Giggle McDorkypants

queerbois:

::Meet This Boi::

HI QBs! In this installment of “Meet This Boi”, Queer B.O.I.S. features Erin Lynnelle.  Erin is one of those people so striking and stylish that it’s nearly impossible to miss her when you enter a room.  It’s also unlikely that you’ll fail to notice her Fro, which is itself a statement.  Erin exudes a style and manner so relaxed and chilled that it’s no wonder she stands out, not to mention her height!  The Atlanta queer scene knows her, now you can get to know her too…. Erin; style beast, firefighter and all around brilliant Boi.   

Name: Erin Lynnelle
Age:26
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Current City: Atlanta
Career: Firefighter
Education: University of Illinois ‘07; ETSU ‘09

For the greater part of my young adulthood, my fashion sense was a reflection of my athletic lifestyle. Sweats, sneakers, and basketball shorts dominated my wardrobe. Nike and Adidas were the most important brand names to me. I needed to be able to transition from class to the gym so practicality was my fashion statement.

Being a firefighter, simplicity still dominates my fashion sense but living and working in Atlanta, I was forced to pay more attention to my style. I learned that caring about my appearance was a stepping stone in building my confidence and that you get more play in tailored denim than in baggy sweats. So I blended…simplicity and style…practicality and fashion, and gravitated towards fashions that better suit my long, lean frame.

For a third of my life, ten days a month, I’m a woman in uniform. Navy blues…black steel toe boots…red suspenders; I make them look good. However; when I’m off duty, I can truly express myself through my wardrobe. Having what’s considered a blue collar career, I like to feel as ‘GQ’ as possible; as simply as possible. From my afro down to my wing tipped boots, my goal is to show that I clean up nice and can give my lady a properly dressed escort on any occasion. Maintaining a certain level of refinement is important to me. Even though I’m in a blue collar, male dominated workforce, I consider myself a young professional who should look the part. I take pride in separating my work from my play, but still keeping it fly for both realms. The mindset is to always look my best and do my best.  It keeps me motivated to advance in my career.

Constantly looking to move forward, I am currently working towards becoming a sergeant in my department. My goals are to make officer within five to seven years and explore different areas of fire service while furthering my education.  As I continue to grow and mature, I’m sure my goals and fashion statements will do the same. What I will always do is work hard and play harder, trying to look my best while doing it.

**Pictures taken by QBG Photography