The Wilder Foundation’s James C. Hormel Hall transformed into a vibrant tapestry of culture and couture on May 3 as Sister Spokesman hosted its annual Threads of Impact fashion show. A celebration of Black beauty, creativity, and generational legacy, the evening drew a packed house of community members, supporters, and style enthusiasts.
Fashion show producer and international creative Richard Moody led the charge, curating a lineup of designers who each brought their own voice to the runway. Kathryn Rogers of House of KLynn opened the show with dramatic silhouettes and luxe fabric choices that reflected elegance and power.
Satiya Amporful of Uniquely Global offered bold, Afrocentric prints and regal designs that paid homage to diasporic heritage. Rounding out the designer trio was Marques Armstrong of Renaissance, who delivered menswear pieces that fused streetwear with classic tailoring.
Armstrong, founder of the Renaissance brand, shared the powerful historical inspiration behind his work. “The name itself is an ode to the Harlem Renaissance,” he said. “That was the 1920s — reconstruction, post-slavery. It was an amazing time for African Americans in this country.
“It was about expression, politics, art and style,” Armstrong said. “It’s our way of rebelling against the narrative that we didn’t look good or couldn’t afford things. We tailored things to our liking, using colors and patterns to make our fashion stand out.”
The Renaissance logo, Armstrong explained, is the Sankofa bird — a symbol from the Ghanaian Twi language that means “go back and get it.” The brand merges classic 1920s-inspired looks with a modern flair, aiming to elevate the past while remaining relevant today.
“The show was exceptional,” Armstrong added. “I appreciated Tracey and her team reaching out and including me as the only male clothing brand. That speaks to the recognition of my work and my brand. I’ve only been open for four years, and to be invited to events like this, it’s affirmation I’m on the right track.”
Models of all ages and body types strutted with confidence, transforming the stage into a living gallery of movement, identity and resistance. The garments reflected cultural influences spanning continents from West African Ankara and Ghanaian Kente to contemporary urban flair, underscoring the global roots and future-forward vision of Black design.
Attendees browsed an indoor market of local Black-owned vendors, who showcased handcrafted jewelry, natural beauty products, and custom fashion pieces. “It wasn’t just a fashion show, it was a full-circle experience,” said attendee Denise Loving. “We were shopping, networking, watching art in motion. It reminded me of the power of community coming together.”
While the fashion was captivating, the heart of the night belonged to Shirlee L. Callender, who was presented with an award for her lifetime of support and service. Soon to turn 93 on June 6, Ms. Callender has long been a quiet yet steadfast presence in the community. Her recognition was especially emotional for Sister Spokesman leader Tracey Dillard-Williams, who shared that Ms. Callender was her late mother’s best friend.
“This was a deeply personal moment,” Dillard-Williams said. “More than a family friend, she’s been a spiritual guide and a supporter of Sister Spokesman since the beginning. Honoring her tonight was a way of honoring all the women who’ve held us up behind the scenes.”
Tears flowed freely as Ms. Callender accepted the award, offering a heartfelt smile and gracious nod that resonated throughout the room. The standing ovation she received was not just for her, but for every elder whose wisdom and presence have shaped the path forward.
The Threads of Impact fashion show served as a visual love letter to Black resilience, excellence, and intergenerational strength. As music played, lights dimmed, and models took their final walk, the message rang clear: This community continues to show up for one another, weaving new stories into a legacy of style, purpose and power.
Kiara Williams welcomes reader responses at kwilliams@spokesman-recorder.com.