Do you recognize the Chicago-style steppin’ community as a union of the fashionably elite? I do. Chicago Steppers love to dress up and strive to be stepper sharp. After a few weekend events in my first year of steppin’, the parties made me put my wardrobe to good use. The main event night at a weekend event is like dressing for The Essence Festival. I love wearing my dresses and other fancy clothes and shoes. That is to say, finding places to go to wear the best in my closet is no longer a struggle. Many event flyers state “stepper sharp” dress code so it should be a familiar term to steppers. If you don’t meet the grade you may be turned away from the party. We are stepper sharp, but what does that mean?
Examples of Stepper Sharp Outfits
Examples of Stepper Sharp Outfits
In the Chicago-style steppin’ community, men and women dress to impress. Gentlemen may dress in suits, slacks, or tailored sports jackets. Party planners love themed nights and most steppers comply. For example, some color themes are black and bling, pink and white, shades of blue, hats and boots, and moulin rouge. Chicago steppers make an entrance by taking meticulous care to be fashionably just. They are coordinated head to toe, immaculately styled hair with polished skin and nails. Most people try not to wear the same outfit twice.
Stepper Sharp for the Paparazzi
Steppers love to take photos and share them on social media to show off our style, individuality, and taste just as we do when we step. It’s also a great way to memorialize the times with our friends and the places we have visited. Chicago steppers source fashion from the mall, unique boutiques, and high-end stores. Sometimes there is a hidden treasure at a thrift store. Others go as far as donning custom fashion from personal tailors and stylists. In other words, the stepper sharp upkeep can become expensive. Our fashion ranges from glamorous gowns, red bottoms, blinged-out attire, and other ostentatious pieces. I believe stepper sharp means whatever it takes to make a fashion statement that fits in the world described by all of the above.
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Acknowledgments: Curtis Stewart, Michael Bennett
PHOTO CREDITS: Mike B, Purman, Vince, Antonio, Simmy, Ayana, Donna, Carla Jeanne