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.