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Thursday, March 28, 2024

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HER Prom Closet addresses girls’ needs and opportunities

All Over Town columnist Brianna A. Smith

Many high school girls look forward to looking and feeling astonishing for their special night at prom. Sometimes, however, the price tag for obtaining that goal is anything but pretty.

With the help of a heartfelt community, though, Couture Cares presents HER Prom Closet.Davina Jones of Memphis founded Couture Cares to embody her vision to plant seeds of change in the minds, hearts and lives of youth in this city, regardless of ethnicity or religion.

HER Prom Closet is among the many initiatives Jones began under her nonprofit Couture Cares.

It allows young ladies the opportunity to have their fairy tale evening, by providing free prom dresses, accessories, shoes, and makeup.

“Everybody’s situation is different,” Jones said. “We try to provide as much service as we can to these young ladies, so that they are able to attend prom — all which are donations from the community.”

Davina Jones (Courtesy photo)

On Saturday, March 7, East High School’s gym was transformed into an enormous boutique to make sure local young ladies have an unforgettable prom night.

HER Prom Closet provides formal wear to girls who could not otherwise afford to attend their prom. Through donations of new and gently used formal dresses and accessories, ‘HER Prom Closet’ “Turns Dresses Into Dreams” for juniors and seniors, in the Memphis and Mid-South area.

Several rows of elegant formal gowns, prom dresses and pageantry-wear clothing lined the middle of the gym, along with heels, clothes, and jewelry. Private dressing rooms lined the walls and each girl was given a personal shopper to help them navigate through the numerous gowns, shoes and accessories.

The moment the young ladies entered the gym they were greeted with grace, love and respect.

Representatives of local colleges were there to provide information to any young lady with questions regarding college.

The ladies also had the pleasure of hearing words of wisdom from guest speaker minister Karen D. Todd.

“It is our mission that the girls leave knowing they are cherished,” Davina Jones said.

Even more than a dress, HER Prom Closet provides an unforgettable, amazing experience for not only the girls, but also their guardians.

While the young ladies were busy finding the perfect dress, the parents were given the opportunity to attend an employment readiness, financial literacy and homeownership workshop.

Lunch was provided for the girls and their guardians. Sweet treats and goody bags also were given to each of the ladies and raffle prizes awarded throughout the event.

“‘HER Prom Closet’ was an amazing experience. We laughed, joked and had real conversations,” said Tayla Jenae, a recipient. “It was just an amazing feeling being there, having this opportunity and walking out with a big smile.”

The event has been running on donations since 2014. ‘HER Prom Closet’ has assisted more than 1,000 young ladies attend their prom in style.

Jones, its founder, continues to exemplify integrity, passion and hard work.

“My overall goal is providing the community with deep knowledge and creative solutions to address needs and opportunities,” Jones said.

(‘HER Prom Closet’ accepts dresses and monetary donations year-round. Visit www.CoutureCares.org for more information.)

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