[ad_1]
Alexandria, VA – September is the month for the start of a new fashion season, so I took the opportunity to catch up with Alexandria resident stylist Havin Baucom II and his wife, lifestyle and style influencer Christina Baucom . Both federal employees, the Baucoms are also fashionistas immersed in the industry creating digital content and curating one-of-a-kind looks for their clients. Their philosophy is to wear what makes you feel good. In this edition of Alexandria Noir, I dive into the Baucoms’ fashion aesthetic to learn what inspires them.
Zebra: Fashion is definitely your passion. What made you both decide to enter the fashion industry?
Mr. Baucom: It wasn’t until I was 22 that someone asked me what I was passionate about and what I really enjoyed. At the time, I couldn’t answer the question, which made me look back at my life and appreciate what makes Havi happy. It was there that I realized that fashion was something that intrigued me since I was a child. From my earliest memories, I have been diligent in strategically using my creativity and limited resources to develop my own fashion aesthetic, which evolved into working for several Fortune 500 companies and then transitioning to creating my brand.
Ms. Baucom: My appreciation for fashion started in my family. My parents are very fashionable and stick to image and how you present yourself to others. Their basic structure sparked my interest in all things fashion. For me, it provides a fun way to express myself. The pandemic allowed me to build my passion by launching my blog and social media platforms. I believe that your clothing choices can represent who you are before you open your mouth.
Zebra: What is your styling process?
Mr. Baucom: The main factors for my process revolve around occasion and weather. For example, if I have to attend a formal event in the summer, I will wear lighter colors and fabrics that complement the weather and are breathable. Once these factors are addressed, I move on to the look style that shows my functional uniqueness.
Ms. Baucom: My process matches my mood and what I want to wear for that particular day. Mixing and matching different patterns and silhouettes helps me chart the trajectory of my day. Over the past two years, I have challenged myself to be more spontaneous with my fashion choices and wear bold and vibrant colors that I would never have explored before the pandemic due to the nature of my profession as a lawyer. of the federal government.
Zebra: What influences your style aesthetic? Do you have a style icon that inspires you?
Ms. Baucom: I would say that my mother’s style left a heavy impression on me. However, if I could dress up as anyone in the world, it would be Rihanna. I am amazed at how fashionable she is and can wear anything and make it her own. I try to mix both of my inspirations in looks that showcase my love of classic and timeless silhouettes with bold colors.
Mr. Baucom: My inspiration comes from my community. I draw ideas from everyone, because aspects of each person’s aesthetic stimulate me to generate ideas that enhance my own style. A representation of someone who embodies this for me is actor Omari Hardwick who was the lead in the TV show Power. Everything she wore, from business to casual, was flawless and appropriate.
Zebra: What’s the one fashion staple everyone should have in their fall rotation?
Mr. Baucom: I highly recommend that everyone has a blue blazer in their closet for a formal or business function. It’s such a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down. For those who don’t dress up at all, a bomber jacket in dark burgundy or green is a great alternative for the cooler fall months.
Ms. Baucom: My fall staple is having a structured coat. Especially a camel colored structured coat. I think it’s so classic and the perfect layering piece. You can easily layer it over your work wear or a sweat suit and it instantly elevates your look.
Zebra: What are some of your favorite attractions in Alexandria and why?
Mr. Baucom: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in Old Town is my number one. I have not had ice cream that compares to theirs and I always find myself there. Every time I go, I get three scoops and make sure the Texas Sheet Cake and the Coffee Sundaes are always part of my order.
Ms. Baucom: I love Italian food and Alexandria has some of the best options. Lena’s Wood-Dur Pizza and Mia’s Italian Kitchen are our highlights. The atmosphere at both of these restaurants is great for date nights or hanging out with friends. When it comes to shopping, I’m a huge fan of Mint Condition. The designer consignment pieces they offer are in excellent condition and can be had up to 60% off retail prices.
Zebra: What’s next for Baucoms?
Mr. Baucom: I recently launched my own clothing line, H. Baucom, which focuses on custom suits and formal wear. The brand specializes in accommodating the styling needs of brides and grooms for weddings. I design everything from dress shirts to pants.
Miss Baucom: I have just been given the opportunity to work as a brand ambassador with Express on their holiday campaign. I will also continue to create digital content that resonates with people to show how fashion can fit into their everyday lives.
Zebra readers can keep up to date with Havin Baucom by visiting his Facebook (www.facebook.com/HBaucom.llc/) and Instagram pages (www.instagram.com/hbaucomllc/?hl=en) or by scheduling a styling appointment at 202-888-7329.
Zebra readers can keep up to date with Christina Baucom by visiting her blog, Sharp and Sound Style (www.sharpandsound.com/). She is also on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.
ICYMI: United Names of Alexandria Community Nonprofits Cheryl Cook-Posley Chief Impact Officer
Post views:
1
[ad_2]
Source link
