My approach on fashion has always been unique since a young age. I've always been complimented on my unique fashion since, my boldness to wear certain clothing, or how handsome I look in my clothes. Fashion has always been a way for me to build confidence within myself, as a little boy, suffering with insecurities, and self acceptance. When I put on clothes that I am happy in, and look great in, I get a magical boost of confidence.

Modeling has also been another creative outlet for me. I love the feeling I get walking down a runway, all eyes on me, wearing the latest fashion. I think its so ironic that I love two things, that would require someone to naturally be very confident automatically. Especially as a working model, being turned down by agencies, because I was not the right black boy for the job.

I first discovered my love for fashion, and modeling in the church that I grew up in, in Tulsa Oklahoma. I loved dressing up for Church events, participating in pagent shows, and buying new suits for Easter Sunday, or Christmas Eve service. Now as an adult, who has always been extremely spiritual, and not religious, I try to incorporate spiritual messages in my clothes. The majority of the time that message is to simply be a free spirit, be 100% yourself, and wear what makes you happy.

I got this two piece, denim, acid wash outfit, from Cheap Thrills Vintage (3018 E 15th St, Tulsa, OK 74104). The straw hat from JC Penny. A perfect look for any BBQ, music festival, or Summer getaway. When I first saw this outfit, it was on a mannequin, and I wore it to a Coachella party. I love vintage fashion, because you can find so many unique pieces, that you are not likely to find anywhere else. I also made the pineapple homemade from scratch, also adding sugar to the rim. Perfect for any Summer party.

Since a young age I have always been told that I have a light. Not just any light, but a light that could influence, and inspire other people. But my own insecurities, have suppressed, and sabotaged this light. I began dealing with depression, and social anxiety, because I am not living up to the expectations of my gifts, my talents, and my potential. Not believing in my own greatness. Constantly comparing my life to other people's life. I have stressed myself striving for perfection, instead of excellence. Diming my own unique flame inside. My biggest spiritual awakening happened, when I finally had a heart, to heart with myself. I told myself that at the end of the day, no one will be impacted but myself If I don't allow my own unique light, to light my own path. No one will be impacted but myself, if I don't follow my own heart, and accomplish my goals and dreams. I told myself that if my outer world has issues, then I need to check my inner world since it directly reflects that. I told myself that I am a King, I am a black queer God. I told myself that I am made in the image of my creator, which means I have the power, and only I can save myself from being my own worst enemy. Only I have the power to change my life. I do not need you to endorse my politics, co-sign my Queerness, or validate my blackness for me to have power. My very existence is radical. I once heard years ago, when I use to attend church, that the richest place on earth is the grave, because so many talented people died still with their light never reaching its full potential, or never manifesting outside of themselves. I am taking that power back over my life.

Que'd-In: My Love for Fashion & Modeling

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