Dress Codes: Fashion and Community in African and Diasporic Cultures

A program of:
As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic

Friday, November 11, 2022, 6pm EST

With moderator Elliott Ramsey and speakers Jason Cyrus, Teleica Kirkland, and Caron Phinney.

Through its visual presence and coded aesthetics, clothing tells the story of how people define themselves, how they control their own visibility, and how they claim space within public or private realms. Style is a central form of cultural expression for people of African descent and diaspora yet the academic world has long ignored this rich contribution to the history of global fashion, obscuring cultural influences and undermining a comprehensive historical documentation. Through their research, curatorial and teaching strategies, the panelists engaged in this conversation actively contribute to developing and expanding knowledge and resources around the legacy and significance of African and diasporic clothing and style. In this conversation, they share insights on the methodologies and ideas that fuel their work.