TA K E O N E
MARCH
2018
CHARLESTON, SC
Here’s to the women who came before us. Our mothers, our grandmothers, our teachers, our bosses, ancestors we never knew, the women we’ve read about in books, and especially, those we haven’t. They faced many of the same challenges as we do in different contexts.They took bold steps forward. They supported each other. They overcame, and they broke through barriers one at a time. They celebrated their accomplishments. And they kept pushing. Because of the women who came before us, we know change is possible. Because of them, we can stand tall. Because of the them, we must speak out – each in our own way. Because of them, we can be strong and confident and bold. Because of them, we stand tall and acknowledge our power. We will let our voices join theirs in a loud chorus. Because of them, we keep moving, and we press for progress.
Cover Art: Natalie Taylor Humphrey
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A WOMAN’S WORLD
MARCH Dear readers,
F E AT U R E S
It’s been a little more than a year since I joined skirt! as the editor of Charleston’s only women’s magazine. It’s been a year of transition for my family and for the magazine. And, at times, it’s been a little more challenging than I had anticipated (or preferred). But as I’ve had the chance to get to know some of the talented women in Charleston, I’ve become more and more passionate about skirt! magazine’s mission – celebrating women, nurturing their passions and supporting their pursuits.
Take a Spring Break ................................... 10
For the past 23 years, skirt! has been a strong voice for women, a place where women connected and supported each other. Now, more than ever, women are recognizing their power, coming together and working to improve the lives of others and to make their communities stronger.
Women Empowering Women .......................... 17-21
In our March issue, we celebrate Women’s History Month by recognizing those who are changing the world by helping to empower other women. We spotlight three inspiring women in new leadership roles – at the Center for Women, the YWCA of Greater Charleston and the College of Charleston’s women’s and gender studies program – all of whom are shaping the future for women. We also talk with a poet who has earned national attention in the discussion about women’s rights, as well as Cora Webb, a College of Charleston senior who is the recipient of the skirt! magazine scholarship established by our founding editor, Nikki Hardin. We welcome spring styles with a profile of emerging designer Heather Rose Johnson, whose eco-friendly collection will be featured at Charleston Fashion Week. We also look at local stores that collaborate with female artisans from around the globe. Join us March 8 as we celebrate International Women’s Day. It’s a day to celebrate the achievements of women, which is something we at skirt! do every day. This year’s IWD theme is #PressforProgress. You’ll find selfie cards on the back cover of this month’s magazine. Take a picture of yourself with the card and tell us how you pledge to celebrate women’s achievements and #PressforProgress. Tag @skirtcharleston and use the hashtag #skirtforIWD. Peace, love and skirt!
Fresh Ideas ................................................... 12 Wine + Food Recipes ............................... 14
Celebrate International Women's Day .............................................. 22 “We Carry the Sky” Poetry by McKayla Robbin ...................... 24 Meet skirt! Scholarship Recipient Cora Webb .................................................. 26 Fashion Week Emerging Designer Heather Rose Johnson ............................. 32
IN THIS ISSUE Essays ...................................................... 27, 29 Her Point of View .................................... 28 skirt! shops around ..................................... 30 skirt! community ......................................... 35
Shelley Hill Young Editor
Calendar ........................................................ 36 skirt! vintage ................................................. 38
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skirt!magazine march • 2018
YOUR VISION IS OUR FOCUS C E L E B R AT I N G W O M E N ’ S H I S T O RY M O N T H
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PUBLISHER Thomas J. Giovanniello, Jr. thomas.giovanniello@morris.com EDITOR Shelley Hill Young shelley.young@morris.com ART DIRECTOR Sarah Kravchuk sarah.kravchuk@morris.com CIRCULATION, MARKETING & EVENT MANAGER Susan Norfleet susan.norfleet@morris.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY Jenn Cady Sammy Fuentes ADVERTISING sales: 843.958.0028 sales@skirt.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MORRIS MEDIA NETWORK Tina Battock
COVER ARTIST Natalie Taylor Humphrey Natalie Taylor Humphrey is a contemporary artist living and creating in Charleston. After graduation from Clemson University with a bachelor’s in fine arts, Natalie began cultivating her creative passions in the Lowcountry. She works in an array of mediums, including painting with acrylics or oils and designing with fabrics and metals. Most of Natalie’s collections celebrate women and imperfect beauty. They hold the gaze. They have the control. The ladies depicted are near symmetric, with a cross between chic graphic compositions and East Asian ink wash mark-making. Natalie and her husband are working to open a small country grocery store on Wadmalaw Island. Her artwork has been greatly influenced from the grocery store development process, and it is evident in her latest collections. Now, her concepts not only include women, but food, community and culture, too. artbynatalietaylor.com
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skirt! is published monthly and distributed free throughout the greater Charleston area. skirt! reserves the right to refuse to sell space for any advertisement the staff deems inappropriate for the publication. All content of this magazine, including without limitation the design, advertisements, art, photos and editorial content, as well as the selection, coordination and arrangement thereof, is Copyright© 2018. Morris Media Network. All Rights Reserved. No portion of this magazine may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher. skirt!® is a registered trademark of Morris Media Network.
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PA R K Admission is free to all Charleston County parks March 4 to celebrate the Charleston County Parks and Recreation’s 50th anniversary. They’re also offering FREE PARKING at Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Isle of Palms County Park and Folly Beach County Park as well as free fishing at the Folly Beach and Mount Pleasant piers.
PICNIC Pack a picnic and take your little ones to Hampton Park on March 4 for the Teddy Bear Picnic hosted by the Charleston Parks Conservancy. Enjoy live music, face painting, seed planting, crafts and a scavenger hunt. The popular Teddy Bear ER also will be on the scene to help “injured” bears who need treatment and to give healthy bears a checkup. Admission is free. 1:30 to 4 p.m. March 4.
BLOOM Learn how to create stunning seasonal garden masterpieces from “Window Box Lady” Kelli Shaw as part of the Festival of Houses and Gardens’ Live Like a Local series. The demonstration class is 10-11:30 a.m. April 2 at the Nathaniel Russell House Museum garden. Cost is $45 and reservations are required. 10
skirt!magazine march • 2018
After a cold January and a gloomy February, we are ready for spring to officially arrive this month. Celebrate by taking a break from your routine and getting outdoors.
P L AY Take your family to Freshfields Village for the Spring Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 31. Children can enjoy a jump castle, inflatable slide, face-painting, balloon animals, crafts and live performances. The Easter Bunny also will make an appearance.
BRUNCH Get nostalgic and relive the ‘90s at the Mmm Bop n’ Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. March 25 at Cannon Green. Groove to blasts from the past from DJ Natty Heavy while you enjoy cocktails and avocado toast or a CG Burger. It’s one of your last chances to enjoy the menu from chef Amalia Scatena, who Eater Charleston reports is departing in April.
DINE Shem Creek’s newest restaurant, Saltwater Cowboys, is expected to open soon, and we can’t wait to check out their outdoor bar and patio and rooftop deck. The menu will feature local shrimp and fish as well as barbecue.
Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
skirt!magazine march • 2018
11
FRESH IDEAS to decorate your home for spring
Put away the wool blankets, velvet toss pillows and flannel pajamas. Spring is in the air, so lighten up – from your fabrics to your color palette. Go lush and natural by incorporating green plants, floral prints, natural fabrics and pops of bright color. We’re feeling energized and refreshed already!
1. GO GREEN
Add potted plants to your living spaces. They will bring a pop of color to freshen the room and the extra oxygen will help purify the air.
2. THROW IN A BIT OF COLOR
Switch your winter throw blanket and toss pillows with new lighter fabrics and spring-colored hues. It’s amazing what this will do to freshen your decor and brighten your interiors.
3. GLASS JARS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND
Fill twine-wrapped Mason jars with fresh flowers from your local market. Add faux succlents, quail eggs and moss to covered jars to give your room that natural chic look.
5. SWITCH OUT YOUR FRAMED ART
Remove glass from frame and replace it with a full-size green mat board. Using a glue gun or glue dots, glue faux quail eggs in a grid formation to make a chic sophisticated nod to Easter or spring. Frame spring note cards or scrapbook paper and place on mantel or shelf. 6. ADD BASKETS FOR STORAGE Too many pillows? Store them in a large wicker basket or wire bin. Pillows, throws, books and toys will blend into the decor of the room while still being easily accessable.
7. DIM THE LIGHTS AND RELAX
Whether you have a wood fireplace or a faux one, use herbal-scented candles to set a perfect relaxing mood. We like lavendar.
4. PLANT A MINI HERB GARDEN
Bring your garden indoors for easy-to-access cooking herbs. Plant your favorite herbs such as lettuce, mint and parsley in wooden box for a crisp new look and aroma.
2.
1.
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skirt!magazine march • 2018
8. REPURPOSE THOSE RAIN BOOTS
Place potted tulips or other plants in tall cylinder pots or tins and place into your old boots. A perfect way to welcome guests at your front door or entry way.
5. 3.
4.
7.
8.
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6.
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K E L LY F R A N Z Magnolia’s
Charleston Wine + Food Chef Magnolia’s executive chef Kelly Franz shares her famous pimiento cheese recipe, which long has been a staple on the restaurant's menu. Kelly told Charleston Food Writer Candice Herriott during a video for the Wine + Food festival that the signature ingredients are stuffed Queen olives and high-quality parmigiano-reggiano cheese. During the Wine + Food festival, you’ll find Kelly hosting a signature dinner March 2 at Magnolia’s with chef Frank Bradley of Bourbon in Columbia. She’s also at the new Gourmetisserie in the Culinary Village for Lettuce Turnip the Beet from 2:15 to 3:30 p.m. March 3.
PIMIENTO CHEESE 1 large roasted red pepper, peeled, seeded, and chopped, or 1cup jarred diced red pimientos 1/4 cup finely chopped stuffed Queen olives 2 cups New York or Vermont sharp white cheddar cheese, grated 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 2+ Tbsp. mayonnaise 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional) Pinch of cayenne pepper Combine all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
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ROASTED PEPPERS RECIPE Thin peppers will have a shorter roasting time It’s preferable to use fresh peppers that look very healthy and have good thick flesh. Preheat an oven to 350 degrees. Wash, drain, and dry the peppers. Rub the peppers with olive oil, just to coat them lightly. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes, turning once or twice. The skin should be well blistered and blackened in some places. Remove the peppers from the oven. Place them in a small bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let the peppers cool for 10 to 15 minutes. The skin will become loose and very easy to remove. Peel the skin off of the peppers. Remove the stems, cores, and seeds. Do not rinse.
WINE+FOOD+FRIENDS
MORGAN HURLEY Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
Charleston Wine + Food’s Official Cocktail Competition Winner Mex 1 beverage director Morgan Hurley shares his winning cocktail competition recipe, which was featured at the Wine + Food Opening Night party. Morgan went up against his own bar manager, Shannon Standhart, in the heated competition. A panel of food and beverage industry judges voted on the winner at a November event. The winning beverage called A Noble Hospitality features Morgan’s speciality and the official 2018 Wine + Food spirit – Tequila! At Wine + Food, you can find Morgan, an agave aficionado, hosting the Mex 1 Coastal Cantina Tequila lunch March 2, and leading the the Te Amo, Tequila beverage workshop March 3, where he’ll lead lucky participants through a tasting of six tequilas. Salud!
A NOBLE HOSPITALITY 1 oz Don Julio Reposado 1 oz Aperol .5 oz Punt E Mes. 1 oz Pineapple Juice Vida Mezcal rinse Dehydrated Orange (Garnish) Take a chilled Coupe glass and spritz with mezcal. Add above ingredients in a shaker and shake vigorously and double strain. Garnish with dehydrated orange.
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ABOUT REPOSADO TEQUILA Reposado refers to tequila that is aged from two months to a year in oak barrels, which were previously used for whiskey. According to Morgan, aging the tequila mellows the natural agave flavors. Don Julio Reposado has hints of roasted pecans, pepper and spice.
skirt!magazine march • 2018
15
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WOLF
skirt!magazine march • 2018
17
A WOMAN’S WORLD
ON A MISSION: Three Women
in New LEADERSHIP Roles are Empowering WOMEN to Take Charge and Change the World
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skirt!magazine march • 2018
LISA DABNEY Executive Director, Center for Women
Lisa Dabney says her career has been focused on doing “things that feed my soul” or “something about things that make me insane.” In her new position as executive director of the Center for Women, which she’s held since October, Lisa is addressing both fronts. Among the things that make her insane are the findings in a 2015 report on the status of women in South Carolina commissioned by the center: •
Only 19 percent of the people who ran for statewide offices were women
•
Only 29 of women who need public health care receive it
•
Women in the service sector earned a median weekly salary that was about 78 percent of their male counterparts
•
About 20 percent of working-age women in South Carolina have incomes below the poverty line
“The study still to this day says it all,” says Lisa, who previously was the director of philanthropy for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. The work that feeds Lisa’s soul is the center’s efforts to address those issues and empower women. Lisa’s mission and the mission of the Center for Women is to give women access to the resources they need to be self-determining and to remove barriers to their success. The center offers a monthly Connect the Dots lunch-and-learn series, a ready-for-work course, which meets twice a week for three weeks, and a quarterly Founder’s Lab workshop for women interested in starting a business. “One of the things the center excels at is helping women develop soft and hard skills,” she says. “Our work is about personal and professional development. We work with women when they need us the most.” Lisa notes that recent events including the presidential election and the #MeToo Movement, with women coming forward to share their experiences with sexual harassment, have reignited conversations about women’s equality. “Most women felt there were some real obvious disparities,” Lisa says. “We all felt like, ‘Wait a minute, something isn’t right.’ ” “There’s a very real sense that we need to stand up and speak out and take care of ourselves to get stuff done.” The Center for Women introduced Pathway to Politics last year to inspire women to get involved. The one-day, multipartisan conference offered women information they need to run for office and to get engaged in political advocacy. Lisa says women are underrepresented in government, and the only way to change some issues, such as pay inequality, is to get more women in positions to change laws and policies. The center’s youth empowerment program, SheStrong, teaches high school students how to become community leaders and changemakers. “These kids today have access to so much information, and they are using that information to organize and speak out,” Lisa says. “They are reclaiming and redefining what it means to be a woman in today’s society.” Lisa references Meghan Markle, who wrote letters when she was 11 years old that apparently prompted Procter & Gamble to change a sexist line in a commercial for dishwashing liquid from “Women all over America are fighting greasy pots and pans” to “People all over America.”
“ We have an opportunity
to come together and form coalitions to make meaningful, L A S T I N G
CHANGE.”
– LISA DABNEY
on working with Kris De Welde and LaVanda Brown
“I know at least 20 Meghan Markles right here in Charleston,” Lisa says. “They are going to change the world.” Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
skirt!magazine march • 2018
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“Everything we do, we want to empower the women we come in contact with. ... Whether we connect her or we provide the service, both work for me.” – L AVA N DA B R OW N
L AVA N D A B R O W N Executive Director, YWCA of Greater Charleston
LaVanda Brown’s first paying job was at the YWCA in Savannah, Georgia. Now, she’s the executive director of the YWCA of Greater Charleston.
the next session is March 19-20 at the College of Charleston’s North Charleston campus.
Before moving to Charleston about two years ago, she ran programs for homeless families in Savannah. She saw that race and gender often created barriers to success for people. When she was approached about the YWCA director position, she thought, “Wow, I could really get on the front of this.”
The YWCA offers YGirlsCode to encourage girls to learn computer coding and tech skills as part of an effort to address the wage gap between genders. “It’s a club. They get empowerment and self-esteem and a sense of sisterhood,” LaVanda says. The program is offered at two schools and Morris Brown AME Church, and there are plans to expand.
LaVanda grew up in a family that was active in efforts to promote social justice and civil rights. Her father helped integrate public schools in Savannah. She attended an all-women’s college — Wesleyan, in Macon, Georgia — which she said was empowering because women filled all the roles, even those traditionally seen as men’s jobs. “We did everything,” she says. “We never had the sense that we couldn’t.”
The YWCA also offers Backpacks to Briefcases, a monthly personal and career development program for women under 40. And in May, the YWCA will host its first #WhatWomenBring event to honor 10 women from across the state who embody the YWCA mission.
Reflecting on her experiences that brought her to her current position, LaVanda says, “I think I was built for this. I have to work where my passion is.” “I was brought here to honor this history and the foundation (of the YWCA of Greater Charleston) and then to develop programs that are mission-focused and relevant to what the community needs today.” The YWCA’s mission is to eliminate racism and empower women. The organization works to improve the health and safety of women, to promote the economic advancement of women, and to advocate for social justice and equality. LaVanda has helped introduce new programs in the past year, including the Racial Equity Institute, a two-day conference for community and faith leaders who want to better understand and address racism in the community. “It’s an unlearning and a relearning of history from the lens of race,” LaVanda says. The institute is offered six times a year, and 20
skirt!magazine march • 2018
LaVanda’s office has a “The future is female” sign on her desk and a framed photograph of Martin Luther King Jr., which she was awarded by Rep. Wendell Gilliard of Charleston County for her “outstanding community service and keeping the dream alive.” There’s also a framed poster featuring images of Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth and a poem by Patricia Hacker-Harber that concludes, “My heritage has been the shield that kept me strong and free, The woman that I am today now walks victoriously.” LaVanda still has the sense learned at Wesleyan that there’s nothing women can’t accomplish. She cites recents events in Charleston – including the Mother Emanuel AME Church shootings and the death of black motorist Walter Scott – as well as worldwide events such as the #MeToo movement, saying they have created a renewed sense of urgency to try to better address racism and women’s equality. “Shining the light on an issue makes us have to fix it,” she says. “You can’t ignore the dirt on your floor once the light comes on.Then, you have to sweep it up. You just got to.”
KRIS DE WELDE Director of Women’s and Gender Studies at College of Charleston
Kris De Welde, the director of women’s and gender studies at College of Charleston, discovered her power as a woman after taking a selfdefense course. She took the course just before she started working toward her doctorate in sociology at the University of Colorado in Boulder. And it had a transformative effect on her. As part of a more than three-year research project, Kris followed up with women six months to a year after they had taken the self-defense class to find out how it had affected their lives. She found that the women felt more powerful in their own bodies. They felt strong. And that power? It spread to other parts of their lives. They felt empowered to fend off a physical attack, but they also felt more powerful at work, with their families and as members of society. “It wasn’t just about self-defense in the traditional definition of it,” she says. “There was this broader understanding of defending the self … that came from their sense of having a strong body.” Ten years after she earned her doctorate in sociology, Kris co-authored a book, “Disrupting the Culture of Silence: Confronting Gender Inequality and Making Change in Higher Education.” The book explores the ways higher education and academic careers are unequitable for women, especially women of different races, family situations, statuses and sexual orientations. She spent the past 10 years at Florida Gulf Coast University, at first as a faculty member and most recently as an administrator. “Everything that I have done research on has always included some component of gender inequality, always with an eye on gender, race, sexual orientation, economic status and how they intersect with gender.” Kris is the daughter of immigrants from Cuba and grew up in Miami. She was the first woman in her family to earn a four-year degree and a doctorate. “As I’ve gotten older and more confident in my own scholarship and in my relationships and in my ability and skills as an educator, I stand in my power,” Kris says. “I recognize just how powerful that is and how transformative that can be for younger women to see that.” When Kris came to College of Charleston in August, she thought it might be a perfect fit, and so far, she says, it’s been true. “This job allows me to continue teaching in the area of gender, but it also really allows me to put the administrative skills and experiences that I have gathered over the years into play by directing the program. It’s really a beautiful mix.” One of the things that attracted her to College of Charleston is that students in the women’s and gender studies program are encouraged to be active on the campus and in the Charleston community. “There's a very strong element of activism and praxis and applied knowledge, so students are also learning what to do with this information and to create more justice for more people,” she says. Kris takes on her role as director of the women’s and gender studies program at a time when news events have prompted much public discussion about women’s equality and sexual harassment. “Talking about these things is making a difference. The title of my book with Andi Stepnick is ‘Disrupting the Culture of Silence,’ and that’s what’s happening. Women are breaking the silence,” she says. “That has a very strong potential for change. But that's not change in and of itself. There's a lot of heavy lifting left to do, a lot of change needs to happen.”
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“ There’s a lot of excitement and energy and new possibilities we haven’t even thought of because we haven’t all met each other yet,
I think there’s unbelievable
opportunity.”
– KRIS DE WELDE
on working with Lisa Dabney and LaVanda Brown
skirt!magazine march • 2018
21
8
th of March
is International
Women’s Day! I WILL #PressforProgress and ...
22
CHALLENGE STEREOTYPES AND BIAS
FORGE POSITIVE VISIBILITY OF WOMEN
• Question assumptions about women
• Identify ways to make women more visible
• Challenge statements that limit women
• Extend opportunities to women first
• Always use inclusive language
• Assume women want opportunities until declined
• Work to remove barriers to women’s progress
• Select women as spokespeople and leaders
• Buy from retailers who position women in positive ways
• Support visible women
skirt!magazine march • 2018
Source: internationalwomensday.com
SUPPORTS I N T E R N AT I O N A L W O M E N ’ S D AY International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s theme is #PressforProgress, which encourages women to challenge the status quo and press for positive change for women around the globe.The theme is symbolized by women pressing their hands forward. Here at skirt! our mission has always been to celebrate women’s achievements – to bring attention and visibility to those achievements and to those working to make a difference in the Charleston community. Join us March 8 as celebrate and support you – the women of Charleston and International Women’s Day. You’ll find International Women’s Day selfie cards on the back cover of this month’s issue of skirt! Grab your friends, hold one of these cards up proudly and take a photo. Tag @skirtcharleston and use the hashtags #skirtforIWD and #PressforProgress. How will you #PressforProgress? The International Women’s Day campaign encourages you to consider some of the action items listed below. For more information about International Women’s Day, visit internationalwomensday.com.
CELEBRATE WOMEN’S ACHIEVEMENTS
MAINTAIN A GENDER PARITY MINDSET
• Believe achievement comes in many forms
• Question any lack of women’s participation
• Value women’s individual and collective success
• Identify alternatives that are more inclusive
• Ensure credit is given for women’s contributions
• Nominate women for opportunities
• Celebrate women role models and their journeys
• Always include and support women
• Support awards showcasing women’s success
• Think “50/50” as the goal
Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
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Photo credit: Reese Moore
M C K AY L A R O B B I N
believes in the power of poetry again. So should you McKayla Robbin thought no one was reading poetry anymore and had decided not to return to San Diego State to complete her degree in fine arts. She spent the summer of 2016 on the New Jersey shore reflecting — on what she thought poetry should be and what it means to be a woman. She wrote eight hours a day, trying to find her creative energy, her voice. Everything she wrote for the first four months ended up in the trash. Then the inspiration came. McKayla moved to her hometown of Charleston and self-published her book, “we carry the sky,” in December 2016, a month before millions of women marched on Washington to bring attention to women’s rights and less than a year before millions of women would come forward to say #MeToo to demonstrate the pervasiveness of sexual assault. “Everybody’s reaction is that it’s really powerful, especially in context of the news cycle right now,” she says. “Hopefully, we’ve been able to add a little to the conversation that’s going on right now.” She says she didn’t want the book to feel like one person’s story. “I wanted to make it feel like our story.” McKayla’s book landed on a Bustle list of 9 Feminist Poetry Collections to Read.The list prompted actor and director Elizabeth Masucci to read Robbin’s book, as luck would have it, on a flight to Charleston. The producer, who is known for directing films about women by women from the poetry of writers such as Maya Angelou and Meghan O’Rourke, saw that the poet lived in Charleston, called her up and asked to meet her for a coffee. The two met at Bakehouse and discussed plans to make a short film featuring women of different ages, races and backgrounds
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reciting selected poems. The short film was featured on the “PBS Newshour” website last fall. McKayla says she cried when she watched the film. (Warning: You will, too.) “It was just so beyond my expectations for this little book I self-published,” she says. “It’s a lifelong dream.” She says the poems in her book are intended to help women feel like they are never alone, that many of the experiences of being a woman are universal. “Sometimes you can get lost in what you’re supposed to be and the ‘shoulds’ of life,” she says. “I wanted (reading the book) to be freeing.” She hopes her poetry helps people ask questions of themselves and encourages women to “take back the power in their own lives, if it was missing, or if not, reaffirm it.” At the end of the short film, the women are dancing to “Aphrodite” by Satellite Mode. They are full of joy and hope. “The weight of the ‘woulds’ and ‘you shoulds,’ it can be depressing. We have a responsibility to each other to help each other carry that burden.” That burden is where the title “we carry the sky” comes from. But, sometimes, McKayla says, we need to take off that burden, let go and dance. “I want to be dancing,” McKayla says. McKayla’s belief in the power of poetry has been restored. She’s finishing her Master’s in fine arts at the College of Charleston, and she’s planning to spend another summer writing in the house on the Jersey shore. McKayla’s book is available on Amazon.com. You can watch the short film at mckaylarobbin.com.
you sister are the
sound
of the color of a
flower
and when they out of their own insecurity try to silence you you must bloom A N Y WAY S M C K AY L A
Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
ROBBIN
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scholarship recipient
wants to give voice to unheard stories
Cora Webb intended on majoring in public health at the College of Charleston, but her sophomore year, she took an intro to women’s and gender studies class and decided to double-major. The senior — a recipient of the skirt! magazine endowed scholarship that was established by our founder Nikki Hardin in 2012 — said she found women’s and gender studies intriguing because it called her to critique and analyze “stuff we are supposed to accept.” She found that gender and women’s studies frequently intersects with public health because the questions of who gets access and resources and who has power to make decisions are all issues being debated in the public health system. Cora, who is from Columbia, is energetic and inquisitive, and she seems to be involved in just about everything. The most important thing Cora says she’s learned in college is not to accept all the information that is given to her and “how to uncover the narratives that have been hidden.” She wants to give voice to the unheard stories. “That’s what really motivates me.” She’s a member of the Women’s Health Research Team, which is presenting research on illegal abortions from the 1930s to the 1960s at the Southeastern Women’s Studies Association Conference at Clemson this month. She’s on a Gender and Sexuality Equity Center committee that is planning programming for Gender Equity Week, also in March. And, later this month, she’s leading students from the Center for Civic Engagement on an alternative spring break to New York, where they are partnering with the Gay Men’s Health Crisis Center to study disparities in public health that affect marginalized communities. This semester, Cora is co-facilitating a freshman course on social justice dialogue, where she’s helping teach students to dissect their beliefs and have conversations about difficult topics. And she’s a resident assistant at the Stern Center, the campus’ student hub. Two days after Cora graduates on May 12, she’s leaving on a college-led trip to Germany, the Netherlands and Poland, where she’ll study the Holocaust, and in particular Nazi Germany attempts to control reproduction. She graduates at a time when society is re-examining some narratives, especially those related to gender, that have been kept quiet for a long time. “We are fighting back about the devaluing of women’s knowledge. We are working with uplifting women’s voices and addressing a redistribution of power,” she says. “It’s uplighting that you get to be a part of it, but it’s also tiring.” Kris De Welde, the director of women’s and gender studies at College of Charleston, says she met Cora when she visited the campus to interview, and that Cora and students like her were part of the reason she chose to accept the job. “If these are the students that I get to teach, that they will be in my life, and I will be in their lives, then I am sold,” Kris says she thought. “Where do I sign?” “She is wicked smart. She is engaged. She stands in her power, and it is refreshing,” Kris says. “It’s inspiring and I’m going to be sad to see her go, but I know she is going to continue to do amazing work and make change happen in everything that she touches.” Cora is still trying to identify exactly “where her puzzle piece goes” in life after college. She might run for office some day. She’d like to be in a position to change policies. “The thing I know is true is no matter where I go, there needs to be more women.” 26
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IT’S HUMANKIND, NOT MANKIND BY ASHLAN ANDREWS
Growing up as a middle-class female in South Carolina has had its fair amount of privileges. I’ve had struggles throughout my life the same as everyone else, but issues of race, or sexuality, or even religion are never things I have had to deal with because I’m white, I’m straight and I’m a Christian; I don’t face half of the issues women of color, other religions, or different sexual orientations do. One thing all women have in common, though, is the feeling of inferiority that I believe every woman feels at some point in her life. I remember the first time I realized something was off in our patriarchal society: I was 17 years old and taking a science class with three of my guy friends. They were the only people I knew well in that class, so all four of us sat together. Being the only girl, I was an easy target to get picked on. The majority of the time, they picked on me in good fun — I’m shorter than the average girl by about 3 inches, standing at 5’1, so I’m an easy target for the short jokes… one could say there’s no shortage of jokes I’ve encountered throughout my life about my height (sorry, I had to do it). Anyway, one day the joking started to get on my nerves when they began taunting me about how superior men are to women. “Name a woman who has done half the things a man has. A man invented the car, the telephone, electricity; women haven’t done nearly as much stuff as men” are just a few of the things I remember them saying to me. And the sad thing is — even though I knew plenty of women have contributed in wonderful ways to science, the arts, the economy — I couldn’t name a single woman who had done something meaningful. Part of that was due to the anger I was feeling listening to them; I was so taken aback by their comments that I wasn’t thinking clearly. Of course, there are scores of women I could have mentioned: Rosa Parks, Eleanor Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth I; yet as I tried to argue back and say women have contributed just as much to society as men, they continued to talk over me and would not let me speak. I’m a quieter, more withdraw person by nature, so I eventually stopped arguing and was left with a bitter taste in my mouth and a desire in my heart to one day show the world that I am just as capable as a man of achieving my dreams and making the world a better place. I also believe our schooling plays a large part in our ignorance. Growing up, most of the things we learn about history concern men. I could name at least 10 influential men right off the top of my head when I was in high school, yet I’m not sure if I could have immediately named 10 influential women. This is harmful to our society because it not only plays into the constant belief that men are superior to women, it also takes away pivotal role models for young girls. Take, for example, the release of the movie “Wonder Woman” last year. I teared up several times during that movie, and not because the love of her life dies at the end. No, I teared up because it was one of the most uplifting, amazing feelings I have ever felt as I watched this woman superhero do the exact same things men superheroes have done for years in those types of movies. The scene where she fights off the axis powers in dead-man’s zone was easily one of the best movie scenes I’ve ever watched, and finally proved to the rest of the world something women have known all along: we are just as capable as men in all aspects of life. Until society recognizes that women have the power to shape and change the world for the better when we are given free rein to do so, the world will continue to suffer because we are literally putting down half of humankind. And so, this leads me to the reason I chose the title of “It’s Humankind, Not Mankind” for my essay: I know it’s a small thing, really; just a word and something society has used for centuries to describe both men and women. But why do we continuously refer to humans as mankind when describing male and female? Isn’t that just one other way girls are forgotten about in society? I am not a man; I am a Woman. And I believe we need to begin to refer to people as humankind as a simple, yet quietly powerful way to shift away from the patriarchal world we are still inhabiting in the 21st century. Just the other day, I was texting my younger sister and giving her some advice concerning something she is scared to do. Most of the time, when we want someone to be brave, we tell them to “man up” or “grow some balls” which are, all things considered, rude, vulgar phrases that portray women as weak and men as strong (which is ironic because, scientifically speaking, balls are easily the weakest part of a body). Instead of telling Meghan to “man up,” I told her to “woman up.” Again, a small change. Not noticeable in the grand scheme of life, but something that we can all start doing, little by little, to incorporate a bigger change in society. Instead of saying things such as “don’t cry like a little girl” or “you throw like a girl” we can start saying “embrace your tears and cry if you need to because it’s the natural way your body releases emotion when you’re happy, sad, or mad” or maybe “you throw like someone who’s never played baseball before and that’s OK because baseball is a pretty boring sport, amirite?!” Granted, those are a little lengthy, but you get the gist. When all else fails, just remember the wise words of Ginny Weasley from the Harry Potter series, who once said, “Anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.” We women know that better than anyone. It IS possible for us to have amazing careers all while raising children and running a household. It IS possible for us to become CEOs, presidents, engineers, authors, activists, actresses, athletes and superheroes. Society will push against us; it always has. But we will continue to push back, because we are Women, and we are strong, fierce, loving, emotional, feminine, gentle, caring, resilient, smart, beautiful, determined and bold. Every one of us. ASHLAN ANDREWS is a graduate student at The Citadel getting her master’s in international politics. She is focusing on women’s rights in developing countries in her program and is working toward combining her love for writing with her desire to bring awareness to the struggles women face around the world. She’s lived in Charleston for the past year and a half and absolutely adores the city. She enjoys running on the Ravenel Bridge, Sunday brunch at Shelter and paddleboarding in Shem Creek. Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
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Her Point of View Her Point of View is a place where we can acknowledge the larger conversations that are going on about women’s issues. In honor of our “A Woman’s World” issue for Women’s History Month, we asked: What do you think is the most important issue facing women today?
“The biggest issue(s) women face today is to understand that the work toward equality is not yet done, which includes honoring that women can write their own story and be believed, knowing that women must have control over their bodies, and ownership of their selves to ultimately deconstruct their internalized oppression.” – The graduating seniors of the Women’s and Gender Studies program at the College of Charleston
“The lack of leadership roles for women in the judicial system, Fortune 500 companies, technology and media are the biggest issues facing women and girls.” – Elonda Fair O’Neill, Esquire Chair, YWCA Board of Directors
“I think the biggest issue women have today is still equality and respect. Women with full-time jobs still earn only about 75 to 80 percent of their male counterparts’ earnings. WHAT? The crime of us not being seen as equal counterparts to males in society is beyond comprehension in 2018. We have to do better.” – Libby Williams Photographer and blogger
“The issue hasn’t changed. We have more opportunities and a larger platform in which to advocate for ourselves, but having it all still comes at a price. As a mother, wife, student and woman in business, there are higher demands on conventional norms. Unfortunately, we as women demand more of ourselves and others because of the standards imposed by society that don’t apply to men.” – Frances Santiago Executive Assistant, Trident Medical Center Center for Women Board Member
“The biggest issue facing women today particularly in the United States - is the lack of enlightened maternity and family leave policies in many workplaces, and the challenge to find affordable, quality childcare and preschool. Studies have shown that the childbearing years are generally when women's salaries drop off in comparison to men. If women become more valued by their employers while having the resources to properly care for their children, it will help to close the wage gap and support their ability to build wealth.” – Katherine Hanson Business owner and blogger
“We can all name issues that are important to women today: income inequality, gender bias, access to health care… the list goes on. The challenge now is to maintain the momentum and continue to grow ourselves personally and professionally as a whole, so the issues become stepping stones instead of deterrents.” – The Center for Women Staff
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CHOOSE LIFE, CHOOSE YO U BY LEE-ANNE SCALLEY Every year, around this time of year, I stop and celebrate. I celebrate being in a verbally, physically and emotionally abusive relationship for seven years of my life.Yes, you heard right, I celebrate this. It will be nine years, this year, that I made it out of a very dangerous and addictive, abusive relationship. This is the first time I publicly have spoken about this chapter of my life. I am finally in a place, both mentally and spiritually, to reach out and help other women who are suffering. I made it to the other side, I closed the chapter, rewrote the ending to my story, and so can you. I have always been a super strong woman. I have always been a leader, an outspoken and confident woman. I loved life. I hopped on planes and trains. My favorite motto was, “Let’s just wing it, we will figure it out, we always do!” I had zero fear, and I loved trying new things. I played ice hockey my entire life. A weakling, I was not. Fear came into my life when I started dating a guy I thought would be my forever guy. We were inseparable and in love. It took only a few weeks into the relationship for things to start becoming unhealthy, something I was not used to. The cycle of abuse isn’t something we learn about growing up as adolescents. Most of us are not taught to be on the lookout for certain types of behaviors that might lead us into this kind of relationship. Let me describe my view from the inside of this cycle: You live in constant anticipation and alertness, waiting for the next attack to occur. You used to have rational thoughts and ideas and you used to be able to count on your own gut intuition all the time. You start to think you are going crazy and your reality is distorted. You think you are the one that caused him to hit the windshield and crack it again or smash through the glass front door. You think you deserved to be spit on in front of all of your friends.You deserved that drink to be thrown in your face.You know that none of it is right, you pray he will change and he does. He changes long enough to keep you in the calm phase. It could last a month or three or even close to a year, but the incident will always come, it always does, and you just wait. The bad news is that when you are in this cyclone, you can’t see any of this. Why can’t you see any of this? Gaslighting is blinding and is defined as the ability “to manipulate (someone) by psychological means into questioning their own sanity. ” I was lucky to be 26 with no kids when I left my abuser. I was lucky to be alive. One minute you're in love and the next month you are wondering who is this crazy person on top of you waking you up at 2 a.m. to hit you in the face as hard and as many times as he can. The next month you think it’s all going to be OK, and he will change because he said he would, and you are in the calm stage, ready to start fresh. Then, you wake up again only to pray he will apologize for last night’s episode, but he tells you if you disrespect him again he will hit you harder next time.You lose hope – again. I want women to know my story. I was stuck in a very dangerous addiction. I made it out. My last straw? I had a friend of 25 years tell me I wasn’t allowed in her home again – with or without my boyfriend – unless I left him for good because her family's safety was at stake. She was right. Her family's safety was at stake, and I put her in that vulnerable position. I was staying at her house and she was nine months pregnant and had a 3-year-old sound asleep in the other room. This is what it took for me to leave. I spent years in counseling making sure I didn’t go back, couldn’t go back. I spent years in counseling trying to figure out how I had gotten there and how I would never get there again. This wasn’t how my story was going to end. Now, I am the CEO of my own company, I married an amazing husband who came with two amazing stepkids. I am a dental hygienist and I’m an amazing friend and mentor. I broke the cycle of abuse, and I won’t let my stepdaughter fall into this cycle. I will do my best to educate her and everyone around me. I’ve done crazy-hard things in my life. I’ve run multiple ultra-marathons in 120-degree temperatures; I’ve skied places most people wouldn’t hike; I’ve built my own company. To this day, everything in my path is easier because nothing is as hard as breaking this addiction and leaving an abuser. To all of you out there going through this: You are not alone. Reach out to your loved ones, stop hiding in shame. Stop isolating yourself, don’t let the addiction win.You weren’t put on this earth to just make it through life, nor were your children. I celebrate the fact that I am a survivor and I have firsthand experience to share with women who are going through this. I left with zero money in my wallet and fear for my life. I still watch my back every time I am alone. Every time I get into my car at night, every time I travel alone, I look over my shoulder. I made it to the other side, and so can you. Don’t be ashamed of your story, it will inspire others. Choose life, choose you.
IF YOU ARE IN AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP AND NEED HELP, CALL 1.800.273.4673
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LEE-ANNE, known by her friends and family as "LA," is the CEO of OneinaMil, a culture-driven recruiting firm. She and her team specialize in scouring the software industry for top talent. LA graduated from Fitchburg University in Massachusetts and went to the Massachusetts School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences to become a dental hygienist. LA has been included in "40 Under 40" and "Charlie's Most Progressive” lists. In her free time, you will find her playing hockey at the Ice Palace or spending her days on the boat with her family.
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shops around 1.
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“We aim to make a lasting global impact by using our love for people and fashion to change communities ... One outfit at a time.” – Francis + Benedict
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Photo credit: Caroline Howard
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1. Zuri Swing Dress in Life Aquatic, IBU Movement 2. Indian Coin Necklace, IBU Movement 3. Kisongo Earring with Beaded Tassel in black, IBU Movement 4. Peace Shawl: Black with Blue, IBU Movement 5. Midi Length Skirts from the Advocate Collection, Francis + Benedict 6. Black Strappy Sandals, Proud Mary 7. Luminescent African Glass: Sky Blue Multi Strand, 30 skirt!magazine marchClutch, • 2018 IBU Movement, 8. Chamula Furry Papaya, Proud Mary
DESIGNS BY WOMEN We love fashion that has a purpose, especially when
for women
2.
that purpose is helping empower women around the globe. Styles from IBU Movement, Proud Mary and Francis + Benedict are largely handmade by artisans
1.
in countries including Morocco, Bolivia, India, Kenya and Togo. The mission for each is to provide women with dignified work and fair wages and to enable them to become more independent, better care for their families and serve as leaders in their communities. Barracuda Moon jewelry is handmade in Charleston. A portion of their sales are donated to the Polaris Project, a charity that works toward the prevention of human trafficking.
“By granting local artisans an exponentially larger audience, Proud Mary feeds the societies it works with and bolsters the creative industry within them.”
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“As they spin, dye, weave their stories in cloth, Ibu artisans craft more than beauty; they craft their own independence, educate their children, lead communities. They change futures.”
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1. Bobble Sweater, Proud Mary 2. Long tabard blue, Proud Mary 3. Triple V Ring, Mele Earrings, Barracuda Moon Jewelry, 4. Luminescent African Glass Beads: Blue Multi Strand with Ethiopian Cross, IBU Movement 5. Ecru knit pant, Proud Mary 6. Chamula Clutch – Happy, Proud Mary 7. Blue Raffia Loafer, Proud Mary Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
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hrj
Headline Emerging fashion designer showcases eco-friendly collection Heather Rose Johnson is carrying an old gray cashmere sweater with her. It belonged to her father-in-law and then her husband. Then, it shrunk after being washed, and now Heather wears it. There are holes in the elbows, but the sweater has a story. Heather, who is one of 13 emerging designers – and the only one from Charleston – presenting collections this month at Charleston Fashion Week, loves clothes that have a story. The inspiration behind her Fashion Week collection is a vintage embroidered silk indigo kimono that she says her mom probably bought at an antique show. “It’s stunning,” she says. She wondered if she could bring herself to cut it up. But she did. The embroidery from the kimono has a new life on a sheer dress that she’ll send down the runway March 15. Heather says there’s a huge Asian influence in her collection, with references to the ’60s and ’70s. “‘Soul Train’ meets an undercover geisha; that’s the mood of the collection.” “The runway show has to be entertaining,” but, she adds, there’s a fine line. “You don’t want it to be too costumey.” She says you want to create a “wow” factor, but you still have to edit the designs so that they’re something people want to wear. “That’s the challenge.” Heather has been known as Charleston’s seamstress. She started doing alterations, which evolved into helping other designers with their supply chain, and she opened her own business called Charleston Garment Foundry. After she had her son, she strapped him to her chest and went to work, but she learned that wasn’t working for her. She closed the business and sold most of her equipment. After you have children, “You are a different person in every way,” she says. “I had a little bit of an identity crisis.” She compares the experience to a cicada that sheds its shell. Now that her son is about to turn 4 and will soon start kindergarten, Heather has started thinking about reinventing herself again. So when she read an old article about Fashion Week while in a waiting room this fall, she thought, “OK, I’m doing this.” 32
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“I feel like a new person, I have new energy,” she says. “I know who I am as a designer, even though I’ve never called myself a designer.” As a designer, Heather is an advocate of the slow fashion movement, often drawing parallels to the slow food movement. (Her husband is Ben Johnson, co-owner of the new One Broad Street.) It’s important to know where your clothes come from and the impact the manufacturing process has on the environment. “People forget that clothes come from the Earth,” Heather says. A garment’s story doesn’t start with the designer. “You have to go all the way back to where the textile started. … It matters.” Heather’s ready-to-wear women’s collection will include 20 pieces for 12 looks. She’s using many sustainable, natural fabrics, including a handwoven peace silk that is harvested without killing the moth. “They are very rich textiles,” she says. “At first glance, you wouldn’t know that.” The natural fabrics dictate her color palette, which features soft pinks, blues, black, white, green and gold. Heather plans to play with the fabrics to add interest – stamping, creating pleats and adding embroidery. She’s using some yarn that is hand-dyed with natural dyes from a woman who lives in her hometown of Columbia, Missouri. None of her clothes will use plastic zippers. Instead, she’ll use wooden buttons and drawstrings. “It matters,” she says. Heather admits she’s “not a saint” and has purchased fast fashion, but this year she’s committed to sewing most of her wardrobe as well as continuing to support other local designers. She’s recently learned to knit and plans to launch a knit collection after Fashion Week. She’d love to eventually open a retail store where she can sell her knitwear, serve coffee and offer workshops to teach others how to sew and knit. “That’s the big dream stuff,” she says. “I want to make something people will want to spend their money on. I want to make things that are beautiful and people love and will last a long time.”
H E AT H E R ROSE JOHNSON
Photo credits: Jordan Tarrant, Emily Everett and Amelia + Dan
“I feel like a new person,
Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
I have new energy, I know who I am as a designer, even though I’ve never called myself a designer.”
H E AT H E R R O S E J O H N S O N
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EVERY BUNNY NEEDS SOMEWHERE TO CALL HOME
• Sales and Rentals in the Historic District and BEYOND • 11-A Isabella Street • Charleston 843-577-3193 • fax 877-241-6941 melaina@pateproperties.com www.pateproperties.com
community
WOMEN HELPING WOMEN
Want to help make the world a better place? Here are a few efforts you can join to help women and children.
WATER MISSION’S WALK FOR WATER
Help women and children around the world provide clean water for their families when you walk in the Water Mission’s Walk for Water on March 17. The three-mile route is symbolic of the average distance women and children in many undeveloped countries have to walk to collect water, which is usually dirty. The women and children spend as much as six to eight hours a day walking back and forth to a water source.The amount of time spent on the journey drastically affects the children’s ability to attend school. Water-borne illnesses also are common and can be life-threatening. The goal of the Water Mission, founded by Molly and George Greene in 2001, is to design and build safe water, sanitation and hygiene solutions in communities in Africa, Asia, and North, South and Central America as well as the Caribbean. Water Mission volunteers on the ground in 54 countries train women about sanitary practices and empower them to become leaders in their communities and to teach others about safe water practices. The Water Mission often provides disaster relief and is actively working to set up clean water supplies in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. This year’s Walk for Water fundraiser is at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. The route will wind through the Water Mission’s headquarters. Walkers are encouraged to carry a two-gallon bucket and fill it up with dirty water at the halfway point before returning to the park. The walk begins at 9 a.m. March 17 at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. Registration is $20. Register for the Walk for Water at charlestonwalk.org. Use the discount code SKIRT2018 until March 16 to receive a $5 discount.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY WOMEN BUILD
Habitat for Humanity of Berkeley County is hosting Women Build Week May 11-19 in Moncks Corner. The mission of Habitat for Humanity is to provide stability and independence for people who need a place to live. Local women are invited to help build a safe and affordable house for Tacisha, a local single mother of three children. Tacisha, who qualified for a home with Habitat for Humanity with the help of Trident United Way, says she hasn’t had a consistent place to live since she was 14 years old. “The word ‘home’ means being able to stay … being able to have my clothes in a closet rather than living out of a bin every day, having a bed to sleep in and not the floor,” Tacisha says. If you’re interested, visit www.berkeleyhabitat.org to register. You can sign up for a full or half day. No construction experience is necessary. Volunteers are asked to contribute $25 toward the cost of the construction, and will receive a t-shirt, lunch and beverages.
Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
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MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THROUGH MARCH 4
MARCH 13-17
This year’s festival features 40 local and guest chefs and 150 local and guest beverage experts, 32 dinners and 20 signature events. New this year are brunches and a North Charleston Night Bazaar. Tickets and venues vary. Visit charlestonwineandfood.com for schedules.
See and be seen at Charleston Fashion Week, which includes runway shows from local boutiques including Tres Carmen, Julep and M. Dumas, local department store Gwynn’s and emerging designers. The style lounge features fashionable vendors. Events begin at 6 p.m. nightly at Marion Square. For a schedule and tickets, visit Charlestonfashionweek.com.
Charleston Wine + Food
MARCH 3
“Off the Wall and Onto the Stage” Artistic director William Starrett and The South Carolina Ballet brings their original ballet, which brings Jonathan Green’s Gullahinspired paintings to life, back to Charleston to the Sottile Theatre at 7:30 p.m. March 3. Tickets are $25 to $45 and are available at southcarolinaballet.com.
MARCH 10
St. Patrick’s Day Block Party and Parade Put on your green and get to Park Circle to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The parade kicks off at noon at Park Place East. The party continues on East Montague Avenue between Virginia Avenue and Jenkins Avenue with three stages of live music, local food vendors, arts and crafts and a Kid’s Zone. Admission is free. For more information, visit northcharleston.org.
MARCH 11
Florence Crittenton Oyster Roast and Chili Cook-off Support Florence Crittenton Programs at the Oyster Roast and Chili Cook-off from 2 to 5 p.m. March 11 at Lowndes Grove. Enjoy live music and children’s games. Tickets are $45 for adults, $15 for those 21 and under, and children under 12 are free. For more information, visit florencecrittentonsc.org. Homeless to Hope Concert Darius Rucker headlines the Homeless to Hope Concert to benefit a fund created by the Mayors’ Commission on Homelessness and Affordable Housing that supports community organizations working to help individuals transition out of homelessness. Other performers include Charleston Singleton, Quiana Parler, Heather Rice and Lowcountry Voices. The concert is 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Gaillard Center. Tickets are $30 to $250. For tickets, visit gaillardcenter.org.
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skirt!magazine march • 2018
Charleston Fashion Week
MARCH 14
Center for Women Connecting the Dots Lunch Series This month’s speaker is Tamika Gadsden, a local grassroots organizer who leads the Charleston Activist Network and the new podcast “Mic’d Up.” Lunch is provided by Panera Bread. Noon to 1 p.m. at One Carriage Lane, Building C, Unit 200. Tickets are $25 for nonmembers. For more information, visit c4women.org.
MARCH 14 - APRIL 15
Charleston Symphony Orchestra League Designer Showhouse This year’s showhouse is a circa 1870 three-story English townhouse at 142 Tradd St. Tour the exquisitely decorated rooms, shop the boutique and enjoy lunch at the cafe. Open 10 to 4 p.m. MondaySaturday and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, except Easter. Tickets are $20. For tickets, visit csolinc.org.
MARCH 16-18
Charleston Antique Show See a showcase of 17th to mid–century modern English, European and American period furnishings, decorative arts and fine art, architectural elements, garden furniture, vintage jewelry, silver and more. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Charleston Gaillard Center. General admission tickets are $15 for all three days. Visit historiccharleston.org for more information.
MARCH 15-APRIL 21
Annual Festival of Houses and Gardens Visit private homes and gardens dating back to the 18th century during this series of tours, which highlights the city’s architecture, history, gardens and culture. For a schedule of events and tickets, visit www.historiccharleston.org.
MARCH 17
Walk for Water This year’s Walk for Water fundraiser is at Riverfront Park in North Charleston, and the route winds through the Water Mission’s headquarters. Walkers are encouraged to carry a two-gallon bucket and fill it up with dirty water halfway through before returning to the park. The walk begins at 9 a.m. Registration is $20. Register for the Walk for Water at charlestonwalk.org. Use the discount code SKIRT2018 until March 16 to receive a $5 discount.
MARCH 21
MARCH 31
Hat Ladies’ Easter Promenade Put on your best Easter bonnet and line the streets to watch the Hat Ladies’ Easter Promenade. The promenade begins at 11 a.m. at the corner of Broad and Meeting streets and continues along Broad Street to East Bay Street.
Wine Down Wednesday You can get a sneak peek of Olde Towne Creek County Park in West Ashley during Wine Down Wednesdays this spring. Enjoy wine, live music and food trucks from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Day-of admission is $20. For more information, visit ccprc.com.
MARCH 30
Women & Petty Local female vocalists Becca Smith, Cindy Jane Kearney, Hillary Arnold and Jo Kokri-Bhatt pay tribute toTom Petty as part of the“Women &” series at 7 p.m.at the Charleston Music Hall. Tickets are $15 in advance. For tickets, visit, charlestonmusichall.com.
MARCH 31- APRIL 8 The Volvo Car Open
U.S. Open Champion Sloane Stephens is one of the talented tennis players who will take the court during this year’s Volvo Car Open. The largest women’s only tennis tournament in North America features more than 100 world-class players. Family Weekend is March 31-April 1 and Pink Out for the Cure Night is April 4. Ticket prices vary. For more information, visit volvocaropen.com.
Trust your smile to the Artists Welcome to Charleston’s premier all female, full-service general and cosmetic dental practice. With two new associates, we offer expanded services to meet all your dental needs. Visit our website for a complete list of services and new patient offers. We look forward to serving you!
Dr. Anya Kent
(843) 884-8884 Want more? Visit us at www.skirt.com
Dr. Christina Skarpalezos
www.virginiagregory.com
434 W. Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant skirt!magazine march • 2018
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vintage | M A R C H
2009
We love when we follow up with women we’ve featured in the past issues of skirt! and find that they are still following their passions.
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skirt!magazine march • 2018
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Grab your friends, hold one of these cards up proudly and take a photo. Tag @skirtcharleston and use the hashtags #skirtforIWD and #PressforProgress.