As promised, I’m excited to share the images that Nichole Beatty and I collaborated on for my 49th Birthday shoot! Since I’m kicking off this celebration with color, I wanted to share a few of my favorites from my turquoise fringe look. This is the first of four unique styles I’ll be sharing, each one in its own collection, week by week.

When approaching the creative vision for my personal shoots, I always create an avatar or a “moment” to bring to life, incorporating my signature colors and symbolism. This year, I’m celebrating what I may have missed last year and looking forward to the future. And as always, when I create multiple looks, I pay homage to African culture—a way for me to express the beauty and power of living an African-centered lifestyle.

For this look, I’m channeling the Masquerade, honoring the vibrant traditions across Africa where masquerades bring communities together for various reasons. I’m endlessly inspired by the breathtaking costumes and the dynamic energy of masqueraders moving through the streets. My vision here was rooted in thoughts of the #Egungun, the ancestral spirits who continue to influence and guide us. This turquoise tapestry is a tribute to the ancestors—egun—who walk with me, clear my path, and support me on this journey.

Details:

• • Styling and Makeup: By me
  • Catsuit: Yitty
  • Shades: Orijin Culture
  • Fringe Collar & Cowrie Shell Earrings: TrufacebyGrace (modified with a mirrored cowrie shell trim)
  • Cowrie Shell Bracelet: African Stars
  • Fertility Fan: Afrohemien (I believe)
  • Lighting & Photography: Nichole Beatty of Katherine Costello Photography
  • Image Editing: Nichole Beatty and myself

#30DaysOfTurquoise #Emerge #LiveInColor #LaVieArtfroheme #AfricanCentered