When It’s More Than Just Clothing
Stories Like These Are Important.
Penned By: Atlas O. Phoenix
Photo: Kori Griffith
My name is Atlas O. Phoenix. I'm an award-winning filmmaker working on my first documentary about my transition at 50, "With Love, Atlas Oggún Phoenix." In the last 18 months, as I decided to transition, Dapper Boi played a significant role in my transformation! Take a look at message I sent last week to Charisse, the co-founder:
“…Your company doesn’t just make clothes for people with curves and a butt. It’s so much more than that. Although, it is catchy and fun to read this throughout the site!
I’ll share with you how I came to shop at Dapper Boi. A year ago, I lost my most significant relationship. Then, after the premiere of my short film, Little Men, I lost my sense of purpose and direction. I also met with someone who had been in contact with someone who tested positive for Covid19. I had to lock down two weeks before everyone else. I lived alone, and was completely isolated. I had a nearly tragic event in my life and came out of it knowing that I HAD to make some changes. I sought help.
As a result, I became aware that I might possibly be transmasculine. While I was searching for nonbinary clothing as part of the change I needed to make, I came across your site. It was the first hit on Google. I was a little skeptical about buying clothes up front, and getting them a month or more later, but I decided to give it a shot. Your website was professional and clean.
When I got my three dress shirts and chinos, I almost cried looking at myself in the mirror. I had never had the experience of seeing myself look this great so easily. The clothes fit me perfectly like never before. I started buying almost every new item that came out from April 2020 to January 2021. That’s why 95% of my clothes are from your company. In the process, I lost 40 pounds, completed 250 hours of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and turned 50 in November. When I came out to my community this past April as transmasculine, I got so much love. The last year and a half, I learned to validate myself, my life and love myself in way I didn’t know was possible. And, Dapper Boi was a significant part of this change and development.
To say I feel confident, sexy, and at ease in these clothes is an understatement. I feel so much more than that. And although I’m a writer, I still can’t find the words.
I can’t be the only person wearing your clothes that feels this way. I want to share this with the world. Clothing can make an indelible difference, just like a haircut.
Plus, the Afterpay program makes it easier to purchase your clothes. Thank you so much for working with that company. In our acronym, so many of us, in particular BIPOC, have a difficult time with daily essentials, let alone buying decent, hard-wearing clothes.
Dapper Boi means more to me than just clothes that improve my swag. In so many ways, wearing Dapper Boi improved my quality of life. I am more confident. I feel more appealing. And what I feel about myself on the inside can finally be seen on the outside; my True Self can shine! This is the real meaning of Swag. Thanks so much, Dapper Boi!
Take care of yourself and your family and be well! Thanks again.”
Comments
Thank you so much for sharing! I adore this company. Your story is different than mine, but proves that Dapper Boi helps so many different members of the LGBTQQ+ community.
@Heather Hartter-Kava
Hi Heather,
I’m glad you enjoyed my story. Although, as you say, our stories may be different, there is still a common. This thread is the need to be seen and feel valued for being yourself, the only person you can ever be.
Take care and be well, Heather,
Atlas