Eunice W. Johnson and the EBONY Fashion Flair
A TRUE TALE WITH
A CHERRY ON TOP
Lee & Low Books
(pub. 2.6.2024)
40 pages
Ages 6 - 11
Author: Lisa D. Brathwaite
Illustrator: Lynn Gaines
Character: Eunice W. Johnson
Overview of review of MILES OF STYLE:
" Eunice W. Johnson believed in the power of fashion and beauty to inspire people. After she and her husband, John H. Johnson, founded EBONY magazine, it quickly became the premiere lifestyle publication for mid-century Black readers. Among the many hats she wore, Eunice delighted in writing a fashion column describing the latest styles.
In 1958, Eunice launched a project that would change fashion forever--the EBONY Fashion Fair. In towns and cities across the United States, Black models walked the runway in the freshest trends that season and Black attendees got to see people who looked like them in bright colors and haute couture.
To make the Fashion Fair happen every year, Eunice negotiated with snobby fashion houses in Europe and navigated racism back home in the US, to acquire the most show-stopping styles for her show. Decades later, her name remains a watchword for glamour and elegance in the Black community"
Tantalizing taste:
"The EBONY Fashion Fair 'Americana' tour took off in September 1963…Backs straight, heads held high, the graceful models sashayed, and posed on the runway to a lively piano accompaniment. Feathers flipped and fluttered. Beachwear blazed and beckoned. Shifting sequins shimmered. The sparkle from jewels jumped in the light. A commentator's witty quips added to the excitement.
What a show!"
And something more: Lisa D. Brathwaite, in the Author's Note shares: "I carry fond childhood memories of thumbing through the magazine's issues that graced my family's coffee table. I'd mimic the models, holding my head high. I'm hopeful EBONY's cultural legacy built by John. H. Johnson and Eunice W. Johnson will continue to flourish and inspire future generations."