By Brianna Adkins
Last Tuesday night was a dream consisting of neon signs, female-empowerment, and creatively designed athletic wear. By sheer luck and good timing, I had the chance to RSVP for the event whilst scrolling through Instagram. Thanks to my obsession with updating content for social media, I had the opportunity to attend the Adidas Three Ways to Create event. There is only one word I can use to describe my experience: phenomenal.
The event, which took place in Lower Manhattan, was a spectacle. With an art installation, immersive rooms full of features to explore, and an opportunity to meet supermodel Ashley Graham, it was clear that Adidas brought out everything they had to highlight their newest Women’s Training Statement Collection.
Upon arriving, I entered the room tour that displayed the newest collection with artistic features. The first room held a luminescent light over the heads of everyone viewing that read “ALL ME.” Underneath the sign a projected image of whoever entered the room was plastered at large over the wall in front of your eyes. Mirrors lined the sides of the room with pink fluorescent lights and cellophane panels—a perfect selfie opportunity. I couldn’t help myself.
As I made my journey into the second room, my jaw dropped. An artistic display of boxing gloves that hung from the ceiling with glowing words that floated above it reading, “DON’T REST.” It inspired a notion that women are strong, we can fight, and we will continue to fight. In this political climate, it was a message many women—and really all people—needed to see.
“STRONGER FOR IT,” was the theme for the third and final room. That impactful statement was plastered around the room, reminding each individual standing in the beautifully designed room of their own inner strength.
At the end of the art series, I had the opportunity to go into a bra fitting—something I haven’t had the opportunity to do since gaining a bit of weight. As I entered the fitting room, I was properly measured and genuinely complimented by the kindest and most honest woman I have met in a long time. I wish I remembered her name, because she should be highlighted.
As she praised my “beautiful” figure, I tried denying the compliment. I tend to do that too much, and I’m sure a lot of you all do as well (let’s work on that together). She refused to let me negate her complimentary statement, though. As her eyes locked mine, she spoke firmly with an honest gaze: “you are beautiful.”
The fitting process was the most body positive experience that I have had in a long time. I will always remember that gracious moment.
After she helped me find a bra I loved and gave me the information in order to buy the bra—which will in my online shopping cart for all of eternity—I felt a nervous cloud of energy surround me as the line to meet Ashley Graham began to line up. Goose-bumps popped up all over my arms and neck. It was the moment: I was going to meet Ashley Graham.
I ran to the meet and greet line, and found a place as second in line. Soon Ashley walked around the corner, greeting us all as she walked into the room. My heart stopped and tears welled into my eyes.
When I started Pretty Smart, Ashley Graham was one of the only body positive models in the mainstream media and she was one of the forefront women who inspired me to start this magazine in the first place. Thanks to her and many other women who inspire me, I get to use this platform.
As my turn came up, I ran into Ashley’s arms to give her a massive hug and it was returned. I don’t remember much after the hug—I sort of blacked out with excitement—but I do remember one thing.
“You’re so eloquent,” Ashley complimented me with a smile and slight chuckle.
I kind of died in that moment if I’m being honest with you.
The whole event was an impeccable moment that will be solidified in my mind as one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I cannot wait to see what the future brings and I’m so excited to bring all of you along with me.
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