Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University is gearing up for an exciting event that promises to celebrate diversity, fashion, and individuality. On November 1st, the university’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion is set to host a Diversity Fashion Show, and it’s an event that’s generating quite a buzz. In anticipation of this much-anticipated occasion, Interview Jay Clark sat down with Jacob Phillips, the Administrative Assistant for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, to gain insights into his involvement and passion for fashion. Below is a overview of their interview.
Jacob Phillips, a senior at Jacksonville State University, serves as the Safe Zone coordinator for the institution while juggling his academic responsibilities. His unique journey into the world of fashion is characterized by an appreciation for the art of clothing, which he cultivated over the years.
Phillips, who hails from a family of four, recalled his childhood experiences with fashion, saying, “I grew up in a family of four, I was the youngest of three brothers, and I always got their hand-me-downs, so my outfits were always a little rough looking.” His towering height of 6’7″ posed an interesting challenge in finding clothes that fit correctly, given that his brothers stood at a modest 6 feet. However, this challenge paved the way for his personal exploration of fashion and the joy of dressing up in unique and diverse styles.
One might wonder if he has a favorite fashion piece in his collection. Phillips chuckled, admitting, “I never thought I would say this, but my favorite pair of shoes, and my favorite fashion piece that I own are my rhinestone boots.” These sparkly shoes, he explains, make him feel empowered, and they have become an unexpected favorite in his wardrobe.
When asked about a fashion piece that he believes doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves, Phillips drew attention to an Alexander McQueen runway show from 2013 titled “The Land of Plenty.” In particular, he pointed out an outfit known as the “Basket of Plenty,” which featured a stunning red and black design. This ensemble, he revealed, aimed to represent the adverse effects of the fashion industry on the world, highlighting the intricacies of McQueen’s approach to addressing pressing global issues through fashion.
But the highlight of the conversation was the upcoming Diversity Fashion Show, which is set to take place on November 1st. Phillips expressed his excitement, saying, “Super, super excited about that.” The event will commence with a red-carpet reception at 5pm, followed by the Fashion Show at 6pm. He encourages everyone to attend, dress in their best outfits, and participate in the evening’s festivities. The event promises ample photo opportunities to showcase everyone’s unique styles and creativity.
For those who still aspire to be a part of the show, Phillips provided information on how to get involved, stating, “If anyone is still interested in walking in the show, those QR codes and everything can be found on our website if you want to don your favorite outfit and show it off!” This inclusive approach is at the heart of the event’s mission, making it a celebration of diversity, style, and self-expression.
As the Jacksonville State University community eagerly anticipates the Diversity Fashion Show, it’s clear that this event is not just about clothing; it’s a celebration of individuality, inclusion, and the art of fashion itself. On November 1st, the catwalk will transform into a platform where diverse styles and unique expressions come to life, making it a must-attend event for fashion enthusiasts and advocates of inclusivity alike.
