Black Fashion History

Black fashion history is full of icons hiding in plain sight—and Linda Page is one of the most important names you have not heard enough. In this episode, Taniqua shares how a milliner from Columbus, Ohio, built a career that crossed celebrity, community leadership, and Black women's style. From creating cardboard hats as a child to opening Linda's Millinery Shop in Columbus's Black business district, Page turned millinery into a powerful form of self-expression and entrepreneurship. Her designs earned her the nickname "the Hat Designing Wizard" and attracted notable clients including Marva Lewis, Etta Moten, Dorothy Donegan, Marguerite Belafonte, and Coretta Scott King.

Shop Black Fashion History Fact Cards (+ Exclusive Listener Discount!) Explore Volume 1 and celebrate unsung fashion trailblazers: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/shop Use code PODCAST for 15% off your purchase.

🌐 Learn more about Black Fashion History Website: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/

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In this heartfelt conversation, Taniqua Martin sits down with her mother to explore the roots of personal style, Liberian fashion history, and the creativity that shaped her upbringing. From hand-me-downs and "bend down boutique" shopping to custom-made African outfits and styling for the modern day, this episode reflects on how fashion is shaped by culture, resourcefulness, and identity. More than that, this conversation also highlights how fashion and be a source of memory and connection between mother and daughter. The discussion also highlights Liberian Independence Day, the evolution of African fashion, and timeless advice on dressing for your body, your personality, and the occasion.

Shop Black Fashion History Fact Cards (+ Exclusive Listener Discount!) Explore Volume 1 and celebrate unsung fashion trailblazers: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/shop Use code PODCAST for 15% off your purchase.

🌐 Learn more about Black Fashion History Website: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/

📲 Follow Black Fashion History on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackfashionhistory_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackfashionhistory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackfashionhistory Substack: https://blackfashionhistory.substack.com/

Taniqua Martin shares a replay for her talk at the Historical Symposium hosted by Costumers of Color. Explore the hidden stories of Black fashion designers through archival detective work, highlighting the importance of black media and institutions in preserving cultural history.

Key Topics

• Archival research methods for Black fashion history
• The role of black media in preserving fashion stories
• Case studies of forgotten Black designers like Gus and Lucy, Booker T. Felder, Harry Young
• The importance of documenting and archiving Black fashion work
• Challenges in uncovering Black designers' stories

Shop Black Fashion History Fact Cards (+ Exclusive Listener Discount!) Explore Volume 1 and celebrate unsung fashion trailblazers: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/shop Use code PODCAST for 15% off your purchase.

🌐 Learn more about Black Fashion History Website: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/

📲 Follow Black Fashion History on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackfashionhistory_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackfashionhistory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackfashionhistory Substack: https://blackfashionhistory.substack.com/

Join Taniqua Martin in conversatoin with Dr. Chajuana Trawick Ferguson, a trailblazer in fashion education and history, as she shares her personal story, her work with the Black Design Collective, and her groundbreaking role at Lindenwood University. This episode highlights the importance of mentorship, evolving industry tech, and cultivating spaces for future Black fashion professionals.

Resources & Links:

• Black Design Collective
• Lindenwood University Fashion Program

Connect with Dr. Ferguson:

• LinkedIn

Shop Black Fashion History Fact Cards (+ Exclusive Listener Discount!) Explore Volume 1 and celebrate unsung fashion trailblazers: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/shop Use code PODCAST for 15% off your purchase.

🌐 Learn more about Black Fashion History Website: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/

📲 Follow Black Fashion History on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackfashionhistory_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackfashionhistory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackfashionhistory Substack: https://blackfashionhistory.substack.com/

In this conversation, Taniqua Martin speaks with Dr. Dyese Matthews about her journey from a childhood influenced by her mother's fashion sense to her academic pursuits in fashion history. She discusses the importance of recognizing and preserving Black fashion narratives, particularly through her project, Noir Narratives. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in fashion education and the responsibility of educators to prepare students for a rapidly changing industry. Dr. Matthews emphasizes the need for more representation of Black stories in fashion history and the importance of community engagement in academia.

Learn more about Dr. Matthews & Noire Narratives: https://www.instagram.com/noirenarratives/

Shop Black Fashion History Fact Cards (+ Exclusive Listener Discount!) Explore Volume 1 and celebrate unsung fashion trailblazers: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/shop Use code PODCAST for 15% off your purchase.

🌐 Learn more about Black Fashion History Website: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/

📲 Follow Black Fashion History on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackfashionhistory_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackfashionhistory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackfashionhistory Substack: https://blackfashionhistory.substack.com/

In this episode, host Taniqua Martin sits down with Rafael Brauer Gomes, Director of Fashion Exhibitions at SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film, to explore the creative vision behind André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever. We dive into how Rafael brings Talley's legacy to life, the curatorial decisions that shaped this landmark exhibition, and why preserving André Leon Talley's legacy is essential to understanding global fashion history.

Whether you're a curator, designer, student, historian, or simply a lover of Black style, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the artistry and cultural impact of André Leon Talley.

🎟 Get tickets to the André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever exhibition: SCAD FASH Atlanta — https://www.scadfash.org/visit

🛍 Shop Black Fashion History Fact Cards (+ Exclusive Listener Discount!) Explore Volume 1 and celebrate unsung fashion trailblazers: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/shop Use code PODCAST for 15% off your purchase.

🌐 Learn more about Black Fashion History Website: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com

📲 Follow Black Fashion History on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackfashionhistory_ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blackfashionhistory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackfashionhistory Substack: https://blackfashionhistory.substack.com/

In this special episode, we honor the 51st anniversary of the Battle of Versailles, a groundbreaking moment in Black fashion history that took place on November 28, 1973. Filmmaker Deborah Riley-Draper joins us to discuss her acclaimed documentary Versailles '73, which brought this iconic event to life on screen. Draper shares how this historic fashion show not only showcased the brilliance of African American models and designers but also introduced the world to the powerful message on an international stage. Tune in to celebrate this monumental anniversary and learn more about the cultural and historical significance of the Battle of Versailles.

To learn more about Deborah Riley Draper and her work, visit https://www.coffeebluffpictures.com/

In this episode, Taniqua Martin sits down with the dynamic sisters Essie Brew-Hammond and Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, founders of the luxury brand Exit 14! Dive into their journey, discover the inspiration behind their choice of Batakari fabric, and learn about the meaning of Exit 14 and its tagline, "tailored for your journey."

Exit 14 blends traditional West African craftsmanship with contemporary flair, redefining luxury through skill, artisanship, and timeless design.

Learn more about Exit 14:

Website: https://exit14apparel.com/

Instagram: @shopexit14

Catch the full interview on http://www.blackfashionhistory.com, YouTube, or your favorite streaming platform!

In this episode of Black Fashion History, host Taniqua Martin sits down with Charlene Dunbar, the brilliant mind behind Suakoko Betty! From engineering to fashion design, Charlene's journey is a true inspiration. She shares her love for African fashion, the importance of cultural representation, and how African designers can benefit from the global rise of African-inspired fashion. Dive into the challenges, opportunities, and the luxury of African fashion in this insightful conversation!

Check out Suakoko Betty: https://www.suakokobetty.com Follow on Instagram: @suakokobetty

Wacth now on https://www.blackfashionhistory.com or YouTube.

In this episode, Taniqua Martin chats with fashion professor Ntebo Lepheana to explore the rich traditions and style history of the Basotho people. Ntebo shares how Basotho cultural heritage has shaped her perspective on fashion and how she brings this unique lens to her work in the classroom. She discusses iconic Basotho garments like the Seanamarena blanket, revealing the historical significance and symbolism. Ntebo also explains how she encourages her students to draw from their own cultural histories, empowering them to infuse their designs with a sense of identity and legacy.

Tune in on https://www.blackfashionhistory.com/, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of Black Fashion History, host Taniqua Martin sits down with fashion journalist Elvis Kachi to explore his journey into the fashion industry and his mission to tell authentic African fashion stories. They dive into the unique elements of African fashion, the challenges of getting these stories published, and the need for diverse storytelling in major publications. Elvis also shares insights on his platform, Style Pen Memoir, and offers valuable advice for aspiring fashion professionals. Don't miss out!

Learn more at https://elviskachi.com/ and https://thestylepenmemoir.beehiiv.com/

Tune in on https://www.blackfashionhistory.com, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of Black Fashion History, Taniqua Martin dives into a powerful conversation with Beatrace Angut Oola, the visionary founder of Fashion Africa Now. Beatrace shares her inspiring journey of decolonizing the fashion industry, challenging Western-centric norms, and elevating African voices.

Don't miss this transformative discussion on reshaping beauty standards and empowering African designers!

Learn more: https://fashionafricanow.com/ https://www.instagram.com/fashionafricanow

Watch now: https://www.blackfashionhistory.com or on YouTube!

Dive into the world of African fashion with Jacqueline Brown in this episode of the Black Fashion History Podcast! From her British-Jamaican roots to her pioneering role with Africa Fashion Guide, Jacqueline discusses the diversity in African fashion and shares her passion for textiles and sustainable fashion. Discover how she navigates ethical challenges, empowers artisans, and envisions Africa as a global leader in fashion sustainability.

Don't miss her insights on preserving traditional fabrics and the storytelling power of African fashion.

For more on Jacqueline Brown, visit https://www.jacquelineshaw.co.uk.

Join Taniqua Martin on the Black Fashion History Podcast for this enlightening conversation on https://www.blackfashionhistory.com , YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode, Taniqua Martin interviews Tosin Adeosun, the brilliant mind behind the African Style Archive! Discover Tosin's own style journey, her deep dive into African fashion history, and how she's preserving this rich cultural heritage. Learn about the pioneers of African fashion and the importance of documenting these vibrant stories.

For more on Tosin Adeosun and the African Style Archive: http://www.tosinadeosun.com & @africanstylearchive on Instagram.

Join the conversation on http://www.blackfashionhistory.com, YouTube, or your favorite streaming platform!

In this episode of the Black Fashion History, Taniqua Martin sits down with Ken Kweku Nimo, an author and expert in African fashion and material culture. From Ghana to South Africa, Ken shares his inspiring journey, discussing how his experiences have shaped his unique perspective on African fashion history.

Dive into the impact of colonization, the resurgence of indigenous practices, and the global potential of African fashion. Don't miss this enlightening conversation!

For more on Ken:

https://africainfashion.com/

https://www.instagram.com/kwekunimo/

Watch now on www.blackfashionhistory.com, YouTube, or your favorite platform!

In this special Black History Month episode, Taniqua speaks with Linda Ann Dixon about the legacy of her great grandmother Ann Lowe.

Dorothea Towles Church spent over five years in Europe during the 1950s, modeling for designers like Christian Dior, Elsa Schiaparelli, Robert Piguet, Jacques Fath, Pierre Balmain and more. As the first Black woman to model for major European fashion houses, Church used her gifts and access to help othe black women learn about the fashion industry and give back to her community. Taniqua dives into the career of Dorothea Church.

Black Fashion Spotlight:

Invisible Beauty Film

Episode Sources/Further Reading:

Blazing the Way One Runway Turn at a Time

Dorothea Church, 83; First Black Model to Work for French Designers

1950s Fashion Model | Dorothea Church

Church, Dorothea Towles (1922-2006)

Dorothea Towles: Christian Dior's Choice for the "New Look"

Follow us on IG: @blackfashionhistorypodcast @taniquarudell

https://www.blackfashionhistory.com

Donyale Luna is the first Black supermodel to appear on a Vogue magazine cover, yet not much is known about her as a barrier breaking model. Taniqua recaps the recent HBO documentary on the life of Donyale Luna.

Share you thoughts here.

Follow us on IG: @blackfashionhistorypodcast @taniquarudell

In 1966, Rosemary E. Reed-Miller followed her interest in fashion and opened Toast and Strawberries,a boutique overlooking Dupont Circle. When Toast and Strawberries opened, she was the only Black woman boutique owner in DC at the time. In this episode, Taniqua dives into her life and career in fashion.

Black Fashion Spotlight:

Project Runway Winner Bishme Cromartie's Debut NYFW Show Exuded Edgy Romance

Watch the full show here.

Episode Sources:

Black Dress TV Rosemary Reed Miller

The artist as entrepreneur / Rosemary E. Reed Miller ; interviewed by Elaine Heffernan.

Rosemary Reed Miller, Washington boutique owner, dies at 78

BUSINESS EXCHANGE: Late D.C. Entrepreneur Leaves Sterling Legacy

Audrey Weaver is a designer that creates hand-crafted artisan scarves and hats & accessories located in the New York City area.

Over the past years, she has received editorial credits for her designs in publications such as The New York Times, Essence Magazine, Glamour, and Women's Wear Daily as well as being featured in The Oprah Winfrey Show, CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story and more. In past years, the scarves have been sold in boutiques and departments stores across the country.

Taniqua speaks with Audrey Weaver about her career as a scarf designer, technical designer and tailor to the stars.