in COLOR

A Song of Timelessness

2010-05-28T05:22:47Z

Geometric shapes of silk, suede, and leather come together in formfitting cocktail dresses that come in dark shades and earth tones. Inspired by the texture and colors of fabrics, 27-year-old Korean designer Ji Young Song launched her label, Ji Young Song for ArtsEcho Design, with the help of Sandra Bendor, executive director of ArtsEcho Galleria in Union City, New Jersey. The concept for the line revolves around sustainable couture, an idea that’s catching on in the fashion world in recent years.

An emerging designer in New York, Song actually made her debut in the 2005 Hong Kong Fashion Week, and in the same year won the best design award for Levi’s fashion contest before moving to New York three years ago. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology, Song honed her skills interning at Tahari ASL of Elie Tahari and later, working for Calvin Klein women’s sportswear.

Coming from Seoul, Song possesses an aesthetic that’s unique to Korea and a keen sense of observation that makes minute details stand out to her. She admits that she owes her gift of sartorial dexterity to Korean couture culture, which prides itself on exquisite handiwork. “These elements have encouraged me to develop my creativity and embody ideas in real garments harmoniously,” Song says.

To have her own label had always been Song’s dream. Having travelled and experienced in different cultures, education systems, and work surroundings, Song finally landed an opportunity to introduce her designs at ArtsEcho during her preparation for her line. Acting as a launchpad, ArtsEcho showcases Song’s environmentally friendly garments on an ongoing basis.

Pleasing to the eyes and good for mother earth, Song’s pieces are characterized by sophisticated elements and labor-intensive weaves. Playing with textures of fabric, Song demonstrates in each dress her refined techniques as a couturiere, from classic little black dresses with a Parisian twist, to
elaborate cocktail dresses paired with feather shawls.

Treating each of her garment as a work of art, it seems like Song sees herself more as an artisan than a designer. “I think of fashion as art,” Song says, “and every item I design and make shows my own identity and creativity.” For her latest collection, the staple is a dress that has several kinds of leathers, suede, and plaid raw silk intertwined with her signature weaving. “This dress is a good example of the connection between fashion and art,” Song says.

On May 15 at ArtsEcho’s fashion show, Song’s fall/winter ‘10 collection met the public for the first time, along with fashion illustration she drew for the pieces. “I was grateful to audience for their favorable evaluation,” Song says. “I believe they enjoyed fashion in art that day.”

Song’s design philosophy centers on sophistication, elegance, and uniqueness. To be one-of-a-kind, she is always thinking about how to make something look different while staying pragmatic at the same time. “My career in the fashion field has been helpful in controlling designs so as not to go too far in a purely artistic direction, and [I] always have pieces that are highly wearable,” Song says. “I feel that I pursue styles that both enhance the modern woman and express who she is.”

Curious Specimens

2010-05-26T07:35:52Z

Bold, chunky, in your face, Specimen Jewelry is a mix of military style and Bohemian chic. Unexpected combination of materials are pieced together bringing visual surprises to avant-garde jewelry lovers. In the winter of 2008, 33-year-old designer Carrie Yee launched Specimen, the name that came from Yee’s interest in biology and natural parts like bone, horn, and wood.

Currently an A/X Armani Exchange denim designer, Yee is nothing less than a fashion industry pro, having been in the fashion business for 10 years. Though not having been formally trained in jewelry design, Yee says she began experimenting with jewelry design when she still was a child.

You would think that Yee started her own jewelry line for a childhood dream unfulfilled. When asked why, Yee confessed that she was getting a little complacent with some parts of her life, and the end of a relationship helped refresh her, giving her motivation to initiate something different. Looks like a breakup isn’t so bad after all.

While immersed in denim design, Yee gets inspiration from biological structure, animal bones, skin, feathers, patterns, botany, and geology.

“I’m inspired by the way things are formed and grow into sustainable structures,” Yee says. “Also, mutations are great.”

The pieces in Specimen vary depending on what materials Yee finds to work with. It is precisely this unpredictableness that sets the line apart.

“I like to push things together that wouldn’t find each other otherwise,” Yee says.

And people appreciate Specimen’s fusion of “elegance, humor, and weirdness.” Lucky for the folks who frequent the Brooklyn Flea, because that’s where you can find Specimen Jewelry. Yee has been selling there off and on, and soon she will be targeting boutiques as her main outlet.

“I love the interaction and the feedback that comes with selling at a flea market,” Yee says, “but the crowd is random, and I find that Specimen attracts a more specific customer that would be more apt to boutique shopping, as well.”

Just like her inspirations, Yee’s design philosophy is very much organic. No timetable, no schedule. Yee just is taking one step at a time — at her own pace, making fresh pieces as new concepts come to her in whichever materials she comes across.

www.specimenjewelry.com

(Photo credit: Specimen Jewelry)

She’s Got Style: Monique Scott

2010-05-25T08:11:07Z

inCOLOR: How did you get started as a stylist?

Monique Scott: I assisted Lysa Cooper for two years, who has worked with Rihanna, Diddy, Jaime Foxx and Andre 3000, just to name a few.

inCOLOR: What do you think is the difference between being fashionable and having style?

M.S.: Fashionable is staying current. Style is taking risks.

inCOLOR: How would you describe your personal style?

M.S.: Everyday is dress-up for me. My favorite era is the ‘80s. My style is undefined.

inCOLOR: What is your favorite item of clothing that you own (or have owned)?

M.S.: I don’t have a favorite; everything I buy is my favorite.

inCOLOR : What is the hardest aspect of your job?

M.S.: I’m chasing my dream so, I have yet to discover the hardest part yet. I don’t see the “hard” in my BEST.

inCOLOR: What are some items you always have on hand during a photo shoot?

M.S.: Safety pins and double-stick tape.

inCOLOR: Do you have any tips for up-and-coming stylists?

M.S.: Stay focused and hungry. Set trends don’t keep fads going. BE SKILLED. Don’t just do it because you think you can dress. Remember the grind never ends; the day just changes. MAKE SURE YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT CHANGE AND NOT JUST FASHION.

Stylist Monique Scott

MONIQUE SCOTT’S GUIDE TO STYLE FOR MEN & WOMEN

What items should every man have in his closet?
A blazer/sports coat, a V-neck or crew-neck shirt, a basic suit, a pair of dark denim Levis, a pair of G-star Raw black pants, a pair of dress shoes, casual shoes and a lint roller.

What items should every woman have in her closet?
A little black dress, a blazer, a pair of open-toed heels and closed toe-heels, and a pair of slim fit/skinny black or denim blue jeans.

Favorite trends of the season (trends for men and trends for women).
My favorite trends for men this season are boat shoes and boat hats.
My favorite trends for women are frayed jean shorts and exaggerated shoulders on blazers, shirts, and dresses, and the “see-through” V-neck shirt.

Where are some places to shop where men and women can get “the look for less”?
Goodwill, but it takes patience and time.

List any general styling tips you have for everyday people.
Wear clothes that compliment your figure, ladies/men. If you have a bulge running over the top of your pants, they don’t fit! Don’t be a “mannequin” dresser, buying and wearing what you see in a window display.

Check out Monique’s blog here.

Photos courtesy of Monique Scott

An Artistic Ripple Effect

2010-04-29T07:25:24Z

Sometimes all it takes is one thought to create something extraordinary and this extraordinariness isn’t necessarily defined by others, but by ourselves. In Sandra Bendor’s case, one single thought brought forth a space for music, fashion and design; she named it ArtsEcho.

ArtsEcho, located on Park Avenue between 38th and 39th streets in Union City, New Jersey, is a galleria that spotlights up-and-coming fashion designers, artists and musicians. Bendor, the owner of ArtsEcho, used to be a professional singer and actor who performed in the United States, Europe, India and Israel. Two years ago, when she turned 60, a thought occurred to her: “If I were 10 years older than I am now, what do I wish I had done back then?” Within one month, Bendor found a location and the galleria opened shortly afterward in July 2008.

Coming from a musical background, Bendor has a deep appreciation for all creative arts, which is why she named the galleria ArtsEcho.

“I feel (and hope) that the arts echo through every aspect of people’s lives in a positive way,” Bendor says. “The arts are not only things in museums, but also colors, design, music. All of the clothing you wear, all of the accessories, the entertainment you see, the movies you love and much, much more are all part of the arts.”

What makes ArtsEcho unique is that it’s a nonprofit organization originating from what Bendor founded back in 1988 — a not-for-profit organization that created and produced theater and concerts for schools and family audiences across the U.S.

“Having a nonprofit organization in place made it a little easier to create a ‘store’ in which we can help support artists and musicians by selling fabulous things to fund the art exhibitions and the concerts,” Bendor says.

Apparently, ArtsEcho is not only a boutique, but it also serves as a performance space as well, where concerts of Latin, jazz and classical music take place.

“Our last two concerts had more than 100 people attending,” Bendor says. “We match the music to the art, so for our Bravo Brazil concert, we had the artwork of Duda Penteado, a well-known Brazilian artist. We also serve food that is related to the music and art (and the Brazilian goodies were amazing) And all of this is for free to the audience, although we always pay the musicians well. And when we sell artwork, the artist gets the entire fee with no commission to us.”

Of course, artists and musicians are not the only stars in the galleria. Fashion designers, too, are part of the game. Showcasing new, pre-owned, or vintage clothing, ArtsEcho receives items from contacts within the theater and nonprofit world, from designers and stylists who use clothing for photo shoots. As of now, Bendor is working on a new label called ArtsEcho Design, which is geared toward sustainable couture. A group of designers who possess sewing, draping and designing skills are creating one-of-a-kind pieces for the label with the fabric provided by Bendor.

As a nonprofit, though, things can be difficult for ArtsEcho during the recession. But Bendor sees the silver lining even in the darkest hour.

“When my children were little, they heard about the recession in the early ‘90s, got frightened and asked me if we would lose our money and become poor,” Bendor says. “I replied that artists are always in a recession and we know how to cope with it. And we do.”

Bendor and her partner do much of the work at ArtsEcho themselves. They find items to sell and run the organization in a very hands-on way, as well as allocate their limited funds carefully.

Doing the best she can, Bendor has much planned for ArtsEcho in the coming months. On May 15, a fashion show is taking place, where customers will model, and it is on this day that the Sustainable Couture line will be launched. In the summer, a celebration and outdoor concert is planned for the new Watertower District Association, co-organized by ArtsEcho and other businesses in the area. In October, a Mexican Day of the Dead concert will take place, where only people wearing all black are allowed to attend.

There are ongoing projects organized by ArtsEcho as well, including the “Human Jeans Project.” High school students are asked to take a seven-inch square of jeans and create a piece of artwork on it, either by drawing, painting, embroidering, or whatever they can think of. ArtsEcho will then judge the artwork, award the winners, sew the entire piece into a quilt and display it.

ArtsEcho is a boutique, a gallery, a performance space, but perhaps more importantly, it’s a place where a community bonds through a shared love for the arts. And all of it is thanks to that one thought Bendor had on her 60th birthday.

http://www.artsechogalleria.com

(Photo credit: Arts Echo)

Deb Oh: Up-and-Coming and Here to Stay

2010-04-27T03:11:26Z

Deb Oh has known her talents for quite some time—since she performed The Sound of Music for her parents as a young child—but not until recently did she decide to pursue music. Her days are spent recording songs, booking shows and essentially serving as her own manager. Understandably, logistical planning has been a challenge but that hasn’t interfered with her goals; so far, she has performed at various venues such as the Knitting Factory, Sidewalk Café and Pianos.

Deb’s main outlet to the public is her MySpace page and after listening to her posted tracks the first few words that come to me are airy, unique and relatable. Her lyrics are extremely clear yet they do not insult the listener’s intelligence either; thinking is still necessary. Some of her lyrics are reflective of her experiences and others are inspired by random moments in time and observations. Her style is a compilation of her personality, environment and musical influences, which include various artists and genres, particularly pop, indie and jazz.

Deb is especially influenced by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s notebooks and letters stating, “A lot of his notes are just so beautifully tragic and funny all at once; even when some of the one-sentence notes seem vague, they all pinpoint an emotion or feeling with an almost impossible clarity. I think in a way that’s a quality I try to capture in a lot of my songs.” She actually captures that very well in “Silent Film,” a song about a lost love: “The thought of happy endings is what usually gets me through / but naturally I missed you by a minute or two.”

Refreshing, un-recycled music is a rarity and as an “underground artist,” Deb believes that once an artist becomes popular it does not necessarily mean his / her talents should blend in with the norm; one can be popular and unique, not just through their music but through their personality as well. Oh’s personality is very apparent through her music as well as her blog, The Debonaire, which covers her varied interests: film, style, photography and, of course, music. She even posts her own mixes full of tracks from artists as diverse as Bettye Swann to Bruce Peninsula to Local Natives. So far she’s up to Vol. 3 and, just like her tracks, there’s more to come.

Even though the future for any up-and-coming artist is uncertain, Deb wants to go for it without any regrets. To her, being successful is not very appealing if there is a tangible end point saying, “Success is doing what you love and affecting some positive change - big or small - while you’re at it. I don’t ever want to sit back and go, ‘Well, self, you’ve succeeded. Nothing left to do now’; that sort of complacency is my wost nightmare.“ She knows what she wants out of life and that is to entertain us with her skillful fingers and melodious voice. Looking forward to the future, Deb has her sights set on her debut EP, so be vigilant and stay tuned.

For more on Deb Oh check out her blog The Debonaire.

Wild Things

2010-04-01T10:07:02Z

Lewis got her start acting alongside Alfre Woodard and Wesley Snipes in the critically acclaimed drama, Down in the Delta. She went on to score roles in other TV films, including the Natalie Cole biopic and Disney’s Cadet Kelly. After leaving Degrassi The Next Generation, she got a role in another Canadian series, Moccasin Flats, as a soul singer. It was in that show that Lewis got to feature songs from her album, Float Away.

Float Away was released in September 2005 exclusively in Canada. The album, as well as her style, features a mixture of pop and R&B, with a twist of old school, soul and sass. Lewis co-wrote the songs on the album and has soulfully sassified covers of popular songs such as Aretha Franklin’s “Until You Come Back to Me,“ Linkin Park’s “Numb” and “Best I Ever Had,“ by Degrassi alum and fellow musician, Drake. Her video, “Superwoman,“ aired on MTV, MuchMusic and earned a Best Indie Video nomination for the Canadian Music Awards. According to a Hollywood Poned interview, Lewis is back in the studio working on some new music and has started writing her own projects for film and television. If Lewis is not busy working on new music, writing lyrics and scripts for film and TV, acting in the Broadway hit, Dreamgirls, spending quality time with underprivileged youth, or shoveling snow, she’s running wild!

Lewis and her best friend started the blog, Thosegirlsarewild.com. While Lewis gives her fans highlights of her ventures as a performing arts diva, her equally talented bestie, Shannon Boodram is doing the same in the literary and media arts realm. Boodram is a journalist, writer, photographer, novelist, television host and sex educator who has garnered much success in a short timespan. Having won Best On-Air Personality in Canada for Rogers TV in 2009, Boodram is the host of High School Rush. In the show, she visits a new high school every week and works with the students writing and recording voice-over projects for sports highlights.

Boodram has written for a plethora of Canadian publications, such as Metro News Toronto and Urbanology, and is a freelance photographer for Desi News and J’Adore. While her preference is writing stories focusing on women and human interest stories, she has interviewed and written about various artists, such as Robin Thicke, her girl Andrea, Fefe Dobson and Deborah Cox. In October 2009, Boodram released her first non-fiction anthology, Laid: Young People’s Experiences with Sex in an Easy-Access Culture. The book is filled with raw and honest anecdotes about sexual experiences. Boodram shares her own story and has created a forum for people to talk about sex on the book’s website, Laidthebook. With additional interest and talent in html, she runs the women’s networking website, Shannonteresa.com.

Lewis has stated that family and friends alike have said that when she and Boodram collaborate, they get wild. Hence, Thosegirlsarewild was born. They may live in different parts of North America but they stay in touch with each other and their fans via the blog. When they do get together, they record, edit, and post their own videos on Youtube about current projects (like Shannon getting her book on The View and Andrea working on another album) and other random topics (like their double dating experiences). For more wild info, check out their blog and videos.

(Photos & Video Credit: of Thosegirlsarewild.com and shannonteresa.com)

Pinar Eris in Wonderland

2010-03-31T08:04:51Z

Swirling circles on puffy sleeves, wrinkled white mini jacket, and geisha make-up, on a girl standing coyly against a fairy-tale forest — this is part of Turkish designer Pinar Eris’ campaign for her latest 2010 collection. Her models are dressed in baroque-inspired blouses or dresses, their make-up exquisite, their hairdos dramatic, placed in settings that are color-saturated, sometimes fantastical, sometimes eerie. Eris creates a world where imagination runs wild, and a wardrobe that seems able to turn every woman into a quirky Alice, or an “electrogeisha,” as Eris’ photographer, Akif Hakan Celebi, calls it.

The 35-year-old designer moved from Turkey to the United States 11 years ago, and studied fine arts and fashion design. After she graduated, she worked for a fashion company for three years, where she learned the business side of the fashion industry before launching her eponymous label in 2005.

Influenced by a range of styles, Eris’ garments exude a dark essence of Gothic, a feminine aura of the Victorian times, and a dose of punk and rock. Teaming up with Turkish photographer Celebi, Eris constructs images where every piece of garment is showcased in an unexpected and vivacious milieu, from run-down concrete walls to dark little back alleys, from cutesy homey buildings to vintage-looking cars. Eris and Celebi collaborate and invent single frames, each like a scene from an untold story.

“His and my work meshed perfectly,” Eris says. “We don’t work with a particular concept; we just go with the flow, and we inspire each other along the way.”

A lot of times designers are asked to elaborate on their aesthetic concepts behind their labels. Eris, when asked the question, is endearing in her honest answer.

“The truth is, I don’t have deep explanations for my designs,” she says. “Fashion is a kind of entertainment. It is a fun element in our lives. I like to design pieces that are fun and feminine, that’s all.”

As businesses are slowly recovering from the recession, how is Eris doing with hers? Surprisingly, she hasn’t been affected much. Eris has always been doing custom-made clothing. With the assistance of the Internet, she also is able to expand her clientele to a global extent. Her customers are largely based in London and Canada, with some in San Francisco and New York. Since this past September, her collections have been carried by a boutique in Istanbul, as well. Bridging Western and Eastern cultures with her designs, Eris confronts fashionistas around the world with a mixture of edginess, femme fatale, elegance, and playfulness.

Check out Pinar Eris’ latest collection at www.pinareris.com.

All images:

Photographer: Akif Hakan Celebi
Fashion Editor: Pinar Eris
Fashion Stylist: Merve Kirsan
Styling Assistant: Ela Aydemir
Make Up and Hair Stylist: Osman Nuri Buruk
Photographer’s Assistant: Ozgur Sahverdi

(Photo credit: Pinar Eris)

MeLo-X: The Mind Of Mustafa

2010-03-30T00:20:36Z

From tweaking tracks for his upcoming album, to finishing up the artwork for the album’s cover, to taking mid-day meetings and recording in the studio, to catching a red-eye flight to finish up his tour with Kid Sister, it is pretty clear that MeLo is focused beyond measure.

“Because I’m on tour whenever I’m in New York and I get a little time to myself, it’s just work, work, work”

As MeLo-X gears up his new album, entitled Sonic Intercourse, he is also working on setting the tone for its release with the album’s prelude mixtape entitled Audio Foreplay.

With previous highly received mixtapes such as Musafa’s Renaissance and his instrumental remix to BLACKsummers’ night, the new album will not be an introduction but merely a chapter of Melo’s musical growth and journey.

“This album is going to be a little different from Mustafa’s Renaissance, it’s going to feature more of my producing, than me as an emcee” says MeLo.

Over the years MeLo has been able to use various platforms to display his many talents. His mixtapes provided a platform from which he could showcase his talent in producing, rap and visual design, taking his body of work to high levels of authenticity and creativity.

“I was always looking for outlets to get my music out. I never had producers to make the beats or graphic designers to do the artwork on the album so I had to teach myself,” says Melo. “I would always look at album credits to see who produced them or pick up a magazine to see who photographed the pictures; it soon became more and more interesting to me and eventually I said yeah I can do this.”

It wasn’t long before his musical development opened the door for yet another passion.

“Since I couldn’t find a producer to bring my sound to life, I decided to buy turntables to start producing,” said MeLo “In the process I figured that I would start DJing as well. My friend was a DJ, so he taught me what I needed to know and then it grew from there.”

Coincidentally, it was MeLo’s DJing that really garnered the attention of many. He went from DJing locally to eventually DJing around the world.

“As a kid I was always into more than one thing; I never could keep still. If I wasn’t playing basketball, I was in to karate and then it was something else. It was only natural that I would be interested in so many things,” says MeLo.

Using his turntables to rock out shows for other artist as well as DJing for his acclaimed Electric Punany parties (a blend of reggae and electro-house music) it was time for MeLo to recapture his first love, the art of rap. He decided to step out from behind the turntables and move towards the front of the mic and venture into the world as MeLo-X the emcee.

“Being an emcee means being in the forefront,” says MeLo. “It is definitely different from being behind the scenes, but now I have the chance to express the music I create.”

MeLo’s web documentary series The Mind Of Mustafa documents MeLo’s transition from his behind-the-scene role as DJ/ Producer to him as a performing emcee. The Docuseries exposes you to what goes in to his stage performance, whether it be vibe-out sessions with his band or thoughts and feelings as he prepares for his live shows.

Most importantly it’s a sneak peak into his creative process.
“My creative process just comes from life and my experiences,” says MeLo. Sometimes I will have an idea in my head, a beat in my head or a whole song in my head that I have not even recorded. I could just be walking to an event or waiting on the train and sounds or words will just come to me.”

With the upcoming release of the new album Sonic Intercourse, a successful tour and an ever-growing fan base, MeLo’s creative process has evolved from what goes on in his own mind to grabbing the attention of the masses. He is the creator and leader of his own innovative path, skilled at bringing great music to the forefront.

A Renaissance man indeed … MeLo-X is a glimpse of what the future has to offer.

Melo-X / Mustafa’s Renaissance Mixtape Trailer from Noisemaker Media on Vimeo.

Artist Spotlight: Kwesi Abbensetts

2010-03-29T09:16:00Z

inCOLOR: What inspires you?

K.W.: The idea of the unexpected surprise. Women inspire me. I never know how God has managed to create such a variety of women. Life inspires me, so I try to capture that. Inspiration comes to you when you leave yourself open to anything life has to offer. I am inspired by that face, lip, eye or color of skin, but you only know it when you see it. Traveling also rises up the muse in me.

inCOLOR: How do you come up with shoot ideas?

K.W.: It might be something that gave me an idea, but most times it comes out of a spontaneous experience. If it’s fashion, then my stylist partner and I will plan it out, but even those shoots can be spontaneous. There are times when I just want to shoot something right there and then and I go through the process that the idea will present itself.

inCOLOR: Is photography something you have always been interested in?

K.W. : I would say photography found me; it was never a premeditated route. I bought a camera and somehow it became stuck to me and I have been taking images since.

inCOLOR: Some of your work features text. What do you feel the text adds to the message of the picture?

K.W. : The text adds further context to the picture either by making it more literal and true to what or who the picture is depicting. At the same time I can use it to add some fictional aspect to it and now the spectator is now involved in a dialogue with the picture.

inCOLOR: Where do you see yourself five years from now professionally?

K.W. : A bigger, bolder Kwesi Abbensetts. Success will be part of my life, but it would be the kind of success that will be my brand. I have only been shooting for four years now. I have a far way to go, and what I have achieved feels stellar. Make your patience step and make the right friends.

inCOLOR: Are your subjects usually models or people you meet around town?

K.W.: They are usually friends or yes people I meet and of course models. It really depends on what I am shooting.

inCOLOR: What are some things you like to do outside of photography?

K.W. : I paint, have good times with friends and just live this life.

inCOLOR: What type of camera do you use?

K.W.: I use a Pentax digital camera.

inCOLOR: How do you decide whether a picture should be black-and-white or color? Which one do you prefer?

K.W. : Well I never make that decision until most times after shooting. I shoot mostly in color and then later while editing I will do conversions to determine what may look best.

inCOLOR: How did you learn photography? Did you start out with an SLR camera or go directly to digital?

K.W.: I am self-taught in every way. Went to the bookstore, read photography books and consulted websites. The rest was experimentation. I started out a with a digital camera - FUJI 5600 - and then graduated to my Pentax. I have never shot film except for those cameras you can buy in the pharmacy.

inCOLOR: Where can people find your work?

K.W.: My portfolio and my blog .

inCOLOR: This one is for the twee-ple: How would you describe yourself as an artist in 140 characters or less?

K.W.: I am Kwesi Abbensetts and I will become an esteemed photographer. You need my art in your life and you will be rich.

Designer Spotlight: Autumn Adeigbo

2010-03-22T23:47:30Z

inCOLOR: As a person who grew up in a Nigerian household, I have found that African parents and immigrants in general prefer their children to work in the medicine, law, or engineering fields. Have your parents always supported your desire to work in fashion?

Autumn Adeigbo: My mother is a physician and yes, she did want me to become a doctor. My father is an artist but always pushed me to get an MBA. Lil Wayne has a [line] in one of his songs that goes “tougher than Nigerian hair.“ If you ask my parents, since birth my will has always been tougher than my hair. I have and will always do exactly what I want, when I want, no matter what anyone else thinks or says. When it comes to something as personal as following your dreams, I’d advise anyone out there to do the same.

inCOLOR: Your Web site says that were voted “Best Dressed” in the fourth grade. If you were given the same award today what would you say during your acceptance speech?

A.D. : I would acknowledge all the people and things who cultivated me into who I am today. My parents for loving me just the way I am and never asking me to be anyone other than myself. My therapist, Judith, who planted the seed in me that I could start my own business at age 24. Stylists Rebecca Weinberg, Leslie Fremar and Andrea Lieberman, who believed in me enough to give me a chance as an assistant. The team at W magazine, who let me explore the world of editorial high fashion. The beautiful women of the African continent, whose spirit and strength is exemplified in the brightness and beauty of their fabrics, and my God who made all of the crooked places before me straight on my journey thus far.

inCOLOR : If fashion was your first love, then why did you decide to study economics in college?

A.D. : Growing up, I thought my dream to do fashion was just that—a dream. As a girl growing up in Indiana, I really didn’t think I could become a fashion designer. But during my studies at Spelman, studying economics, I knew my future did not place me in a suit working in the banking world. I was way too wild for that! I knew nothing about how to pursue my dream in fashion, but late at night I taught myself how to sketch fashion figures and clothes. I discovered that Donna Karan went to school at a place called Parsons. This was way before “Project Runway”; before Parsons was well-known outside the fashion industry. So, I applied to school there and was accepted.

inCOLOR : Spelman College is located in Atlanta, Georgia, and Parsons is located in New York City. How would you describe the differences between the street style in Atlanta and street style in New York?

A.D. : I haven’t been to Atlanta in a few years. This makes me very sad to admit, but I’ve just been so wrapped up in pursuing my dream. I would say the main difference between Atlanta street style and New York street style is an Atl-ien’s attraction to color and a New Yorker’s like of muted palette of blacks and greys. Also, New Yorkers have more access to the heart of the fashion world and many more designer shops and department stores, so their style has a bit more of a trend-setting edge.

inCOLOR : How did you come up with the names of your designs, such as the “Sylvia” and the “Dada”?

A.D. : Some dresses are named after my relatives and some are traditional African tribal names that are appropriate to that specific collection. My fall 2010 collection was inspired by vampires and how vampires symbolize eternal life. All those dresses are named after female “vampires,“ or women who have crossed through the doorway of death and are now living an eternal life in heaven.
The death of my best friend’s 11-year-old daughter, Kenise, followed by the deaths of two women with photos in my inspiration book—Casey Johnson and Brittany Murphy—took the collection to a deeper place for me. I realized that the reason vampires resonate so highly with our collective conscience is because vampires symbolize the idea of eternal life. A vampire never dies. Anyone who has lost a loved one can feel that while their loved one’s body is gone, their energy lives on. The reds and purples of the collection now represent the blood that stops circulating when someone passes away, and the traumatic experience of death. The baby blues now represent the peace and serenity of Heaven. Flowers make us think of the cyclical nature of birth, death and rebirth. Flowers are also present at one’s right of passage to the afterlife—their funeral.

inCOLOR: Did working as a stylist help you as a designer?

A.D. : Being around such high-end clothes for years really set the bar high in terms of what is acceptable in terms of the quality of my own collection. Being a stylist also helps me understand the inner-workings of the realms of celebrity, editorial, and PR worlds and the politics involved with those spheres.

inCOLOR: How would you describe your ideal customer?

A.D. : My girl is funky. She’s worldly, meaning no matter where she is on the planet she sees the person next to her as her brother or sister. She looks people in the eyes; she empathizes, analyzes, and rationalizes. She’s a quirky sophisticate; she has a sophistication of the heart. She sees the problems of the world and longs to make a difference. She’s a kick-ass chick.

inCOLOR: Why did you decide to donate 5 percent of your sales to the sexual violence crisis in Africa?

A.D. : My heart goes out to the women and young girls who are having their womanhood stolen from them in such a violent manner as rape. Women are a society’s strength. Their backbone and these men who are often demoralized, misinformed, drug-crazed, and desperate take away from these precious gems what does not belong to them. It saddens me beyond words and outrages me. I want my dresses to be a voice for these women—a beacon of hope. A way to replace the ugliness of this act of violence with something of beauty. What more than something as simple as a dress to remind a woman of her power?

inCOLOR: Your business tagline is “culture, color, conscience.” Out of all the words in the dictionary what made those three words appeal to you?

A.D. :
Culture: Each dress is inspired by the women of the continent of Africa, a land ripe with beauty and culture.
Color: The collection showcases all the colors of the rainbow. Besides women, color is where I find a lot of my inspiration.
Conscience: 5 percent of each dress sale is donated to helping sexual violence victims on the continent of Africa.

inCOLOR: Where can people find your designs?

A.D. : The collection can be found at NYC boutiques Honey in The Rough, TG170, and Boston Boutique Crush. I plan to launch an online boutique from my Web site for fall 2010.

The Frugality of Fashion

2010-03-19T03:04:03Z

Located on Metropolitan Avenue in Brooklyn, NY, conveniently close to the Lorimer Street stop on the L train, Anavaa Kisasa is one of the many funky boutiques in Williamsburg. Owner Zulema N. George officially opened the store in August 2008, and from that summer on it’s been an exciting ride for George both as an entrepreneur and a handbag designer. Once a biology/chemistry major, George responded to the inner calling of becoming a fashion designer instead of pursuing a career in medicine. The decision turned out to be a great one, even though George is not saving lives in an ER. She brings indie fashions to not just people in New York, but people from all over the country with the boutique’s online sibling.

Juggling two roles at the same time can be tough, but George seems to be doing just fine.
“My sketch book is always by my side and for the most part filled with design ideas,” George says. “As a business owner, I am conducting business whether my boutique is open or closed. I am always trying to improve on customer relations, deciding on the next in-store event or sale, looking for events, trunk shows, et cetera, to participate in as a vendor.”

With an insight on both ends of the spectrum, George relates easily to indie designers and starting business owners. The unique position enables George to be a mentor to designers that she works with as well as offering them a platform for them to showcase designs.

Spotlighting underground fashions is the essence of George’s work as she helps promote her fellow designers.

“The designers I choose are a cut above the rest,” George says. “The talent that shows through their pieces makes it almost impossible to keep their merchandise on the shelves, and that brings me great pleasure.”

Some of the hidden gems that Anavaa Kisasa carries include earrings by UNDFND and conscious, thought-evoking T-shirts by Substance. Among all the goodies, there has to be something (or some things) that George thinks are the most central to the store, right?

“I think all of the items I carry are essential pieces for my customers … I think different pieces are essentials for different people,” George says. “Each one of my customers has their own sense of style and what might be essential to one is not essential to the other.”

Indeed, fashion can be general, while style is individual. But sales don’t lie, and what are the best sellers in the boutique? Apparently, Anavaa Kisasa’s loyal shoppers have a thing for one-of-a-kind dresses by various designers, and they’re huge fans of candles by Sanctuaire Beauty Bar. Obviously, being comfortable in your clothes is just as important as being comfortable at your own home to these AK fashionistas.

Equally important is being the only one who owns a certain piece of garment or an accessory. Well, in Anavaa Kisasa’s case, maybe being one out of five or six people in New York, because that’s the number of each piece that George chooses to carry.

“As a consumer, I loathe the thought of buying an item, wearing it, and walking into a room where more than one woman has the same outfit as me,” George says. “My customers can confidently buy a piece from my boutique, and know that the chances of them seeing someone with that same item is slim to none. And they love that!”

Maintaining an online and physical existence of Anavaa Kisasa is not an easy job. While some mistake running online business is less demanding, George says otherwise. Updating the Web site regarding inventory and keeping customers informed on what is available can be a 24/7 job, unlike the actual storefront that gets closed in the evening. But one thing George does get excited about having a physical store; that is being able to communicate with shoppers face to face.

“[The added benefit of one-on-one contact with customers when they walk into your store] is this aspect that I love the most,” she says. “Talking to the customers, getting their feedback, and helping them with their purchases makes it all worthwhile to me. Seeing my customers come in, try something on, and transform right before my eyes makes me very happy.”

As George moves forward in 2010, keeping her promise of a boutique for the frugal fashionista, she is looking to expand the business by co-launching a jewelry line, opening another store, and most intriguingly, working with a women’s collective in Kenya to produce some of her designs.

Looks like George is rocking her way out of the recession as we embrace the coming of a spring season, even though the economy never really had a profound impact on Anavaa Kisasa, where the price tag remains friendly from $10 to $300. No wonder the boutique has a devoted following.

Check out Anavaa Kisasa online at www.theakstyle.com.

(Photo credit: Anavaa Kisasa)

Varyus Creativity

2010-03-18T11:33:50Z

Varyus Waise is engaged in more than just writing music and poetry. He also writes graphic novels and comics. This Brooklyn native has always been and continues to be busy. As a kid, you could catch him with either a comic book or an encyclopedia in his grasp or learning about the ways of Batman and Robocop. After finishing his bachelor’s degree in journalism and Black studies, you can find him in the studio with his rhymes, hanging out at a poetry show, writing comics, or making a difference in the nonprofit sector. inCOLOR speaks with VW (Nick Florest) about his musical and literary pursuits.

inCOLOR: What inspired you to write?
VW: To write comics, I had a roommate in college who was heavy into comics and he put me on to some great stories Marvel was doing. I just caught this surge of creative energy and decided to put it to use.

To write music, I was always into poetry and won a few national contests as a kid. When I first started listening to hip-hop, I would rewrite the lyrics to some of my favorite songs, which definitely got me into trouble with my Mom, as you could imagine. Then I bought the single to Tracey Lee’s “It’s Party Time” - this was when singles were sold so I’m giving away my age a bit - and discovered the instrumental. The rest was history.

inCOLOR: How did you get involved with writing graphic novels?
VW: I wrote a semi-biography of my time with a magazine I edited in college but added in superpowers and made all my experiences different story arcs and villains. I had so much fun writing it. I went nuts. So from there, I had other story ideas I had in my head and decided to teach myself how to write comics scripts by reading scripts and interviews from my favorite comic writers. It’s been tough, but I’m glad I’m staying on that path.

inCOLOR: Is most of your work based on real-life experiences or was it made up?
VW: For my graphic novels, they’re based on experiences I’ve had but mostly on things I’ve loved from other stories. I tell stories that haven’t been told before that I would love to read. That’s the key to being a successful writer. Write things you would want to read yourself.
My music tends to be way more personal because with music it’s a lot easier to connect to people. They get to hear your voice and all the emotions that you put into it with music so I choose to write about things that I like and dislike about the world, situations and even myself.

inCOLOR: What messages are you conveying in your music?
VW: Love yourself. I’m not saying don’t have fun because I cut loose myself, but I would prefer to be known as a healer through my music. I put out things that many others aren’t saying right now as a way of saying you can be yourself and be proud of it. Once you accept yourself completely, totally, good and bad, you’ll begin to learn what your purpose is and stay away from things that are destructive to your life, whatever that may be.

inCOLOR: Why or how do you see yourself as the nonprofit rapper?
VW: I see myself as the nonprofit rapper because I’ve done a lot of work in the nonprofit field and I don’t really hear a voice for it. I have a great amount of respect and love for people out there doing right in the world for little to no pay with little to no help even if I don’t agree with their methods and I feel that they need someone who can sing their songs. The last person I felt connected to that theme in hip-hop was 2Pac, which is why he’s my favorite emcee of all time. I want to give a voice to those who are doing all they can to make right of some of the wrongs of the world. From the grassroots organizers to those working in philanthropic departments in corporations, I’m here for you.

inCOLOR: Are you recording more music or working on an album?
VW: I’m working on three projects right now. The first to come out will be a mixtape to show my range as an artist. The second will be a soundtrack for an indie comic book character and the third will be an EP that will emphasize the nonprofit/therapeutic side of me because I’ll be telling a lot of personal stories and coming to grip with demons that everyone has faced at one point in their lives or another. Along with that, I’m getting myself on mixtapes around the country and hopefully the world, so expect a flood of Varyus Waise music to come out in 2010.

inCOLOR: What other projects are you working on?
VW: I’m scripting out some short graphic stories and working on two graphic novels, which probably won’t be out for some time. I’m also the newest co-host of Rise Up Radio, a hip-hop talk show that focuses on issues in the community, on WBAI which airs every Friday from 9-10pm.

You can Twitter me @VaryusWaise), as well as ReverbNation and Facebook (Varyus Waise). I also have a blog www.agentofchangemusic.com. Stay up. Love yourself. Peace.

Photos courtesy of his Facebook and blog pages.

Ndamus: Accessories with Bold, Creative Statements

2010-03-17T22:24:02Z

inCOLOR: How was the name Ndamus coined, and does it hold any meaning?
Nneka Onyenakala: The word “damus” in Latin means “We are giving/we give.“ My father has brought me up to use the talents given to you by God, even if you may not initially see its beauty or use. God has given me many talents and now Nneka (‘N’) is giving back some of what she was given.

inCOLOR: Why do you choose leather as a material?
Nneka Onyenakala: Leather is the predominant material used in my bags; however, it is not the only material. I also use a combination of leather, a material I love, mixed with African wax prints, i.e. George cloth from my Igbo culture, denim, cotton ... You name it, I’ll make it. I also offer a customized service, which means the material list is as broad as your desires. Personally, I love the feel of different types of leather and the abundance of colors leather can be found in, as well as its versatility and longevity. Leather can last a lifetime when well looked after.

inCOLOR: What is the story behind the Ndamus brand? When was it established, why, and how would you describe the aesthetics?
Nneka Onyenakala: N’Damus has been in my head for a number of years to be honest. Ninety-nine point nine percent of the time I am in heels accompanied by a matching N’Damus bag. I started making bags for myself back in 2007/2008 initially because I was frustrated with not being able to find a bag to match my abundant, rainbow-like shoe collection. The aesthetics of my bags encompass abstract shapes and folds, with splashes of color in natural fabrics to create stylish, abstract designs and unique pieces for all who want to add the definitive edge to complete their outfit.

inCOLOR: Your accessories are quite striking. Where do you draw inspiration from?
Nneka Onyenakala: I have been blessed to have drawn internal inspiration initially … I make what I feel. I also draw inspiration from things we view on a daily basis but don’t actually see. Living in such a busy city, the obvious is sometimes missed, and in order to be seen, something big or bold must happen. I believe in making bold, creative statements.

inCOLOR:You also make belts, bracelets and many other accessories. Do you intend to foray into clothing?
Nneka Onyenakala: At the moment I am loving what I’m doing, so this is what I intend to do for as long as I can. I often collaborate with Samantha –J of Geometric Designs, a new and amazing clothing designer. Personally, I’m happy to collaborate but specialize in bags and accessories. I do have a passion for shoes, so watch this space 
inCOLOR: From the abstract bag to the World wide clutch bag, you name your collections. Do you have a favorite bag or clutch?
Nneka Onyenakala: The Abstract Rose Collection is most definitely my favorite, in terms of style. By far to date, my favorite is the “Tweedydamus Rose,“ not just in terms of style but its sheer “in your face” size.

inCOLOR: You have had a number of celebrities wear your bags, including Nia Long. What type of woman do you feel embodies best your brand?
Nneka Onyenakala: Any woman who aspires, dares or just wants to add the definitive edge to complete her outfit.

inCOLOR: You have recently completed a shoot in California, as well as recently being stocked in Gisella Boutique London. What are your plans for the future?
Nneka Onyenakala: Whatever and wherever God’s plans are for me, I’m going to follow them! I have been blessed to work with an array of amazing people on my journey and being invited to work with Gisella Boutique in my hometown of London has been an absolute honor. In a very short space of time I’ve been inundated with opportunities from the U.S., Europe and even the United Arab Emirates. The world is a very big place … Watch this space.

inCOLOR: In your opinion, what three characteristics make a bag an it bag?
Nneka Onyenakala: A bold, eye-catching and complimentary piece.

inCOLOR: What items must you always have in your bag?
Nneka Onyenakala: Keys (How will you get home, or dare I ask?!), cash, moisturizer, lip balm, Blackberry … Oh, and mint chewing gum.

Designer Nneka Onyenakala

inCOLOR: Do you have any favorite bag designers?
Nneka Onyenakala: Would it be wrong of me to be so bold and say … me?! I make no apologies for saying I am my favorite bag designer. I have a lot of respect for the many fantastic bag designers out there; however, I choose to stay focused on what N’Damus is about, as well as taking creative direction from my customers’ requirements and needs and, therefore, remain independent and unique.

For more information, visit www.ndamus.com.
www.gisellaboutique.net
www.geometricdesigns.co.uk

Images courtesy of BW Lee Photography
Photo credit: Karl Lake (pic of Bigdamus Rose)
Photo credit: JVL (pic of designer)

Righteous in Style

2010-03-12T08:09:58Z

Three months ago Latoya Gordon, president and creative director of Chris Leeann Boutique, held an event called “Chris Leeann Boutique Presents: The Ultimate Trunk Show.” Judging from the video footage, it was crowded with fresh-dressed folks and delish appetizers, and an unlimited open bar. Gordon, in a sleek black blazer, a white tank top, and sassy hair, was very excited on the camera introducing this very trunk show she made happen.

A fairly young brand, Chris Leeann Boutique was launched by 26-year-old Gordon in the fall of 2008. With a degree in media/broadcasting from Temple University under her belt, Gordon moved to New York after she graduated in 2005 to pursue a fashion career. Her dream of having her own store when she was a little girl finally came true after she took fashion business courses at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She decided to start with an online business and slowly work her way to having a storefront. As it turned out, it was a smart idea. So many fashion stores and brands started to embrace the digital, and Gordon was able to reach out to a large amount of clientele with the aid of a computer and the Internet. The result is a successful online platform where shoppers find hidden gems of the indie fashion scene.

“I prefer to work with up-and-coming designers,” Gordon says. “It’s more fresh, creative, and innovative.”

Last year for the best sellers, shoppers loved the “Barack O’Mama” shirt and the “Daddy’s Girl” shirt because they all had that “feminine look” in a simple T-shirt that female customers were looking for. And the staple item was “NY Loves Me” by Local Celebrity.

“And why? This razor-back tank was a fan favorite among all girls no matter where they originated from,” Gordon says. “The sleek comfy fit could [be] dressed up or dressed down. … For one shirt to do that is hot.”

While owning a storefront was Gordon’s dream, she now sees her online boutique as her precious baby, and who says you have to have a store to be successful? CLB attracts customers not just in New York but from all over the country. Because it is way more difficult to build a trustworthy relationship with online shoppers, Gordon prides herself on her responsiveness in dealing with customers’ requests or suggestions via digital communication.

“I’m more customer service-based,” Gordon says. “I’m interested in their needs, thoughts, questions, and/or concerns. Customers can elect to submit all of those to me while on the site. Once submitted, I receive it instantly, and will respond right after.”

It’s this quick-to-respond quality in Gordon that makes her business successful as well as her ability to adapt through the recession, which has been impacting on global economy. Her philosophy is simple: Progress with the times.

“Style changes and so should your business sense …” Gordon says. “You can’t remain stagnant in this industry. I’ve had so many changes since when I first began. Change is good when you want to grow and evolve.”
One of CLB’s byproducts since the recession is “Chris Leeann Boutique Presents: The Ultimate Trunk Show.” In the prime of economic gloom Gordon has been able to put forth three trunk shows, each filled with promising talent and eye-popping designs. Combining a 24/7 virtual shopping experience with an annual face-to-face party-esque event, Gordon has managed to thrive in the financial downfall.

“Chris Leeann Boutique was once a dream,” Gordon says. “It was once a thought. It was a conversation I would have with friends playing with the idea. I made it a reality. I brought it to life.”

Check out a recent trunk show held by Chris Leeann Boutique this past December at http://vimeo.com/9150050.

For more about Chris Leeann Boutique, visit www.chrisleeannboutique.com.

(Photo credit: Chris Leeann Boutique)

Errol Photography

2010-03-09T21:03:01Z

inCOLOR: What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you see a person with an Afro?
Errol: Do they want to be involved in my project? (laughs)

inCOLOR: How long has the “Do you have an Afro” project been running and what sparked the idea?
Errol: I’ve been doing this project for nearly a year now. I suppose the idea came about for a few reasons. I’ve always been a huge fan of an American soul/funk group called The Ohio Players. They had the most amazing album covers and, of course, Afros. The Blaxsploitation films were also a major influence.

inCOLOR: Can you tell us a little about your background and how you forayed into photography?
Errol: Well, I’ve always been a creative person. Before photography, it was music. I just seem to meet amazing musicians, photographers arty types in general. I did a few photography courses, then some assisting. The first person I assisted was a guy called Phil Poynter, who at the time was the photographic director at Dazed and Confused. I also assisted Rankin. That was a cool period, long before Rankin and the magazine was famous. Katie Grand, Katy England, Jefferson Hack, Alister Mackie and Perou were all there. I think it was a defining moment. I then took a break from photography and started to get back into it maybe three years ago. I’m still skint but happy.

inCOLOR: Many people associate the Afro with political inclinations. Did you have any political messages you wanted to communicate in starting the project?

Errol: Nope.

inCOLOR: What does photography mean to you?
Errol: Everything. There is something very special about capturing a moment that will never be repeated. It’s quite strange, as I get very frustrated and annoyed with myself sometimes. I look at the images and see 1,000 things that I should have done differently.

inCOLOR: What kind of photographer would you describe yourself as?
Errol: I would say I was a fashion/portrait photographer primarily, a people photographer but having said that, I recently did [a] still life that was quite interesting.

inCOLOR: If you had to choose between black-and-white photography or color, which would you choose and why?
Errol: That’s a good question. Some subjects demand to be in black and white, and others need the in-your-face brightness of color.

inCOLOR: You have another project on sneakers alongside the Afro project. Would you say there is a red thread through your projects?
Errol: Not too sure about red threads. I just choose subjects that interest and inspire. I think if it’s a personal portrait project, then it has to be driven by passion and come from the heart—not be driven by money. Money will hopefully come if the project has depth and integrity.

inCOLOR: What influences your work?
Errol: Everything and anything, film, music, art, life in general.

inCOLOR: What would be your dream project?
Errol: Traveling the world shooting a Gucci [or] Prada campaign and getting paid shit loads of cash; that would be nice. I’m also well up for shooting global sneaker collectors.

inCOLOR: Do you have an Afro?
Errol: No, sorry.

inCOLOR: What are your plans for the future?
Errol: There will be an exhibition later this year for “The Sneaker Business” project and hopefully for the “Do you have an Afro?“ project as well. I just need to tie up a sponsor for that one so if anyone knows someone, hit me up. I’ll be focusing a lot more on editorial and fashion stuff this year. I’d really like to have a body of work that inspires other people to become photographers. That’s my main aim: to leave a mark on the world forever.

For more information, please visit Errol Photography.