As we bid farewell to 2023, we can't help but reflect on the incredible journey we've embarked on at HBCU Leggings. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with groundbreaking moments and significant milestones that have left a lasting mark on our brand. Join us as we rewind the tape and celebrate a year of firsts that have brought us closer to our mission of celebrating and uplifting historically black colleges and universities.
First Brand Photoshoots:
At HBCU Leggings, we refreshed our look with not one, but two brand photoshoots. These sessions featured classics and brand new products.
February 2023
Photographer: Al Bailey / Make Up Artist: Monica Hurui / Hair Stylist: Gwynn Geohagan / Models: Amina Hammond, Janine Slade, Gwynn Geohagan
September 2023
Photographer: Derrel Todd / Make Up Artist: Felicia Gray / Hair Stylist: Gwynn Geohagan / Models: Amina Hammond, Janine Slade, Brandon Slade, Gwynn Geohagan
First TV Appearance:
Founder and CEO Amina Hammand graced TV screens this year, representing all HBCUs and showcasing her brand, HBCU Leggings, on ABC's WJLA Good Morning, Washington. Take a look here:
First Radio Interview:
From TV screens to radio waves, Amina Hammond was interviewed on on Radio One’s hit show, Marketing Pulpit, where they discussed topics ranging from the passion behind the brand to history and culture of HBCUs. Listen to an excerpt here:
First In Person Vending:
HBCU Leggings made some in-person appearances this year. First, on Memorial Day weekend, we hosted a pop-up shop at National Harbor’s Community Love Hub in Maryland. And in October, at Howard University’s Homecoming Yardfest for the very first time. It was great meeting so many of you in person who have been with us on this journey thus far and who have shared kind words of encouragement and support.
HUHC October 2023
Now we all know there ain't no homecoming like a Howard homecoming. Check out HBCU Legging's first yardefest here:
First Fashion Show:
In April, HBCU Leggings was featured in a Fashion Show to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Black Women’s Society at Amina’s high school, Georgetown Visitation. She was featured alongside two other notable alumni brands, Bridal Babes (as seen on Shark Tank) and amparo3.
First Publication:
In October, HBCU Leggings was featured in Andscape; an ESPN publication that explores the intersections of race, sports, culture and more Read the full article here.
HBCU Leggings in Bookstores:
2023 had more than a few pop-ups in store for HBCU Leggings. This year, HBCU Leggings can be found in campus bookstores around the country. Fourteen to be exact!
Howard, FAMU, Morgan, Texas Southern, Norfolk State, Xavier of LA, WSSU, Grambling, Central State, Oakwood, UMES, LeMoyne-Owen, Claflin & Elizabeth City State.
New Partnerships with HBCUs
HBCU Leggings is closing out the year with five new licenses at HBCUs. They are:
West Virginia State University
Pssst, go shop your school at HBCULeggings.com!
As we bid adieu to 2023, we invite you to continue this amazing journey with us. Visit HBCULeggings.com and shop your school, wear your pride, and join us in celebrating the history, culture, and excellence of HBCUs. Thank you for an unforgettable year, and here's to an even brighter future ahead!
Love and Leggings,
Bibi
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bibi Mama is a first generation Beninese-American actress born and raised in Mansfield, CT. Growing up she watched her father, an English professor and author, continue the Yoruba oral tradition through storytelling, which inspired her. She earned her B.F.A. from Howard University and recently finished her MFA at the Old Globe/University of San Diego MFA Graduate Acting Program.