Skirt magazine September Own Your Own Style

FREE SEPTEMBER | 2018

OWN YOUR OWN

Women’s Clothing | Accessories | Shoes

trés Carmen Boutique

Come visit our new location in Mount Pleasant 320 West Coleman Blvd Suite N Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843.388.5686

trés Carmen Boutique 1175 Folly Road, Suite B Charleston, SC 29412 843.974.4383

trés Carmen Kiawah 615 Freshfields Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 854.444.3035

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Shelley Hill Young shelley@skirt.com ART DIRECTOR Laura Staiano laura@skirt.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Beth Maheu beth@skirt.com INTEGRATED ACCOUNT MANAGER Susan Norfleet susan@skirt.com PHOTOGRAPHY Callie Cranford, Samantha Fuentes, Keely Laughlin, Nicole Mickle CONTRIBUTORS Kris De Welde, Holly Fisher, Livi Lesch, Kelsey Lorman, Helen Mitternight, Angie Mizzell, Allyson Sutton ADVERTISING sales: 843.958.0028 sales@skirt.com BUSINESS MANAGER Cassaundra Tebben cass@skirt.com DISTRIBUTION C&R Marketing Tina Tartaglia EDITORIAL AND SALES OFFICES P.O. Box 579, Charleston, South Carolina 29402 843.958.0028 sales@skirt.com skirt.com PRESIDENT, PUBLISHER Thomas J. Giovanniello, Jr. thomas@holycitypublishing.com

Skirt is published monthly and distributed free throughout the greater Charleston area. Subscriptions are available through www.skirt.com. Subscription rates are $19.95 for 12 issues. Back issues may be obtained by contacting the Skirt offices.

Back issues are $5.99. All contents of this magazine, including without limitation the design, advertisements, art, photos and editorial content as well as the selection, coordination and arrangement thereof, is Copyright© Holy City Publishing, LLC. All rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Postage paid at Charleston, S.C., and additional mailing offices. Skirt is a registered trademark of Holy City Publishing, LLC. Skirt and skirt.com are licensed under the authority of Morris Media Network. Printed in the United States.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 ISSN 2637-3815 (Print) ISSN 2637-3831(Online)

WE’RE ON SOCIAL MEDIA! Facebook.com/skirtCharleston Instagram.com/skirtCharleston Twitter.com/skirtCharleston

Visit skirt.com to sign up to receive the latest Skirt news and information.

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

skirt . | september 2018 3

4 

skirt . | august 2018

editor’s letter Dear Readers, For our fall fashion shoot, we partnered with stylist Andrea Serrano and did a casting call, asking you to tell us why you love and embrace your body, for the opportunity to be a model in our September Own Your Style issue. You told us you love your strong arms and legs because they helped you build a business, you love your curvy body because it delivered a child, you loved your toned body because you overcame an eating disorder when you were younger, and you love your body because it expresses what you’re feeling. We loved the inspiring answers we got so much that we included some of them in this issue (see page 22). And we put one of the photos of the four models we selected on our front cover. We love how it shows that when you confidently embrace your body and own your style, you look and feel strong and beautiful because, girl, you ARE strong and beautiful. Own it!

Special thanks to Jonny Sherwood at Color Studios and Mac McAbee for helping make the models look amazing and for the Wentworth Mansion of Charming Inns for hosting the photo shoot.

As summer comes to a close and we get back to our routines, our calendars are filling up with events supporting causes that empower women. We’re a sponsor of College of Charleston’s “Yes, I’m a Feminist” party Sept. 7, which kicks off the Year of Women at College of Charleston and supports the Women’s and Gender Studies Program. (Don’t miss program director Kris De Welde’s essay in this issue.)

We’re also a sponsor for the Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure, which this year is being held Sept. 22 at North Charleston Riverfront Park and helps support research for a cure for breast cancer. And we’re sponsoring the Lowcountry Heart Walk on Sept. 29, also at North Charleston Riverfront Park.

And to celebrate our September Own Your Style issue, we’re hosting a fashionable Girls’ Night Out with Tres Carmen from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 27 at the boutique’s new Mount Pleasant location at 320 W. Coleman Blvd. You’re invited, of course!

I hope our September Own Your Own Style issue inspires you to embrace your body and show off your style. We hope to see you at one of the events we’re sponsoring this month.

Sincerely, Shelley Hill Young

6

skirt . | september 2018

OPENING

DOORS AMANDA FAILEY

I

t was their mothers who ultimately inspired them to walk through the doors of the Trident Literacy Association to get their GEDs. And their children.

Amanda Failey and America Martinez each wanted to secure more opportunities than their mothers had, and they each wanted their children to have brighter futures.

Like many students who complete Trident Literacy Association’s programs, Amanda and America each overcame obstacles in order to walk across the stage last month and be recognized for earning their GEDs at the literacy association’s annual achievement ceremony.

month and be recognized for earning their GEDs at Trident Literacy Association’s annual achievement ceremony.

Amanda moved around a lot as a child and had a difficult relationship with her mother. There wasn’t much stability. By the time she was a sophomore in high school in Berkeley County, she thought she knew everything she needed to know. She didn’t return to finish high school and get her degree.

She didn’t tell her first husband that she didn’t graduate from high school. After the divorce, she was able to find a job as a receptionist at a private business that didn’t look into her background. She worked there for four years, getting promoted to accounts receivable.

She later remarried, moved to Charleston and got pregnant. When her youngest turned 4 and was ready for pre-K, she wanted to find a job that would provide a good income, more than min-

Amanda says she always tells her children, ‘Believe in yourself.’ Now, she believes it.

More than 80,000 adults in the tri-county area do not have high school credentials, according to estimates provided by the literacy association.

Trident works to reduce those numbers by offering GED-prep classes, English as second language classes, career readiness credentials that measure real-world skills, and computer literacy to about 1,000 students each year. The goal is to help adults reverse the cycle of generational poverty and illiteracy by teaching vital life skills. Students are asked to pay $5 a month and attend a minimum of 10 hours a week, but the fee is waived for those who cannot afford it. The classes are taught by a team of more than 200 volunteers. Trident Literacy Association has been recognized for five years in a row by the South Carolina Department of Adult Education for exceeding state standards by the South Carolina Department of Adult Education.

Like many students who complete Trident’s programs, Amanda and America each overcame obstacles in order to walk across the stage last

10

skirt . | september 2018

imum wage. Her mother had passed away three years earlier from an overdose. She didn’t have a job or life insurance. Amanda didn’t want to be in the same position as her mother. She wanted to be able to provide for herself, her three children and her step-daughter.

“It was a big wake-up call when my mom passed away,” Amanda says. “I didn’t want my kids to have to worry about that.”

She eventually told her secret to her husband, who encouraged her to get her GED, or general equivalency degree. But she kept her secret from her children, saying she felt if they ever knew that she didn’t get her degree, they would want to be like her and drop out of school. So she went to GED-prep classes after she dropped her youngest son off at day care and she studied for the test after the kids went to bed at night.

Amanda was determined to pass the series of four tests quickly. But three weeks into classes, she fell and broke her knee cap. She continued to walk

on her broken leg for three weeks, ignoring the pain. When she finally saw an orthopedist, she had to get a cast from her hip to her toes.

“All I thought was, ‘How am I going to get to school?’” she says.

But she did. She found a ride to and from class.

“I went to school no matter how much pain I was in,” she says.

She started taking classes at the Goose Creek location in August and had passed all the tests by November. When she received her diploma in the mail, “it was the best feeling in the world.” Now, she’s enrolled in Trident Technical College and AMERICA MARTINEZ

KEELY LAUGHLIN

Trident Literacy Foundation helps give two women and their families brighter futures By Shelley Hill Young

“How am I going to tell my kids, ‘You got to go to college’ and I didn’t do it?” America says. hopes to one day be a sign language interpreter.

And she told her children the truth. “I always tell them, ‘Believe in yourself.’” Now, she believes it.

America was 18 when she moved to the United States to live with her mother. She had graduated from high school in Mexico, and she was too old to enroll in high school in the United States. She says she pushed herself even though she couldn’t enroll in school. She learned to speak English by watching her favorite TV show, “Friends,” which she had watched in Mexico with Spanish subtitles. Now, she rewatched the episodes with English subtitles.

America started and stopped taking GED preparation classes several times and finally committed to completing the tests, in part because she wanted to help her children, ages 11 and 13, with their school work and encourage them to continue their educations.

“How am I going to tell my kids, ‘You got to go to college’ and I didn’t do it?” America says.

She also wanted her GED to make her own mother proud. She says her mother believes that “education is everything” and she has always been

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

disappointed that she couldn’t provide a complete education for her daughter. Last month, she visited Charleston to watch her daughter be recognized for earning her GED. And America wanted her GED because she doesn’t want to miss out on the opportunities that are available to her in this country. She is enrolled in the baking and pastry program at Trident Technical College. Her American dream, she says —smiling at the play on her name—is to open a bakery where people from other countries can find cakes that they miss from their homes. She’s known for her tres leches cake.

America has her green card and hopes that her GED might help her when she applies for citizenship.

“For a long time, I didn’t think of me. I was a mom. The future was blank,” she says. “Once you have a green card, you start dreaming. Oh, my gosh, you have the key. Let me open the door.”

She took the first steps through that door and across a stage last month.

To volunteer or make a donation, visit tridentlit.org.

skirt . | september 2018 11

LOOK FOR THE HEALERS

By Shelley Hil Young

New Dee Norton Advocacy Center expands ability to help children heal from abuse

12

skirt . | september 2018

ter’s capacity so it can serve up to 2,000 children next year and as many as 3,500 annually. Last year, the center helped 1,808 children in Berkeley and Charleston counties.

“With the proper support, children can, and

HOW TO TALK WITH YOUR KIDS ABOUT CHILD ABUSE

do, heal from the effects of abuse,” Carole says.

“This expansion will ensure that children in the Lowcountry will be able to heal for years to come.”

In Charleston County, an estimated 4,154 children are sexually or physically abused every year,

WHAT’S PRIVATE Use correct names for body parts and teach which parts are private.

SET BOUNDARIES Teach chilldren they have a right to say, “No,” when they don’t want to be touched.

SAY ‘NO’ Tell children to say “no,” go to a safe place and tell a trusted adult if something happens that makes them feel uncomfortable.

DON’T KEEP SECRETS Teach your children they should never keep secrets from you and should always tell you if something happens that makes them uncomfortable.

START EARLY Begin these conversations with children at a very young age.

TALK OPENLY Encourage open communication with your child.

BUILDING AND INTERIOR: SEA STAR ARTS

W

hen a child walks into the new Dee Norton Advocacy Center in Mount Pleasant, he or she will be given a colorful bird to add to a mural of a tree painted on the wall in the lobby.

“The idea is for them to know they are not alone,” says executive director Carole Swiecicki, as she leads a tour of the facility one week before her staff is scheduled to move in. “I just can’t wait to see them full of birds.”

The Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center works to prevent abuse, protect children and heal families. The new building is bright with children’s books in the lobby, and artwork – painted by staff with the help of artists at Redux Contemporary Art Center – hanging in the three interview rooms. There’s a room with a two-way mirror designed for parent-child interaction therapy, and purple, green and blue painted ceiling panels to help direct children to specific areas.

Now that the Long Point Road facility is open, Dee Norton leaders will begin renovating and expanding the existing King Street facility, which is expected to be complete by spring 2019.

The $5 million capital campaign launched in May 2017 is designed to expand the advocacy cen-

‘With the proper support, children can, and do, heal from the effects of abuse,’ Carole says. ‘This expansion will ensure that children in the Lowcountry will be able to heal for years to come.’

according to research by the child advocacy center. In Berkeley County, an additional 1,740 children are abused each year.

Dee Norton leaders identified the need to build a new facility in Mount Pleasant after the research found that the advocacy center has been serving only 36 percent of the estimated children who need help in Mount Pleasant and areas east of the Cooper and 21 percent of the estimated children in Daniel Island and Cainhoy. Research found that some people weren’t aware the services were available to them and others didn’t want to travel to downtown Charleston.

Most children are referred to Dee Norton from a law enforcement agency or the Department of Social Services because of suspected physical

abuse or sexual abuse. Unlike some other child advocacy centers, Dee Norton also accepts referrals from family members and caregivers.

Almost half of the children who are referred are between the ages of 7 and 12.

Dee Norton is the only place in Charleston County that offers a non-leading forensic interview. The goal of the interview is to determine what, if anything, happened. The interviews are conducted by specifically trained therapists, are recorded and can be used as evidence in court.

After the forensic interview, Dee Norton offers medical exams on-site, if needed, through a partnership with the Medical University of South Carolina Child Abuse Pediatrics. Dee Norton staff also provide mental health services to help healing and recovery.

The services Dee Norton provides are at no cost to families because they are paid for through grants and donations.

Carole encourages parents to talk with their children to help prevent abuse. She says when children go back to school is a good time to help them re-establish boundaries. She recommends parents talk to their children about where their private parts are (bathtime is a good time for this conversation) and remind them that no one is allowed to touch them. She also encourages parents to tell their children that they can talk to them about anything and should not keep secrets from their parents.

Abuse can happen even under the most watch-

ful and protective eyes, Carole says.

“The best thing for parents to know is that they can call us. Children can heal. We see them heal every day. Kids who come to us are the ones who move past it.”

You can volunteer with the Dee Norton Advocacy Center as a greeter in the lobby (requires a background check) or to be a member of a planning committee for fundraising events. There are also volunteer opportunities for done-in-a-day projects, such as landscaping and cleaning. Email info@deenortoncenter.org or visit deenortoncenter.org for more information

SAVE THE DATE 2018 Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center Annual Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Oct. 5 Charleston Marriott 170 Lockwood Drive Cleveland kidnapping survivor Michelle Knight will be the speaker at the annual luncheon. Michelle will share details of her experience, survival and healing process.

She imparts vital lessons for other survivors, including invaluable takeaways for those who work with victims of trauma and abuse.

TREE MURAL WELCOMES CHILDREN

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

skirt . | september 2018 13

forward!

EXPLORING CONTRADICTIONS

M

y phone buzzes with an alert as I drink my morning coffee: another sexual harassment scandal involving a prominent journalist; he denies the multiple allegations. On my way to work I hear a story about record numbers of progressive women running for political office in this year’s midterm elections; many are expected to win. A student drops by my office unexpectedly to tell me about her and her friend’s “scary” run-in with the police over the weekend (she is black, so is he).

A student from years ago sends me an email to tell me that she successfully negotiated a considerable pay raise in her job; she thanks me for hosting salary negotiation workshops. I get a phone call from a colleague about a new study documenting the relentless and terrifying online bullying women academics are experiencing if they speak out on injustice; she is one of them.

We are living in a time of extraordinary contradictions. Women* are making progress, but the

‘ I welcome you, Skirt readers, into this vibrant conversation that promises to both meet you where you are and challenge you to experience the delightful discomfort of personal growth.’ progress is unequal and uneven. And alongside this progress are considerable challenges.

In the field of Women’s and Gender Studies, where I am fortunate to have carved out a rewarding career, we grapple with these kinds of issues, in all of their glorious complexities.

While Women’s and Gender Studies academic programs and courses do not solely focus on women—men/masculinity, sexuality, and trans-focused courses are common—it is one space where you can be sure that women’s roles

14

skirt . | september 2018

and experiences are central in the exploration of history, the economy, war, politics, health care, religion and many more areas.

These cross-disciplinary academic programs centralize the study of gender, which includes a multiplicity of categories, including women.

They explore relationships between gender and race, sexuality, social class, religion, physical ability, nationality and so on.

Student-scholars of gender—in addition to developing skills in highest demand from employers—bring unique abilities to see things from multiple perspectives, complex understanding of problems, and positive impacts to their workplaces and communities. They cultivate an openness to learning, to embracing differences and to engaging as change agents for equity and justice.

And we need change. Many of our most serious challenges are caused by or are consequences of injustice—climate change, enduring poverty, rampant violence, racial injustice, immigration, housing discrimination, lack of universal access to quality education and health care. None of these will be eradicated without centering women and girls.

There is no national or transnational problem we can conjure that does not have deep (or deeper) implications for women and girls. Decades of research show that when gender equity is in clear view of any problem-solving initiative, other related challenges become more manageable. For example, when women experience economic independence, families, communities, often entire economies, benefit from their gain.

This work, this focus, this way of looking at the world is “feminist.” It is a feminism that is inclusive, a feminism that interrupts injustice and inequality, a feminism that benefits everyone. It is the kind of feminism that I practice as a Hispanic woman, first in my family to go to college, whose mother carved a career out of thin air (twice) and whose father died from the homophobia that raged during the 1990s AIDS crisis. It’s also the feminism I practice as a whiteskinned, heterosexual, educated woman pushing 50 (my gray hair affords me some respect). Oh, those contradictions!

Whether the label “feminist” is claimed or not, I see feminism everywhere. I see feminism

when women believe other women’s accounts of harassment or assault, without questions that place responsibility on her. I see feminism when men challenge other men who make homophobic comments. I see feminism when those of us who benefit from the exploitation of others because of race, physical ability, citizen status, etc. fight alongside them for justice and fairness and dignity.

As a professor of Women’s and Gender Studies, I see feminism in how many students invest their time and where they seek employment.

One of our students helped pen the resolution approved by the city of Charleston this February, signing us on to the United Nations’ Cities for CEDAW - the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and Girls.

A recent graduate of the Women’s and Gender Studies program was hired by our local People Against Rape to provide bilingual support and resources to our highly marginalized, primarily Spanish-speaking communities.

And increasingly, young people are less reluctant to say, “Yes, I’m a feminist.”

In fact, at the College of Charleston we celebrate feminists and feminism every year with the annual (aptly titled) Yes! I’m a Feminist event.

And you – yes you! – are invited to our party (see Skirt’s event calendar for details).

This year’s celebration kicks off the Year of Women at the College of Charleston (2018-2019),

REESE MOORE

By Kris De Welde

forward!

‘...when women experience economic independence, families, communities, often entire economies, benefit from their gain.’ which commemorates 100 years since the admission of white women to the college in 1918. The college was founded in 1770. You are right to notice the sizable gap there. You might also want to know that black women and men were not admitted until 1967, another significant gap.

The Women’s and Gender Studies program at the college will explore these milestones, and other current topics, complete with their contradictions and complexities. Why are women still paid less for the same work as men even though we’ve closed the education and skills gap (and why are Latina and black women paid even less than white women)? While #MeToo has shaken multiple industries to their core with women reporting harassment and assault, why do only 20 percent of college-age victims of sexual violence report to the police? Why do we continue to criticize wom-

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

en political candidates on their fashion and family choices? What do we do when the celebrations of successes for “women” are primarily about celebrating white women?

We will celebrate (because feminists are not killjoys), but we will also discuss. I welcome you, Skirt readers, into this vibrant conversation that promises to both meet you where you are and challenge you to experience the delightful discomfort of personal growth.

I invite you to visit this column again in upcoming issues of the magazine. This will be a site where we will explore questions I’ve mentioned, and many more, from diverse perspectives within the study and lived experience of women and gender.

We’ll explore some of the contradictions inherent in today’s world and contemplate for-

ward-thinking solutions—because forward is the only option. As my mother says to me nearly every day whether I stumble or succeed, “Forward, mi hija [my daughter]. Forward!”

(Women* = any and all feminine-identified people) Kris De Welde, Ph.D., is Director of Women’s and Gender Studies and Professor of Women’s and Gender Studies and Sociology at the College of Charleston. She specializes in the study of intersectional inequalities and feminist leadership in higher education, reproductive justice and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. De Welde was awarded the 2016-2017 Sociologists for Women in Society Feminist Activism Award for her sustained commitments to social justice within and beyond the academy. As a recent transplant from Florida, she is happily making her way through the Charleston food scene. She also enjoys cycling, yoga, the beer her husband makes, and her ridiculous cats.

De Welde’s views are her own and not necessarily representative of the College of Charleston or the WGS program

skirt . | september 2018 15

The

Camila Craft

Roksanda dress, Hampden, $2,305; Alexis Bittar earrings, Gwynn’s, $275; Brian Atwood heels, Sarah Pumps, Ro Sham Beaux, $225

16

skirt . | september 2018

Romantics

Floral prints, jewel tones, and lace and ruffle accents get you in the mood for fall—and for romance. Feminine yet bold.

Photographed by Nicole Mickle Styled by Andrea Serrano Hair by Mac McAbee of Coven Haircraft Makeup by Jonny Sherwood of Colur Studios Stylist intern Kara Wells Shot on location at Wentworth Mansion of Charming Inns

Bringing Her A-Game

EMERGING DESIGNER AYSHA ROBINSON IS ONE TO WATCH By Kelsey Lorman

24

skirt . | august 2018

AQUILA CHISOLM

F

rom the time Aysha Robinson was in high school in Charleston, she was complimented on her clothing and styling abilities.

“Styling is what got me into fashion from the beginning,” Aysha says. “I would spend a lot of time in my closet and put a lot of thought into my outfits, and I never knew if that was normal!”

Now, after 10 years of exploring various roles in the fashion industry in New York and L.A., Aysha has returned to Charleston and turned that innate sense of style into a successful fashion career with her Aylyst and upcoming Aysha louise brands.

“It just feels natural to me,” Aysha says.

Though her ultimate career goal was to launch a self-designed brand, Aysha knew the importance of gaining the knowledge and experience to propel her fashion career forward. After graduating with a bachelor’s of fine arts in fashion design from Savannah College of Art and Design, Aysha set her sights on the big city for that essential experience. “I knew I needed to go to the fashion capital,” she says.

She landed an internship at Jill Stuart in New York, where she quickly jumped into whatever the role required of her. “I was there just doing the run-of-the-mill work, running errands, sorting buttons and fabric, sketching, anything and everything that was called upon.”

But Aysha was eager to find paid work that was more design-focused. A fashion connection through a startup brand led her to a position at Ralph Lauren’s flagship location (one that, without a doubt, would have been Carrie Bradshaw-approved), where she worked as an assistant to the head stylist and salesperson. “He was the No. 1 salesperson in women’s clothing at the Ralph Lauren store,” Aysha says. “He brought in a lot of high-profile clients, and I was styling and would pull looks for them before they would come in and shop.” Aysha says the experience taught her about the importance of building relationships and rapport with clients.

After her two years styling with Ralph Lauren, Aysha still had a hunger for design. “It was always my calling to have my own business, be my own boss and have my own brand,” Aysha says. “I was feeling it was time for a shift, and I feel like I had finished my stint in New York.”

Aysha drove across the country from the concrete jungle to the Hollywood Hills, where she worked for seven years in many different capacities

CENTER: NIHAR PATEL

‘I want to put out pieces that are transitional, day-to-night and season-to-season; I don’t want to put limitations on clothing.’

with several companies. “I worked my way up in design; I worked at BCBG as a technical designer, which explores the engineering of clothing, the construction and fit of garments,” Aysha says. She worked with BCBG’s runway line and casual line and did a fitting for Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas. She enjoyed delving into the technical side of the industry and knew this season of her journey would make her a well-rounded designer.

She gained experience working in a creative fashion role at Perry Ellis and also worked with Target brands like Mossimo and Xhilaration.

In 2016, Aysha felt called back to Charleston to bet on herself and her hard-earned experience. “I’d been away from family, and there were personal reasons calling me here,” Aysha says. “I thought, ‘Maybe it’s time to take that leap of faith and focus on my own clothing brand; I have the tools, the skills, the education and the talent under my belt and now it’s time to put it to use.’”

She launched her curated collection, Aylyst, which includes pieces Aysha has meticulously chosen to offer through her online boutique. These selected pieces represent the effortless, transitional, versatile styles for every woman that Aylyst aims to provide. She sells the Aylist collection through online sales and local pop-up shop events such as Crafty Bastards. This collection is accessible with prices ranging at about $100 per piece. “I’ve always liked one-piece dressing, long and short dresses,” Aysha says.

Not only is Aysha busy carefully curating this collection, she also is working on the launch of her own clothing line, Aysha louise, which she plans to design and manufacture herself. “The vibe is very resort, with bold colors and versatile transitional pieces,” she says.

While the resort-wear vibe may have been instilled through Aysha’s Charleston roots, it is clear Aysha is designing for the on-the-go woman who wants to feel luxurious and chic.

“With all that goes on in our lives, we just want whatever is easy,” Aysha says. “I want to provide fabrics and styles that you can just throw on or throw in a bag, that are travel-friendly, that you don’t have to worry about ironing.”

Next year, Aysha intends to launch the Aysha louise resort collection to stores. “I want to put out pieces that are transitional, day-to-night and season-to-season; I don’t want to put limitations on clothing,” Aysha says. “The

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

keyword is ‘effortless,’ while looking very polished and stylish.”

While offering the curated pieces from her Aylyst catalog at her popup events, Aysha has been incorporating some of her self-designed pieces from the upcoming Aysha louise collection. “Last fall I did denim capes and sweater dresses, which sold out at the pop-up events,” Aysha says. “I get direct consumer interactions, and get a sense of what people are liking, which has given me great insight for Aysha louise.”

She eventually hopes to launch an Aysha louise swim line, making it a full lifestyle offering.

Aysha sees herself giving back to an industry that she has worked hard to be a part of. “I really want to help the up-and-coming emerging designers,” Aysha says. “I’d eventually love to be in a position to have my own manufacturing plant that could potentially be in South Carolina to help others along the way with training, execution and more. I hope to make their way of becoming the designer they want to be easier because of what I’ve experienced.”

Launching her collection is nowhere near the end game that Aysha sees in her mind. Her dreams are just as bold as the colors she selects for her designs, and as she’ll tell you herself, “I’m still spreading my wings.”

Visit aylyst.com or follow @theaylyst on Instagram for Aysha’s effortless style.

skirt . | september 2018 25

essay

Nothing to Wear?

By Angie Mizzell

How a stylist taught me to define my own style Until a couple of years ago, I didn’t know how to shop for clothes. I’d look inside my closet and see clothes hanging on the rack, but I rarely felt great wearing any of them and often declared, “I have nothing to wear!”

S

ometimes, in a fit of frustration, I’d make a hurried and desperate trip to the mall. I almost always spent money on something that didn’t match my style, fit well or beg to be worn again.

I reached a breaking point while packing for a family trip. It was springtime but still chilly outside. My clothes for cooler weather looked too wintery. “Dress in layers,” everyone says. I didn’t know how to do layers. I also didn’t own a single pair of cute, walk-around-all-day kind of shoes.

So I ran inside a shoe store on the way out of town while my family waited in the car. I bought a pair and ended up with blisters.

Not long after that, I reached out to Megan Brandle, a personal style coach, and asked for help.

I’d wanted to work with Megan for a while but kept putting it off, because hiring a stylist felt like a luxury I couldn’t afford. But, after shopping with Megan twice in one year — once in the spring and again in the fall — I’ve curated a minimal yet functional closet that matches my personality, my budget and my lifestyle. The process taught me so

much and has already proved to save time, money and energy in the long run.

The key to looking and feeling good is not about chasing trends, which can be tricky when looking to Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration. This is why understanding your own personal style is so important. Today, I follow several fashion bloggers online and often buy outfits they recommend. When the clothes arrive, I try everything on right away. If it doesn’t feel like an absolute yes, I put it back in the box and return it.

“Nothing makes you look outdated or too young faster than items that don’t fit your body well,” Megan says. “You have to invest in some quality items to mix with less expensive items.

This takes your style to the next level and becomes your signature look.”

Angie Mizzell is a contributing writer for Skirt.

She’s also the co-founder of Charleston Storytellers, which directs and produces the “Listen To Your Mother” show. A former television news anchor and now a mom of three, Angie writes a personal blog about creating a life that feels like home.

Connect with her at angiemizzell.com.

HERE’S WHAT I LEARNED:

SHANNA PETRY

Before you shop, determine your style. I started by searching Pinterest. I created a “yes” board, picked celebrities I love (Jennifer Aniston was one) and pinned images that caught my eye. I also created a secret “no” board. This helped me finetune my preferences.

Take a look at the big picture. Your wardrobe should match your lifestyle, so assess how you spend your time. What types of clothes—and how much —do you need for each occasion?

I work from home and go to the

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

gym several times a week, and I used to shame myself for wearing workout clothes all day. Megan taught me that I could! The trick was finding cute layering pieces to toss on when I leave the gym.

The difference is, I no longer hide out in athletic wear and avoid going places. Now, whether it’s a casual or dressed-up setting, getting dressed is easy because I have what I need.

Edit your closet. An item should match your style, fit well and be in good condition. In other words, if you don’t love it,

let it go. Tip: You may need to keep certain things until you can replace them or you might find yourself walking around with no pants.

Take an inventory. Now, it’s time to shop! On our first shopping trip, Megan and I went to Tanger Outlets. The second time, we shopped along King Street.

Before I bought anything, she made a list of the essential pieces that I needed and she stuck to it.

Finally, a word on dressing for your age: During our King

Street shopping trip, Megan introduced me to Madewell’s highrise skinny jeans. This felt like opposing goals; a cross between mom jeans and teenager jeans.

I was surprised when I slid them on and realized they were neither. They looked great and they fit!

Megan says, “Madewell has a thicker jean with not as much stretch in them and it gives a clean, tailored look.” Thin, super-stretchy jeans that cut the stomach and hips are less flattering, she adds. Ann Taylor’s jeans can work well, too.

skirt . | september 2018 27

men

SAMANTHA FUENTES

T

hat mix of calm and confidence during the storm comes from more than 30 years in the Air Force active duty and reserves, where Tom Crawford served in Thailand during the Vietnam War and Desert Storm. And from more than 20 years as chief meteorologist with WCIV ABC News 4. And 10 years of serving as a benefit auctioneer specialist, raising millions of dollars for nonprofits across South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia.

He says he’s survived numerous Scud missile attacks as a crew member and loadmaster in the Air Force in Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm.

“If you’re in a war zone,” he says, “either you’re going to go back and you’re going to be OK, or you’re not going to know the difference.”

When Tom returned from Desert Storm in 1991, he began working as a meteorologist on the News 4 morning show from 6:30 to 7 a.m., while also holding down his full-time job working in the nuclear department at the Charleston Naval Shipyard.

“I would take off my coat and tie and go to the shipyard and put on the coveralls and hard hat,” he says, as the “Lowcountry Live” host sits on the morning show set wearing a tux jacket and long black-andwhite-striped skirt.

Then, he started working weekends at the TV station and says he worked for a year and a half without a day off.

On the same day Tom received notice that the shipyard was closing in 1994, the TV station’s then-general manager offered him a full-time job and agreed to pay for him to get his meteorology degree online through Mississippi State.

Tom has covered hurricanes and snowstorms, but what he remembers best are the live on-location shots, like the one in Marion Square when a baby elephant ran its trunk between his legs (OK, maybe he was rattled then.).

You have to keep your calm when covering a possible storm, while also communicating the need to prepare for the worst, Tom says.

“The viewer has a gut feeling that it’s going to be OK,” he says. “The meteorologist has a gut feeling that it’s not going to be OK.” Tom retired from the Air Force reserves in 2008 and has been hosting the popular “Lowcountry Live” morning show with Erin Kienzle since 2014, where he’s inter-

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

viewed Willie Nelson and Betty White— and come face to face with a 7-foot bear.

During the segment promoting the Southeastern Wildlife Expo, the bear’s handler told Tom to put an apple in his mouth. The bear stood up and swatted it down to the ground. Tom asked how many times the bear had performed that trick before. “That’s the first time,” replied the handler.

Tom says the show is popular because “when you see us on air, we are having fun.”

An an auctioneer, Tom once dropped to his knee and sang, “I only want to be with you for $12,000” to Darius Rucker. It was all in his effort to sell a six-course dinner for 12 with the James Beard Foundation at The Cedar Room. Darius declined, but the winning bid was $32,000, the highest bid Tom has ever received for a dinner.

“You always have fun with the crowd, you entertain them...and you never em-

barrass anybody,” Tom says. “It’s just so much fun.”

Fewer than one percent of auctioneers across the country carry the special benefit auctioneer specialist certification that Tom earned. He can tell you what time the first item should be auctioned, who should speak just before and the number of audio speakers you should have around the room for optimum bidding.

“When the doors open, I’m the only guy who can make money,” he says.

Tom works out for about an hour and a half every morning before reporting to the station at 8 a.m. for “Lowcountry Live.” He’s done by lunch and often meets with potential auction clients.

He does about 45 auctions a year. He enjoys traveling and spending time with his four children and four grandchildren.

Tom hopes to work at least five more years.

“I’m really fortunate and very blessed to be in the position I’m in,” he says.

skirt . | september 2018 29

table

NEWS MEX 1 COASTAL CANTINA

Parisian-style wine bar Josephine has opened at 64 Spring St. downtown. Expect wine and wine-friendly food.

Brooks Reitz, the guy who brought you Leon’s Oyster Shop and Little Jack’s Tavern, is teaming up with chef John Amato to open Melfi’s, 721 King St., featuring thin-crust pizzas, pastas and American wines.

Lee Lee’s Hot Kitchen, the late lamented Asian hot spot, has given way to Semilla at 218 President St. The former food truck features Mexican street food.

OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS

LEFT TO RIGHT: KRISTINA LOUGHREY. CRIS MILLER

Boxcar Betty’s, where you CAN get things other than the pimento cheese chicken sandwich, but why, has opened a new outpost on Rivers Avenue in North Charleston.

Primo Hoagies—already beloved in Philadelphia—is scheduled to open in Mount Pleasant this month.

Poke Tea House has opened a Mount Pleasant location on Coleman Boulevard to join its Charleston location.

Fractured Prune, the doughnut shop with the funny name from the mid-Atlantic, moves south with a shop in Mount Pleasant this month.

Get your biscuit fix at the newly opened Maple Street Biscuit Company on James Island at 1739 Maybank Highway.

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

The folks who own the iconic Fleet Landing, Tradd and Weesie Newton, are opening Tradd’s at 167 East Bay to offer “casually elegant” food, an event space and classic American food.

Et Tu, Tu? If you’re already confused about where to get your cup of caffeine, Tu Restaurant adds to the mix with Tu Café until 3 p.m. Monday to Saturday at the restaurant site. In addition to coffee and tea, you can expect some breakfast or lunch options like Hong Kong bubble waffles.

Joining the coffee rush is the newly opened Community Perk Coffee House at Belmond Charleston Place. The Charleston take on a Parisian bistro will offer light fare, including avocado toast. While you sip your java, enjoy the 75-foot mural by local artist Karl B. Smith.

Entitled, “While I Breathe, I Hope,” the mural depicts nearly 60 different Lowcountry icons and landmarks.

Edmund’s Oast on Morrison Drive has opened a private dining space called The Library for up to 40 people. The Library, connected to Edmund’s Oast Exchange, is meant for special occasions and ticketed classes.

Mex 1 Coastal Cantina is opening in Mount Pleasant at the end of September. The laid-back margarita and Baja-inspired food joint opens at 1109 Park West Blvd.

EVENTS

The Charleston chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier, an international group of women in the food, beverage and hospitality industries, awards scholarships to up-and-coming femalesin the industry—nearly $30,000 in the past two years. They also throw a heck of a party, and this year, they are holding a Family Farm Fest on Oct. 7 on Johns Island. Joseph Fields is hosting the event at his farm. It will benefit Earth Heart Growers (see August’s Skirt) and will feature music, children’s entertainment, including a jump castle, face painting, and Earth Heart Growers activities, a silent auction and, of course, food. Filled picnic baskets are available for purchase, as is festival food such as hot dogs and hamburgers. There will be adult beverages for grown-ups.

Sometimes you just want to cook at home. Might as well use the brand a lot of chefs swear by: Le Creuset. Their

factory sale returns Sept. 27-30 at the Charleston Area Convention Center.

CHEF MOVES

Without Sean Brock, who will we be? Charleston is getting used to life post-Sean after the internationally known chef announced he’s leaving McCrady’s, Minero and McCrady’s Tavern to spend more time in Nashville. He’s still affiliated with Husk, though, so we might see his tattooed biceps around town on occasion.

Another shocker move, chef de cuisine Carlton “Vandy” Vanderwarker has left The Ordinary.

MENU CHANGES

The Establishment, 28 Broad St., is offering brunch. Menu items include fresh cheese with honey, oak crumble and peach; potato Rosti with duck confit and sweet onion; and poached eggs with hoe cake, Cracklin and hollandaise.

Burnt and Salty is introducing its fifth product: Spicy Pickled Peppers, hard to say even before the spicy product hits your tongue! The local company pickles banana and jalapeño peppers in its Spicy Coconut Suka. You can get Pickled Peppers at burntandsalty.com, Blackbird Market on Johns Island, House of Brews in Mount Pleasant or Veggie Bin downtown.

skirt . | september 2018 31

wellness

Feeling Good is Always In Style Summer is winding down and the children are back in school. It’s time to get back into your routine. Don’t forget to schedule time for some exercise and self-care.

This month, there are lots of opportunities to give back to causes you support so you can help others while you help yourself. Doing good and feeling good are always in style.

BARRE ON THE BRIDGE

TUESDAYS

SEPT. 8

SEPT. 16

Empowerment Workshops with Lorraine Pursell 9.04 How to Never, Ever, Ever Give Up, 9.11 Falling in Love with You is the Key, 9.18 How to have a Bad-Ass Life 9.25 How to Show Up 100 percent for Yourself Every Day 7 to 8:30 pm, Bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Drive blissspiritualco-op.org

Basics Workshop: An Introduction to Yoga 2 to 4 p.m., Soul Yoga + Wellness, 1836 Ashley River Road $50 soulcharleston.com.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort Triathlon 7:30 a.m.,Kiawah Island Golf Resort, 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive kiawahresort.com

Barre on the Bridge Hosted by Raising the Barre 9 to 10 a.m., Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge $10 raisingthebarrecharleston.com

THURSDAYS

SEPT. 13

Thursday Nite Beer Ride 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Ride Bikes, 1055 Saint Andrews Blvd., ridebikes.net

Starlight Yoga 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Mount Pleasant Pier, 71 Harry Hallman Jr. Blvd. $8 ccprc.com

Susan G. Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure Raising money to help prevent and cure breast cancer 8:30 a.m., North Charleston Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Ave. komensouthcarolina.org

SEPT. 4 Yoga Returns to Tradesman Hosted by Bendy Brewski Yoga 6 p.m., Tradesman Brewing Company, 1647 King St. Ext. $15

SEPT. 14

SEPT. 7

SEPT. 15

Mindful Mornings This month’s theme is sustainability.

8 to 9 a.m. Grassroots Gymnastics, 2220 Old School Drive, North Charleston

The Mini Retreat Fall Self-Care Brunch 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 1 Broad St. $99 theminiretreat.com

Dance to SAVE Zumbathon for suicide awareness 6 p.m. Gold’s Gym, 1291 Folly Road $20

SEPT. 22

SEPT. 23 Paddle Board Yoga 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Trophy Lakes, Johns Island, 3050 Marlin Road $30 yolohayogafactory.com

SEPT. 29 Lowcountry Heart Walk Benefits the American Heart Association 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., 174 E Bay St. www2.heart.org

Teal Diva Lowcountry 5k Raising awareness of ovarian and gynecologic cancers 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Wannamaker County Park tealdivanc.org NEDA Walk Raising awareness of eating disorders 9 to 11 a.m., Smythe Park, 2364 Daniel Island Drive nedawalk.org/charleston2018

SEPT. 30 PADDLEBOARD YOGA

34

skirt . | september 2018

Sunday Sweat with Exemplar Fitness 8 to 10 a.m., Basic Kitchen, 82 Wentworth St. basickitchen.com

TOP TO BOTTOM: JESSICA GREGORIE , SEA ISLAND MEDIA

A21 Heart for Freedom 5k Helping fight human trafficking 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Summerville Catholic High School, 226 Black Oak Blvd. a21.org

community

Caring for the Aging

By Helen Mitternight

Someone had called the police. An elderly woman was wandering around the neighborhood and the caller was concerned about neglect or abuse. The police department’s senior citizen victims advocate called Jamie Roper of the Mayor’s Office on Aging, and, together, they went to the scene.

At the woman’s home, her husband, a man in his 80s, was at wit’s end. He thought his wife had dementia and he wasn’t strong enough to restrain her, nor could he watch her all of the time.

Jamie called Trident Area Agency on Aging and the nonprofit’s dementia specialist was able to get the woman medical help, as well as arrange for a respite grant so the husband could have someone give him much-needed relief to run errands or just take time for himself.

“They are a godsend to me because a lot of times, seniors just don’t know where to turn,” Jamie says. “The good thing about them is that none of it is income-based, so they serve any senior, and they are so flexible in their ability to work with people.”

TAAA, known before 2005 as ElderLink, is a nonprofit serving seniors, adults with disabilities and family caregivers in Berkeley, Dorchester and Charleston counties.

TAAA offers or contracts for services including information and referral; assistance in filling out forms such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or other assistance services; long-term care ombudsmanship; insurance counseling; and family caregiver support and respite care. They even offer minigrants for respite care and supplies such as nutritional drinks or incontinence products.

“For the insurance, we don’t sell insurance, but we can work with them to find the program that fits them the best, including Medicare and Medicaid.

For the ombudsman program, we use people who are trained and have background checks to look into and settle complaints in licensed long-term care facilities,” says Stephanie Blunt, TAAA’s executive director. “And, last year, we gave over

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

700 respite grants for families where maybe you have a senior taking care of a spouse, or children taking care of aging parents. The respite grants give them the chance to go to the grocery, or go to the doctor, or even take a nap if that’s what they need. “We’re a one-stop shop for aging and disability services.”

Stephanie was almost raised to do this job.

Her mother was a senior services provider in Dorchester County, and later worked at a center that served those with disabilities. Stephanie was recruited to help out at health fairs and holiday parties and volunteered during summers at the center. She started at TAAA in 1995, left for similar work in Berkeley County, and then returned to TAAA in 2000. By 2002, she was named executive director.

Last fiscal year, TAAA helped more than 2,500 people with family caregiver support and provided 527 respite grants, helped almost 570 people with information and referrals, and looked into almost 3,000 complaints against long-term care facilities.

For Stephanie, being on the spot for people in need is what it’s all about. She recalls a woman who came to TAAA during the holidays a few years ago. The woman was caring for her father, who had Alzheimer’s, and her husband had just died in an automobile accident.

“She was the primary caregiver and she had to plan a funeral,” Stephanie recalls. “You could just see the stress and worry and shock, and we were able to provide her an emergency respite grant so her father could be at a safe place while she worked through that difficult time. To me, that’s what it’s all about. Being here when people need you, not when it’s convenient for the organization but when people need you.”

‘ To me, that’s what it’s all about.

Being here when people need you, not when it’s convenient for the organization but when people need you.’

skirt . | september 2018 35

SAVED FOR A PURPOSE

I

t was in the dead of the night when Pauline Meyer’s heart stopped beating. Out of pure luck her husband, Travis Meyer, woke from his sleep, swept an arm over her and felt how stiff her body had become. When Travis

pure adrenaline,” Hayley recalls. “At that point, instincts kicked in, and it wasn’t until EMS had arrived that we were able to step back and process what happened.”

After a five-day coma, Pauline woke up at MUSC, to her husband’s blurred face. She had no recollection of the attack and events from weeks before.

The doctors were unsure as to why Pauline had a heart attack.

She did not have any pre-existing heart conditions.

Pauline was 46 at the time. She says she had no clue that having a heart attack at such a seemingly young age is not uncommon for women. According to the Women’s Heart Foundation, 8 million women in the United States live with heart disease; 35,000 are under age 65.

The day after she regained consciousness, Pauline underwent a procedure to implant a cardioverter defibrillator, which monitors her heart rhythm, in her chest. After being in the hospital for nine days in November 2016, Pauline went home feeling confused and depressed. She

‘We work with so many local survivors who have been affected by heart disease and stroke, and (Pauline and Hayley) continue to motivate the community by sharing their story and encouraging others to take charge of their health,’ says Jennifer Waites. alerted the entire house, their daughter, Hayley Meyer, called an ambulance and joined her dad performing hands-only CPR. If Pauline’s husband and daughter had not administered CPR, her life would have ended.

“There was no feeling. It was just

36

skirt . | september 2018

spent time trying to cope and make sense of the attack.

“When I came home, I felt like I had just been run over by a bulldozer,” Pauline says.

It wasn’t until her mother visited for Christmas and motivated her to

start getting in shape that Pauline’s life started to return to normalcy.

Pauline contacted the American Heart Association, and she and Hayley have been active in the organization ever since. The heart association has given them the opportunity tomeet with other struggling survivors, plan events, attend luncheons and advocate for awareness.

“We’ve met with other survivors and chatted and listened to their stories. … It’s been almost like a sisterhood,” Pauline says.

Hayley says she had known she had a knack for medicine since high school, when she first became CPR-certified. When her mother had the heart attack, Hayley was 21 and a student at College of Charleston in the Sport Med program. However, after her mother’s heart attack, Hayley realized she wanted a career closer to patients, such as nursing. Pauline’s husband, Travis, knew CPR because of the time he spent in the military.

Hayley and Pauline will be walking in the Lowcountry Heart Walk at Riverfront Park in North Charleston on Sept. 29, where they will encourage others to learn hands-only CPR and share their story about how it saved Pauline’s life. Hands-only CPR can be more effective than CPR with rescue breaths because the compressions circulate oxygen through the body. According to the American Heart Association, hands-only CPR performed by a bystander has been shown to be as effective as CPR with breaths in the first few minutes of an out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest for an adult victim.

“The American Heart Association is so honored to share the Meyers’ incredible story in the community, “ says Jennifer Waites,

KEELYLAUGHLIN

Pauline’s heart stopped beating. Now, she wants to live her best life—and teach others how to save lives By Livi Lesch

a marketing director at American Heart Association. “Pauline and Hayley continue to inspire others to learn hands-only CPR and become the next link in the chain of survival. We work with so many local survivors who have been affected by heart disease and stroke, and they continue to motivate the community by sharing their story and encouraging others to take charge of their health.”

Pauline and her family have always been close, but her heart attack taught them to cherish each other. After she recovered, they promised to spend more time together. Pauline says she has always loved being active but fell out of healthy habits a few years before the heart attack. She’s learned to prioritize fitness and her health once again. Exercise has become one of the Meyer family’s favorite pastimes, whether it is hiking, biking or kayaking.

“I wanted to live. I wanted to see my daughter graduate. I wanted to see my kids get married. I wanted to meet grandkids, if there was any. That was my motivator,” Pauline says. “I was saved by them. I was saved for a purpose, and I’m not ready to leave this Earth.”

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

skirt . | september 2018 37

calendar

events SEPTEMBER

DECLARE ‘YES, I’M A FEMINIST,’ HEAR HOW REESE BALANCES SOUTHERN AND MODERN, AND SING ALONG WITH WHITNEY

09.06

Wine Down Wednesday

Wine, Women & Wisdom

Explore West Ashley’s Old Towne Creek County Park and enjoy wine, food truck bites and live music. Tickets are $15 in advance. 5 to 7 p.m. Old Towne Creek County Park, 1400 Old Towne Road. ccprc.com.

09.05 - 09.16 Charleston Restaurant Week

Enjoy special prix fixe menus from some of Charleston’s top (and most stylish) restaurants. The Restaurant Association is partnering with Charleston Beer Week to offer special beers and pairings at participating restaurants. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com for participating restaurants and menus.

09.06 - 10.07 “The Road Between” – Sara Pittman Solo Show

The Charleston Arts Festival presents “The Road Between,” a new body of work by Sara Pittman, an abstract expressionist who explores the exchange between her repressed state of mind and her conscious self. The opening is 5 to 8 p.m., Beresford Studios, 20 Fulton St. charlestonartsfestival.com.

Three best-selling authors – Lauren Willig, Beatriz Williams and Karen White – share how they worked together to write their latest historical fiction work, “The Glass Ocean.” Enjoy wine and light fare from Anja Stief of Dish and Design. 5:30 p.m. Brigade Hall, Oyster Point, 1500 Pearl Tabby Drive, Mount Pleasant. Theglassocean.brownpapertickets.com.

09.06 Women & The Beatles

Local female singers perform their favorite Beatles songs in the latest installment of the “Women &” series.

Featured musicians include Hazel Ketchum, Lindsay Holler, Zandrina Dunning and Aisha Kenyetta. Tickets are $15, 6:30 p.m., Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. charlestonmusichall.com.

09.07 Yes, I’m a Feminist

Help kick off the College of Charleston’s Year of the Women celebration and support the Women’s and Gender Studies program at the Yes, I’m a Feminist party.

Enjoy festive drinks and desserts, live music and engage in progressive dialogue.

6 to 7:30 p.m., Cistern Yard, College of Charleston. Donations are encouraged. friendsof.cofc.edu/yes-im-a-feminist.

09.08 Southern Fried Chicken Challenge

Sample some of the best fried chicken in the Lowcountry at this family-friendly event. Admission is $10 and tasting tickets are $2. Children under 12 are admitted for free. Noon to 6 p.m., North Charleston Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Ave. southernfriedchickenchallenge.com.

09.09 Jazz Brunch in Hampton Park

The Charleston Parks Conservancy invites you to bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy jazz music by guitarist Duda Lucena and local food trucks. Admission is $15 and is free for children 12 and under. No pets allowed. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hampton

38

skirt . | september 2018

TRIBUTE TO WHITNEY HOUSTON AT CHARLESTON MUSIC HALL

Park, 30 Mary Murray Drive. charlestonparksconservancy.org/calendar.

Black Ink Festival

Charleston hosts its first celebration of African-American literature with featured speaker Terry McMillan, best-selling author of “Waiting to Exhale” and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back,” and 60 other authors. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Main Branch of the Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. charlestonlibraryfriends.org.

09.12 “The Light Magnificent” Book Signing

Author April Duckworth signs copies of her children’s book “The Light Magnificent,” which tells how Frankie Frog learns the importance of working together and treating others with compassion. 5 to 7 p.m. Principle Gallery, 125 Meeting St.

her first book “Whiskey in a Teacup” about what growing up in the South taught her about life, love and work.

7:30 p.m. Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St. gaillardcenter.org.

09.20 Cookie Decorating Workshop

Decorate cookies with Skirt magazine and Bullfish Cooking Company. Tickets are $40 and include two glasses of wine and small bites. 6 to 8 p.m. Napa Mount Pleasant, 1324 Theater Dr. For tickets, visit eventbrite. com/e/cookie-decorating-workshop-at-napa-mount-pleasant-tickets-49059736994

SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN CHALLENGE

09.13 Unequal Playing Field

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry hosts a panel discussion on the importance of accessing equal play for girls and girls of color with featured panelist Kimberly Clay, founder and CEO of Play Like a Girl, a nonprofit that works to improve the health of girls. 2 to 4 p.m., Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, 25 Ann St. explorecml.org.

09.15 Fam Jam

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry transforms Marion Square into an engaging playground to celebrate family and community and the power of play.

Families who attend also receive free admission to the children’s museum for the day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Marion Square. explorecml.org.

09.18 Reese Witherspoon

Actress, producer and business owner Reese Witherspoon shares stories from

Patio Party

V2V boutique is hosting a patio party with pop-up shops, sips and live art by Crystal Nellie Avant. 5 to 8 p.m. V2V, 295 King St. @v2v on Instagram

Builder Bash

Join Jeff Cook Real Estate and help raise money for Charleston Habitat for Humanity to help build affordable and safe homes for low income families. A cocktail hour with a XXX silent auction will be followed with food, music and a live auction. Tickets are $125.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JESS SPENCE; COURTESY OF SOUTHERN FRIED CHICK CHALLENGE; COURTESY OF THE GAILLARD CENTER

09.05 & 09.19

LIP SYNC FOR LUNGS XXX

6:30 to 10:30 p.m. The Cedar Room, 701 East Bay St. charlestonhabitat.org.

p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. harlestonmusichall.com.

Good Business Summit

09.22

Lowcountry Local First hosts a one-day business conference, spotlighting how to build your company with purpose and profit. The keynote speaker is New Belgium Brewing Co. general manager Jay Richardson. 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Registration is $140 to $200.

Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. goodbusinesssummit.org.

09.21–09.23

CLIFFORD PATE

Folly Beach Sea and Sand Festival

Grand Opening of South Carolina Historical Society Museum

The South Carolina Historical Society Museum opens in the historic Fireproof Building.

The museum’s six galleries showcase more than 300 years of South Carolina history.

The museum at 100 Meeting St. opens to the public after an 11 a.m. ribbon cutting and is free on the opening day. Registration is required at schistory.org.

Celebrate the end of the summer on the beach with sandcastle and volleyball competitions, a street festival, live music and children’s activities. The street festival is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday along Center Street. Tickets are $5. visitvisitfolly.com.

09.23 Thrifters and Drifters

09.26

09.21

09.24

Five local celebrities lip sync to raise money to provide lung health programs and advocacy in coastal South Carolina. Tickets are $35 to $55. 6 p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 St. John St. lipsyncforlungs.org.

The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston Charlton Singleton and Quiana Parler invite their talented friends to pay tribute to Whitney Houston. Tickets are $22. 7

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

Shop local artisans, collectors and crafters at the Thrifters and Drifters fall market at The Royal American, 970 Morrison Drive.

12 p.m. to 5 p.m. thriftersanddrifters.com.

Art Exhibit at The Vault

The Vault hosts an art exhibit with Kit Porter Studios and Caroline Swetenburg of Well and Wonder Collective.

6 to 9 p.m. The Vault, 284 King St.

Lip Sync for Lungs

09.26 Skirt magazine Girls Night Out

In honor of our Own Your Style issue, Skirt

magazine and Tres Carmen host a fashionable Girls’ Night of shopping and sips at Tres Carmen’s newest location in Mount Pleasant.

5:30 to 8:30 p.m., 320 W. Coleman Blvd.

09.27–10.07 MOJA Arts Festival starts

The MOJA Arts Festival kicks off with a street parade on Thursday, a reggae dance party on Friday, heritage day at Marion Square on Saturday and a gospel concert on Sunday. Visit mojafestival.com for the complete lineup of events.

skirt . | september 2018 39

Coldwell Banker Residential

42 

skirt . | september 2018

don’t

Find your style and own it!

Style is not about what’s in and what’s out.

Style is about how you hold yourself when you walk into a room, the confidence you project. It is not about being pretty or thin.

Style is about finding fits that flatter and colors that complement.

Style is something you develop for yourself over time. It might change with your lifestyle, but it always expresses your personality, your mood.

Style does not require expensive clothing, but a strong point of view.

Style does not reveal too much.

Style turns heads, not because of what you are wearing but because of how you wear it.

Style makes a statement.

True style is enduring.

It never goes out of fashion.

@D.VELASCO

– Shelley Hill Young

the issue

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

skirt . | september 2018  46