The spirit of sisterhood took center stage in New York as entrepreneur and jewelry designer Simone I. Smith launched the first National SISMAS Day, transforming a personal tradition into a nationwide celebration of female friendship and solidarity.
A fresh spin on connection
Smith, alongside an intimate gathering of longtime friends and influential figures, marked the Dec. 14 occasion with a creative twist — a Western-themed soirée that perfectly captured the current cultural moment. The celebration featured thoughtful touches including purple bandanas, carefully curated floral designs and an array of statement-making boots that spoke to both style and substance.
The gathering’s aesthetic paid subtle homage to one of the year’s most anticipated musical releases — namely Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter — while allowing guests to express their personalities through denim, fringe and distinctive Western wear. One particularly memorable attendee fully committed to the theme, arriving with traditional cowboy accessories that added an extra layer of authenticity to the festivities.
Building on decades of friendship
The evening represented far more than just another social gathering. It marked the culmination of Smith’s lifelong dedication to nurturing genuine connections among women. The guest list reflected this commitment, bringing together individuals who have walked with Smith through various chapters of life, from childhood companions to industry colleagues, including acclaimed artist Mary J. Blige.
The celebration’s official recognition as a national holiday — now set for the second Saturday of December annually — elevates its significance beyond a single evening. This designation acknowledges the vital role that female friendships play in creating support systems and fostering personal growth.
From survival to celebration
Smith’s vision for SISMAS is deeply rooted in personal experience. As a 20-year cancer survivor, she understands firsthand the irreplaceable value of having a strong circle of support during life’s most challenging moments. This perspective has shaped SISMAS into more than just a celebration; it’s a recognition of the power of showing up for one another through every season of life.
The evening featured engaging activities that encouraged authentic connection, from showcasing hidden talents to celebrating individual style. These moments created natural opportunities for both longtime friends and new acquaintances to forge meaningful bonds.
Creating space for authenticity
Perhaps most striking was the evening’s ability to dissolve typical social barriers. Despite the presence of numerous high-profile guests, the atmosphere remained genuinely welcoming and inclusive. The mix of Smith’s family members, high school friends and professional contacts created an environment where everyone felt free to be themselves.
As SISMAS takes its place on the national calendar, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of female friendship. Smith’s initiative has created more than just a holiday — it’s established a legacy that celebrates the profound impact women have when they come together in support of one another. The holiday’s recognition comes at a particular moment of reassessment, as Black women are figuring out how to move forward with each other and within Black communities after Vice President Kamala Harris lost the 2024 presidential election.
The success of this inaugural celebration suggests that SISMAS will continue to resonate with those who understand the transformative power of authentic female relationships, ensuring its place as a meaningful addition to our cultural landscape.
