As Black History Month comes to a close, it’s important to reflect on the ways activism continues to shape our culture including through fashion. Slogan tees have long been a powerful tool in Black activism, turning everyday clothing into statements of resistance and solidarity. From the Civil Rights Movement to Black Lives Matter, these simple yet bold shirts have carried messages of justice, unity, and resilience. In the 1960s, activists wore shirts emblazoned with phrases like “I Am a Man” during the Memphis sanitation workers’ strike, demanding dignity and fair treatment. Decades later, slogans like “Black Lives Matter” and “I […]
Read MoreAmerican Businesswoman: Annie Malone
Annie Malone went on to become a pioneering African American businesswoman, philanthropist, and one of the earliest Black female millionaires in America. Born in 1877, she established Poro College, a school devoted to beauty and cosmetology that provided Black women with educational and economic opportunities. Her groundbreaking hair care products, such as a scalp treatment to promote hair growth, transformed the African American beauty market. Malone also charitably donated to charities, schools, and historically Black colleges, leaving a legacy of empowerment and success. Despite facing competition and losses, Annie Malone was dedicated to improving Black communities. She employed thousands of […]
Read MoreFashion & Activism: Black Liberation
Throughout history, fashion has been a powerful tool of activism and cultural expression within the Black community. From the Civil Rights Movement to the present-day Black Lives Matter protests, clothing has served as a bold statement of identity, resistance, and solidarity. In the 1960s, activists like the Black Panthers redefined political fashion by wearing black leather jackets, berets, and afros, symbolizing power, pride, and unity. Their iconic look was a deliberate rejection of societal norms and an assertion of Black identity and self-determination. Similarly, during the Civil Rights era, leaders and protesters wore their Sunday best—sharp suits, dresses, and polished […]
Read MoreFashion Visionaries
This blog is dedicated to highlighting Black individuals’ rich history, culture, and achievements. One designer that I would love to mention is Virgil Abloh. Virgil, born in 1980 but sadly passed away in 2021, was a visionary designer and cultural icon who redefined fashion, art, and design. Born in Illinois to Ghanaian parents, he studied engineering and architecture before entering the creative world. Abloh founded Off-White in 2012, merging streetwear with luxury, and became the first Black artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear in 2018, where he broke barriers and reshaped fashion norms. Another great designer would be Dapper Dan, […]
Read MoreFashion Catalyst: Elizabeth Keckley
During the days of slavery in the United States, agricultural labor was the majority of the workload on plantations, however, this was not the only work enslaved people were forced into doing. Textile work and the craft of sewing were amongst several of the other roles in which enslaved people were involved. On various occasions enslaved women crafted fine fashion and intricate designs for the elite southern white women. These women were highly skilled in their artisan understanding of the complex techniques of being a seamstress. One of these brilliant seamstresses was Elizabeth Keckley. Keckley was born into slavery in […]
Read MoreBlack History Month
Happy Black History Month! This month (and every month), we’re celebrating Black history and honoring the Black community. To kick off the month, Madame Butterfly Too would like to highlight three visionary Black fashion designers. The first designer we would like to bring to light is Tolu Oye, a West African design powerhouse and creator of Meji Meji. Oye’s creations seamlessly blend the iconic trends of African American culture and the opulent heritage of West Africa in her designs, while also celebrating the profound heritage that exists beneath her brand name. Next, we’d also like to acknowledge Jerry Lorenzo, the […]
Read More
Elevated Daywear: For Every Part of Your Day
This fall, the trend of elevated daywear is redefining how women dress for every part of their day. Whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends for lunch, or running errands, the focus is on pieces that blend sophistication, comfort, and ease. These are clothes that work as hard as you do — stylish enough for any occasion, yet effortlessly comfortable. It’s about creating a wardrobe that can transition seamlessly from morning to night, without compromising on elegance or practicality. Here are five ways to style the fall 2024 trend of elevated women’s daywear: Elevated daywear for fall 2024 is all […]
Read More
Sleeve it to Me: Rocking Puffed Styles This Autumn
Try puffed sleeves this fall, they’re a fantastic way to add volume and intrigue to your wardrobe. These bold silhouettes can transform any outfit into a statement look, and with a few styling tips, you can wear them effortlessly. Create Intriguing Silhouettes The beauty of puffed sleeves lies in their ability to shape your overall silhouette. To balance the volume, pair puffed-sleeved tops with tailored bottoms. High-waisted trousers or a fitted pencil skirt can highlight your waist and create a flattering hourglass shape. For a more dramatic effect, consider layering a fitted turtleneck under a puffed-sleeved dress to accentuate both […]
Read More
Texture Play: Elevate Your Style With Texture
As the crisp air of fall settles in, it’s the perfect time to embrace the beauty of texture in your wardrobe. This season, layering different textures is not just a trend—it’s a statement. Let’s explore how to mix and match textures like fur, pleating, and other fabrics to create eye-catching looks that are both cozy and chic. Embrace the Fur Faux fur is a fall staple that adds instant luxe to any outfit. Pair a soft, oversized faux fur jacket with a sleek, fitted turtleneck and tailored trousers for a sophisticated ensemble. Alternatively, a fur vest layered over a flowy, […]
Read More
Going Green: Whimsical Ways to Style Nature’s Color
As we step into fall 2024, it’s time to celebrate the vibrant and refreshing hues of green! This season, green is not just a color; it’s a statement of newness and growth, perfectly embodying the spirit of change. Let’s explore how to weave various shades of green into your fall wardrobe for a fresh and stylish look. Shades of Green From deep forest to soft sage, green offers a spectrum of shades to play with. Start with a rich emerald green coat to add a pop of color to those gray days. Pair it with neutral tones—think cream or tan—allowing […]
Read More