CAMjA Inc.

Alfred Juilus: New Blog, New Design.

2011-05-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

What I’ve been up too...

2011-05-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

This will be close to my last post as Chike Atu of CAMjA Inc. I have embarked on a new stage in my life that has lead me to do some thing new and exciting that hopefully will be an amazing success.... I wanted to post some pics of the star clientele that I have accumulated since starting this blog. The “Journal" will be under a new name and format starting this week (more on that later), but I think it will be something that is welcome in my community of designers and leaders.... now the pics...

Tariq Trotter (Black Thought) of The Roots

Dante’ Smith (Mos), Rapper/Actor/Musician

John Stevens (Legend) ,Singer/Writer/Musician/Philanthropist

D’Brickashaw Ferguson, Athlete/Philanthropist

Ezra Knight , Actor

CAMjA Rhetoric Collection (MOCKING)

2010-10-31T12:56:00.000-07:00

The First Installment in the Rhetoric Collection: The “Mocking” Tee is available in Heather Grey. The text “Mockery is the greatest form of flattery” is High Density raised print with the Mocking Bird in a soft print. The two techniques used together give a great contrast and depth to the classic style t-shirt. The t-shirt are a slim fitting 90% cotton/10% poly for a great euro fit.

Raised Text

CAMjA Established Reflective

2010-10-31T12:35:00.000-07:00

The CAMjA Established Reflective is a 3M reflective print on a heather grey tee. Against light gives a great reflection. The t-shirts are a slim fitting 90% cotton / 10% poly for a great euro fit.

WITH FLASH

NO FLASH

WITH FLASH

Been a Long, Long time coming back...

2010-10-31T12:16:00.000-07:00

... But Lord I’m back at it again!! Due to various reasons I was hampered from focusing on my blog. Please don’t confuse that with not focusing on my career as a Menswear Designer/Stylist. In fact things have taken an incredible turn for the positive in the last 3 months. True blessings, but also taking advantage of those blessings. I will give more details on that later. Just be informed, things are on the up and up. I have officially launched my CAMjA Clth. Rhetoric T-Shirt Collection. You will be able to purchase directly through my blog. I will shortly be back at it bringing you my ideas, inspirations, idols, and muses from around the world of creativity. Feels good to be back and moving forward. Thank you again for your support, guidance, and constructive critiques.

Chike Atu

CAMjA Founder

Fashion, for Men: MySuit NY

2010-03-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

For the last 3 months I started a new career as a Tailor / Style Consultant for a GREAT company in Manhattan, Korea based, Mexican factory... MySuit NY (cambridge members). This is a very supportive company of any ideas and also very accepting in new employees. Here is a sample of the pieces I have assisted in creating since being there.

**Disregard the try on shoes... yes they are wack.**

His try on shoes are dope though...

And the journey contiues...

Life, Soundtrack of Mine

2010-03-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

It was the summer of 2007, he was/is my favorite recording artist of my generation.

Then I heard this song. It took me to another place. People get moved by different things

all the time in life. May it be music, fashion, art, or individuals. This song did it for me.

Its his conviction in this song that sent motivation airwaves to me to do better and expect better

out of my life. I too, am a Champion. I just needed to take responsibility for the end results.

Kanye is my favorite artist, but I feel this song is one of his true gems of work...

plus he introduced me to Steely Dan, through the sample. Yeah I know, I should’ve

already been on them.

“... everybody want it, but it ain’t that serious” ~ Kanye Omari West

Fashion, for Men: Tom Ford

2010-03-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

Editors Note: I haven’t posted in a while, because truly my life has been a whirlwind. Basically haven’t been moved to Force myself to blog shit... TODAY. I went to the Tom Ford store. It’s well known, he is my favorite design company at the current moment. He embodies that, It, factor. That thing, when I see exceptionally well dressed men, that also respects the use of color. Tom Ford S/S 10 is Exceptional in my eyes. Perfection.

Eye, Seen: Mr. Hanley

2010-02-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

This is the first installment of a new segment that I’m adding to my blog. It’s a take from one of my major influences, Scott Schuman, with shots of people that have an honest sense of style and love for presentation. He does an amazing job, and I want to provide my take and my eye on a similar concept.

Mr. Hanley: I met Mr. Hanley, while he was purchasing his sons first made-to-measure blazer. His joy was obvious! Mr. Hanley is a man of Style. He quite simply has a great understanding of color, fabrics,quality and has his own quirks that are great. The fact he pulled out a “Pocket Knife” comb before the shot, justified the shot completely. Enjoy.

“...you sure you want to shoot me today? I can dress nice when I come to pick up his blazer.” ~ Mr. Hanley

Born, A Star: Fausto (Lavie Clothing)

2010-02-16T23:41:00.000-08:00

I met this young Designer/CEO Fausto, around 18 months ago, through a mutual associate. I was instantly impressed by his ability to “Do”. Many of us, including myself, want to many things that we say we love, yet never do. Fasco, is someone who has done. Starting his own clothing company with only independent partnerships, he has build a strong following in the High-End Street wear scene with his company “LaVie”. LaVie can be found at numerous boutiques around New York, as well other locations. The lifestyle his company presents, its hard not to become intrigued by. His hard work and determination to get what he wants out of life, done. Gives another example, that a Star is born.

Where do you derive from?

The Concrete Jungle, by way of The Dominican Republic!

2.How did you get involved in the fashion industry?

I always loved fashion, so I just made it my business to get into that busines.

3.Tell us a little about your fashion company.

We are a unique brand, unique in the sense of trying to mix "street wear" with "high end" at a great price! we are selling swagg!

4. What has been your inspiration?

LIFE, hence the name of the brand LIVE LAVIE

5. Who do you consider to have great style?

Anyone that takes its time in the morning to get dress!

6. What is a fashion “No” to you?

Everything is fashion, because fashion is self expression. There are things that someone else can pull off, that i might not be able to or vice versa. That’s the great part of fashion, anything is possible.

7. Who is your ideal customer?

Simply, a person who appreciates fashion, period.

8. What is the ideal future of your company?

To have our own concept, LaVie store and sell everything from bed sheets to board games.

9. Greatest fashion memory as a child?

Watching my big bro get dress, I used him as motivation to have this swag!

10. Whats the best piece in your closet?

I have too many, to be honest with you but the fact I can wear my own brand, LaVie, is the best thing in the world. Especially, I want to wear LaVie, I know others will follow suit

11. Any words of advice for people of dreams being in the fashion industry?

Don’t stop no matter what they say, keep grinding till you reach your ultimate goal!

Fashion, for Men: Tom Ford

2010-02-16T21:09:00.000-08:00

At this point, Tom Ford, has moved beyond the fashion word into a more dominant “Entertainment” world one might say. For the last 4 years, He has been one of my top designers in Menswear. I try not to act like I know much about Womens wear, because I don’t. I do know and love Menswear and Tom Ford represents the Luxury I love in fashion for men today.

Despite being HIGHLY successful, he doesn’t do many interviews to tell you how great he is. When I came across this video interview, I thought it was only right to present it to the world of CAMjA. Enjoy. Understand.

Now, a public service announcement from Emeka Obi...

2010-02-03T23:50:00.000-08:00

“.... Lets turn positive energy into paychecks this year.” ~ Emeka Obi

Editor’s Note: If you don’t know who this man is, get in the know. This was and excerpt from a short message exchange I recently had. Probably the realist statement, I’ve heard in a long time.

Fashion, for Men: Gucci

2010-02-03T23:39:00.000-08:00

For the first installment of my review of Men’s Fashion Week in Milan and Paris, I’m presenting the obvious name in the game. Gucci. One name sentences is okay when they are mentioned. They continue to impress me with the reinvention of the line and how they present the company. My design eye also respects their appreciation to deal, also one of my loves. Its the small things that blow me away. If they did “GG” prints on everything, I wouldn’t even be mentioning them in this segment. Period. Instead, they continue to please with beautiful cut lines and quality assortment of pigments for one to gander.
The highlight of the show for me with Gucci is the snap (also in button-tabs) bottom cuffs on the slacks, small and subtle but EXACTLY what I respect about quality designers. Its the little things that can reinvent a simple male trouser and they were successful at doing this. I’ve also included some of my favorite looks from their FA ’10 collection. Thank you Gucci, for being who you are suppose to be. Again.

This kinds fucked everybody else up for Fashion Week.

No thats not the light, the crocodile motorcycle jacket actually had gradation.

They were kind enough to give us the look in a Button-Tab as well. Gucci is so thoughtful.

Flavor of the Month: Plum Rasberry

Life, Soundtrack of Mine

2010-02-03T23:22:00.000-08:00

Two things.
1. Have never and probably never will sell crack cocaine.
2. I have the ability to adapt “Life” rap and use it as motivation for my own life circumstances.

This is one the most important songs that I have ever listened to. For one major reason, the verbal inspiration that the rapper Killer Mike speaks of in the song. “... how can you sleep tonite, knowing you can’t buy what you want in the morning.” True story: I got this cd in the summer of 2008, always been a fan so I picked it up. My current situation was getting tired as hell, waiting tables 5 days a week (note: good money though.) and I was losing hope that I would get any chance to step foot in a design office for a major clothing company. After purchasing this cd, this track hit me right in the chest, gut check per say. With this song on repeat, I was inspired to “... get off my ass and do something about it.” With in two weeks of this purchase , no lie, I landed an internship with the urban fashion company, Coogi. I literally went from 10- 100 in two weeks, because of this song. It was one of the life changing experiences in my life, similar to the previous Soundtrack post. It continues to push me to do what I truly want without hesitation on what is “possible”. This is one of many Rap songs, why, I will always allow my children to listen to quality Rap music. Don’t allow yourself to be discouraged by some of the lyrics, cause we have all spoken ungodly before. Thank you, Killer Mike aka Mike Bigga for punching me in the chest to go hustle for what I felt I deserved. Don’t judge where inspiration comes from, just use it as fuel.

“... I’m gonna fire my boss, I’m gonna be my own boss...” ~ Killer Mike

Book: The Extraordinary Career of a Champion Bicycle Racer, Major Taylor

2010-02-03T23:01:00.000-08:00

As I reported weeks ago, I’ve been reading the biography of ‘Major’ Taylor. Well to the pleasure of my brain cells and cultured spirit, I have finally finished it. Not by any means am I a big reader, so let me encourage many people who are like me. This was a great read, very educational and encouraging. The great obstacles this man faced need to be share, but also the , shall I say, bizarre success this great man had in his day and age is unmatched by any male athlete of color during this time.

He traveled the world with his beautiful wife, and child (only had one daughter named Sydney). Taylor received accolades from Europe, Germany, to Australia. Collecting animals, artifacts, and a great sense of self along the way. The book was wonderfully written, with great first hand accounts on his life. From the first race he was in to the the infamous “6 Day Race” at Madison Square Garden, up til his untimely death. Although being the most important figure in bicycle racing at the time, he still didn’t receive the love and acknowledgment that one would expect from being the world champion.

There are truly to many amazing facts to put into this blog. His life and tragic fall from grace are very intriguing. This isn’t a man who fell to the demons of drugs or alcohol, just stubbornness was his downfall. In fact, Mr. Taylor was a true god fearing man. A great example of extreme belief in self and his god. He actually, up til his latter years, refused to race on Sunday’s out of respect of the Sabbath. Which led to him losing an estimated 15-10,000 dollars, in the early 1900’s! Which is crazy, imagine if Kobe refused to play on Sundays?! HA!

Not only have I been inspired by his courageous efforts as a man, but also his style and grace are true inspirations to me as well. Traveling the world, he was introduced to many different styles and customs. This led to him having his own unique, classic, almost “Preacher” style. It was noted, that even at his lowest, penniless, loneliest points in his life, he always maintained a great presentation for any public appearance. He saw his clothing as an extension of himself off the track. Also his true bond to numbers “13” and unique color uniforms have pushed me into starting to design a collection based around him and his life. It is truly amazing were creativity can strike and about the 8 chapter, my brain started going crazy for ideas on how I would design the Major Taylor clothing line. It may never come into true fruition, but I will def add it to my portfolio. I would definitely thank the amazing artist, Patrick Earl Barnes for introducing me to such and incredible subject matter and inspiration. Our collaboration will turn out amazing! And a special thank you to the son of Gilbert Taylor and Saphronia Kelter, Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor for living an extraordinary courageous life. Being an example for all people that want to live a life of success despite the adversity they might face.

“... Life is too short for a man to hold bitterness in his heart, and that is why I have no feeling against anybody... never hated any rider that I ever competed against.” ~ “Major” Taylor

Fashion, for Men: Kanye West

2010-01-28T19:43:00.000-08:00

Anyone that knows me, as far as celebrities go, Kanye West is my Idol. It’s more than the “documenative” music that he makes, that I have been following since my senior year of high school. It’s his creative spirit that he has the ability to let shine. I also love his fashion sense and also willingness to play characters when he is out in public. If you believe he takes himself serious all the time, you clearly don’t see his vision. I do. He does what the average guy, or the Kanye before the MegaStardom couldn’t do with his fashions. Last season hit the fashion world with a storm of outfits at the Fall shows that made every fashion editor take notice of what he visually had to say. Also was the premiere of his Louis Vuitton collaboration trainer. Which also led to the infamous “Patnas and Dem” picture that has more patterns and colors than any inspiration board in your local design room.

This year he took it to another level. A basic, either you love it or you hate it, statement towards mens current fashion. Almost doing a retrospect in Black Men’s Fashion in America. Wearing everything from tall t-shirts to studded Christian Louboutin slippers. Also with an added Beautiful accessory named Amber Rose (see: Body of a Goddess), he made a statement that will garner some kind of reaction from all that followed the “What the hell is he gonna wear next?” mantra of the week. I loved what he did, represented himself, brought the Southside to Beverly Hills then to Paris. He is becoming a performance artist of sorts, and I love that.

“... Can I talk my shit again? Even if I don’t hit again. Dog are you fucking kidding? My Hat, my shoes, my coat, Louis Vuitton stitch, with Donatello Versace, That’s Louis Vuitton bitch...” ~ Kanye West

Fashion, for Men

2010-01-28T19:10:00.000-08:00

The past week there was a thunder and some lighting across the pond in Paris and Milan. Over the next couple days and post I will give my personal review of my favorite Fall/Winter ’10 collections that were presented at these two great showcases. Since I’m not a paid editor for a major fashion magazine, my opinions will not be filtered to anyones pleasing. So let me apologize for any hate that I might bring to the table. It was a great week all in all, from the many celebs acting like the know anything about fashion (see: Chris Brown) but we know they know nothing. To the great quotes that Adam Rapport made via his twitter page. “... Can Men’s Fashion, get any whiter?!”. No Mr. Rapport, I don’t think it can. I hope you enjoy my honest review.

Blessings. Chike Atu

Seacrest Out, Eletric

2010-01-28T18:42:00.000-08:00

Please respect and understand my lack of post for the past 18 days. I have a true valid reason. I DIDN’T/DONT’T electricity! I have been royally screwed by my building manager and haven’t had lights for the last 18 days. The things we do to live in the great borough of Brooklyn. I am back now though, staying at my Big Bro Mu crib for the time being. While my Building Manager gets her shit together! Thank the Almighty for loving family.

In the meantime, I know I have a lot of updating to do, and i surely will. New (actually old) tunes, Men’s Fashion Week, Clothing Designs, and everyday inspiration. So strap in, for blog overdrive.

Be Blessed

Chike Atu

Its 10 minutes you need to waste today.

2010-01-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

“... He who says he can and he who says he can’t, are both usually right.” ~ Will Smith

Fashion, for Men

2010-01-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

I recently ended a tenor interning ,then being promoted to freelance at Coogi Menswear. It was a true learning experience and alot of knowledge came from it. Just had to leave for a more financial stable situation! LOL. I was given the opportunity to work directly with the Creative Director, Barrie Blue, to start two collections with him based on samples he gave me. This the first time in my career in fashion that worked on designing a complete collection. The first of the two collections I worked on while at Coogi is “The Establishment". Its the design process of minimalism for the Coogi consumer. Taking it back to the essence of urban sportswear. The basics and build from there, I helped start it and a great designer by the name of Lucione Oh finished it to a perfection. I’m very proud to be part of Establishing a new standard for urban sportswear.

THE ESTABLISHMENT

Born, A Star: Duncan Quinn

2010-01-08T22:27:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to this company around 2 years, 6 months ago. A good friend of me suggested I go check out this Bespoke company in soho she stumbled upon one afternoon. “This shit looks like something you would do with suiting...”, so I was intrigued to see what my ideas/designs could possibly come to look like it, if brought to fruition. The store being proposed was Duncan Quinn, which quite frankly feel in love with the style and quality of the company. Through some inquiry I have actually been able to meet with the founder of the company, Duncan Quinn, on numerous occasions in the past. I continue to be impressed by this brand and the owner whole is always winning to assist an aspiring designer. I had the pleasure to do a 11 Q & A with Mr. Duncan Quinn, that left me on google to find out more about some of his references and idols. Enjoy.

1. Where do you derive from?

Tradition, nature, physiology, psychology and whim.

2. How did you get involved in the fashion industry?

I had a bad habit of buying way too many tailored suits, shirts and ties. When I moved to NY there was nowhere to buy well constructed fun pieces. They were either fun, or well constructed, but not both.

3. Tell us a little about your fashion company.

We make unique short run pieces for characters. Probably best known for our bespoke suits but we also make shirts, ties, cufflinks, umbrellas, socks, pocket squares, tee shirts, croquet shirts, fine cocktails, great dinner parties, fun car rallys, crazy yachtracing weeks and all kinds of other shenanigans. All are crafted using artisanal methods and only the best materials.

4. What has been your inspiration?

Mainly having the luxury of doing something I love that isn't work for me to do. Fortunately I've found some supporters in those who purchase the products we make and so I can reflect upon the influences that lead to the aesthetic I enjoy - a lot of 1960's mixed with punk, mixed with two fingers to convention...a time when men were men, drove fast cars, had three martini lunches and didn't give a damn.

5. Who do you consider to have great style?

Sir Michael Caine.

6. What is a fashion “No” to you?

The Pee Wee Herman suit.

7. Who is your ideal customer?

One who communicates very clearly what he wants to achieve.

8. What is the ideal future of your company?

To continue to grow, provide a platform for a viewpoint that isn't all about making things as cheaply as possible using inexpensive labor and cheap materials, and allow me the luxury of providing jobs to people who are passionate about the way people dress and what that means.

9. Greatest fashion memory as a child?

Sir Hardy Amies.

10. Whats the best piece in your closet?

13oz black chalkstripe with blood red lining. One button, notch lapel. Timeless.

11. Any words of advice for people of dreams being in the fashion industry?

Its the same as any other industry. Do it because you love it and give it your all. If you don't and you can't someone else will.

Fashion, for Men

2010-01-05T22:30:00.000-08:00

BESPOKE SUIT

Bespoke is a British English term employed in a variety of applications to mean an item custom-made to the buyer's specification.

For me Bespoke / Made to Measure means so much more to me. It is truly a representation of growth, style, and pure intelligence of the man. It is a conscience decision made by the consumer when he decides he wants to declare himself on another plateau in his professional or lifestyle career. The details that go into constructing a garment made simply for that individual to his/her complete liking. The fittings, the stitch details, all the way down to the functional sleeve buttons on the blazer. All these things set one apart from the norm, off the rack attire of the common man. Man times this can be a VERY expensive gift to ones self, but in many financially stable eyes, it is a well worth the time and money. The possibilities are simply endless and fruitful when designing a suit made simply for you. It can simply be, a life changing experience to finally have a suit that fits you in every corner and curve of the make up of ones body. I haven’t had the splendid opportunity to live out this dream, but I recently had the opportunity to begin the process of getting my first Made To Measure suit and the anticipation is killing me!

“Having suits custom-made sends a message about confidence and success that is invaluable during uncertain economic periods.” - Unknown Tailor

Fashion, for Men

2010-01-05T22:25:00.000-08:00

Style is natural, never forced or even sometimes obvious to the common eye. Style in simple context is that, “... damn that looks dope” aspect to the presentation that each individual presents to the viewer. Andre Benjamin is someone that has THAT. I am an individual with southern heritage and even stronger roots. So I get it. I get his natural style, that may seem exaggerated to the outside individual. Being a lover of color, I get the mix of colors that still for some beautiful reason still work beautifully and even together. Begin a designer, I get the movement of the lines in his custom pieces. The high waist don’t scare me, the straw hats intrigue me, and the fit makes me jealous. Andre’ Benjamin, I get you.

"My soliloquy may be hard for some to swallow, but so is cod liver oil” ~ Andre’ Benjamin

Life, Soundtrack of Mine

2010-01-05T22:05:00.000-08:00

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In the Summer of 2002, I made journey from Little Rock, AR to Harlem USA to spend the summer with my brother. Still not sure of my future and exactly what the next would be for me. Using a summer program at the prestigious Pratt Institute, I was able to spend the summer in Harlem with my brother getting a “real life” experience and one song accompanied me on this unforgettable trip. From the bus to Harlem, to the bus back to StoryBook Little Rock. This song is defiantly a representation of a summer and a great change in my life. Enjoy.

Born, A Star

2009-12-31T10:14:00.000-08:00

Born, A Star is a new segment that I am introducing for the ChikeAtu followers. It will become a platform for well established, as well up and coming clothing company owners that I have received direct or indirect influence from. Many of these designers will be brand new to you, which is the purpose of this platform. It will be a simple 11 question and answer, that I conducted with the different rising stars. I will post one segment a week. First will be introduced at the top of the year, literally. I’m giving the platform, “so clap for ‘em, clap for ‘em, clap for ‘em....”

Star /noun/

1. A fixed luminous point in the night sky that is a large, remote incandescent body like the sun.