"
The Virtuoso himself speaks"
Dr.
Courtney A. Hammonds isn’t moving or growing. Everyone deserves to have a voice at the
is definitely not an apprentice when it comes to fashion. Not only does Dr. Hammond have a prowess for fashion, but his perspective on life, self love and integrity are just as polished. For those of you who may not have heard of him, Dr. Hammonds came from humble beginnings working his way through the ranks to gain the recognition that he now has as “Dean of Fashion.” His reputation precedes him; in class but of course.
A native of Columbus, GA, Hammonds has broadened his expertise on fashion through travel as well as hands- on training. Starting out in the classroom as a teacher, his career changed trajectory in 2002, serving as an advisory support with URUP. Transitioning, he went to work at Neiman Marcus, as an Assistant HR Manager, and ultimately plateaued to serve as Academic Dean of the Fashion Program at The Art Institute of Atlanta. During his tenure, he established the Fashion Design Curriculum for The Art Institute of Atlanta. His fashion and academic intellect provided him the opportunity to charter new academic programs including the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design (BFA). Hammond’s educational background includes a Doctorate in Business Administration from Argosy University, an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Mgmt., and a Bachelor’s in Education from Alabama State University. Not only is he jazzy and upscale, the Dr. is brilliantly astute. A Conversation with Fashion- From Idea to Conception How can we continue the progression of culture of expansion and evolution? When it comes to fashion, Dr. Hammonds has over 23 years of tailored experience in the fashion industry. “A lot of it has been organic growth and some of it has been forced growth. The conversation of fashion has really been infused in so many different genres; expanding from Miss Universe being caucasian and filipino. Who would’ve ever thought a transgender woman from Thailand would become the owner of the Miss Universe Pageant? Inclusion and acceptability are all those things that matter when having that conversation. Everybody matters. “I never want to be a part of an organization or organism that
table. Brown, black, white, gay, straight. When they have a voice at the table, it will translate into the brand that is being represented. Representation matters. Evolving, black, gray, brown and blue suits…..are no longer the trend. Fashion is a universal language. What is a power suit? A power suit is when you can walk in a room without having the “traditional eye gate,” and there’s no conversation or push back. Traditionally, it has been the norm that a suit and tie, or pumps and pantyhose, was the passport of acceptable fashion. Now, because fashion is an ever revolving door, and more so since the pandemic, you can look however you want to- but can you serve in the capacity that you’re required to serve in? (This reminded me of the cliché, you can’t judge a book by its cover). Oftentimes, society has the propensity to “size you up” because of your outward appearance without knowing your credentials. Hammonds used the analogy of playing spades; while giving credence to himself that he was the best spade player in the room. You only pull your “spade” when you need it. It applies to life as well. Hammonds went on to expound on the value of having organic conversations which equates to truth. He emphasized the depth of not sharing everything with everyone. For instance, posting on social media can be detrimental when it comes to salvaging and protecting our space. The narrative that displays on our timeline may not exemplify who we really are- or the brand that we represent. “Be and Do” Continue to be who you are and continue to do the work. Wearing the suit of comfortability is priceless. Admiring others’ creativity and their success is great. But ask yourself, “what are you going to do better and greater to leave as your legacy? What legacy are you going to create?” There’s no formula for success. There’s no time frame that’s going to be your “aha moment.” Misconception: You have to be careful when you say that you want to be just like this person or that person. Take the lessons learned as what to do and WWW.ATLPLUSMAGAZINE.COM
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