Unleashing Rattler Radiance: Where Heritage Meets High Fashion
The Enduring Connection Between Black Culture and Personal Expression at FAMU
Florida A&M University, often playfully noted for the 'F' in its acronym also signifying fashion, stands as a prime example of the profound link between Black heritage and distinctive style. This connection is not merely anecdotal; it's a visible thread woven throughout the campus, reflecting a broader cultural narrative that has been spotlighted by leading fashion publications. From the historic Morehouse College to the revered Abyssinian Baptist Church, and even influencing prestigious events like the Met Gala with its focus on Black Dandyism, the influence of Black aesthetic sensibilities is undeniable. The recent homecoming festivities at FAMU, home to the spirited Rattlers, offered a vivid illustration of this unique and influential fashion landscape.
Everyday Elegance: The Inherent Style of HBCU Life
For anyone who has experienced life at an HBCU, or even just visited its grounds, it's clear that students and faculty consistently present themselves with an air of refined personal style. This daily commitment to dressing well and showcasing individual flair is an integral part of the HBCU experience. Fashion innovator Jerry Lorenzo, a FAMU alumnus from the class of 2000, shares his perspective, noting the diverse sartorial influences converging on campus. He describes FAMU as a melting pot of styles, drawing from metropolitan hubs like D.C., Atlanta, New York, and Chicago. Lorenzo, who previously attended a university with limited Black student representation, found his time at FAMU to be profoundly transformative and inspiring, particularly the sense of belonging and community that permeated every aspect of campus life.
Homecoming's Heartbeat: A Symphony of Pride and Panache
The sentiments of pride, belonging, and a steadfast dedication to personal style reach their zenith during homecoming, drawing in both current students and a multitude of returning alumni. For Lorenzo, the emotional intensity of homecoming serves as a creative touchstone for his design process. He often asks himself if his creations can evoke the same powerful feelings as witnessing the marching band's spirited rendition of Outkast or the rhythmic swaying of the stadium stands. If a design doesn't capture that profound resonance, he believes it requires further refinement. In the lead-up to the recent homecoming, interviews with alumni highlighted their most memorable and fashionable experiences, while current students shared their contemporary perspectives on personal style, all underscoring the enduring significance of this cherished tradition.
Leisha Elusnor's Avant-Garde Punk Aesthetic
Leisha Elusnor, a 20-year-old student from the class of 2026, characterizes her personal style as "Avant-garde Punk." She reveals that for many women, preparation for homecoming begins months in advance, driven by a desire to look their absolute best. The underlying belief is that one's appearance reflects their well-being, and they are too fortunate to appear anything less than radiant. The primary objective is to achieve a comfortable yet effortlessly chic look. She recalls that during her earlier college years, chunky bangle bracelets and wide belts were highly popular. Coincidentally, many of these trends have re-emerged, allowing for a modern reinterpretation of classic styles with a more refined touch.
Kai Blake's Harmonious and Energetic Style
Kai Blake, a 21-year-old law student graduating in 2028, describes his personal style as "calm, yet vibrant." For Lauren Grove, Chief Experience Architect at The Grant Access and Co-Founder of HBCU SpringComing, her most cherished homecoming memories revolve around the people and the sense of community. Her first homecoming after joining the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was particularly impactful, offering a profound sense of purpose and representation. That year, she connected with numerous sorority sisters returning for their milestone reunions. This past year, she celebrated her 20th anniversary with Delta, embracing the opportunity to connect with new members and share the wisdom that was once passed down to her two decades prior.
Jerry Lorenzo's Bold and Memorable Homecoming Fashion Choices
Jerry Lorenzo reflects on his early homecoming experiences, vividly recalling his first event dressed in a Deion Sanders Falcon's jersey. By his second year, he decided to make a bolder statement, opting for a bright orange Tennessee football jersey. Back then, jerseys were the quintessential fashion item. He remembers feeling incredibly stylish, only to find a teammate sporting the exact same jersey. This shared fashion moment remains a humorous anecdote they still recount today.
Gina Cherelus's Afro-Vintage Chic as a FAMU Journalist
Gina Cherelus, a Styles Reporter for the New York Times and a FAMU alumna from the class of 2014, emphasizes that her experience at Florida A&M University was instrumental not only in honing her journalistic skills but also in deepening her understanding of community beyond her immediate family. Her first homecoming in the fall of 2010 showcased her "colorful, Afro-vintage, and business casual club chic" style. She recalls the significant effort students invested in their outfits, with a common experience for new "Baby Rattlers" being trips to Governor Square mall to curate looks from stores like Forever 21. Her wardrobe often featured pencil skirts, high-waisted jeans, bodycon dresses, bright stockings, and a variety of belts. Stiletto and pump heels were essential for club nights, and removing them on the dance floor was strictly avoided. MAC lipsticks, particularly Ruby Woo and Heroine, were popular choices. Additionally, she recounts how many female students, including herself, stopped relaxing their hair, opting for a "big chop" and often dyeing it honey brown, a trend that swept across campus.
The Unique Charm of FAMU: A Hub of Love and Legacy
Aiyana Ishmael, Style Editor at Teen Vogue and a FAMU alumna from the class of 2021, describes FAMU as an exceptionally special place, a sentiment palpable the moment one enters the campus and encounters the prominent Florida A&M University sign. She views it as a distinct and vibrant 'bubble' within Tallahassee, brimming with affection and camaraderie. The university is often playfully labeled a 'cult' due to the unwavering devotion of both current students and alumni. However, Ishmael interprets this as clear evidence that historically Black institutions like FAMU are truly deserving of such enthusiastic and unreserved admiration. Homecoming, for her, encapsulates this profound emotion, bringing together generations of 'Rattlers'—past, present, and future—for a week-long celebration focused on Black joy, enduring friendships, cherished memories, and a powerful legacy.