Stepping Out : The Unapologetic Style of African Americans over Fifty

An unapologetically bold, stimulating, and inspired collection of photographs and profiles celebrating the style of African Americans age 50+

Long inspired by mature adults daring to express their creativity and individuality through their style choices, New York Times bestselling novelist Connie Briscoe shines a light on these often overlooked and underappreciated sharply attired individuals. Accompanied by the marvelously talented Milton Washington’s dazzling photographs, Briscoe’s vision comes alive in these pages. From intrepid to chic, and sophisticated to free-spirited—Stepping Out captures the very essences of a vibrant cross section of Black elders, showcasing their stories, their styles, and how their love of fashion was born and bred. This book contextualizes the cultural, spiritual, and historical influences on decades of Black style and testifies to this dynamic legacy for generations to come.

Connie Briscoe is the author of the New York Times bestseller Big Girls Don’t Cry, as well as A Long Way from Home, Sisters & Lovers (a Blackboard bestseller), P.G. County, Money Can’t Buy Love, You Only Get Better, and Jewels (with photographer Michael Cunningham). She lives in Ellicott City, Maryland.

Born and raised in South Korea until the age of eight, Milton Washington was adopted by a military family and raised throughout rural and urban USA. Milton’s unique and multicultural background gives him an uncommon edge and perspective on the people and life experiences he’s allured by. His fascination is all translated through the lens of the people, cultures, and happenings he chooses to capture with his still photography. His award-winning work has been featured in The New York Times, Food & Wine, and Videomaker. And recently, Milton photographed an Afrofuturist fashion shoot for Emmy- and Oscar-nominated costume designer Ruth E. Carter.