This month’s column was inspired by happenings in April including two major events: First: the surge and rise of women’s basketball during March Madness (along with the elevation of women in sports and our place in this world) and second: the total solar eclipse! Over the past months, the SHIFT in energy has been palpable and inspiring, and has projected us into May where positive vibes can continue to thrive as we wrap spring and head toward summer.
Let’s first dive into the quest for the best and the inspiration generated by Caitlin Clark and the other exceptional basketball players who made it to the women’s NCAA Final Four! The way America rallied behind these phenomenal women was extraordinary! For me, it was not about individual beauty, but about embracing the unique style and character these athletes brought to the court and the joy their fervor brought to me as a spectator. Whether it was purple & yellow braids, uniform-matching crimson hair, or a pair of bold hi-tops – we got the opportunity to witness athleticism and style at its finest and it gave us something to smile about.
The solar eclipse on April 8 had exactly the same effect – without a doubt, it was a spiritual and moving experience. For a nation pulled apart by every manner of division, the eclipse also offered a moment of unity, however brief. It was a reminder to everyone, on the same day and at the same time, that life can be magical. It reminded us that being alive is a collective experience as we literally stood by each other on school playgrounds, in parking lots, in parks and on lawns watching the spectacle together. It helped to frame the fact there is something astonishing about being part of the greater story of things.
Being inspired by women’s basketball and the solar eclipse, and in the vein of expressing individuality while collectively coming together, we need to embrace individual style and encourage the pursuit of personal panache. This season, we look to the classics … a great pair of jeans, a crisp white shirt, a pop of dashing red – add that timeless piece of jewelry, and voila! Reinvent your own classics and add selective pieces to create a pop, because DETAILS MATTER. You don’t have to embrace frothy pastels; instead turn to a swan-white dress or long maxi skirt. Pair a wide-leg jean or trouser with a perfect white tee and sandals on those warmer days or, with colorful sneakers for chilly evenings. Throw on a fabulous trench coat and belt it with a pop of color or add a silky satin scarf for fun! SHIFT your vibe with style and with creativity – keep learning, keep collaborating and embracing your own style.
We have exciting news: SHIFT is SHIFTing!
May 23 will be a bittersweet day – the last day operating our shop at 140 E. Second St. in Downtown Flint. In appreciation for six years of support, throughout May we will be celebrating you and in sincere gratitude for your patronage, we will host a series of sales and events. For all the details, please keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as our website shiftflint.com.
On June 1, SHIFT will reopen in Fenton as more than a boutique, but a creative collaboration with the like-minded, amazing, she-powered businesses at 12258 Fenton Road (the corner of North Long Lake Rd.) Our pop-up shop with these brilliant collaborators will continue through December. We are excited to be SHIFTing in new and imaginative ways! Plans for Wednesday “Collective Creative” nights are in the works with our new partners, 1011 Fabrics and Swan Home + Décor! Our unique apparel and commitment to community will remain the same. Our service with a smile and careful curation of merchandise will remain the same. We are SHIFTing locations, and this change will position us for another FUNtabulous announcement in December 2024! Please stay tuned … Many exciting times are ahead as we continue to serve you and SHIFT YOUR STYLE, because details matter and so do you.
Clothes and earrings won’t change the world, but the women wearing them will!
