WELCOME TO LISA’S HOUSE OF LITERARY LIFE & STYLE
I’m a word stylist, passionate lifelong learner and reader. Do you get excited about learning new things and reading too? Welcome! If you don’t, it’s okay. I’m here to encourage you to find your right fit. It’s out there. Let’s go “check the floor'“ and explore!
About
Style yourself as a radiant reader and lavish lifelong learner
I believe in and celebrate creative self-expression. In my own demonstrations, I strive to delight the 8 year-old and 80 year-old versions of me. It’s a pursuit that is inspired and measured by the quote from the esteemed poet Maya Angelou:
My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, compassion, some humor and some style.
The joy of reading and playing with words has made my life rich. I was compelled to channel that joy, play and abundance into researching and writing Miles of Style: Eunice W. Johnson and the EBONY Fashion Fair. It was an opportunity to pay my own positive experiences forward and share the worlds of possibility books and fashion represent. It was also a study in resilience. I hope to encourage you, young (or not-so-young) reader, to travel your road and blaze your own trail wherever your passions may lead you—just as Mrs. Johnson and those who participated in EBONY Fashion Fair modeled.
The 8 year-old and 80 year-old versions of me are pleased. I hope you’ll be too.
Book available for purchase now at your favorite indie bookstore, online retailer and wherever books are sold
Book available for purchase now at your favorite indie bookstore, online retailer and wherever books are sold
A chic biography about Eunice W. Johnson who brought elegant and contemporary fashion to Black America through the EBONY Fashion Fair!
Debuted on February 6, 2024. Winner of Lee & Low's New Voices award, Miles of Style celebrates Eunice W. Johnson, a visionary who used her influence to showcase the strength and beauty of the Black community.
Eunice W. Johnson believed in the power of fashion and beauty to inspire people. After she and her husband, John H. Johnson, founded EBONY magazine, it quickly became the premier lifestyle publication for mid-century Black readers. Among the many hats she wore, Eunice delighted in writing a fashion column describing the latest styles.
In 1958, the two launched a project that would change fashion forever--the EBONY Fashion Fair. Under Mrs. Johnson’s full direction in 1963 and in towns and cities across the United States, Black models graced stages and flaunted the season’s freshest trends in a fashion show like no other. Attendees got a glorious glimpse of themselves reflected in vibrant vignettes and ovation-worthy haute couture.
Making EBONY Fashion Fair happen was no small feat. Eunice negotiated with haughty fashion houses in Europe to acquire the most show-stopping looks and pieces. Back home in the US she navigated racism and societal norms to champion community and challenge what defined “beauty”. Decades later, her name remains synonymous with gumption, glamour and elegance to those who fondly recall the EBONY Fashion Fair, and one worthy of introduction to a new generation of style and substance enthusiasts.
Order your author-signed copy exclusively through Brave + Kind Bookshop
REVIEWS & COMMENTS
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"Brathwaite’s account of Eunice Johnson’s impact on Black culture is charming and straightforward, and her determination to help her community is palpable throughout. Gaines’ digital illustrations are bright and colorful enhancements for the text. A compelling tale of an intriguing subject who left an indelible mark on fashion and culture."
Kirkus Reviews
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"[A] fashion-forward chronicle of the life of entrepreneur Eunice W. Johnson (1916–2010). . . From fashion sketches to runway views, Gaines supplies digital illustrations with an elaborate fashion-plate feel."
Publishers Weekly
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“This informative biography will be an excellent addition to Black history collections, the fashion shelves, or any celebration of innovators of the 20th century.”
School Library Journal
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"Brathwaite’s wonderfully researched picture-book biography introduces elementary audiences to the impressive life and achievements of Eunice W. Johnson, a pioneer of Black fashion and cofounder of EBONY magazine. . .Gaines fills the pages from top to bottom with color, pattern, and texture—well suited to the topic at hand."
Booklist
Selected Interviews and Mentions..
Selected Interviews and Mentions..
Past Readings and Signings (Please see ‘Events’ for current events)..
Past Readings and Signings (Please see ‘Events’ for current events)..
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 11th, 11 am - 12 pm
Miles of Style: Story Hour with the Author — MODA
Ages 6+ Do you know a young designer with their sights set on fashion? Author Lisa D. Brathwaite will be joining us to read from her new book, Miles of Style , which is all about Eunice W. Johnson: EBONY magazine cofounder and creator of the EBONY Fashion Fair!
MODA
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