Reginald F. Lewis Museum Gala
As owner of her own firm, Budding Solutions, Shanita Penny, 37, is often working at home, which means her “work clothes” are fairly basic. “I’m usually wearing some version of leggings or joggers and a T-shirt. Sometimes I’ll put a blouse on if I have to do a teleconference or video conference. And then you have other days when I’m ‘suited and booted,’ presenting or testifying before Congress,” said Penny, referring to her job as a business consultant and advocate for the cannabis industry. However, her favorite thing is to get really dressed up, something the White Marsh resident said she doesn’t get to do very often. “I was looking forward to [the Reginald F. Lewis Museum Gala] for a year. I knew I was going all out. You give me an opportunity for sequins and feathers, and I’m running with it,” she said, with a laugh.
One part of that combo was something she said she’s known for, among her friends. “Sequins. I’m definitely known for sequins. I can dress them up or down. I’ve got hoodies that have sequins. Sequined pants, T-shirts. Sequins are always appropriate in my eyes,” she said. Penny traces that affection to another passion she followed when she was younger.
“My dance costumes as a kid. You’ve got the ballet and tap and jazz classes. You practice in your black leotard all year, and then one night you get to put on the fancy costumes with all sequins and tulle,” she said. HER ENSEMBLE: Dress the Population gold and silver ombre sequined sheath from Nordstrom. Calvin Klein black faux fur cropped jacket from Macy’s. Gold teardrop earrings that were a college graduation gift. Jessica Simpson black feather and crystal-trimmed strappy stilettos from macys.com. Studded black clutch — “my Old Faithful” — she’s had for years. Michael Kors gold watch from Nordstrom. Black crystal encrusted leather cuff she’s had for a while.