We've heard of catfishing, blackfishing, and now the new phenomenon in the dating game is wokefishing. As if dating couldn't get any more complicated. With online dating getting a resurgence amid the pandemic, there is a slew of online users who are utilizing an all-new manipulative tactic to reel you in, get a date, and/or try to get you in bed. And it has everything to do with being woke.
No, we aren't talking hoteps. We're specifically talking about baits its unsuspecting daters into thinking that they're aligned with womanist views or that they've read and reread Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot, or that the thoughts they have about the latest in politics directly mirror yours. Also, #BLM isn't just a trend for them, it's a lifestyle. For all intents and purposes, the person that's your 'match' on this app has political views that are so left, they can't even see right, and the depth they portray tap into your deepest sapiosexual fantasies. Well ladies, without even realizing, you might be getting wokefished. And since what you're seeing isn't what you're getting, therein lies the issue.
Before you have a panic attack and throw your phone, let me provide insight into exactly what wokefishing is and how you can avoid being baited into this ever happening to you.
So, what is wokefishing?
Learned about this word today #wokefishing pic.twitter.com/DOr8heeLDH
— Nathalie Martinek PhD (@NatsforDocs) September 2, 2020
Coined by VICE, wokefishing is a dating term that refers to people that portray themselves as being "woke" or having progressive political ideologies and views as a means to lure in partners who have those beliefs. Furthermore, a person wokefishing "may present themselves as a protest-attending, sex-positive, anti-racist, and an intersectional feminist." However, in reality, they use that to waste your time and piss you off. Depending on the climate, they use a moment in time to reel prospects. For example, when the death of Black lives at the police's hands is circulating in the news, those who indulge in wokefishing may lead the conversations about racism and how pro-black or anti-racist they may be to appeal to your interest in social justice issues.
Men stay wokefishing and will be the most abusive and violent.
— glo$$ (@GloryAliu) August 30, 2020
The political landscape is no longer something to veer away from with perfect strangers. In fact, politics tends to spew over into our everyday lives. Whether it be at work, the news, something we see on social media, or life imitating art on movies and shows, we've come to a point where we are forced to think deeper. Our initial conversations in dating apps sometimes reflects this. Ice breakers these days look more like social issues and the unapologetic battle cry of "arrest the cops who killed Breonna Taylor". Wokefishers take advantage of appearing to have a connection with you by capitalizing on a perceived shared interest in social issues.
How do you spot a wokefisher?
Study The Non-Verbal Cues
What a person doesn't say tends to speak louder than what they do say. So, if your date's intentions become called into question, keep an eye on their response to certain scenarios. For example, casually ask them a question about a viral video or a new cause picking up steam, pay attention to what they do. Are they pretending to seem up-to-date on matters, do they look confused or seem unclear on the subject overall? Do they tend to allow you to do more of the talking to seem more engrossed in your opinion? If conversations seem to be one-sided, with no feedback or opinion, that's a red flag.
Speaking of red flags...
If Someone Is Trying Too Hard To Gain Your Trust, It's A Red Flag
I don't know about you but I get turned off by men who try too hard. Persistence I can deal with, but going above and beyond to gas me up and not being authentic in the process is something different. Having someone always saying "amen" to your thoughts and opinions without rarely giving any of their own might seem like a match-made in effortless heaven, but a vibe with no pushback and no offering of a different perspective, does not make for an interesting conversation. What you might be experiencing instead is a lot of love-bombing, which is another manipulative technique daters do in order to leave your mind all twisted up and accelerate the connection in the process.
Indirectly Inquire About Topics That Reveal Their Core Beliefs
The wokefisher will allow you to talk so that they can agree to everything. The hope is that the agreeance will make you feel bonded to them, and rather quickly at that. To test how "woke" the person you're interacting with really is, try asking specific questions regarding whatever topic at hand. If the person you're talking to states that they're a feminist, then ask what it is about feminism that makes them a supporter? Ask about ideals or perspectives that might be rooted in feminism, like inclusion and equal pay in the workplace, and have them expound on those ideals. Likewise, a sex-positive dater should be able to dabble in hot topics like "WAP" with nuance that suggests they are confident in women owning their sexuality unapologetically. If they look at you dazed and confused or state views that are in direct opposition of their "stance", then run sis. They are not the one and should not even be a contender.
There are so many pitfalls that come from online it can be difficult to keep up. With so many rules and regulations that come with another set of rules and regulations, it can be discouraging. But, if we ask the right questions and not ignore the red flags, we will save ourselves so much time. Wokefishing being one of them.
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Writer, Empath, Listener, Self Improver, and a motivational speaker to her homegirls Teisha LeShea currently resides in California who loves to add fifteen million items to her Amazon cart. She is passionate about wellness, spiritual improvement, leveling up, and setting up twice a month therapy appointments. She writes with you in mind. Her listicle and personal stories will inspire you to dig deep within yourself to be a better you. You can follow her on Instagram @teisha.leshea and & @tl_teisha.leshea
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Seven Fashion Girlies Share Their 'Rich Girl Energy' Outfit Formulas
As the summer has wound down and the leaves have begun to turn, many of us have entered a busy fall season.
After a slower pace, it's time to embrace the grind with extra grace once more. To help you transition seamlessly into this hectic period, we've compiled a collection of outfit ideas that embody the "I don't chase, I attract" and "I got money everywhere" mindset.
Inspired by popular influencers and their signature outfit formulas, these looks are designed to make you feel confident, abundant, and ready to conquer anything that comes your way. Get ready to channel your inner rich girl energy and step into fall with style!
Amy Lefevre
New York
Amy
Courtesy
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright: “Wearing a fitted dress with oversized coat or blazer makes me feel confident, chic, and comfortable.”
Her go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful:“My trench coat and cute tote bag.”
How she accessorizes: “By adding lots of jewelry and sunglasses.”
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering: Neutral tones
Follow Amy on Instagram @lefevrediary.
Devana Turner, Creator and Stylist
Durham, NC
Devana
Courtesy
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright:"Pairing wide-leg pants with tops or jackets that have balloon sleeves makes me feel powerful and on top of the world. The wide-leg pants give off effortless elegance, while the voluminous balloon sleeves add drama and sophistication. It’s a fit that’s unapologetic—it takes up space and commands attention."
Go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful: "My Aritzia effortless trousers, maroon Yankees fitted cap personalized with brooches, and Dior Saddle Bag. Each piece combines comfort with authority."
How she accessorizes: "Brooches elevate any look, adding personalization and character. Sunglasses or stylish frames tie my outfits together, adding polish and a sense of mystery."
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering: Neutral tones, bold colors, animal prints.
Follow Devana on Instagram @devanaturner.
Amiraa Vainqueur, Fashion Stylist and Style Expert
Los Angeles, CA
Amiraa
Courtesy
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright: "Tailored trench with bold accessories: Think belted trench coat worn as a dress with knee-high boots and oversized sunglasses. The trench coat feels both classic and powerful when styled intentionally. Luxury athleisure: silk or satin sweatsuit with luxe sneakers and a quilted bomber jacket. Comfort meets luxury."
Go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful:"I love a tailored power suit—it always makes me feel confident."
How she accessorizes:"I am a maximalist, layering jewelry and sunglasses to elevate every look."
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering: Neutral tones, bold colors, soft pastels, animal prints.
Follow Amiraa on Instagram @amiraavainqueur.
Tonaya Lorenne
Chicago, IL
Tonaya
Courtesy
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright:"I’m a 90s baby, and I translate that era’s fashion into my personal style. Bold colors, luxurious textures, and chic bottoms make me feel empowered and in alignment with my purpose."
Go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful:"My go-to lately has been small tops paired with oversized bottoms. I love the boldness, and I’ve stopped worrying about unflattering fits—power comes from owning my look."
How she accessorizes: "Hats, glasses, funky rings, and statement bags complete my looks, especially since I have short hair. Accessories are essential to my style."
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering: Neutral tones, bold colors, soft pastels, geometric patterns, animal prints.
Follow Tonaya on TikTok @_tonayalorenne.
Kéla Walker, Media Talent
Brooklyn, NY
Kéla
Credit: Shatimah Brathwaite
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright: "I’m a magnet for matching sets and monochromatic looks. Dressing for my body type is key—balancing tight tops with loose bottoms creates harmony in my outfits."
Go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful:"Statement accessories like a strong-shoulder blazer or an exaggerated waist-cinching belt are my go-to's."
How she accessorizes: "From purses and heels to rings and arm candy, I never leave home without great shades to tie everything together."
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering: Neutral tones, bold colors, animal prints.
Follow Kéla on Instagram @kelawalker.
Opal, Creative Director at Lapo Lounge
Brooklyn, NY
Opal
Courtesy
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright: "My go-to outfit formulas include bold monochromatic looks, structured suiting, and slip dresses. These serve as a canvas for my bold jewelry and accessories."
Go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful:"I often reach for a slip dress or a structured blazer. These staples give me easy elegance, whether dressed up with cool boots or layered for work."
How she accessorizes: "Chain belts and bold jewelry are my essentials. I love layering long necklaces or opting for bold chokers to elevate simple outfits."
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering:Neutral tones, bold colors.
Follow Opal on Instagram @opalbyopal.
Annette Walter, UrbanKinksNCurls
New York, NY
Annette
Courtesy
The outfit formula that makes her feel like abundance is her birthright:"An oversized blazer, mini pleated skirt, and fly boots are my favorite combination for feeling like that girl. Gold accessories in abundance complete the look."
Go-to pieces that make her feel confident and powerful: "I’m obsessed with oversized blazers and dope edgy boots. They can dress up or down any outfit and make a powerful statement."
How she accessorizes: "Gold accessories, especially layered necklaces and chokers, are a must. I’m also starting to build my collection of rings to add more flair."
Colors and patterns she finds most flattering: Neutral tones, bold colors, geometric patterns, animal prints.
Follow Annette on Instagram @urbankinksncurls.
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Matter of fact, the next time you get dressed, we empower you to say one of these affirmations as you also employ some of these outfit formulas:
- I radiate opulence and abundance with every outfit I wear.
- My style exudes confidence, power, and grace.
- I attract success and prosperity effortlessly.
- My wardrobe reflects my inner rich girl energy, making me feel unstoppable.
- I dress to impress myself, leaving a lasting impression wherever I go.
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