WILLIAM O. THOMPSON II

To whom it may concern,

If you’re reading this that means you would like to know all the things that have gone on in the midst of the world we live in for me, and the truth is…for a while absolutely nothing. When we entered the pandemic, I like many of us thought “this will pass” and “simply blow over”, but it didn’t. The reality was the worst was yet to come, we would be plagued by police brutality, social injustice, and racial equality like we have never seen before.

The state of the world and my surroundings led me into a space of darkness, with no light or future ahead. I was left feeling uninspired, and with no ambition because “What was the point?” It took a while to break the chains that held me captive, many of which stemmed from my insecurities of the person that I was, who I aspired to be, and the world’s perception of which I should/shouldn’t be. Why did I keep questioning my race, masculinity, and sexuality to fit a mold? I would constantly hear that voice, from myself, and the feeling as if I am failing a test with only one question. “Who are you?”

The good thing about self-isolation is that eliminates all the distractions that shield you from all the issues you don’t want to face yourself. This period has brought elevation and a sense of rejuvenation to the inspiration that lives within. It took self reflection, and the gentle uplifting nudges from my closest friends (Tredarious, Zhana, Ricci and Sky) I was able to gain clarity to understand how exactly I want to be, act, speak, and show up to create what I want for my life.

Thus, the idea of the “Rebirth” was born reinventing us, redefining our blackness, and reconnecting with our purpose. We define, who we are, and our purpose.

Life is a journey, and our purpose is the compass that helps us stay the course, and if you veer off the path don’t be discouraged. Replot your course and refocus on what matters most to you. Identify your one focus for this time, in this place, in this cultural moment, and keep creating because your work has already begun.

Although a lot of the world seems bleak, the beauty of it all is that there is beauty in uncertainty.

We got this.

I have been 24 for exactly a week, and as promised here are my 'Ask Me Anything,' where I open up about my favorite things, my crazy fashion ideas, and my legacy.

1.    What year were you born?

I was born in 1996, am I still considered a 90’s baby?

2.    Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and I grew up in a special neighborhood called Gentilly.

3.    How many siblings do you have?

I have one older sister, and we’re five years apart. I’m pretty sure if you saw us together you would say were twins.  However, we are complete opposites, plus she’s a Taurus so she’s very stubborn.  (No offense to any Taurus, readers.) 

4.    Where do you currently live?

I currently reside in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn.

MOOD: 

5.    Who is your first best friend?

My best friend has been my childhood friend since the 5th grade, Terrell G. Allen, we have laughed together, cried together and the memories only continue to get better as we get older.

6.    How tall are you?

I stand at 6’1 if my shoe has a heel 6’5.

7.    Are you in/have you gone to college?

I am a graduate of the illustrious Dillard University, where I majored in Mass Communication with a focus in Multi-Media Journalism. I also minored in Visual Arts. (Thus, the creativity duh!)

8.    Are you single or taken?

I am single and let me tell you I am heavily surveying the market. Alexa, play “Hot Girl Summer”

9.    When you gone be for me?

AND I OOP….

10.  What’s one goal you want to achieve in your 24th year?

In my 24th year, I want to become more confident in my vision and stop overthinking and doubting myself. Also, with that in mind find a way to turn my creativity into residual income.

11. How do you want to be remembered personally & professionally?

I want to be personally remembered as a humble, generous, and confidently fearless leader. I would want to professionally be known for my work that I put out, from concept to delivery to execution. A visionary if you will.

12. Who is your biggest inspiration?

So, there are a few people that come to mind because I try my inspiration from a different place for each project, some being family & friends, designers, and artists. I think one that has had the most impact would have to be Billy Porter, he was one of the main sources of inspiration for my Halloween costume and everything else has just followed suit.

13. What are your biggest fears?

I am most afraid of the feeling of letting all of the people who have invested their time, energy, and support into me down. I sometimes feel the weight of others on my shoulders, so I find myself constantly thinking, “You’re not just doing, this for yourself.”

14. What are your guilty pleasures?

I love watching the cake and cookie decorating videos, time-lapsed makeup tutorials or makeovers, and pancake art I could watch those videos for hours.

15. What is your spirit animal and why?

A Bumble Bee, and here’s why first, they are the most important insect in the world right now #savethebees, and second "According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way that a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get its fat little body off the ground. The bee, of course, flies anyways. Because bees don't care what humans think is impossible.”

16. What is your drink of choice?

If I’m feeling classy or out at happy hour, I’ll grab either a dirty martini (with extra olives), a Moscow mule, or an old fashion. If I am just chilling with my friends anything brown. (Hennessey, Dusse, Crown or Jack, although after my birthday 1942 now has a special place in my heart.)

17.  What is your go-to fast food order?

This is easy McDonald’s, a six-piece chicken nugget with one barbecue and buffalo sauce, small fry and a large sweet tea with lemon. IN THAT ORDER.

18. What is your favorite movie?

The Devil Wears Prada, and Sex & The City. ( However, only the first one the sequel does not have the range.) They have made me the person I am today; I can quote The Devil Wears Prada and the scene where Carrie is left at the altar, gets me every time.

19. What are some things you can’t live without?

MY CELL PHONE. It is always the one thing that I keep near me at all times, I constantly have those nervous pat-downs you get when you think you lost it. However, although its always near I acknowledge I am a horrible texter! HORRIBLE.  

20. What is the last song you listened too?

The last song I listened to was Freak, by Jada Michael heard it on twitter and I said “Oh this it!”

21. How would you describe your fashion sense/style?

I have tried my hardest to get out of the mindset of trying to be on-trend, and use my sense of fashion to create art or moments so I would say “constantly evolving.”

22. How do you get ideas to put your outfits together?

So my creative process first, everything begins with some form of inspiration, the first thing I usually do once I get the idea is to call my friends to ask, “Do you think I can pull this off?!” usually they are very honest. Immediately after getting my friends on board, I run the vision down to the photographer which usually calls for some Pinterest boards. Then, I begin searching online for the outfit, I start with the base of whatever the “focal piece” is and work around it with shoes, accessories, etc. After I have the outfit, I try it on and photograph it so I can how everything looks on my body and adjust from there. Lastly, once we get the idea, the outfit and photographer we shoot it, edit, and roll it out.

23. Can we please collaborate and have a shoot together? I want to get involved and show support.

YES! YES and YES! I am always down to collaborate, as long as it’s well planned and thought out. I think it’s also important to know what you want to learn from the other person.  

24. What do you want your legacy to be?

I want the work/projects I have done to influence others positively, shed light on important topics, and create discussions that will continue for generations. I want my legacy to be one filled with:  

many good relationships and friendships,

a great number of individuals who I have mentored and guided at different stages in their life.

2.24.2020 “Flight 561 with service to New Orleans is now boarding”, said the Southwest Airline serviceperson. I began towards the gate with butterflies, excited for the weekend’s festivities. 

The weekend before Fat Tuesday is always the peak of the celebration, with all of the parades, tourists and most importantly coronation balls. The Zulu Ball, hosted by the Krewe of Zulu in my opinion, is the kick-off for the festivities leading up to the big day. Everyone from the city piles into the Marc Morial Convention Center in downtown New Orleans for a night of black elegance and grandeur.

Now, given that I had not attended the ball in two years, and also being the fact that it’s 2020 this year was a year of the comeback.  I knew I had to attempt to create a moment, which is what fashion is all about. The overall planning took an estimated two months to execute, but if you’re curious how the idea was created…here is everything you need to know.

Finding Inspiration: December 27, 2019 (56 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020) 

The overall inspiration for the look originated from Eugene Lee Yang, Content Curator, Activist, and 1/4 of the Try Guys. He donned an all pink draped custom suit by Menagerie for the 2019 Unforgettable Gala. When I saw the look instantly knew it was the one. The wheels in my brain instantly begin churning to figure out how I could make this my own.

Suit Up: January 3, 2020 (49 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020)

I can honestly say this was the easiest part of the whole planning process. I knew once I saw the inspiration and the detail that would it be easier to have someone attach the draping effect rather than creating a custom suit from scratch. The suit, both blazer, and pant were from ASOS. I figured that for timing and alteration purposing ASOS would be the best bet due to the swift delivery and spot-on sizing.

Swatch This: January 18, 2020 (34 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020)

Now that I had the suit, we needed the fabric for draping. I hauled up to the Fashion District of NYC to go every Project Runway fan dream Mood. Unfortunately, I didn’t find the resident puppy, but I was able to find the multiple fabrics that could be used for the drape effect which ranged from satins, silks, and even poly blends. I ultimately chose a black silk charmeuse, due to the lightweight and easy fold of the material.

Make It Your Own: January 20th, 2020 (32 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020)

In efforts to make the look my own and put my spin, I solicited the help from two friends, who opinion I hold dear, Sky Milan Howard, and Lorenzo Joshua. I knew two things, they would be honest in letting me know if I could pull it off, and what’s the best way to style it if I could. We all agreed that the white boot would be a great contrast against the black velvet/satin material, the gloves would add a touch a class given the event, and that jewelry would the right touch without taking away from the overall look.

Behind the Lens: January 22nd, 2020 (30 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020) 

The photography inspiration was a mixture of Diddy’s 50th Birthday Party and Vanity Fair. I knew there was only one person that could probably execute this and make me feel comfortable in front of the camera and that was Ahmad Coleman. Ahmad was the visionary who helped create Cinderfella so it was a must he was on the shoot. The original date was February 15h, but given the fact, Ahmad is taken and practically married. We planned to shoot February 8th, given to allow time for editing.

The Runaround: January 27th, 2020 (25 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020)

I was able to find a local designer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana that I have been dying to work with. However, due to timing, we were not able to coordinate shipping, fittings, etc. This is where we hit a hard one, I went through over a dozen tailors and designers before I could find someone to alter the suit. I had heard everything from, “Oh no that’s too complicated,” or “I only do custom pieces, no add no’s or alterations.” Discouraged, and on a whim, I went to google and searched, “Alteration’s in NYC” and found the amazing team at Alteration Specialist on 5th. It took a total of three tailors, and fitting of almost two hours to get all of the draping detailing to fall perfectly.

Click Flash: February 8th, 2020 (13 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020) 

The photoshoot went well, I was able to secure my friends Ricci Bostick, and Tyler McGlothen aka Miss T to help direct the shoot. I am usually, very shy when in front of the camera so having them there made me feel at ease. 

Are You Sure: February 17th, 2020, (5 Days Until Zulu Ball 2020)

After seeing the photo’s which I LOVED. I still faced a lot of self-doubts, “What if it flops?!” or “What if people don’t get it, am I doing too much?!” The reality of it is confident as I may seem on the surface, I am always in the constant question of it I’m doing the right thing. One of the hardest and most courageous things one can do is freely be themselves, which is a battle I struggle with on the day, but I am slowly learning to overcome. However, I truly appreciate all the support I receive any comment, mention, and re-share assure that “hey you might just be doing something right!”

The END: February 21st, 2020 (Day of Zulu Ball 2020)

CATEGORY IS: ZULU BALL 2020 🎭 brought to you by Vanity Fair. 

2.15.2020 Every relationship that we form in our life is unique, and people may come into our lives for many different reasons. However, the issue of our failed relationships has become far too common. But why exactly do a lot of relationships fail easily these days? 

According to studies, there are 6 top reasons relationships tend to fail Lack of Trust, Pride, Poor Communication, Lack of Time, Anger, and Compatibility Issues rank highly amongst adults our age range. 

So if you're wondering, “What exactly does it take to maintain a healthy relationship?” keep reading and by the end of this article, I am sure that you will have everything you need to maintain a healthy relationship be it with your friend, partner or professional mentor.

1. Determine the best way to communicate. 

(Poor Communication)

Everyone has a different communication style which depending on the relationship can be a blessing or a curse. Some may prefer to chat over the phone or a quick text message.  Whatever the case it’s important to meet them where they are.

SOLUTION: Set expectations and always make your intentions clear, especially your communication. 

2. Commit to regular outings & spend quality time face to face. 

(Lack of Time)

We must stay cognizant that everyone has a life of their own, and although we may want the world to revolve around us, unfortunately, it doesn’t. A face to face outing can be a great way to not only establish a routine, but it allows time to create fun memories for the future.

SOLUTION: Don’t take it personally when things don’t go as planned, try to be flexible and find an alternative time to reschedule. 

3. Always support and encourage each other in some way! 

(Pride/Ego)

A little support goes a long way, it shows you are genuine and mutually invested in the relationship! When your pride takes over, personal problems can get in the way and as a result, you can tend to prioritize only YOUR own contributions and sacrifices while ignoring the efforts of others.

SOLUTION: Any relationship is give and take so be sure to give what you want to get. 

4. Be prepared for ups and downs.

 (Anger & Emotions) 

Every relationship will have its ups and downs but it’s important to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Our emotions tend to peak when we feel mistreated, wrongly accused, or misunderstood. We are all human, but sometimes our emotions can get the best of us which can be damaging to our lives and relationships. 

SOLUTION: Learn to let things go, and control your emotions before they control you. 

5. Always Remain Honest. 

(Lack of Trust)

In your relationship, one should always feel safe to communicate their feelings of fear, insecurity, jealousy whatever it may be. It is not healthy for you or your relationship if you constantly feel the need to deal with things all by yourself. 

SOLUTION: Be open and honest and let someone help/give you the support that you need. 

6. The truth is; things may not work. 

(Compatibility Issues) 

 The truth is things may not always work, but that’s a part of this thing called life. 

February 4th, 2020- February 4 marks National Fall Off the Wagon Day - a pivotal moment in the new year where resolution-oriented hopefuls begin to lay their newfound fitness goals by the wayside and revert back to their old habits. According to a recent online study by Harris Interactive, only 26% of U.S adults who make New Year’s fitness goals reach them. 

So what does this mean for the fitness goals of the remaining 73% of us? “Alexa, play Motivation by Normani!” 

The thought of embarking on a fresh fitness journey felt overly-ambitious, dreadful, and daunting to me. It wasn’t the early mornings, physical strain, or discipline needed to reach my goals that scared me most. It was anxiety that came with feeling emasculated. Being surrounded by brute strength and seemingly perfect physiques made me feel small in the gym.

But I soon realized that a fitness journey is just that: a JOURNEY. Meaning it has to start somewhere. While the man to my left can benchpress 250lbs and the woman on the treadmill has perfectly crafted washboard abs, it was critical for me to realize that wasn’t their start, and far more important for me to realize that this isn’t my end.

If your New Year gym journey has mirrored anything remotely similar to my sentiments above, don’t lose hope! Achieving goals aren’t easy, but they are obtainable. Avoid National Fall Off the Wagon Day by checking out a few of my personal tips for staying motivated no matter the stage of your fitness journey. 

1. Make Exercise a Priority in your Schedule:

36% of adults say it's too hard to find a time that works for them, don’t let this be you setting a routine will not only help your body adjust, but it will also allow you to plan a schedule that works best for your day to day life! We all know the saying consistency is KEY!

 2. Make sure the gym playlist is FIRE!

Your gym playlist is almost essential to a complete workout. A good playlist can help not only serve as motivational support, but it’s a great way to zone out and breeze through your workout taking reliving some of the focus on the physical strain. If you need inspiration, check out our forever First Lady’s, Michelle Obama playlist here.

3. Group Fitness May Be Better:

40% of people who train on their own, tend to fall off and quit according to multiple studies. However, group exercise studies, show 98 percent of participants complete their respective programs. The social support created in group fitness can be just what you need to motivate you to push through the pain and stick to your resolutions! 

4. Ditch Traditional Gym Exercise:

all the behind the scenes magic… 

October 31st, 2019 – Halloween is the time (or excuse) to explore our creativity and step into our biggest fantasies. Now, I can say being a “princess” was never a dream of mine. But I can say the Aries in me has always made me feel like royalty.

As I sat to begin planning for this year’s Halloween a list of prominent characters came to mind like Miranda Priestly from the ‘Devil Wears Prada’, to Cruella De Vil, etc.

I knew I wanted to be someone or something that would allow me to be creative, but add my “fashion” twist to it. After a few minutes of soul searching, I went to Instagram for inspiration. I came across the infamous and, dare I say, iconic Billy Porter’s Instagram. After landing on his memorable Tony Awards outfit, I sat and thought, “Wow what if this was blue…” and the imaginary light switch in my head clicked. Cinderella! As the wheels continued to grind...Cinderfella was born.

Instantly, the thought of a (queer black) man being a “princess” struck my mind as obscene and wrong, but I didn’t know what made it so.

In recent months through the peak of live-action remakes we have seen the infiltration of African Americans in fairytales and classics. Whether it’s the criticism of Halle Bailey being the first African American woman to portray Ariel in “The Little Mermaid” or Billy Porter as an openly gay man portraying the role of the Fairy God-mother in “Cinderella” we are often told what we ‘can’t be’, or the ‘lanes we should stay in, but lets not forget Brandy was the first Cinderalla to steal the ball & our hearts in the 1997 Disney live-action Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella.

Ignoring the naysayers and criticism, this year for Halloween (with the help of a few friends and little “magic”) I was transformed into this fairytale.

The idea of becoming Cinderella was one of the hardest things I had ever tried to do. I battled whether not I should continue with the idea afraid of what people might think.  However, the reality is, I didn't do this for anyone but myself.  

 So if your reading this I hope this inspires you to live your truths, express your creativity, and focus on the thing s that make you feel fulfilled because those are the only things that matter. & when you are unapologetically “you” you're always the belle or beaux of the ball, and even when the clock strikes twelve the magic you posses continues to captivate your audience leaving them wanting more!

October 12, 2019, hundreds traveled to the Brooklyn Navy Yards for the third annual CultureCon hosted by the creative collective or @theccnyc. The Duggal Greenhouse was filled with (our melaninated magic) creatives who came together to learn, explore, and celebrate the state of our Culture led by A1 talents like Scottie Beam, Sanaa Lathan, the entire team behind the Pyer Moss brand, and Tracie Ellis Ross.

If you missed CultureCon here are the valuable gems that everyone should have:

1. This is real life, it’s not a dress rehearsal.

We only have one life. There are no second chances, so remember to always make it count. PERIOD!

2. Create what you want to see, and make it real, make it a part of reality.

Remember that time when you saw something and said “Oh this is nice, but I would have done it this way,” or “I wish there was something that fixed…” you’re not the only one; so make it happen. This is also a great way for creatives to build a unique audience! 

3. The truth is you might not get what you deserve, but that doesn’t mean you’re not worth it.

We should understand that our perspectives and ideas bring value that then makes you an asset. Always know what you bring to the table. We must remain conscious and confident enough to express this to whoever is on the other end of that table, email or phone call. However, we also have to be prepared to accept the reality that it may not happen; while still trusting if they didn’t see your value someone else will. 

4. The small no…. is actually a bigger yes

Even though you didn’t get what you want, this is only preparing you for your journey. Every time we hear the word “no” it forces us to learn, re-evaluate, and go ten times harder.

5. Just start doing it already!

Your dreams don’t work unless you do! The only thing that’s stopping you or us (because I’m guilty of it all as well) is ourselves. So, get to work! We have to stop waiting for the opportunities to come to us. Put yourself out there, be consistent and eventually someone is going to notice.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG, DON’T BE A LATE BLOOMER...

📸: @LexiShow

Jacket: ASOS

T-Shirt: ASOS x Laquan Smith 

Pants: ASOS

Belt: Gucci