A New Editorial Spotlights The Black Dandy Queens

Published

9 years ago

May 22, 2015

Photo: Blackattitude | Prisca M. Monnier

In life, whether real or imagined, we have seen black women wear menswear clothing — and make it into their own style. From a young androgynous Naomi Campbell for Italian Vogue to today’s superstar Janelle Monae, women have co-opted the “dandy” style of clothing that has made a resurgence the past few years and killed it in a unique way.

French magazine Blackattitude hones in on the focus that began with the Dandy Lion: (Re) Articulating Black Masculine Identity exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Photography in Chicago to focus on a trio of female dandies. Helmed by Prisca M. Monnier as a collaboration with Nadeem Mateky, Dandy Queens spotlights three sartorial-clad models (Aurélie Lamalle, Marama Lee, Khady Diallo) as they take on the roles of American abolitionist Dr. Mary Walker Chirurgienne, frontierswoman Martha Jane Canary (Calamity Jane), and Jo March (from Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women).

Photo: Blackattitude | Prisca M. Monnier

The dapper style, which has been a staple in African and African American culture since the 19th Century, typically finds men testing a new brim or ready to lead an ensemble in a social gathering. The exhibit opened early this past April and features images of black men dressed extravagantly from New Orleans to New Guinea. While more than 29 photographers participated in that exhibit, the Dandy Queens highlights just how fluid the definition of “dressing like a man” truly is.

The trend mirrors what is going on in popular culture with artists such as the aforementioned Janelle Monae and her artist, Jidenna. The duo are part of a representation — or style of dress — where the people wear more vintage clothes. These outfits are particularly tailored to the body type and encourages longevity of the outfit, as opposed to just following the trends. In short, whether man or woman, everyone wants to dress well and wants to spend less money because of the economy. Dandy Queens proves that gender doesn’t describe just how tough someone is, but does offer facts that timeless style is the way to go.

Photo: Blackattitude | Prisca M. Monnier

Blackattitude has the full editorial with more images, but it is written in French, so pull out your Rosetta Stone before you dig too deep.

On the following pages, we offer some more fellow dapper dans and dandies for your consideration.

The post A New Editorial Spotlights The Black Dandy Queens appeared first on StyleBlazer.

Videos

Reckless Rhymacide Drops New Birthday Anthem “It’s Yo Birthday”

Published

1 hour ago

May 17, 2024

Tampa Mystic

Indianapolis’ own Reckless Rhymacide has just released his latest track, “It’s Yo Birthday,” produced by the renowned Whodunit Beats. This fresh spin on the classic “Happy Birthday” song brings a catchy vibe, making it a perfect fit for nightclub atmospheres and adult birthday parties. With its catchy beats and modern twist, the track is set to become a staple for birthday celebrations everywhere, offering a new, exciting way to mark the occasion.

Reckless Rhymacide’s “It’s Yo Birthday” showcases his unique flair for blending contemporary sounds with familiar themes, ensuring the song resonates with a wide audience. Whodunit Beats’ production enhances the track with deep, rhythmic basslines and sleek instrumentation, creating an immersive experience that draws listeners in. As the song gains traction, it’s poised to redefine how birthdays are celebrated, combining tradition with a fresh, energetic sound that captures the essence of today’s music scene.

Videos

Unveiling BIG 4.1’s Anthem: “BIG SACK”

Published

2 hours ago

May 16, 2024

Tampa Mystic

Hailing from Gwinnett ‘DA NAWF’, BIG 4.1 emerges as a beacon of authenticity in the realm of hip-hop. With his latest track, “BIG SACK,” recently released and produced by the skilled Joe Peoples, BIG 4.1 delivers not just a song, but a mantra for financial empowerment and self-improvement. In a world obsessed with flaunting bags, BIG 4.1’s message cuts through the noise, urging listeners to focus on filling their “BIG SACK” with tangible wealth rather than mere appearances.

The song’s genesis stems from BIG 4.1’s desire to instill a culture of financial responsibility and foresight. Emphasizing the journey from a single $100 bill to a sizable nest egg, “BIG SACK” serves as a daily anthem for those striving to secure their futures. In an exclusive statement, BIG 4.1 explains his motivation: “It’s that time, it’s right on time for what’s going on and to teach our culture to save up that BIG SACK start at 20. By the time you’re 40 you can retire yourself if you do it right.” With lyrics that resonate beyond the beats, BIG 4.1 aims to spark a movement towards financial literacy and empowerment.

As BIG 4.1 gears up for his show in Anderson, South Carolina, alongside his team, the BOONDOCK KINGS, his mixtape “ME VS ME BAR-4-BAR THE MIXTAPE Vol 1” sets the stage for a musical revolution. Promising “HIP Rock” or “Kuntry Rap,” BIG 4.1 delivers an authentic sound that transcends genres, appealing to listeners from all walks of life. With originality and consistency as his guiding principles, BIG 4.1 stands out not just as an artist, but as a visionary ushering in a new era of meaningful music.

Victor Ray’s Heart Explodes In “i tried.” EP

Published

12 hours ago

May 16, 2024

Big C

Victor Ray, the rising star on Capitol Records, is set to release his highly anticipated EP, i tried., on June 14th. Until then he unveils the soul filling single Falling Into Place featuring the mesmerizing vocals of UK soul star Debbie. Written from personal experience, the track delves into the whirlwind of emotions that come with falling for someone new, capturing the hope and uncertainty of budding romance. According to Victor:

Falling Into Place” is about “meeting a stranger that you know could end up becoming a lot more.

Debbie relating to the same sentiment added:

The song makes you feel something.

Their collaboration brings an additional depth to the tracks genuine emotion. The EP follows Victor’s sold-out European tour and sees him joining Teddy Swims on his sold-out UK tour, kicking off in Manchester. Named as Apple Music’s new Up Next UK artist, Victor continues to captivate audiences with his soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics. Don’t miss out on his latest musical journey and follow Victor Ray today on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify. Stream “Falling Into Place” below and here.