{Z}elebrating Black Women In Hollywood

As Black History Month comes to an end and the Oscars are upon us--- I decided this year my Oscar viewing gathering would honor Black Women in Hollywood—Vintage style.
I wanted simple vintage elegance with pops of modern chic which would translate to that Old Hollywood/Gatsby vibe. Naturally, I pulled out my dreamy black and gold chevron paper (YES! It is paper from Papersource!) and set it out as the red carpet to a quote from Halle Berry’s 2002 Oscar acceptance speech—as the first African American woman to win for Best Actress. If you have not heard it please go do so (right now!)--- Her powerful words brought this styling to life.
Inspired by Halle’s speech ----I created printables with the faces of Black Women in Hollywood mostly from the early to mid-20th century and placed them throughout the décor. I wanted to keep things simple yet meaningful.
Most of the props I already had---The glassware and mirrors were previous thrift store finds and the marquee star and tassels were Target goodies.
I put together the floral arrangement inside a low apothecary jar with flowers from Asrai Garden (a super rad and wonderful florist here in Chicago).
My hope is that with every cupcake, cocktail, or handful of popcorn a conversation will be had about the individual ---their importance, legacy, and impact.
My styling honors the following:
Pearl Bailey
Josephine Baker
Diahann Carroll
Dorothy Dandridge
Lena Horne
Sybil Lewis
Hattie McDaniel
Juanita Moore
Vonetta McGee
Nina Mckinney
Cicely Tyson
Hazel Scott
Ethel Waters

• What People Ate

  Cupcakes, macarons, popcorn, and cocktails (with some pizza!)

• What People Drank

  There was a featured cocktail known as the French 75 that I renamed "The Josephine" along with various types of liquors and mixers

• Desserts

  Cupcakes and Macarons

• Activities / Games

  Oscar Ballot