Havin and Christina Baucom, Fashion Trendsetters

Alexandria, VA – September is the month to usher in a new fashion season, so I took this opportunity to meet with Alexandria residents stylist Havin Baucom II and his wife, lifestyle and style influencer Christina Baucom. Both federal employees, the Baucoms are also fashion aficionados immersed in the industry by creating digital content and curating one-of-a-kind looks for their clients. Their philosophy is to wear what makes you feel good. In this edition of the Alexandria Noir, I dive into the Baucoms’ fashion aesthetic to learn what inspires them.

Zebra: Fashion is clearly your passion. What made you both decide to enter the fashion industry?

Mr. Baucom: It wasn’t until I was 22 that someone asked me what I was passionate about and what I really loved. At that time, I couldn’t answer the question, which made me look back at my life and assess what makes Havin happy. That’s when I realized that fashion had been something that intrigued me since I was a child. From my earliest memories, I was diligent in strategically using my creativity and limited resources to develop my fashion aesthetic which evolved into working for several Fortune 500 companies and then transitioning into creating my own brand.

Mrs. Baucom: The appreciation I have for fashion began in my household. My parents are very fashionable and sticklers about image and how you present yourself to others. Their foundational structure blossomed my interest in all things fashion. For me, it provides a fun outlet to express myself. The pandemic allowed me to build upon my passion by launching my blog and social media platforms. I believe that your clothing choices can represent who you are before you even open your mouth.

Zebra: What’s your styling process?

Mr. Baucom: The major factors for my process revolve around the occasion and the weather. For example, if I have to attend a formal event during the summer, I will wear lighter colors and fabrics that complement the weather and are breathable. After these factors are addressed, I go into the styling of the look that showcases my functional uniqueness.

Mrs. Baucom: My process aligns with my mood and what I want to wear for that particular day. Mixing and matching different patterns and silhouettes helps me set my day’s trajectory. Over the last two years, I have challenged myself to be more spontaneous with my fashion choices and wear bold and vibrant colors that I would have never explored pre-pandemic due to the nature of my profession as a federal government attorney.

Zebra: What influences your style aesthetic? Do you have a style icon that inspires you?

Mrs. Baucom: I would say my mother’s style left a heavy impression on me. However, if I could dress like anyone in the world, it would be Rihanna. I am in awe of how fashion-forward she is and can wear anything and make it her own. I try to blend both of my inspirations into looks that display my love for classic and timeless silhouettes with bold colors.

Mr. Baucom: My inspiration comes from my community. I pull ideas from everyone because aspects of each person’s aesthetic stimulate me to generate ideas that enhance my style. A representation of someone who encompasses this for me is the actor Omari Hardwick who was the lead in the TV show Power. Everything he wore, from his business to casual attire, was flawless and on point.

Zebra: What is a fashion staple everyone should have in their rotation for fall?

Mr. Baucom: I highly recommend that everyone have a blue blazer in their closet for a formal or business function. It’s such a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down. For those who don’t dress up at all, a dark burgundy or green bomber jacket is a great alternative for the cooler months in the fall.

Mrs. Baucom: My fall staple is to have a structured coat. Particularly a structured camel-colored coat. I think it’s so classic and the perfect layering piece. You can easily put it over your workwear or a sweat suit and it immediately elevates your look.

Zebra: What are some of your favorite Alexandria establishments and why?

Mr. Baucom: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in Old Town is my number one. I haven’t had any ice cream that compares to theirs and I find myself there all the time. Every time I go, I get three scoops, and I make sure that the Texas Sheet Cake and Coffee ice creams are always a part of my order.

Mrs. Baucom: I love Italian food, and Alexandria has some of the best options. Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza and Mia’s Italian Kitchen are our go-to staples. The vibe in both of these restaurants is great for date nights or hanging out with friends. When it comes to shopping, I am a huge fan of Mint Condition. The designer consignment pieces they offer are in great condition and can be up to 60% off retail prices.

Zebra: What’s next for the Baucoms?

Mr. Baucom: I recently launched my clothing line, H. Baucom, that focuses on custom suits and formal attire. The brand specializes in accommodating the styling needs of grooms and groomsmen for weddings. I create everything from dress shirts to trousers.

Mrs. Baucom: I have just been given the opportunity to work as a brand ambassador with Express on their holiday campaign. I will also continue creating digital content that resonates with people to show how fashion can be infused into their everyday lives.

Zebra readers can keep up to date with Havin Baucom by visiting his Facebook (www.facebook.com/HBaucom.llc/) and Instagram pages (www.instagram.com/hbaucomllc/?hl=en) or by scheduling a styling appointment at 202-888-7329.

Zebra readers can keep up to date with Christina Baucom by visiting her blog, Sharp and Sound Style (www.sharpandsound.com/). She is also on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok.

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