At Revel Streetwear, we believe that Every Body Is A Dance Body™️. As part of our monthly series, we focus on highlighting curvy/plus size dancers from across the world. Sharing their inspiring stories allows us to learn about them, while encouraging you to step outside of your comfort zone to pursue your dreams and goals.
What is your name?
Akira Armstrong
Where are you from and where do you reside?
I am from NYC and I reside in The Bronx
How long have you been dancing?
I’ve been dancing since the age of 8.
What has your experience been as a curvy/plus-size dancer?
My experience as a curvy/plus-size dancer has been somewhat challenging. There’s been times in my dance career where I’ve been discriminated against because of my size and there’s also been times where my size has been celebrated. In the event that I was not accepted, I pushed and worked harder for what I wanted. I may have not gotten certain opportunities but the ones that I did were impactful and that’s all that matters.
Revel Streetwear™️ was created for plus-sized women that are fearlessly unapologetic™️. What does fearlessly and unapologetic mean to you?
Fearless to me means FREEDOM. It’s when a woman exudes confidence, style, and has an air about her that can’t be duplicated.
When you're hanging out, what song always gets you on the dance floor?
When I’m hanging the one song that gets me on the floor is Burna Boy (On da low)
What's your favorite dance move?
I don’t have a particular dance move but if I had to choose I would say any movement that’s West African or Afro based.
At Revel Streetwear™️ we believe that every body is a dance body™️. We also know different body types come with different experiences, which makes the dance industry challenging. What keeps you inspired?
What keeps me inspired is my passion and the love I simply have for dance. Dance keeps me sane and it never disappoints.
For those new to the entertainment industry or struggling within the community, what advice would you share?
My advice to those who are new and may be struggling within the entertainment industry is to learn how to read a room. It’s so important that you pay attention to people’s body language. Be flexible. Build relationships with people. The money will come. Remember your why. Always work on your craft. Seek a mentor, someone who can hold you accountable and reassure you in moments of doubt. Know your worth. Don’t accept anything less than what you deserve. Hold your integrity.
Hip Hop and dance communities are sometimes synonymous with streetwear due to personal style. How does your streetwear style align with your preferred style of dance?
My street wear style aligns with my preferred style of dance because I don’t play by the rules. I like to wear bright bold colors which most of the time reflects my mood. I’ve been told my style is unique and very unapologetic.
If you want to keep with Aikra or Pretty Big Movement, make sure you follow both handles @iamakiraarmstrong and @prettybigmovement.
Photo Credit:
1st photo - @iamakiraarmstrong
2nd photo - @pvstudios @atelierbmore
3rd photo - @desbasphotography