As April’s personal designer at JK Fashion Closet, I had the absolute pleasure of creating a Nike-themed Paper Doll dress for her, Downtown Baltimore. This shoot was a powerful reflection of April’s journey, from the bold influence of ’90s streetwear to the effortless confidence she carries today.
In this article, we talk to April about her style has evolved over the years, the freedom she’s found in embracing comfort, and the timeless advice she offers to women in their 50s looking to stay stylish and true to themselves. It’s a reminder that fashion is not just about trends... it’s about owning your story!
How has your personal style evolved over the years? What were some of your key style influences in your 20s, 30s, and now in your 50s?
April: Growing up in the 90's era styled evolved around R and B and Hip Hop. Nike Reebok Champion and Etonic were the name brand styles of that era. As I grew pass my teen years and into young adulthood, I still loved my 90's style however I started creating styles around my own personality. Developing me into the woman I am today. My personality shines best with bright colors and a relaxed feel. I now find style to be more about comfort than trend.
What fashion advice would you give to women over 50 who want to remain stylish but comfortable? Do you have any must-have pieces or favorite brands?
April: Any woman who wants to stay stylish but comfortable I would suggest that they buy into a nice Blazer. A Blazer can give a dressy look even with Jeans. You can dress it up with heels or down with tennis for a more relaxed look. Choice is yours.
Has your approach to fashion changed with age? How do you balance trends with classic styles?
April: My approach with fashion has defiantly changed over the years. I find myself wearing clothing that defines my personality and brings me comfort. It is no longer about what is trending.
What does the White & Pink Nike theme represent for you in your upcoming Paper Dolls shoot? How does this theme align with your personality and style?
April: Being able to wear Camille's Nike dress was bringing back that part of me that just loves Nike. I am a Nike girl, and the experience has helped me feel younger and exotic again.
How do you choose your outfits for special occasions or everyday wear?
Do you believe in following trends or prefer creating your own statement?
April: Choosing my outfits has become easier as I have gotten older. I choose what I envision on me. I go with trendy but comfortable looks that will also bring attention to my personality.
How has body positivity played a role in your fashion choices as you've gotten older? Have you become more or less confident in certain styles or cuts?
April: Body positivity has not defined my choice of clothing. I still find myself wearing crop tops with long skirts or clothes that show off my curves. As a plus size full figured woman I am very comfortable with who I am.
What is one piece of wisdom you’ve gained in your 50s that you wish you had known earlier in life?
April: Love Yourself! There was a period of time throughout my life where I wanted to be left alone, depressed, angry, and I trusted no one. As I have aged and learned to love myself. I feel free from all the transgressions that were holding me hostage for many years. I am now happier than I have ever been. I had to learn to love myself to see that I needed to make changes within me.
What are some challenges you’ve faced as you've grown older, and how have you overcome them?
April: We all walk different paths throughout our lives. As a woman who has been sexually assaulted by different men at different times throughout my life. I was molested as a child, almost raped, raped, and almost abducted. Everyone always just noticed me, but no one ever took the time to know me. I felt like my life was a complete mess. I went through a period of time where I became depressed and wanted to commit suicide. Overcoming took time I had to learn to love myself. I did this by talking to others, letting go, forgiving those who hurt me, and finally I am able to use my voice and people hear me.
How do you stay confident and embrace this stage of life? Has anything surprised you about your 50s?
April: As a woman who is reaching her 50th Birthday I have learned that 50 is the new 20. I glow better. I feel more confident within my skin and I embarking on a new journey in my life.
What are some of the life lessons or values you emphasize to the younger generation? How do you incorporate these values into your daily life?
April: I would tell the younger generation to never give up on your dreams and never give someone the power to make you feel like you are not good enough.
What’s a memorable experience or achievement that defined this stage of your life? How has it shaped who you are today?
April: Although I have quite a few achievements. I can say my greatest one is making others smile. Telling a woman, she is beautiful or creating gifts to give away to others who have been through abuse and or sexual assault. It makes me feel good about myself to bring a smile to another.
What are some activities or hobbies that you’ve discovered or embraced more as you’ve gotten older?
April: As I have gotten older, I find myself being more comfortable behind a camera and creating whether its gifts or bow bouquets. I envision ideas in my head, and I have to create that vision to see it come to life and to step back and there is nothing like seeing your ideas come to life after it is finished.
Who or what inspires you at this stage of life? Do you have any role models or people whose journeys resonate with you?
April: My biggest inspiration is my mother. She is always there to help others or give advice. I have throughout the years watched her create gifts or to take a vision and allow it to come to life especially through her many years of creating events. I find myself intrigued by my mother's gifts of creativity and those are gifts that she has bestowed upon me. As I watch my mother grow older and see her fighting cancer, she still makes time to create gifts to give others because that is what makes her happiest. There is not anyone else that can inspire me the way my mom does.
How do you hope to leave a legacy through your fashion choices and life experiences?
April: I believe leaving a legacy through my personal style will resonate through my personality of creativity and compassion. Giving those pops of colors with a comfortable feel. Through my life experiences it would evolve around the overcoming of past traumas and still being able to wear a smile on my face
If you could give one message to women who are navigating their 50s, what would it be?
April: Remember life is just beginning step out and have fun. Take the time to truly enjoy who you are and who you are becoming.
Closing Thoughts
April’s story is a powerful reminder that fashion isn’t just about what we wear, it's about expressing who we are at every stage of life.
Follow April on Facebook. Thank you for reading FBM!
Stay Inspired, Camille Marine
Editor-in-Chief, Full Bloom Magazine
Comentários