Black men coming together in suits just changes the narrative of what our black brothers have been stereotyped as in recent years. It shows that our black men are more than just sagging pants, fitted caps, and skinny jeans. One of the things I truly adore and appreciate about this event is that it takes a very historical path back to when our black men wore suits and hats all the time. Now at 7 years of success in the City of Mobile, Alabama, I had the chance to catch up with one of the founding men of the event, Dominicke Haston, to learn more about how it originated and what led to its success.
This is the 7th year run of your Classic Man Event, tell us what has this experience been like for you all.
It has been a great experience watching this event grow. It’s also great to see the ladies and gentlemen come out so nicely dressed. You can really tell that they put forth their best effort when it comes to their attire.
Tell us when you all started and what was the inspiration behind the event.
The Classic Man Event started off as a birthday celebration for Dominicke Haston back in 2016 powered by Hase Production. It was held at Tag Bar & Lounge and brought forth a distinct dress code. Each year Dominicke added new partners/members to the event with hopes of making the event/movement grow each year. The purpose of the event is to represent and highlight the distinguished Gentleman. We push Tailored suits as a dress code for men and elegant attire for the ladies which gives them the ability to bring their own style to the event. As Classic Men we also involve ourselves with other events around the community such as back-to-school giveaway events, etc. A definition of a Classic Man was created by our founder which says…
“My definition of a Classic Man is one who is first led by God…He loves his family and his friends…He spends quality time with his children and carries himself in a way that is highly respectable…Maybe he has a career or owns his own business. He is definitely a gentleman and someone who contributes to society in a positive manner…His appearance represents the importance of self-preservation and health…He is one who will be remembered for the things he has done on this Earth…and his good deeds, his influence exudes the term Classic”.
This looks like a beautiful brotherhood. When did you all realize we have something amazing on our hands and we need to keep this going?
I think it was after the 3rd year when we added more members then we realized that we had something special. As we assembled as Black Men it was explained to the gentlemen that even though we are not perfect, we should try to live our lives and be an example of what a Classic Man should be.
Tell us about the masterminds behind this event and what you feel has contributed to 7 years of success.
As stated before, Dominicke Haston was given this idea by his son’s mom when the actual song “Classic Man” by Jidenna came out. At that time she stated, “You should have a Classic Man-themed birthday party.” So in 2016, the very first Classic Man Event was kicked off. Then several guys, who had their own brands, following, and supporters, were added over the years that pushed a Classic Man image/brand not only for the event but year-round. “Classic” doesn’t get old so it’s one event that we feel is very appealing to the public.
Is the event inclusive of the ladies?
Even though this event highlights the men, the women are very much included as well. About two years ago, the Classy Lady Event was introduced which highlighted our beautiful queens of excellence.
What makes the Classic Man event special and do you all see yourself making it a touring event in the future?
The Classic Man Event is unique because it’s not an ordinary party nor a ball where you typically wear a tuxedo. There are various forms of styles and tastes when it comes to fashion/suits so we decided to tune in on that aspect while also promoting good core values that we as men should all have.
The Classic Man Event as well as the Classy Event was combined and held in Pensacola of 2022 so it is definitely a desire to bring this event to other cities in one form or another.
The event is home to the historic Mobile, Alabama, how has the support of the community been for you all as men of color?
The support of the event has been Phenomenal. Oftentimes times we see our Black Men being highlighted in the media in a negative light. So with this event, we wanted to change the narrative and put forth a positive image of a successful Black Man. We discourage “sagging” and promote a unique style of dress to represent ourselves for this event.
This event features a team of black men in extravagant clothing and accessories. In a time such as this where the black man is consistently racially profiled in the media, how do you feel this event has helped change how black men are viewed?
Because of the nature of this event, we have brought forth guys who rarely (if ever) wear a suit. We’ve challenged everyone to step their game up and bring forth the best image of themselves as possible in a Classic Way.
If you had a few words to describe this event, what would they be and when is the next Classic Man event?
Captivating, exciting, distinguished, and most of all Black Excellence are words to describe this event. It’s a night of elegance but also entertaining. The 7th Annual Classic Man Event is September 30th at the Calirojae Event Hall.
