MAIN CHARACTER

BY: KATHERINE RUDIN, COLAFW MARKETING INTERN

 Photo by Jabril Tobin, Models: Christopher Stanley, Deshea Quashie, Kariem Laporte, Larry Gaines

This fall, welcome change—and not just in the seasons! As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, it's a perfect time for transformation. Columbia’s rich history remains timeless, a theme brought to life in COLAFW's recent shoot, Main Character. In a tribute to our city's past, COLAFW style team members Larry Gaines and Keonna Myers found a unique way to mix past and present, illustrating men’s fashion across the ages. Inspired by the city, the shoot features a carefully curated wardrobe of pieces representing history, each with a fresh, modern spin on seemingly retro styles.

With Columbia’s Main Street as the backdrop, this photoshoot perfectly captures the changing seasons and styles. Each look embodies a warm fall palette, yet every outfit stands alone as its own “main character.”
From '70s-inspired bell bottoms to a '90s streetwear bucket hat, each ensemble has its own personality.

The keen eye for layering, the use of textures, and playful patterns highlight silhouettes from various decades. Notably, the kilt-inspired skirt paired with jeans offers a modern twist on a historical style. Each look tells its own story of fashion’s evolution, narrating the changes in history while embracing fresh streetwear aesthetics. This artistic display pays homage to the city by inviting people to “experience new life in old ways.”

​ Photo by Jabril Tobin, Models: Christopher Stanley, Deshea Quashie, Kariem Laporte, Larry Gaines