Yesterday I hosted Macy’s Black History Month Event at Wolfchase Galleria. In addition to styling the models for the fashion show portion, I lead the panel discussion with some of Memphis’ own influencers: Terri Lee Freeman (President of the National Civil Rights Museum); comedian Kelly “K-Dubb” Walker; TV personality Gina Neely, and social media guru, singer and techie Tecia Marshall. It was a Sunday Funday indeed!

 I geeked out when I saw these, lol.

Let me tell you, styling 12 models-scratch that, every day women age 25+ -is no easy feat. While we had concepts in mind when we began the fittings (3 segments: Weekend/Casual, Girls Night Out/Date Night, and Formal/Gala attire), you still have to pull multiple looks within each segment for them to try on so that you can determine which looks will work best. Everyone had to balance work (aka their real lives) with fittings, so we had 3 days of jam packed styling sessions. All of the ladies I worked with were fun and open to trying out anything, and I think all of the looks turned out great!

First up was Weekend/Casual (models: Sherry, Traci, Summmer + Novella). Although they’re wearing denim and light layers, the pieces have fun patterns and extra little details that keep the looks more elevated.

Girls Night Out/Date Night (models: Latonya, India, Krystina + Faboya). These looks were fun, with a little extra drama. Spring is near, so I wanted this segment to ease into color, but my favorite thing about it is that most of these pieces can be paired with other garments and worn to work. I’m aaaall about finding ways to maximize your wardrobe, especially if you work in an office setting or have a busy social life.
Finally we had Formal/Gala (models: Erika, Tara, Kim + Nicole). I’ve only attended 2 galas in my life and both times I was stressed about what to wear. I wanted to show that refined doesn’t have to equal boring! You can play with colors + fabrics and be a little more daring without sacrificing sophistication.

All of my models were also sorors so we snapped a few pics as well.

Zeta Phi Beta

Delta Sigma Theta

Me Phi Me (I KID!) I found this super cute blouson sheath dress by Thalia to wear. It was sooo comfortable! Anytime you find a dress that’s cute and comfy? It’s gonna be a good day. I tried on some more pieces from that collection and liked the fit (I had to stay focused and just find something to wear for the event) so I’m going back to shop a little more. My booties are from Old Navy, though I originally bought some uber cute heels by Bar III to wear. I wasn’t sure how long I’d be standing so I switched them out at the last minute.

I had 20 minutes to do a full face + dare I say I was on fleek? I picked up the new Zac Posen x M.A.C. lipstick in Dangerously Red for a pop of color and IT. IS. EVERYTHING. I didn’t want to wash my makeup off, lol. I’m gonna do another post with better pics but I just wanted you guys to see it. Plus, my bestie came and brought me flowers so I had to take a selfie!

I didn’t get to take any pictures during the actual event but I did snap an early pic of the stage. It was set up in the middle of the main floor, so everyone that shopped could see us and join in if they wanted.

Thank you to my wonderful models for being so much fun to style (and my friend Ari, who came through to help BTS!) , and Macy’s for giving me this opportunity!

bhm Fashion macy's