Renowned fashion stylist Zerina Akers, owner of Black-Owned Everything, recently spoke at the Marshalls Good Stuff Social Club in Atlanta, Georgia. She shared insights on her journey, collaborating with Marshalls, fostering community, and prioritizing self-care.
“Partnering with Marshalls is such an organic, full-circle moment for me,” Akers expressed. “I remember when my grandma would take me school shopping at Marshalls.”
Marshalls Collaboration: Accessible Style and Inclusivity
Akers’ partnership with Marshalls aligns with her belief in blending luxury and affordability. She values Marshalls’ ability to offer stylish pieces at great prices, making fashion more accessible.
“It represents a shift in who their customer is and aligns with Akers’ beliefs about fashion. She believes in mixing luxury items with affordable pieces, and Marshalls offers great prices without compromising on style.”
Building Community and Supporting Emerging Designers
For Akers, community is essential. She leverages her platform to support independent and young designers, giving them visibility and opportunities to redefine luxury fashion perceptions.
“I thought, why not use it to support independent and young Lebanese designers by giving them visibility? This approach blends luxury with the chance to redefine the perception of luxury.”
Prioritizing Self-Care for a Balanced Lifestyle
In the midst of her hectic schedule, Akers emphasizes the importance of self-care. She prioritizes activities like physical therapy, massages, and stretching to maintain her well-being and handle the demands of her career.
“For me, self-care is about taking space to breathe, even something as simple as that. When things get crazy, I often say, ‘You have to schedule your pleasure because pain will schedule itself.'”
Summer Style Trends and Recommendations
Looking ahead to summer fashion, Akers recommends stylish and effortless pieces like crop tops paired with maxi skirts, matching sets, and the resurgence of capri pants and micro mini skirts.
“I’m all about crop tops. I love pairing a crop top with a maxi skirt—it’s my go-to uniform. Another favorite of mine is super cool matching sets, like a button-down with matching shorts.”
