Every year the Preakness Stakes ensures a dynamic blend of equestrian prowess and sartorial splendor. 

For artists and patrons, this event consistently serves as a grand runway, reflecting the city’s diverse spirit through its fashion. Photographers Brady Robinson and Lotus Partlow expertly captured the essence of Preakness style, from the iconic hats and sharp suits to the bold, personal expressions that defined the infield. 

This photo essay steps beyond the track to explore the unique intersection of tradition, athleticism, and unbridled style at the “Middle Jewel” of the Triple Crown. (Teri Henderson) 

The post Photostory: Fashion at Preakness appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

These photos are from the 2024 Baltimore BLAQ Pride Royal Pageant, held at Motor House on October 19. This event was a part of Baltimore Blaq Pride 2024, which is organized by Blaq Equity Baltimore and the Black Arts District to recognize Black LGBTQIA+ Pride Month.

This year’s competition, hosted by Shawnna Alexander, featured contestants competing in categories that honored presentation, talent, and evening wear. Judges Alexis Blackmon, Onyx Revlon, Jeff Harris, and Keith Holt selected the winners.

This year’s newly crowned royal court included Mx. FemmeDaddy Foxx, Mr. Inferno K. Bonet, and Ms. Chanel Janaé Chloé. The night opened with a performance by Shawnna Alexander and included special performances by Naomi Couture, Egyppt Chloe, Prynce Iman Diamond, and Kayden Amore Chloe. Katie D Lite was also in attendance.  The event highlighted the talent and pride of Baltimore’s LGBTQ+ community.

Baltimore BLAQ Pride was founded in 2002 by Carlton R. “The Duchess” Smith, Leroy Burgess, Dana Owens, and Kevin Clemons.

According to their website, the organization was founded to create a specific, unique space to celebrate the experiences of Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and same-gender-loving (SGL) people in Baltimore City.” 

Baltimore Black Pride is produced by Blaq Equity Baltimore annually. October is Black LGBTQI+ Pride Month in Baltimore.This year’s theme was “The Rise and Return,” and several Baltimore Black Pride events focused on cultivating community and celebrating new and elder voices of Black LGBTQIA+ folks in Baltimore.

The post Photostory: The 2024 Baltimore BLAQ Pride Royal Pageant appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

On Saturday, July 27, Marquis Clanton and Wanda Newby presented the fourth edition of Vanity Affair at Baltimore Center Stage. Hosted by Desmond Handon and featuring music by DJ DNyce, the event sold out. Vanity Affair broke traditional runway boundaries by merging high fashion and vintage with dance and ballroom culture. The presentation featured models and dancers from Baltimore and the DMV.

Marquis Clanton is an Icon (considered the highest honor in the ballroom community) in the House of Revlon, dancer, choreographer, and artist. Wanda Newby is a designer and producer based in Baltimore. 

The show began with a scene inspired by the song  “A Rose in Harlem” by Teyana Taylor. The opening performance was a mix of sensuality and strength, featuring dancers in scarlet costumes draped in warm, dramatic stage lighting. The scene was visually captivating and emotionally intense, setting a bold tone for the rest of the event.

The fashion experience included designs by co-producer and head wardrobe designer Wanda Newby, LuLu B’s Closet, and KNWLDG Couture. The collection featured a mix of new, vintage, and upcycled pieces, emphasizing sustainability and creativity.

Clanton’s exceptional skills in choreography, creative direction, and casting were evident throughout the show, bringing a dynamic energy that blended seamlessly with the showcased fashion, dance, and ballroom. The event celebrated independent design, creativity, diversity, and community. 

The inclusive atmosphere extended beyond the models to the audience, creating a welcoming and celebratory space for all forms of beauty and expression. “Vanity Affair” was more than just a fashion show; it was a cultural experience that pushed the boundaries of creative expression, significantly impacting Baltimore’s fashion, dance, and arts scene.

The post Photostory: Unleashing Imagination appeared first on Baltimore Beat.