When you think of fashion capitals, what city comes to mind? New York? Paris? Milan? Tokyo? Those are all true, but with technology and social media, new cities are gradually finding their place in the fashion world. Houston might be one of those cities. I had the pleasure of attending the “Future of Fashion” speaker series at Kit and Ace in Rice Village. It was hosted and curated by David Rochez, style blogger at fromNYtoTX, and featured an insightful panel discussing fashion in Houston and the future of fashion around the world.
First, if you are looking for a cool place to host an event, you should check out Kit and Ace. The store has a modern and edgy vibe with a nice clothing selection. The space is perfect for an intimate mixer, panel, or pop-up shop. DJ Anarchy provided the soundtrack and maintained the best mix of soul, hip-hop, and R&B I had not heard in a while.
The panel included Mara, life and style blogger at Malibu Mara, David Rodriguez, head chef at Tout Suite, and Kalan Laws, style blogger at Señor Guapo. The question as to whether Houston will ever catch up to be considered a fashion capital had mixed responses. On the one hand, it is obvious that an interest in the arts is gradually growing in Houston. Everyone who attended provided great street style. A lot of big name brands and stores are opening in Houston. However, Houston was built as an oil and gas hub and, like most of Texas, maintains a conservative character. Kalan noted that anything avant-garde or cutting edge is still considered weird in Houston. David Rodriguez shared his experience in Houston visiting upscale restaurants and being made to feel he did not belong there. Mara mentioned how the big brand stores that are moving to Houston are not catering to millennials who are into fashion but more for the luxury side of Houston. All the panelists agreed that it is up to the millennials of Houston (who are born after 1980) to make Houston a fashion forward city.
I agree that Houston’s extreme temperature and mode of transportation requires creativity to adapt its version of fashion. Unlike other fashion capitals, it is difficult to develop street style in a place that does not have pedestrians. We drive everywhere and are always battling heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and mosquitos. In spite of all of that, we still know how to clean up and show up to events like this.
The dark side of fashion was also discussed. Fast-fashion, which includes H&M, Forever 21, and Zara, is continually destroying our planet and violating human rights. All the panelists noted that the re-emergence of thrifting for kids from all economic demographics is a way to be fashionable and avoid contributing to the continued destruction of our planet.
What does the future of fashion look like? As people, regardless of race, status, or beliefs, we connect through fashion, music, and food. This might bring us even closer in the future.
I really enjoyed this event and am looking forward to more events like this in Houston. Make sure you follow all the bloggers mentioned to stay up to date with cool events and fashionable photos from Houston.
What do you think is the future of fashion? Let me know in the comments below.
I believe the children are our future and I’m sure you do as well. Since children spend the majority of their day in school, a school’s curriculum and environment influences their development and our future. With the increase in school’s security, state testing, and in some subjects or activities reduced funding, I sometimes wonder if school’s are heading in the right direction. Thankfully, there are programs that enhance our children’s school experience. I had the pleasure of interviewing Susan Shaw, the education director at the Anti-Defamation League’s Houston office, about their No Place for Hate initiative. The program promotes respect for individual and group differences and challenges prejudice and bigotry in schools K – 12. This year marks the program’s 15 year anniversary in Houston. We talked about the program’s progress in Houston, the upcoming 15 year celebration, and how you can get involved with this wonderful initiative.
Provided by ADL No Place for Hate Houston
The No Place for Hate program was launched in Houston in 2001. This was the first time such an initiative was used in schools. Initially, in 1999, the program started in Boston for townships and municipalities. The regional director of the Houston office at the time “made a visit to the Boston office and sort of fell in love with the whole concept,” said Susan Shaw. “Our office along with the Philadelphia office started to recreate the materials and we built an education committee.”
The program is implemented in schools by forming a coalition, which includes students, administrators, faculty, staff, and parents, to come together to do an assessment of the issues that need to be addressed on campus. All members of the coalition sign the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) resolution of respect and participate in at least 3 anti-bias or diversity activities throughout the school year. For those interested in getting your school to participate in this initiative, this is the application process:
Submit a proposal for the school activities by October;
The review committee determines if the proposed activities are appropriate and whether they address the issues on campus;
Once approved, school proceeds to create and implement the activities;
In May, school submits a report to go over challenges, progress, and how ADL can continue to help in the future;
New schools get a personalized banner with 5 blank stars; for every year they earn a designation, they get a star with the school year to place on the banner.
Students at No Place for Hate Youth Summit at South Texas College of Law (source: ADL No Place for Hate Houston)
The combination of school proposed activities and ADL lesson plans provide creative and innovative ideas. For example, one of their most popular activities is known as “mix it up.” At lunch, the students get to sit with students other than their friends and are given questions to ask each other. This encourages students to interact with others in school. Another activity that was recently implemented is known as “buddy bench.” Lessons were done through the guidance counselor on bullying, name calling, and acceptance. Part of the activity included building a buddy bench so that no students would feel isolated or excluded.
Provided by ADL No Place for Hate Houston
Susan has worked with ADL for 18 years, after previously working as the education director at the Holocaust Museum in Houston and as a 2nd and 3rd grade teacher in Spring Branch ISD. Her work in anti-bias and diversity reaches beyond her job to her upbringing in Long Island, New York. “I’m a product of the 60s and remember very clearly when integration came to our community,” said Susan. “My parents were more about acceptance and I think I carried a little of that baggage with me. That is why ADL seemed like a perfect fit for me.”
From the beginning of No Place for Hate in Houston, Susan has directed and created this program every step of the way. During their first year, they had 9 schools participate. Due to the success of that first year and word of mouth, they doubled their numbers every year after that. They now have 21 regional offices and 1500 schools participating in the program. During the 2014 – 2015 school year, 350 public, private, and charter schools earned No Place for Hate designation. During this past school year, 2015 – 2016, more than 400 schools have applied. “It’s great to see schools not only focusing on the basic reading, writing, and arithmetic, but also respect the importance of social and emotional learning in the classroom,” said Susan.
Students at No Place for Hate Youth Summit at South Texas College of Law (source: ADL No Place for Hate Houston)
That progress is what makes the upcoming Luncheon so special. ADL’s annual luncheon will celebrate the 15th anniversary of the No Place for Hate initiative by recognizing the hundreds of schools that have achieved No Place for Hate designation and honoring three educators for their efforts to create a school atmosphere that promotes diversity. The honorees include Dr. James W. Cain, Klein ISD Superintendent, Yvonne DeLeon, Kenneth E. Little Elementary School Counselor, and Dr. Nancy Simpson, Kinkaid Lower School Counselor. The Luncheon will also feature keynote speaker Dr. Jennifer Arnold, M.D. of Texas Children’s Hospital and TLC’s “The Little Couple.” This special event will be on May 4th at noon at the Hilton Houston Post Oak. For more information and tickets, contact Alexis Tahara at alexis@integrateagency.com or Dena Marks at dmarks@adl.org.
“This is my favorite event of the year,” said Susan. “Not only is it an opportunity for ADL to showcase the great work we do in education, but it is also an opportunity to honor and recognize the educators that are doing the work. We get to say thank you for the their support, creativity, compassion, and collaborative efforts.”
Provided by ADL No Place for Hate Houston
I think the influence of an initiative like No Place for Hate is really important. In addition to creative activities, this can impact a student’s performance and development in and out of the classroom. A school atmosphere that is truly free of hatred is more secure. Students would have more of an incentive to attend school and perform well in an atmosphere where they feel safe and appreciated.
“The No Place for Hate program has become a safe haven for those who may not traditionally engage in after school activities,” said Susan. “We consistently think of what resources and support educators need to feel comfortable addressing these issues [such as Ferguson and transgender identity] in the classroom.”
Have you participated in a No Place for Hate activity? What do you think of the initiative? How do you think we can improve our children’s experience at school?
With the internet, you can find inspiration everywhere. From stories to classes, there is something to keep all of us entertained or enlightened. Through self-publishing and social media, so many brilliant ideas are slipping past barriers and amplifying their voices. I see this as a movement of sorts. A move for change, awareness, and responsibility.
One of the many things I want my blog/platform to provide is a supportive space for other creatives, innovators, and leaders. I am inspired everyday by people and projects I come across on social media because they illustrate how to effectively enhance a movement. From documentaries to community programs to merchandise, we have amazing people pushing beyond a hashtag or march. They are building a legacy. It is important for any movement to live past the hype. To survive the trends, it takes dedication and strategy to maintain clear priorities but also evolve with the issues.
I want to share with you some of the projects I have seen recently that inspired this post. Initially, I was going to write about the discrepancies I have observed within social justice movements today (which I might still reflect on in a later post), but after reading and watching these projects, I have hope that we are moving in the right direction.
Amani Yahya is Yemen’s first female rapper and recently did a project shedding light on women’s rights.
The Dinner Table Doc is a documentary and community initiative to change the narrative and images of women of color in the media. The director went to Agnes Scott College (which I went to my freshmen year…so we are half scottie sisters!) and she is building a really important platform.
Did you know there is an afro-mexican community in Mexico? Do you know why Black History Month should exist in Mexico? Check this video from Plumas Atómicas.
The Invention of E.J. Whitaker is an upcoming indie comic book about a woman of color who invents a flying machine in 1901. I am excited to read this adventure once they publish it.
My Creative Connection is a blog that shares stories, resources, and advice to help creatives build their network and achieve their dreams. Their twitter chat #blkcreatives is one of the most encouraging social media experiences.
Revolt TV did an excellent documentary about Women DJs around the world who are making an impact on dance culture.
An article reflecting on identity and violence as a first-generation American, this is a discussion I know too well and appreciate more voices bringing light to.
This movement is not about pointing fingers or excluding others. It is about being unapologetically authentic and aware of the importance of your influence. What has inspired you recently? What projects would you add to this list?
Wearing: Kasmir VIII shirt, Ann Taylor skirt, Aldo shoes
Style is not just about clothing and trends. It is a form of self-expression influenced by many factors…some we might not be aware of. For instance, how does your location affect your style? I am not only talking about what you pack for a trip. The city you live in holds so many nuances to inspire your style. Today I am sharing with you how my current city, Houston, influences my style. This is part of a collaboration with a fabulous group of bloggers. Make sure you read to the end to view their style and enter our giveaway.
I like to view my style as a medium through which I exercise and enhance my creativity. It started as a hobby and evolved into a signature persona. It is a mixture of 1950s classics, 1970s attitude, and futuristic sparks. It is a blend of chic, afrocentric, and retro. I have been told my style resembles Janelle Monae and Solange. They both are on my list of inspirations, along with Audrey Hepburn, Esther Quek, Lena Horne, Miranda Priestly, Diana Ross, and many others.
Houston is a big city. The 4th largest in the nation to be exact. Just like preparing for a trip, the weather and mode of transportation are the two main factors in planning your outfits. In Houston, the weather likes to play games. In one day we can go from a thunderstorm to sunny and clear to dry and windy. Next we can go for a week or two with beautiful spring or fall weather. Most people drive everywhere and the only time spent outside is intentional. Thus, fashionista’s in Houston have a keen eye in creating outfits that work with shifting temperatures and the need for comfort.
Living in Houston has added another dimension to my wardrobe by helping me feel comfortable in casual clothes. I know that sounds weird, but hear me out. In high school I repeatedly wore graphic tees, jeans, and fake converse. When I left for college, and left Texas, I wanted that next chapter to not be high school part 2. That included changing my wardrobe. I grew to prefer dressing up and got so good at it that I could put together stylish outfits everyday without skipping a beat. This also meant that the casual section of my closet faded away.
I think part of being a successful fashionista is being open to what new places can offer you. There is a time and place for everything. Looking like a futuristic Mary Poppins does not work everywhere, but I think it is always appreciated at special occasions (right?). This does not mean you should try to blend in. On the contrary, you should try to have fun. Style in Houston is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all uniform to be considered stylish. I have seen a range of fabulous looks from cowboy boots to grunge jackets to dapper suits to urban chic to thrift elegance. There is room to create your own niche. Some trends I am looking forward to in Houston for the Spring include: Spanish floral patterns and light weight denim.
Since this is my first post for the new year, we must take a moment to claim it. My intention for 2016 is to restore. I feel like I have paid my dues: unfair, just, and self-imposed. I want to be open to the happiness I have earned. I will share more on how this pertains to my personal life in a later post. For my blog life, I am cheering for more inspiration, collaborations, and fun in 2016. What are your intentions for 2016? Let me know in the comments below.
Wearing: Thrifted scarf, The Limited sweater, New York & Company skirt, DSW purse, DSW shoes, Girl Talk watch, Zig Zag ring
Remember that collaboration I told you about at the beginning of this post? Well, “My Style + My City” is a collaboration I created to meet new bloggers and showcase others work. I wanted to see different interpretations of style from around the world. Here are the fabulous bloggers who participated. Make sure to check out their blogs and show them some love.
As a token of our appreciation and an effort to encourage you to achieve your best in 2016, we are giving one lucky reader a 2016 Erin Condren Life Planner. Click here to enter. Good luck!
Aspiring to achieve success comes with an interesting tool box. The majority of your journey includes filtering through what you can work with and what you need to let go. One of the essential tools to success is connecting with the right people. This past Thursday, I had the pleasure of attending The Root’s Young, Fabulous & Female event, sponsored by Toyota, at the House of Deréon Media Center. The theme was “Getting Across the Line” asking how black women cross that line to achievement and success, how we bring others with us, and what obstacles are in our path. The panel discussion included a number of gems, positive energy, and motivation. Now, let’s get into my recap of the event and suggestions to improve the discussion.
(L-R) My new friends! Shimeka, fashion designer, and Mickayla, non-profit director & radio promoter
The panel included Joy Sewing, fashion and beauty editor for the Houston Chronicle, Dr. Camille Cash, plastic surgeon in Houston, Denise Hamilton, CEO and founder of WatchHerWork.com and co-founder of JONES Magazine, Tera Roberson, Special Projects Producer for Houston’s NBC affiliate KPRC, and Suzette Turner-Caldwell, former engineer and current associate pastor for Windsor Village United Methodist Church. Devi Dev, music director for 93.7 The Beat and TV pop culture correspondent for CBS affiliate KHOU11, moderated the panel. First, I think Donna Byrd and her The Root team did an excellent job gathering local brilliant women to enhance this discussion with diverse experiences and views.
One of the big topics that was touched on a number of times was the struggle with obtaining opportunities. I loved how Denise set the tone by saying “it’s more about us opting out then us being kept out.” The analogy she gave is one that I think all of us can relate to – a job application lists requirements A, B, C, D. A woman would read that application and tell herself “I can do A, B, C, D, E, and F, but I don’t know…let me call my Mom and talk about it…maybe call my best friend…maybe I’m not qualified. A man would read that application and tell himself “I can do C…I can do that job. Submit.” Regardless if you fit this scenario or not, I think we all have been guilty of doubting ourselves. I have been diligently working on myself to recognize how my talents can apply to any job and switch my mindset to view my skills as abundant rather than lacking.
With Devi Dev, 93.7 The Beat
Speaking about mindset, getting cross the line to opportunity also involves checking your attitude towards your worth. Tera shared her life motto – “Live your own. Have your own. Be your own.” In some circumstances it is easier said than done, but it is so important to stay true to yourself while aspiring and achieving success. The challenges, competition, and disappointments will make you question what you stand for and why you are working so hard. Don’t let that make you forget who you are. This is why I loved when Devi said “find beauty in your struggle.” So much growth happens during personal struggle. When I look back at where I was 5 years ago compared to what I am doing now, I am humbled. I still have a lot of work and ground to cover, but I can see the progress and I can note what I gained from every challenge I pushed through.
With Donna Byrd, publisher of The Root
There was also a lot of wisdom shared about what excellence should look like. Sharing advice on how to focus your life and career, Suzette said, “Be prepared. Be very good at what you do. Be humble.” She also added that to be confident in yourself, you should always be prepared. I totally agree with that sentiment. Have you noticed a pattern among most success stories that opportunities do not usually appear as planned? That is why you always have to be ready to do your best because you never know who or what will open the next door for you. Excellence also involves constant change. I could totally relate to Devi when she said, “never get comfortable. Look for constant evolution.” This does not mean you should be selfish in always being unsatisfied, but you should always try to do better. I am constantly seeking knowledge and inspiration to expand and enhance my passions and my purpose. Constant evolution in yourself can include reading a book a day to mastering meditation to joining a community group to contributing to a new cause. It all depends on what you need and how you define your journey.
With Denise Hamilton, watchherwork.com and JONES magazine
Having an accomplished journalist on the panel was also a plus for me because she spoke to part of my niche. Joy shared how she visualized and spoke her dream of being a journalist into existence even at a time when the industry did not seem promising. “It’s not just about working hard,I love being a journalist,” said Joy. “If you want to do it, and it’s not about the money, then a way will be made for you.” She also noted the deeper reality black women face in having a successful career – “there is a part of you that you have to quiet to conform to what you’re working with.” There were a lot of head nods and finger snaps for that statement. Being a professional black woman is a challenging balancing act. Even though we encourage ourselves and each other to stay true to who we are, we still have to withhold some of our brilliance in certain settings but also be bold and step up in certain circumstances.
This point leads to my next overall comment on this event. I know the discussion was supposed to be 2 hours, and they did well to stick to that timeframe, but I would have loved for the conversation to continue for 4 hours. With more time, I think the panel could have taken this topic further and answered more questions. It is great to encourage attendees to clarify their goals and plan for their future, but if time permitted I think it would have been equally important to mention how to achieve this in an environment that seems to set us up for failure. Similar to what Denise touched on, “women are the keepers of culture and we need to start owning that.” I think owning that does not only include being great at what you do but also being great at taking care of yourself. We are in a troubling time now. The culture we have carried and supported throughout history is under attack. We cannot go by one day without reading, hearing, or seeing a story about our people being murdered, arrested, or suffering. I know this topic could branch out to all kinds of comments and would extend the discussion for hours. However, for next time, I think we should include one question for the panel along these lines – Regarding the troubling and tragic climate we are living in now, how do you continue to get across the line to success and opportunity? The responses might vary, but I feel they would enhance what the audience learns from the event. It is important for black women to pay attention to their well-being. I think it would be helpful if the event also provided resources for where to connect with mentors, how to find grants, how to strengthen one’s spirituality, etc. We cannot ignore the fact that what happens in our community directly affects us…it comes with the package of being a queen of black excellence.
What would my answer be, you ask? Part of the reason why I sacrifice so much, work so hard, and strive to be legit in everything I do, is to make sure my people’s pain is not in vain. I am building a legacy for those coming behind me to take notes and push further and I am hopefully making an impact so that our future is less tragic.
Overall, I enjoyed the event and am very happy The Root came to Houston. I also hope it won’t be the last time they host an event like this here. I left feeling inspired not only by what was said but also by seeing there are a lot of brilliant women in Houston doing great things to influence their community. We need more events like this here (or I need to get better at finding these events before they pass) to help facilitate these types of discussions and connections. If anyone is planning something like this here, I would love to contribute and/or help.
Also, check out The Root’s video recap. Me and my signature blazer make a few cameo appearances.
How are you getting across the line to success and opportunity? Have you attended The Root’s YFF event before?
Dagny Zenovia 