About the Book
From sneakers to leather jackets, a bold, witty, and deeply personal dive into Black America's closet.
In this highly engaging book, fashionista and pop culture expert Tanisha C. Ford investigates Afros and dashikis, go-go boots and hotpants of the sixties, hip hop's baggy jeans and bamboo earrings, and the #BlackLivesMatter-inspired hoodies of today.
Dressed in Dreams is a story of desire, access, conformity, and black innovation that explains things like the importance of knockoff culture; the role of “ghetto fabulous” full-length furs and colorful leather in the 1990s; how black girls make magic out of a dollar store t-shirt, rhinestones, and airbrushed paint; and black parents' emphasis on dressing nice. Ford talks about the pain of seeing black style appropriated by the mainstream fashion industry and fashion’s power, especially in middle America. In this richly evocative narrative, she shares her lifelong fashion revolution―from figuring out her own personal style to discovering what makes Midwestern fashion a real thing too.
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Black Girls Think & Grow Rich
Book Club Basic Ground Rules
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Members who haven’t read the book – Come anyway. Not everyone can finish every book, but non-readers may still have valuable insights.
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Disagreements about the book – Be gracious! There is no one way to experience or interpret a book. In fact, differing opinions are good.
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Maintain Focus – Discussion time will be limited to discussion about the book. There is time to socialize before and after the book club meeting.
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Confidentiality – What is said at the book club meeting stays at the book club meeting. Members may choose to share personal insights and we want to respect their willingness to be open, candid or vulnerable.
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Quiet Environment – Cell phones and other electronic devices should be placed on silent or vibrate so not to disturb the discussion.
6, Keep it moving – Please be concise with your insights and comments so we have time to hear from as many members as possible.
- Time – Please be on time or early if possible. That gives everyone time to get settled and socialize before the meeting, so we can begin and end on time.
