Fashion: A Good Heart

February is American Heart Month, and was first proclaimed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. But the truth is heart disease knows no borders and still kills more people every year than all forms of cancer combined. In the Mid-South, Heart Month is a time for friends and family to take action and raise awareness. Of course that means wearing red! But it also means taking healthy steps like knowing your numbers and family history, recognizing the signs and symptoms of both a heart attack and stroke, learning CPR, and making healthy foods and physical activity a priority.

Jackson Dawson has Tricuspid Atresia, Ventricular Septal Defect, Atrial Septal Defect, and Hypoplastic Right Ventricle. He has had six surgeries, the first being when he was only one day old. He is now five years old and attending pre-K. He is also a loving and devoted big brother to heart-healthy brother, Cooper. He is happy, healthy, and his smile says it all! When Peyton Peart was little more than a day old, her parents were told she had a heart murmur and Ventricular Septal Defect, a hole in the wall separating the two lower chambers of the heart. Later, it was also discovered that she has Left Ventricular NonCompaction Cardiomyopathy. As Peyton grows, her heart will also grow, and the hope is that her heart will continue to repair itself. She is an adoring big sister to Isabel, and is attending kindergarten. Peyton will turn six years old in March, and she is a beautiful inspiration!

Both outfits from Cotton Tails in Laurelwood

SUIT UP It's easy to fall in love with this headto-toe red hot look. Split front details make these suit pants sizzle. Pair with this bold heart printed blouse to add flair to this sophisticated suit. Suit, blouse, and necklace from Lori James Shoes, stylist’s own

Use hashtags #MemGoesRed, #WearRedDay and #WeGotThis to show off your red on social media!

ECLECTIC ELECTRICS This zesty color pallet is perfect to set you in the mood for the spring time. Adding sheen and sleekness, this lime green midi is the perfect piece to add to your wardrobe. Bright fuchsia and light-catching accessories add to the candy-colored playfulness of this ensemble. Sweater, skirt, long chain necklace and earrings from Reign Boutique Short chain necklace and clutch from Oak Hall

Historically, men have been the subjects of the research done to understand heart disease and stroke, which has been the basis for treatment guidelines and programs. This led to an oversimplified, distorted view of heart disease and risk, which has worked to the detriment of women.

RUBY RICHNESS A flowing rich ruby textured knit shift is perfect for a romantic Valentine's date night. It can easily be dressed up or down for a look that is effortless and chic. Dress, slip, and necklace from Kittie Kyle Shoes, stylist's own

Only 55 percent of women realize heart disease is their No. 1 killer and less than half know what are considered healthy levels for cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol.

BLUSHING FLORALS Patterned with tonal-pink and red blooms, this gown is perfect for a springtime soirée. Add a punch of color with this bold lucite orange clutch to top off this fun and whimsy party-ready attire. Dress, clutch, and earrings from Oak Hall Shoes, stylist’s own

Styled by Elise Rawlinson Photography by McKendree Walker Model Amy Michelle of Colors Agency Makeup by Bizzy Walker of Eden Spa Hair by Jonathan Watkins of Eden Spa

When Memphians “Go Red” they are taking charge of their own health, and inspiring the women in their lives to be their own advocate. #WeGotThis

SILK AND SATIN ELEG ANCE An elegant silhouetted black slip dress is made dramatic with a crimson satin shawl and layered glittering gold necklaces. Dress from Sorelle Boutique Wrap from Kittie Kyle Necklaces from Reign Boutique

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland has proclaimed February 7, 2020 as Wear Red Day in the city of Memphis.