If you know anything about a typical day on a HBCU (Historically Black College/University) campus, you would know how students come dressed to impress on a regular Wednesday afternoon. So it should come as no surprise that during homecoming it turns into basically fashion week on campus.
Fashion week is a fashion industry event, lasting approximately one week, where fashion designers, brands or “houses” display their latest collections in runway fashion shows to buyers and the media. In making this comparison it is because you could see any number of name brands, do-it-yourself outfits or self promoting of one’s own brand during this week of festivities. For many people this is a time to be expressive in a way they may not usually have the opportunity too.
The homecoming culture for students that attend HBCUs has been notorious for bringing one another together for a time of self-expression.
What is homecoming anyway?
Homecoming is the tradition of welcoming back alumni or other former members of an organization to celebrate the organization’s existence.
It’s my first year attending a homecoming event? What should I expect?
I’m glad you asked. You should expect a lot of fun and to maybe even be inspired to step out of your comfort zone with your style. Don’t hold back. Most importantly don’t wait til the last minute, start brainstorming what you’d like to wear to each of the events you plan on attending. Trust me, doing so will alleviate stress the week of homecoming, and help you stay focused on completing school work as well.
During homecoming week many events take place such as pep rallies, concerts, football games and many more. Each of these events is a chance to showcase just how much personality you want, through your clothing and style. I had the pleasure of attending Bowie State’s homecoming concert and I can tell you many of the outfits I saw that night could have been on a runway somewhere in New York. Luckily, there were photographers capturing some of the best-dressed that night.
At each one of these events it usually takes place at different times of the day so your outfit should probably coordinate with that as well. For example, the homecoming football game is a great time to rep your HBCU pride, and to let alumni that may be attending know just how much you love your school. On the other hand, a day party that may take place outside could be a perfect time to go comfortable and cute.
Needless to say homecoming is a time of enjoyment for all in attendance, it doubles as a time of pulling out that outfit you’ve been thinking about wearing. You know the one you’ve been nervous about. Although I’ve made the comparison to fashion week, this is not a professional event so don’t worry about not having the newest bag or shoes. Dress in what makes you happy, and you’ll always have a sense of style.
I hope to see you at the next homecoming event stepping out of the box, you never know it could be your breakout moment.