I’m feeling, and when I’m done feeling it, I try to figure out WHY I was feeling that way. Usually, there’s always something else going on, and picking on yourself can be the lowest-hanging fruit.
I try to give myself a break and I just finally realized I didn’t want to be at war with how I felt about my imperfections. We have enough of that in the world.
You’ve been a trailblazer in so many ways, but who are the women who have inspired you along your journey?
I’m incredibly inspired by my peers. Women like Nichelle Turner, Cari Champion, Abby Phillip and Kamie Crawford. Their hustle, how ambitious and gracious they are. It’s phenomenal. When I’m frustrated, I look to their body of work and accomplishments and it motivates me to keep going.
At PMM Today, we are celebrating Women’s History Month. What is your message to women who are still searching for their voice and style?
We are allowed to be so many different things during this lifetime; there should be joy in what we present to the world. Instead of focusing on everyone, find your voice and amplify that with how you decide to show up. Choosing your authentic self is inspiring, and you never know how many people you touch just by living in your full and real purpose. Be gentle with yourself on your journey, and stay hungry!
MORE: 12 Unique Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day
Shop
Shop The Nina Parker Collection
Follow Nina Parker
IG @theninaparker
IG @ninaparkercollection
Photo Credits
Photos, Jack Waterlot
Hair, Theo Barrett
Makeup, Latisha Chancey
MORE: View More Inspirational Interviews
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