Prom and graduation are the most important events of any teenage life. It is that crucial time when adolescents shine and express their creativity, all the while being praised for their individuality and intelligence. But for so many hard working families, single parent households, and low-income residents these events come with expensive sacrifices for children and loved ones. I’m sure you can drift back to your own personal prom experience of pleading for that perfect dress or tuxedo that you just had to have. Not only can I attest to that awesome experience, I can also affirm that these important events should be fun and memorable for all teens, no matter what your financial status is. The Harlem Haberdashery family and friends decided to expand on the idea of fashion and community service, creating “Elegant for Prom.”
Harlem Haberdashery kicked off its annual “Elegant for Prom” reception a few weeks ago at their flagship store on Lenox Ave. Hosted by A Distinguished Gentleman’s Movement, Inc., the purpose of the annual donation event is to encourage neighbors, stylists, fashion editors, and savvy fashonistas to donate their trendy, gently used and cleaned prom or graduation worthy garments and accessories for graduating high school students selected by Black Women for Black Girls and The Star Boutique. A little rain could not stop guests from stopping by and mingling, while dropping off their garments and discussing the importance of investing in youth. There is an undeniable feeling of welcome and bold style, experienced the moment you step in to the bespoke-themed boutique (filled with vintage décor and family photos that transcend your imagination of what old Harlem used to feel like). Harlem Haberdashery has a special niche of merging the intimacy of family and luxury fashion into one setting that keeps clients coming back time after time. It’s very easy to get lost in the custom designs of Harlem Haberdashery’s wide variety of men’s garments and womenswear. From bold statement crewneck sweats and fitted caps to African prints dresses and accessories — this is just the tip of the iceberg of the boutiques exclusive garments and accessories. If you ever thought of Harlem as not being sophisticated, think again and stop by Harlem Haberdashery. Get lost in trendy fashion, Harlem’s history, and lifestyle.
Harlem Haberdashry is the retail expression of 5001 FLAVORS, a custom-made apparel company creating looks for celebrities, recording artists, and sports stars for over 20 years. Our uptown boutique, Harlem Haberdashery draws inspiration from the rich cultural history and distinctive style of the Harlem Renaissance, while adding a future-forward edge to our exclusive designs. The result is a classic silhouette set off by our definitive expression of today’s fashion. So, stop by and donate your stylish threads while checking out some new exclusive trends. Stay tuned for the video revealing the lucky high school guy and gal chosen for their “Elegant for Prom” makeover, featured exclusively next month at www. theharlemtimes.com.
Donations will be accepted from March 29 — Tuesday, April 29 with a on-site distribution to graduating high school students selected by Black Women For Black Girls and The Star Boutique. All donations are tax deductible through our nonprofit partners, and tax receipts will be mailed upon request. We want to collect new, gently used and cleaned prom and/or graduation items including: Accessories (scarves, brooches, sunglasses, evening handbags, etc.) Shoes (wingtips, heels, flats, etc.) Evening wear (cocktails dresses, gowns, especially plus size for ladies) Evening wear (tuxedo, spring/summer suits, etc.)
Donations will be accepted at: Harlem Haberdashery 245 Lenox Avenue (bet. 122 and 123rd Street) New York, NY 10027 646-707-0070 info@harlemhaberdashery.com
Boutique hours: Monday – Saturday, 11:30am – 7:30pm | Sunday, 11am – 8pm