In today’s feature, we’re highlighting the stylistic musings of the lovely Freda Payne. Now, I have an entire list of Vintage Visions I (eventually) hope to spotlight but this iconic fashionista stole my heart when I ran across one of her candids via Pinterest.
Freda Charcilia Payne was born on September 19, 1942 in Detroit, Michigan. As a youngster, the songstress grew up listening to a multitude of artists including Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald; however- it was in 1963 when she began her own musical journey. She later moved to New York City where she collaborated with some of soul’s biggest names before releasing her own album in 1964 entitled ‘After The Lights Go Down And So Much More!!!’. In 1970, the singer released her hit single “Band of Gold” and its success was unparalleled. The song was written by Motown producers Holland-Dozier-Holland and sold over a million copies! Throughout the rest of her dynamic career Payne performed on Broadway, released countless albums and even hosted her own talk show.
Freda Payne’s style is nothing short of diverse. As I further researched her accomplishments, her ever-changing style was also magnified. I mean, she could rock a pair of crochet shorts and then turn around and don a vintage, silk gown! But, the factor that manages to hold each and every look together is her indisputable confidence. Her go-to pieces included fur stoles, jumpsuits and even sky-high platforms.
Want to know more about Freda Payne? Well, check out more of her amazing story here and here. She’s such a beauty!
**BONUS: Catch Freda Payne performing her hit single “Band of Gold” on Soul Train in the video below!**
In the meantime, I’m open to suggestions for future Vintage Visions. C’mon, let me know who you’d like to see featured! I’ll be looking out.
Signing Out — Esmesha
