Style has always been a storyteller, hasn’t it? It speaks volumes without saying a word. It whispers who we are, where we’ve been, and what we dream of becoming. The power of style is undeniable—it can shape our identity and make an impression that lasts a lifetime. Black Ivy: A Revolt in Style takes us back to the 1950s and 1960s, a time when Black men redefined the Ivy League aesthetic, turning it into a symbol of cool rebellion, elegance, and unapologetic pride. Through these pages, we see how style became a revolutionary act.
Flipping through Black Ivy, you’re transported into a world where icons like Miles Davis, James Baldwin, and Malcolm X didn’t just wear clothes—they made bold statements. These men reshaped fashion with the same intention they brought to their music, writing, and activism. The book chronicles how timeless pieces like Oxford button-downs, repp ties, and loafers became emblems of resistance, dignity, and style—symbols of cultural pride and personal expression. It’s more than just fashion; it’s a movement in itself.
What I find most magnetic about Black Ivy is how it highlights the power of personal expression to push boundaries. These men weren’t just dressing well—they were reframing what elegance and style looked like. Their choice of clothing was infused with activism, blending fashion and culture into a form of resistance. They showed the world that style could be a revolution in itself—a tool for asserting identity, dignity, and defiance against a society that often marginalized them. The influence of their choices continues to ripple through today’s fashion, reaffirming that style is a language all its own.
The book isn’t just a record of style; it’s a vivid narrative of cultural transformation. Every page of Black Ivy is an exploration of how style became a vehicle for social change, offering a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between fashion and identity. This isn’t just about clothing; it’s about making a statement with every look, every garment, every choice. The men featured in the book were more than well-dressed—they were visionaries who understood the power of self-presentation and the impact it could have on shaping the future.
If this post speaks to you, I highly encourage you to dive deeper into the world of Black Ivy. This beautifully curated book isn’t just a fashion lover’s dream—it’s an exploration of history, culture, and the extraordinary people who turned fashion into an act of cultural revolution. You can find it through our curated link You can find it through our curated link here and support independent bookstores.
Let’s Chat Have you ever used fashion to tell your story or to make a statement? How do you celebrate the intersection of style and culture in your own life? Whether it’s through the clothes you wear, the accessories you choose, or the confidence with which you present yourself, style is an expression of who you are. I’d love to hear about the pieces that hold meaning for you—whether it’s a classic jacket, a vintage find, or a timeless accessory that connects you to your own personal history. Check out this months Interesting Things post here.
A Personal Reflection As someone who’s always leaned into the prep aesthetic, I’ve come to see it as more than just a personal preference—it’s a kind of quiet resistance. Growing up, I wanted to be seen as Brittany, not just another box to check or stereotype to meet. Choosing the way I dress felt like taking back the narrative, setting the stage for how I wanted to be perceived. It was a way to carve out my individuality in a world that often demands conformity.
For me, style has always been more than just clothing—it’s a vehicle for empowerment and self-expression. It allows us to frame our story, like choosing the lighting and composition of a photograph. While others may try to interpret that picture, we get to decide how it’s presented. That’s where the magic happens. Style gives us the power to present ourselves to the world on our own terms—boldly, authentically, and unapologetically. Check out our other Coffee Table Book of the month here.
You don’t need a plan—just curiosity. The Art of Wonder is a self-paced 4-week course to help you slow down, notice more, and reawaken your creative gaze. HERE!
[…] A Personal Reflection August Wilson’s dedication to capturing the Black experience through an authentic and heartfelt lens is a constant source of inspiration for me. His ability to weave cultural history with personal storytelling reminds me of the importance of perspective, voice, and authenticity in art. The Piano Lesson has always been more than just a play for me—it’s a profound meditation on how the past shapes us and how it anchors and propels us forward. Wilson’s work continues to encourage me to embrace my own narrative, to honor my roots, and to trust in the transformative power of art to heal and connect us all. Check out our other Coffee Table Book of the month here. […]