Jacksonville, AL –Jacksonville State University is getting ready for an event that will highlight diversity, fashion, and individuality. On the 1st of November, the school’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion will stage an event called the Diversity Fashion Show, and the event is generating quite an uproar. In anticipation of this highly-anticipated event the interviewer Jay Clark sat down with Jacob Phillips, the Administrative Assistant to the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to learn more about his involvement and love for fashion. Below is a summary of their conversation.
Jacob Phillips, a senior at Jacksonville State University, serves as the Safe Zone coordinator for the university in addition to his academic duties. His unique experience in the realm of style is marked by his love of the art of wearing clothes that he has developed throughout his life.
Phillips who comes from an extended family of four shared his memories of childhood fashion. He explained, “I grew up in an extended family of four. I was the smallest of three brothers. I was always given their old clothes, which meant that my outfits were slightly rough.” His imposing stature of 6’7” created an interesting problem in locating clothes that would fit properly when his brothers sat at only 6 feet. But, this obstacle led to his personal exploration into fashion and the pleasure of dressing in distinctive and different fashions.
It is possible to ask if Phillips has a particular fashion item from his collection. Phillips smiled, admitting “I did not think I’d declare that, but my most favorite pair of footwear, and also my most coveted fashion item I own, are my shoes with rhinestones.” These sparkling shoes, as he explained are what make him feel more confident and have been an unexpected favourite among his outfits.
If asked about a particular fashion piece that he believes does not receive the respect the piece deserves, Phillips drew attention to the Alexander McQueen runway show from 2013, titled “The The Land of Plenty.” Particularly he highlighted an outfit dubbed”the “Basket of Plenty” that was a stunning black and red design. The outfit, as he explained was designed to reflect the negative effects of fashion across the globe, emphasizing the complexities of McQueen’s method of addressing the pressing issues of our time through fashion.
The highlight of the discussion was the anticipated Diversity Fashion Show, which will take place on the 1st of November. Phillips declared his enthusiasm telling the crowd, “Super, super excited about this.” The event will begin with a reception on the red carpet at 5pm, and will be followed by the Fashion Show at 6pm. Phillips encourages all to attend and dress up in their finest clothes, and take part in the celebrations of the evening. The event will provide plenty of opportunities for photos that showcase each person’s distinctive styles and imagination.
For those who want to participate in this show Phillips gave details on ways to participate by stating “If anyone is keen on participating through the show these QR codes and everything is on our website if are looking to dress in your favourite dress and showcase it!” This inclusive approach is the core of the show’s goal and makes it an occasion to celebrate creativity, diversity and personal expression.
The Jacksonville State University community eagerly anticipates the Diversity Fashion Show, it’s obvious that this event isn’t just about clothes; it’s an opportunity to celebrate diversity, individuality and an art form in fashion in itself. The 1st of November the catwalk transforms into a stage where a variety of fashions and unique styles are brought to life which makes it a must-attend event for fashion lovers and those who advocate for inclusion.
