Family Reunion Sunday Brunch

On Sunday, October 25, 2009, the Phi Sigma Pi, Alpha Tau Chapter Endowment Fund, Inc. hosted its inaugural Family Reunion Sunday Brunch at Phillip's Flagship on the Washington, DC waterfront. The event ended the Howard University homecoming weekend and gave friends a chance to reminisce about good times while supporting a fantastic cause. The proceeds from this event went toward scholarships for DC area students pursuing a college education.

Howard homecoming is as sartorially savvy as Fashion Week in New York, and this event was no different. Brunch attendees donned big hats, bow ties, blazers and bags that made bold statements. It was great to see young ladies and gentlemen revert to wearing their Sunday's best when attending brunch.

The greatest thing about fall clothing is the ability to explore your tactile senses. Suede,

corduroy, velvet and moleskin are some of my favorites and all of them could be found at this brunch. This crew stuck with warm autumn colors, yet managed to stand out with their fall fabrics.

Esquire1911 tip: Although each charity fundraiser has its own flair, I suggest adding a silent auction or upscale raffle, when possible. Not only are they an opportunity to raise more money during the event, they keep the guests entertained and guarantee that everyone will stay until the end.

This Sunday Brunch fundraiser featured a Chinese auction with amazing prizes such as an autographed Washington Redskin jersey and Microsoft software. However, the most sought after prize was this unique painting donated by the Rachel D. Crouch Art Gallery which receives the Society Pages Spotlight. The generous artist is a Howard alumna and captivated the brunch attendees with her portrayal of President Obama and his interplay with the black church. The painting helped make the fundraiser a huge success.

Konclave 2009

On August 4-8, 2009, the distinguished gentlemen of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated hosted their 79th Grand Chapter Meeting (known as "konclave") in Washington, D.C. Although the event was anchored at the Washington Wardman Park Hotel, the Kappas certainly painted the entire town red. The konclave itinerary included a family picnic at Howard University, a golf outing, yacht cruise, and both gospel and R&B concert. During the closing business session, the fraternity revealed its new partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters and renewed its commitment to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The Society Pages Spotlight goes to this amazing cake display designed exclusively for the Kappa konclave. The cake is a replica of the fraternity's coat of arms and was showcased in the lobby of the hotel for all of the event attendees. The dessert was delicious and appropriately flavored in red velvet.

Esquire1911 tip: Gentlemen, as you attend black-tie events, opt for a bow tie instead of a straight tie. Since most men do not normally wear bow ties, its an opportunity to change up your routine.

The gentlemen of Kappa Alpha Psi are certainly true believers in the bow tie (as seen in this photo taken at the konclave formal banquet).

Its a true sign of a gentleman to hand tie a bow tie. In the video below, GQ Style Correspondent Brett Fahlgren demonstrates the art of tying one. Remember, your hand tied bow tie does not have to look perfect. The imperfection of the tie gives it character. As GQ Magazine says, "your bow tie should not have botox."

Video: How to Tie a Bow Tie

Summer Soiree

On Saturday, July 25, 2009, I attended a summer soiree at a friend's house in Montgomery County, PA.  Several friends gathered at her home for drinks, laughs and great food.  Each guest brought college supplies to donate to the scholarship recipients of the Phi Sigma Pi, Alpha Tau Chapter Endowment Fund, Inc.  

The Society Pages Spotlight goes to these three twenty-somethings in their warm weather attire.  All three were successful in pairing summer outfits (sundresses and linen pants) in autumn colors.  It was a nice break from the traditional bright colors of summer.

Esquire1911 tip:  When hosting a party at your home, its always great to provide your guests with something unexpected.  At the summer soiree, the hostess set up a candy bar for everyone to help themselves to jolly ranchers, tootsie rolls and many other childhood favorite treats.  Adding something like a candy bar keeps your guests moving around the room and promotes conversation, both of which are critical to a great party.

The White Party

On July 18, 2009, the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) hosted its annual White Linen Affair at the Belmont Mansion.  The sea of professional black people looked amazing against the striking backdrop of the Philadelphia skyline.  Under a tent, we danced and ate until the midnight hour.  However, this was not simply a great social event.  The NBMBAA awarded three scholarships during the night and raised money for its Leaders of Tomorrow program.

The Society Pages Spotlight goes to this lovely lady striking a pose in her eyelet dress.  What set her outfit apart was her keen addition of accessories.  The double string of pearls, matching bracelet and white jeweled ring were paired with gold bracelets that complimented her shoes.  She certainly thought about her total look.

Esquire1911 tip:  Love is in the details.  Accessories can give your outfit a 'wow' factor.  Coordinate your accessories with the colors in your outfits and be sure to match your hardware (e.g., silver belt buckles with silver watch bands).  The summer certainly lends itself to a myriad of accessory choices.  You can add something as simple as a pocket square or as elaborate a sun hat.  Be bold and make a statement; but don't make too many.

West Virginia Wedding

On June 21, 2009, I attended a wedding at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, WV.  The bride is a special friend of mine.  Both her and the groom are graduates of Howard University.  

The couple exchanged vows outside in the formal gardens of the resort.  Everyone was dressed in their best summer wedding attire.  The Society Pages Spotlight goes to this duo in their matching khaki suits (most appropriate for a summer garden wedding).  The only thing missing is the matching pair of FENDI sunglasses for the little one.

Esquire1911 tip:  When attending an afternoon wedding in the South or at a resort, a gentleman should feel free to opt for a lighter color cotton suit in lieu of the more traditional dark colored wool-cotton blend.  Not only will you stand out, you will make it through the ceremony without a sweat.