The Ringmaster

For my first guest feature I thought it would be fun to have someone whose style is completely different from mine! In the midst of the constant struggle to figure out what we are "supposed" to wear, I think it's refreshing to see someone who bravely transcends all conventional boundaries.

Meet Chad Boykin. AKA "The Ringmaster."

Chad is a fellow classmate of mine in the night law program at NCCU.  Another thing we have in common is our day job. He is also a paralegal. Anyone who has ever worked as a paralegal knows that it's basically the same thing as being the ringmaster in a circus.

Chad believes in complete non-conformity, and he likes to express this aspect of his personality in his personal style. I have never met anyone quite as adventurous and bold with their fashion as Chad. 

One of Chad's main style icons is Andy Warhol. Warhol's art is defined by its outlandish colors, bizarre angles, and memorable motifs, which "challenge conventional norms by taking them way too far." Chad derives his style inspiration from Warhol's pop-art, the recurring theme being what Chad refers to as "absurdity played way too straight."

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One thing I can appreciate about Chad's style is that all of his ensembles are 100% original. He finds many of his garments in thrift stores and consignment shops, ensuring that his outfit will be virtually incapable of replication.

Chad puts a great deal of thought into each look, paying careful attention to detail to make sure that each aspect of his outfit defies all traditional notions of style. Find the hat here. 

These purple shoes add just the right amount of shock value. 

Find them here. 

Chad believes that everyone should be free to wear whatever they want. While he prefers the look of men's dress wear over casual wear, he just doesn't feel like himself unless he puts his own unique spin on each and every trapping.

Since Chad doesn't shop at traditional stores, most of the pieces from this outfit are not available for purchase. However, if you would like to create a similar look for yourself, Chad recommends The Bargain Box in Cameron Village and The Revolver Boutique on Glenwood Avenue in Downtown Raleigh. 

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Chad's employer once offered him the advice, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have." Chad responded by informing him that his dream job  is to be a 1960's Batman movie villain. 

Chad believes that it is important to invest in a wardrobe that reflects who you are. 

"Make people question what they think they know." -Chad Boykin

Hat: 

Shoes: