At home, I’ve never experienced the holiday season quite like this. I am proud of Atlanta for a lot of things, but providing holiday sentiments is not one of them. Everyone knows that New York turns into a magical place ( as if weren’t already magical) during the holiday time. The city is as bright a Christmas tree & looks (feels) like a snow globe. Best of all, it allows people to dress up, be fancy and feel good, all while attending some cool seasonal events.
Here’s a snapshot from the BRAG (The Black Retail Group- an organization with a chapter on FIT’s campus), annual holiday toy drive. The other elves and I were told to dress festively, but maybe I was the one who got the message. Either way, I was sporting an old shirt from my mother’s closet. (I’m so lucky to have a fashionable mother who shares my size).
The event was well supported and the guests donated dozens of toys. The toys were then given to a children’s home in Harlem, for kids who otherwise would receive toys. In addition to being an “elf” ( note the elf hat), I got to do some networking. All the guests were industry professionals, and because the event was an intimate one, I got to talk to nearly everyone. These type of intimate settings give people an opportunity to make connections, and are the catalyst for building relationship. Also, I got to have some free food, which is always a plus.
This past week I went did something that was the complete opposite of the BRAG toy drive. I think life is all about balance, and after a semester of working hard and attending professional events, I went to the 10 Deep Holiday Party in the Williamsburg Music Hall, which provided an alternate type of networking. These type of events are usually composed of movers and shakers, many musicians and artists. 10 Deep is a cornerstone menswear brand, which has been popular for over fifteen years. The creator, Scott Sasso, a native New Yorker, says he named the line 10 Deep because “Forget everyone and listen to yourself. Strength lies in the hands of an individual (10 fingers), not in the approval of one’s peers.” The line can be bought online, on their own website or karmaloop.com. Every year, they host a free holiday party(ies) for all people to come enjoy the sounds of various artists and the live DJ. These type of events showcase just how dynamic fashion brands can be, by infusing music & art, along with their fashion they are ensuring their success for (hopefully) many more years in the future.
As an artist, I need these type of events just as much as professional events. The energy that exists at a live show is one that is unparalleled, and I am thankful that have been able to experience here in New York before I go home in a few days. Are there any special events you all are excited to participate in?
All things Color, Love & Fashion,
Ayanna L.
NY is a great place to spend your holiday. Especially the Christmas. I had a chance to spend a Christmas holiday in NY. It’s the best holiday that I have ever spent.