| Knoxville News Sentinel
The Rev. Reneé Kesler on importance of Black history at Covenant Health Park
The Rev. Reneé Kesler speaks about the late Bob Booker and the importance of Black history at Covenant Health Park, Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
Fashion is serious business. Not only has it been a literal business in Knoxville history, it also can carry with it a message, an identity, a challenge.
All of that is part of Knox News reporter Devarrick Turner’s deep dive into the topic of Black fashion – in particular Black dandyism – tailored around the Beck-Met Gala, a May 5 event that’s part of Beck Cultural Exchange Center’s celebration of its 50th anniversary.
Why is the local Black history repository and museum marking this major milestone in part with an event modeled after the famous Met Gala in New York City? “It’s celebrating around the parts of the Black experience and culture that have evolved over time and that have become a fabric of who we are, not only as a people, but who we are culturally among all people,” Beck executive director the Rev. Reneé Kesler said.
Don’t miss this package of fascinating stories looking at local history and the modern role of Black fashion in Knoxville and beyond.
A wide-brimmed fedora matched with a church suit, a bright tuxedo paired with sneakers, a gold pocket watch hanging from a vest. From the Beck-Met Gala to the Pre-Prom Stop to Sunday church pews, these expressive looks aren’t just bold fashion statements. They’re heritage, artistry, culture, identity, pride and joy all stitched together to thread old-school flair with new-school vibes.
Dressed in glamorous gowns and sharp suits, guests will walk into the gala in style as paparazzi capture the dazzling moments. This affair won’t be in Hollywood, though. It’s right here in Knoxville.
Knoxville’s roots in fashion run deep, including once being the biggest Levi’s producer in America. And those plugged into the local scene say the community is on the way to reclaiming its fashion status. “When it comes to fashion here in Knoxville, Tennessee, we got it,” Yvette Rice, organizer of Knoxville’s annual Pre-Prom Stop, told Knox News.
Black fashion had the spotlight at at the inaugural Beck-Met Gala hosted by Beck Cultural Exchange Center on May 5 at the Grande Center.
Researching the topic of Black dandyism in relation to the theme of the Beck-Met Gala, Knox News reporter Devarrick Turner – the author of this package and descendant of a line of fashionable folks in his right – came to a realization: Dandyism is about our voice.
“It’s about the red carpet, but it’s more about honoring our children, making sure they feel like kings and queens,” organizer Yvette Rice told Knox News.
The annual Pre-Prom Stop, a red-carpet showcase of high school students and prom fashion, showcased an array of unique, stylish looks. Check out nearly 100 photos from this year’s big event!
