march 2, 2024
meet a muse
ashlee marie preston
A short paragraph is not enough to describe Ashlee Marie Preston. As a proud, black, transgender woman, she is both inspiring and transformative in her work and daily life. From being the first trans woman to ascend to the position of Editor-in-Chief of a national publication, to funding the “You Are Essential” social impact campaign, Ashely relentlessly advocates for the LGBTQIA+ community. We were lucky enough to interview this Diarrablu lover, award-winning media personality, cultural commentator, and civil rights activist on her powerful story.
COURTESY OF ASHLEE MARIE PRESTON.
Ph: Monique Martinez | MoreUnique Photography
1) What was it like being the first trans person in the U.S. to become editor-in-chief of a publication?
Being the first trans woman to become an editor-in-chief in the U.S. wasn’t merely a personal achievement; it was a groundbreaking moment for the trans community. It symbolized a new paradigm shift; breaking barriers and paving the way for more diverse voices in media. I’m passionate about storytelling that challenge the status quo, uplifts marginalized voices, and spotlights the resilience and diversity within the LGBTQ+ and the communities our identities overlap with.
"
My brand of storytelling is intersectional and delves into narratives that foster understanding, promote equality/equity, and celebrate the richness of our shared humanity.
COURTESY OF ASHLEE MARIE PRESTON.
Ph: Monique Martinez | MoreUnique Photography
2) You turned your past struggles into symbols of strength. How do you draw on your lived experience to support the communities you so actively service?
My lived experience is the foundation of my advocacy. The struggles I've faced as a Black trans woman have have instilled within me a deep empathy for those navigating the same shadows of my former reality. I have an acute understanding of systemic barriers marginalized communities often encounter and am designing a blueprint for overcoming what often feels like seemingly insurmountable odds. I hope my work in media, entertainment, and impact circles inspires others to embrace their truth and to join the co-creation of a more just and equitable society; where everyone is seen, heard, and valued.
3) We are currently celebrating International Women's Month. How have you best-seen women's voices amplified and championed, and how do you think that changes the conversation around inclusivity?
International Women's Month is a powerful reminder of the strides we've made and the work that still remains. Women's voices are being amplified in such an unprecedented way, through social media, grassroots movements, the arts, really anywhere women are finding the courage to tell our stories on our own terms. This tide is changing the conversation around inclusivity by highlighting the intersectionality of our experiences. It's not just about gender identity; it's about race, class, age, abilities, sexuality and so much more. By championing diverse women's voices, we're pushing for a more inclusive and equitable society.
COURTESY OF ASHLEE MARIE PRESTON.
Ph: Monique Martinez | MoreUnique Photography
4) Let's discuss fashion now. What does style mean to you? How do you use clothing to empower or express yourself?
To me, style is an extension of identity; it's a form of self-expression that transcends words or cultural preset. Clothing is a powerful tool for empowerment that helps me present myself to the world in a way that emanates my most authentic essence. Whether it's bold colors, unique textures, patterns or statement pieces (my favorite), my fashion choices are a declaration of my confidence, creativity, and pride in my identity.
"
Clothing is a powerful tool for empowerment that helps me present myself to the world in a way that emanates my most authentic essence.
COURTESY OF ASHLEE MARIE PRESTON.
Ph: Monique Martinez | MoreUnique Photography
5) What connected you to Diarrablu to begin with? Do you have a favorite piece?
What drew me to Diarrablu aside from the sheer regality of the pieces, was its commitment to sustainability, cultural diversity, and empowering artisans. The brand's ethos resonates with my values around conscious consumerism and celebrating authentic craftsmanship. My favorite piece is hard to choose, but I'm particularly fond of their versatile and colorful wraps. They embody the brand's fusion of tradition and modernity, and I love how each piece tells a different story.
6) Is there anything you want to share with the Diarrablu community?
To the Diarrablu community, I’d just say: keep embracing and celebrating your uniqueness through your personal style, no one can do you like YOU. Let's also keep supporting brands that are making a difference in the world, championing sustainability, and empowering women and communities of color. By doing so, we're not just making a bold fashion statement; we're also contributing to a movement towards a more inclusive, equitable, and responsible fashion industry.
"
Keep embracing and celebrating your uniqueness through your personal style, no one can do you like YOU.
COURTESY OF ASHLEE MARIE PRESTON.
Ph: Monique Martinez | MoreUnique Photography