I had the joy of being quoted in the Chicago Sun-Times for a story that captures something deeper than a fashion trend. Yes, the quarter-zip is having a moment. But as I shared with the reporter, this is really a story about how young Black men are remixing culture in real time—using fashion as both expression and affirmation.
In the Sun-Times piece, I described this movement as “remixing,” not conforming, because that’s exactly what it is. Fashion—especially for Black men—has always been layered with intention. It’s a language. It signals identity, aspiration, resistance, and joy. It communicates who you are before you ever say a word. And in a social climate that still scrutinizes Black bodies, how we show up continues to shape how we move through the world.
What encourages me most is seeing young Black Chicagoans reclaim community through something as simple as a style trend, a scoop of ice cream, and a meeting of the minds in real life. They’re creating positive spaces, supporting local businesses, and choosing unity over chaos.
This moment isn’t small. It’s cultural strategy in action. And it’s a reminder that trends often tell us far more about people than clothing ever could. Check out the story on the front page of the Chicago Sun-Times on Monday, December 8th.
https://chicago.suntimes.com/entertainment-culture/2025/12/08/young-chicagoans-quarter-zip-matcha-trend-south-side-businesses
