Issue 97 Omarion

OMARION: A LEGACY OF RESILIENCE, AUTHENTICY, AND ARTISTIC EVOLUTION

Photography by L10

Fashion by GEORGE ST. THOMAS NELSON

Publisher

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Managing Editors

Antheny Raiy, Justin Wallace

Editor

Chris Law

Editor-At-Large

Kent Olden

Creative Director Andrew Zaeh

Art Direction

Aspasia Bouzakis

Graphic Design

Russell Caras

Deputy Editor

Gary Dickson

Contributing Editor

Chevy Wolf

West Coast Fashion Editor

Apuje Kalu

UK Fashion Editor

Sean Azeez

Social Media Strategist

Livingston Steele

Copy Editors

Mark Elibert, Rachael Hanmer

Tammy Black

Videographers

Dante Williams, Anthony “Bubba” Gutierrez, AJ Pie

Contributing Writers

Kirby Carroll, Evan Majors, Hassan Wiggins, Blair Thompson, Nicholas Hernandez, Dr. Dominique Carson, Catherine McGrath, Becca Bond, Serena Carter, Dylan Atilano, Rachael Hanmer, Anna Kim, Simone Harvin, Pretty Honore, Truth “Truth” Hawkins

Interns

Luis Cerda, Tyler Leyva

THE BLEULIFE MEDIA GROUP

Chairman, CEO & President

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Digital Partnerships

Sam Doliner

Maxwell Bashy advertise@bleulife.com

Print AD Sales

Todd Evans

Rivendell Media

908.232.2021

Web Engineer

Muhammad Azeem

East Coast Partnerships & Ecommerce

Justin Wallace

West Coast Partnerships & Special Projects

Antheny Raiy

Licenses & Joint Ventures

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Brand Ambassadors

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Submissions

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Tookaridetotheendoftheline,wherenooneevergoes

EndeduponabrokentrainwithnobodyIknow

Butthepainandthelonging'sthesamewhenyou'redying

NowI'mlost,andI'mscreamingforhelpalone

Relax,takeiteasy

Forthereisnothingthatwecando

Relax,takeiteasy

Blameitonme,orblameitonyou

It's as if I'm scared

It's as if I'm terrified

It's as if I’m scared

It'sasifI'mplayingwithfire

Scared

It's as if I'm terrified

Areyouscared?

Areweplayingwithfire?

RELAX

RELAX, TAKE IT EASY-MIKA

Hard things will never get easy. There are no actual shortcuts. Hard work, dedication, and perseverance are still the key ingredients to success. What can change is our perception. How we approach a problem or obstacle determines the measure of labor it takes to get it done. Sometimes, it is more beneficial to stop, take a beat, and relax.

As we continue to recover from the world all but stopping from 2020-2023, we should refrain from rushing into business as usual. Like me, you may notice the long walks in the park happening less frequently. The check-ins with family and friends are becoming as scarce as they were in 2019, and there is very little time for self care. We find ourselves running from meeting to meeting or task to task instead of running to breathe fresh air.

The least we can do is take a moment and relax, even just for a moment. As the world spins ever so fast and the nightfall shortens our day, try to find time to remember the things you hadn't realized you’d forgotten. Read a book instead of listening to the audio. Try a new recipe like you used to do in the early days of the pandemic. Or simply sit still and relax.

DéVon Christopher Johnson Founder & Group Publisher

CHRIS LAW

Chris Lawrence (pen name Chris Law) is a writer, menswear stylist and fashion pundit. During the day he works on brand strategy and copywriting for brands like Everlane, Banana Republic or Saks. At night, he enjoys binge watching TV, trying out new restaurants and a bourbon on the rocks.

EVAN MAJORS

Evan Majors is a freelance writer based in Dallas, TX, and Founder of Major Media + Casting LLC, a casting and talent development company. He’s an avid hot yoga enthusiast, runner, and vinyl record collector who has also contributed to The Red Bulletin magazine. Follow on IG: @mr.evanmajors

GEORGE ST. THOMAS NELSON

All-around creative, George St. Thomas Nelson has been a celebrity stylist for the last seven years. He draws his style inspiration from everyday life. Nelson lives by the saying, “Style is in you, not on you!”

KENT OLDEN

Buffalo native Kent Olden is an Aquarian creative who gets excited to push people to see life through a different set of shades. Extremely involved in his community, he is a proud and active member of both Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Prince Hall Affiliated Free & Accepted Masons (Paramount Lodge #73), and instills that commitment to community in his daughters, Kendall and Khloe (no, they're NOT named after the Kardashians -- he didn't even know who they were when his daughters were born). Kent holds a B.A. in Psychology from Morehouse.

NINO REYES

Nino Reyes is a journalist and a marketer with a heavy focus on media operations. She has worked with many major international brands like American Express, MusicXclusives, The Walt Disney Company, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, No7 Beauty, MediaCom, and Universal McCann. She has captured many iconic journalistic moments in her career like her interviews with Bobby Brown, Dapper Dan, Ja Rule, Patientce Foster, Pop Smoke, and her iconic story on the God Father of Black Cinema, Melvin Van Peebles.

NICHOLAS HERNANDEZ

Nicholas Hernandez is New York-based arts and culture reporter, covering multiple facets of the New York City scene. From fashion shows to mutual aid organizations and restaurants, his work has appeared in EaterNY, the Bronx Times and AMNY. Nicholas is a recent graduate of the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism in New York City.

NBA X REBRAND NYC

REBRAND NY launched “The Draft Capsule” in New York City at the Classic Car Club, setting the tone for this year’s NBA draft. The invitation-only event featured Nespresso-branded experiences, supercars, and a star-studded guest list, including top NBA draft prospects and legends such as Kevin Garnett, Quentin Richardson, and Darius Miles. Celebrities such as Tracy Morgan and Jim Jones mingled with the newly drafted stars, making it a memorable evening of basketball, culture, and entertainment.

REPUBLIC RECORDS X BET KICKBACK 2024

Republic Records ignited BET Awards weekend and Black Music Month with the “KICKBACK” at The Highlight Room in Hollywood, CA. The event included guests from hip-hop and R&B, including Angie Martinez, Angela Yee, Speedy Morman and YK Osiris.

STARTING 5

Netflix celebrated the premiere of STARTING 5 with series stars Jimmy Butler, Anthony Edwards, LeBron James, Domantas Sabonis, and Jayson Tatum at the legendary Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, CA, followed by a celebration at The Spotlight following the screening.

REVOLT WORLD

Revolt World hosted its immersive weekend experience with its “We Create the Future” theme at Pangea Studios in Atlanta, presented by Walmart.

Courtesy of Revolt Credit: Paras Griffin

INNOVATIVE TECH

CALMI RING

The world’s first smart ring featuring acupressure & magnetotherapy. Control your sleep, energy, and stress through the application of four dynamic magnets that interact with the magnetic field already present in your body, creating a magnetic force that elevates your health in several areas.

VEST 3

Engineered to enhance gaming, VR, movies and music, Woojer’s Vest 3 allows the wearer to feel precise frequencies across the body for an immersive, mesmerizing experience. Carefully crafted, the vest delivers rich, high quality haptics with nothing like it in its league.

CHARGECARD

Finally an emergency phone charger that’s not only small but powerful. The size of a credit card to easily store in wallets, pockets and purses and also packed with enough punch to completely recharge your phone.

DJI POCKET 3

Equipped with a 1-inch sensor, a 2-inch rotational touch screen and full-pixel fast focus, the DJI Pocket 3 is the creative companion for any occasion. Designed to fit easily in your palm or pocket, it’s the perfect accessory for the creator on the go.

VOLVO EX30 X SSENSE

DRIVING FASHION FORWARD

A FUSION OF STYLE AND INNOVATION

By Rachael Hanmer

I N A GROUNDBREAKING collaboration between Volvo Car Canada and SSENSE, the realms of automotive design and high fashion converge in an unprecedented display of creativity and sophistication. The exclusive unveiling event at SSENSE's Montreal flagship store from June 14-16 showcased a curated collection of looks inspired by Volvo's new fully electric EX30, redefining the way Canadians perceive their vehicles. Imagine flipping through the glossy pages of a fashion magazine and stumbling upon a spread that blurs the boundaries between automotive engineering and runway glamour. Photographer Norman Wong's lens captured the essence of this collaboration, encapsulating the limitless possibilities inspired by the Volvo EX30. The EX30 is Volvo's latest addition to its lineup of premium

vehicles. With Scandinavian design principles woven into its DNA, the EX30 embodies elegance, power, and sustainability in equal measure. Its sleek exteriors, available in five distinct colors inspired by Scandinavian elements, complement the four unique interior room designs inspired by Swedish landscapes.

The campaign's narrative unfolds through a diverse cast of creative talent, including artists, designers, models, and creators like Spencer Badu, Jeremy Joo, Isabel Okoro, Mich Mao, and more. Each look curated by SSENSE breathes life into Volvo's vision of personalized style, transforming the EX30 from a mode of transportation to a statement piece that reflects individuality and innovation. Let's delve into the details of one of the captivating looks featured in this groundbreaking campaign:

MODEL: EMMANUEL UDDENBERG

Emmanuel effortlessly embodies the intersection of high fashion and automotive excellence in the following ensemble from SSENSE: Y/PROJECT Blue Scrunched Shirt: A striking piece that combines casual comfort with avant-garde style, setting the tone for the ensemble. HELMUT LANG

White Seatbelt Tank Top: A subtle yet impactful addition, echoing the sleek and minimalist design ethos of the Volvo EX30. MAGLIANO Black Monete Belt: Adding a touch of sophistication and structure to the outfit, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. ALAN CROCETTI Silver Droplet Necklace: Infusing a hint of edginess and luxury, complementing the overall aesthetic with a modern twist. Y/PROJECT Blue Banana Jeans: Completing the look with a bold statement, merging contemporary fashion with timeless appeal.

Emmanuel's ensemble not only highlights the versatility of the EX30-inspired looks but also serves as a testament to the seamless integration of art, design, and innovation.

MODEL: DANI

Dani is wearing the following items from SSENSE: Y/PROJECT Blue Ruffle

Necklace Minidress: A vibrant piece with intricate ruffle details, reflecting the dynamic design of the Volvo EX30. NENSI DOJAKA Black Double Petal Bra: Adding an edgy contrast to the minidress with its unique petal design. COPERNI Blue Swipe Bag: A chic, modern accessory that complements the ensemble. BLUMARINE

Silver Wraparound Sunglasses: Glamorous wraparound sunglasses echoing the vehicle’s sleek lines. OTTOLINGER Silver & Black Diamond Clip Earrings: Finishing the look with a touch of sophistication.

SSENSE'S Montreal flagship store served as the perfect backdrop for this avantgarde showcase, where visitors immersed themselves in the seamless integration of art, fashion, and automotive excellence. The curated collection featured in the campaign not only redefines luxury but also invites consumers to experience the EX30 firsthand and envision a future where style and sustainability coexist harmoniously.

As Aleiza Alerta, Director of Marketing & Communications at Volvo Car Canada, aptly puts it, "The creative aims to imagine an SSENSE fashion carpool and seemingly infinite number of looks inspired by the EX30." This collaboration isn't just about fashion; it's about pushing boundaries, sparking conversations, and driving fashion forward into uncharted territories.

In a world where artistry knows no bounds,

Volvo Car Canada and SSENSE have set a new standard for the intersection of art, fashion, and automotive ingenuity. The future of style is electric, and it's driving fashion forward with every turn of the wheel.

PHOTOS: VOLVO/SSENSE/NORMAN WONG

SNEAKERHEAD EXTRAORDINAIRE

Meet Jake Mercieca, a renowned sneakerhead with a passion for rare and iconic kicks. From coveted collaborations to limitededition drops, discover how Mercieca built his impressive collection and his influence on the sneaker culture.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

 dofetilide

 rifampin

 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of breastfeeding during treatment with BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

 Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.

 Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

 Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

 The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

People featured take BIKTARVY and are compensated by Gilead.

#1 PRESCRIBED HIV TREATMENT*

*Source: , 04/19/2019 through 05/19/2023. IQVIA NPA Weekly

IS

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

MORE TO LOVE.

BIKTARVY® is approved for more people than ever before.

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. Scan to learn more about BIKTARVY.

*This information is an estimate derived from the use of information under license from the following IQVIA information service: IQVIA NPA Weekly, for the period week ending 04/19/2019 through week ending 05/19/2023. IQVIA expressly reserves all rights, including rights of copying, distribution, and republication.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and at BIKTARVY.com.

Smell Goods

If you’re still clinging to that nostalgic bottle of Michael Jordan cologne from your teenage years, it might be time for a fragrant refresh. A good scent can elevate your mood and boost confidence, so why not explore the exciting world of colognes? From bold new fragrances to timeless classics, there’s something for everyone at every price point. By Chris Law

HERMES TERRE D’HERMES

DAVID BECKHAM AMBER BREEZE

ARQUISTE ALMOND SUEDE

MAISON MARGIELA REPLICA UNDER THE STARS

MCM DIAMOND

FREDERIC MALLE HOPE

LOUIS VUITTON IMAGINATION EDP

Experience True Luxury at THE HOUSE OF PURE VIN

HOUSE OF PURE VIN INVITES YOU TO ENGAGE WITH ITS ARRAY OF HOUSE WINES, ENTICING VETERAN WINE TASTERS AND NOVICE DRINKERS ALIKE.

By Hassan Wiggins

EMERGING FROM DOWNTOWN Detroit, House of Pure Vin opens its doors to share the rich and bold tastes that drinking offers. A bottle to pair with a meal, cover an event, or satisfy your cravings is sometimes inseparable from a memorable experience. Any circumstance can be complemented by their wine, soothing your taste buds all the way through. House of Pure Vin has exactly what you need, offering tasting sessions for those looking to narrow down their options.

Founded in 2015 by Regina Gaines and two other female founders before being exclusively owned by Gaines, House of Pure Vin capitalizes on helping residents in Detroit and travelers find a wine or champagne that suits their desired taste and feel when drinking. Red and white wine, Rosè, sake, and champagne only scratch the surface of what they offer. The options range from all around the world, including wine made in the Motor City. Gaines and The House want to expand the art of wine tasting to people unfamiliar with it. As Gaines states, “More people are in the office than they were in retail and stores.” House of Pure Vin hopes to bolster both wine and the experience of wine tasting for residents in the Downtown Detroit area.

For those open-minded and interested, House of Pure Vin has many iterations of wine tasting that may suit a vast pool of consumer cravings, which is done in the form of events. Here’s an opportunity for people who might not be intrigued enough to buy a full bottle but want to explore their desire for wine further. The Culinary and Wine Tasting experience offers a four-course dinner or three-course lunch with wines brought for attendees to enjoy. House of Pure Vin also allows customers to focus solely on the drinking with their Tasting On-Demand Experience, having the customer try three different wines or champagnes while guided by one of their curated sommeliers. Alongside these, there are more personal and focused options for buyers that allow them to book a home visit catered by House of Pure Vin and a Virtual Tasting Experience for those seeking less interaction.

Regardless of your knowledge and history of drinking wine, you are welcome at the House of Pure Vin. Attendees shared their experiences with the Detroit-based store, and the reviews were overwhelmingly positive. From comments on the “proactively helpful staff” to the “aesthetically pleasing” interior, House of Pure Vin emphasizes the value of savoring your drink and experiencing taste from around the globe. Whether with a group or by yourself, you’re bound to engage with a wine that speaks to you and creates a memory you’ll cherish.

BY WAYMAN & MICAH

Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald are a Los Angeles-based styling duo. They joined forces in 2013 after enjoying separate careers in the fashion industry, with Wayman at Conde Nast publications and Micah at Marc Jacobs and Alice + Olivia. They have been leaving their mark on the industry ever since and are changing the game with each outfit they have put together.

KIKI

AJA

REGINA KING IN ATELIER VERSACE

MICHAELA JAE RODRIGUEZ IN IRIS VAN HERPEN

LAYNE IN PRABAL GURUNG

NAOMI KING IN MIU MIU

JON BATISTE IN DUNHILL

JODIE TURNER SMITH IN GUCCI

COLEMAN DOMINGO IN MAISON VALENTINO

MARY J. IN PAMELLA ROLAND

TARAJI P. IN BALMAIN

TIFFANY HADDISH IN ALEXANDREVAUTHIER

DA VINE JOY RANDOLPH IN JOVANA LOUIS

TESSA THOMPSON IN GIORGIO ARMANI

BY BRYON JAVAR

Some of celebrity stylist Bryon Javar’s signature looks are known for being bold, colorful, and full of statement. After landing his first internship at 19 with Laurie Philips—who was working with The Black Eyed Peas—he expanded his clientele and landed features in various fashion outlets, including Vogue. He’s come a long way since styling his first client and high school friend, Karrueche Tran, for the BET Awards in 2015.

BRUNSON CUSTOM PRABAL GURUNG

MARTIN JEAN-LOUIS SABAJI

BUSTA RHYMES BENT KAHINA

TIKA SUMTER SEBASTIAN GUNAWAN SIGNATURE

TEYONAH PARIS JEAN-LOUIS SABAJI

NASH JOVANA LOUIS

QUINTA

MARSAI

NIECY

JONES SEYIT ARES

CHRIS PERFETTI STRIKE OIL

ROBIN THEDE SEBASTIAN GUNAWAN SIGNATURE

NICOLE BEHARIE PEGGY HARTANTO

JACOB LATIMORE GRAY

KARRUECHE TRAN CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

COCO

MARSAI MARTIN JEAN-LOUIS SABAJI

BY KOLLIN CARTER

A visionary in fashion styling, Kollin Carter brings a dynamic body of work by styling highprofile clients and leading brands. Renowned for his bold and vibrant aesthetic, Carter has made a unique mark in the industry. Carter’s impressive career began under the guidance of Law Roach. He has since worked with luminaries such as Cardi B, Victoria Monet, Normani, Kelly Rowland, Kylie Jenner, Teyana Taylor, and Naomi Campbell, among others.

CARDI B IN EMILIO PUCCI

KYSRE GONDREZICK IN AREA

NORMANI IN DION LEE

CIARA IN DOLCE & GABBANA

KELLY ROWLAND IN NINA RICCI

CARDI B IN HAN KJOBENHAVN SHOES

ALTON MASON IN MAISON VALENTINO

KYSRE GONDREZICK IN LAQUAN SMITH

NORMANI IN DILARA FINDIKOGLU

CIARA IN DAVID KOMA

KELLY ROWLAND IN SABINA BILENKO

VICTORIA MONET IN VERSACE

VICTORIA MONET IN SIR BABAJAGNE

FASHION RELATED BOOKS

By Serena Carter

DAPPER DAN MADE IN HARLEM: A MEMOIR

By Daniel R. Day

Dapper Dan is one of the most influential people in the fashion world. The Harlem native took the world by storm in the 1980s when he pioneered high-end streetwear by turning luxury brands into his own designs. Dan has designed pieces for artists such as Jay-Z, Salt-N-Pepa, Big Daddy Kane, LL Cool J, Naomi Campbell, and more. For the first time ever in his memoir, Dan tells the story of his life. In Dapper Dan: Made In Harlem: A Memoir, he gives readers insight into his upbringing, from building his own business from nothing, living through the drug epidemics in New York, and being a positive influence on the youth. This New York Times bestselling book discusses fashion and serves as a coming-of-age story about the legendary Dapper Dan.

HOW TO SLAY INSPIRATION FROM THE QUEENS AND KINGS OF BLACK STYLE

By Constance C.R. White

How to Slay: Inspiration from the Queens and Kings of Black Style takes us on a 35-year journey through fashion. It walks us through the Black style of icons such as Michelle Obama, Kanye West, Josephine Baker, Pharell Williams, Rihanna, and more. Black trends have become influential in mainstream culture and the blueprint for fashion today. The Black artists highlighted in this book have inspired trends and transformed global fashion, from hats, the use of color, the influence of Africa, the importance of attitude, and the beauty of Black skin. The author of this book, Constance C.R. White, was the first Black executive fashion editor at Elle magazine, former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine, and a style reporter for The New York Times.

DANDY LION

THE BLACK DANDY AND STREET STYLE

By Shantrelle P. Lewis

What is the “dandy” style? It is used to describe suits that have pops of loud color, dazzling patterns, and ties. In her book Dandy Lion: The Black Dandy and Street Style, Shantrelle P. Lewis educates readers on how this style has become popular in men's fashion. Black dandyism originated in Enlightenment England’s slave culture and has evolved throughout generations in Black cultures. It has emerged in hip-hop culture and has redefined what it means to be Black, masculine, and fashionable. Shantrelle P. Lewis is an American curator, scholar, critic, and filmmaker. She is known for curating at the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture, and the African American Museum in Philadelphia

DRESSED IN DREAMS A BLACK GIRL’S LOVE LETTER TO THE POWER OF FASHION

By Tanisha C. Ford

Dressed in Dreams: A Black Girl’s Love Letter to the Power of Fashion takes the reader on a deep dive into fashion's evolution in the Black community and how it has now become mainstream and appropriated. Tanisha C. Ford covers Black fashion styles from hot pants and go-go boots to dashikis and afros, baggy pants, bamboo earrings, and more. She tells stories of growing up in a Midwestern city, finding her style by experimenting with the Jheri curl, and learning how wearing the wrong color shoes during the drug and gang wars in the 1980s could get you harmed. Tanisha Ford is an American scholar and expert on Black historical fashion and culture. She is also known for her recent book Our Secret Society: Mollie Moon and the Glamour, Money, and Power Behind the Civil Rights Movement.

FROM VISION TO MANIFESTATION HOW JOLLESON’S ARTISTRY SHAPED POP CULTURE’S MOST ICONIC LOOKS

FROM CRAFTING ICONIC looks for Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion to designing jaw-dropping fashion moments for music videos, Jolleson’s journey is marked by resilience, vision, and unmatched artistry that continues to shape pop culture.

A creative mind is one that thinks beyond conventional boundaries, consistently generating new ideas, concepts, or approaches to things. Their creativity isn’t just limited to the arts—it can be applied to problem-solving, innovation, and even everyday decision-making.

A creative mind is often curious, playful, and willing to push the limits of the status quo to discover imaginative solutions or create meaningful expressions.

John Thompson, also known as Jolleson, is a visionary artist, designer, and creative mind who has created some of pop culture’s most memorable looks, from Normani’s “1996” airbrush ensemble in the music video for her hit song “Motivation” to the sleek silver bodysuits featured in the visuals for Victoria Monet’s dance track, “Alright.”

Jolleson is a jack of all trades when it comes to art and design. He has not only mastered creating popular looks from scratch, but he’s also an expert in tailoring. Tailoring sharpened his artistic eye and created more job opportunities, including working on looks for Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s music video for their Billboard Hot 100 #1 hit, “WAP.” It featured cameos from several women, including television star Kylie Jenner, whose custom shoes, cape, and corset were designed by Jolleson.

“I made five pairs of shoes for her before they chose that one. I had to make that cape because the original cape was tiny and, on the spot, I had to use the fabric to make her long dramatic cape because we wanted it to drag,” Jolleson says, recalling his first project during the COVID-19 pandemic. “And then also tailor her bodysuit on top of that,” he adds.

Kylie’s look was just a sliver of Jolleson’s contributions to the “WAP” project. He also worked on Megan, Cardi, and Normani’s looks as well.

Jolleson credits vision boards as a tool for success, using collaged images and words to inspire and motivate him through his journey.

“The vision boards started when I was at my darkest time,” the LA native revealed. “I had lost everything, and I didn’t know what the fuck I was going to do with my life. But I knew that I loved creating.”

He created two vision boards. The first revolved around tailoring goals, while the second centered around custom designing and expanding his brand.

“Every time I get clarity, I just put it down on the board. How I see myself, where I want to be, and I live it and breathe it,” Jolleson said. He continued, “I put Beyonce on my vision board, not knowing that I was going to work with her one day.”

Jolleson has been a part of several Beyoncé projects, including the “I’m That Girl” video teaser, “Be Alive” 94th Academy Awards Performance, and even her family’s 2022 Halloween costumes as characters from the Disney animated series, The Proud Family.

Jolleson and his team created and designed 50 looks in five days for Beyonce’s Oscar performance, “Be Alive,” an original song from the Motion Picture King Richard.

Jolleson recalls that the opportunity was the first time he felt recognized as a respected designer at the highest level.

“It was a beautiful experience that I definitely needed in my life,” Jolleson said. “I always wanted to work with Tom Ford’s team. I had that on my vision board, and they provided me with Tom Ford’s team to put that project together.”

Jolleson mentions that, like his vision boards, Beyoncé also utilizes storyboards on set to plan and bring her performances to life.

Jolleson’s fluency in art goes beyond fashion. He attended the California College of the Arts, where he honed his skills across multiple art mediums. This diverse practice eventually paved the way for his collaboration with the Onyx Forge Studios FX team, where he contributed to designing the slimy skin effect for Megan Thee Stallion’s “Hiss” music video.

“I have a lot of stuff I can do that I haven’t even shown people,” Jolleson says on his artistry. “I like to say I’m more so of an artist than anything.”

“I made five pairs of shoes for her before they chose that one.”

Jolleson’s influence continues to grow as he tackles new projects and collaborations, always pushing the envelope and challenging conventional ideas of design. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists who dream of breaking into the competitive world of fashion and creative direction. Through vision boards, hard work, and a relentless passion for his craft, Jolleson embodies the spirit of a creative mind that transforms challenges into masterpieces.

EXPERIENCE LUXURY AND SUSTAINABILITY AT IL BORRO

A TUSCAN WINE ESTATE and HOTEL Owned by the FERRAGAMO FAMILY. By Becca Blond

VITTORIA FERRAGAMO—GRANDDAUGHTER of the legendary Italian fashion designer Salvatore Ferragamo—and I are racing ponies down a private airstrip on a cloudless September day at Il Borro, the Tuscan wine estate and hotel owned by her family. With the manes flying in the breeze, we let the horses run neck to neck until, giddy with exhilaration from the wild sprint, we pull up at the edge of the field.

“I’m pretty sure Pinky has never run that fast. She’s usually slow, but she was feeling competitive today,” Vittoria grins.

I am spending the week at two Tuscan properties owned by the Ferragamo family: Il Borro and Viesca. Both are located within an hour of Florence. Il Borro, the wine resort, has been in the Ferragamo family’s portfolio for more than 30 years now, while Viesca opened in 2019.

IL BORRO: SERVING UP SUSTAINABLE LUXURY

Set on 2,700 acres, Il Borro is proud of its sustainable luxury focus. Everything from the food to the wine to the gin is either produced on the grounds or locally sourced. After Vittoria and I finish our ride, we head to the outdoor terrace of the Tuscan Bistro, one of two restaurants on the estate, to delve deeper into this conversation.

She tells me that her father, Ferruccio Ferragamo, the eldest son of the designer famed for his innovative shoe designs, purchased Il Borro from an Italian prince in 1993. At the time, the estate had only one vineyard on the grounds. It also came with a 13th-century medieval village that once belonged to the de Medici family and desperately needed repairs.

It has been transformed into a Relais & Châteaux Hotel with a thriving vineyard and 38 country-chic suites in the meticulously restored medieval village. There is also a palatial pink, 10-bedroom villa, circa 1854, that can be rented. Two restaurants, swimming pools, a wine cellar, a spa, and an equestrian center are also on the grounds. The resort is managed by Vittoria and her brother, Salvatore, Jr., who is also the CEO. Both believe passionately in operating with a fully sustainable model and a negative carbon footprint.

“All the produce farmed on the estate is available in our restaurants. At Il Borro, we produce wine, extra virgin olive oil, chicken, eggs, and beef. We have honey from local bees and have just started producing our flour from ancient wheat for bread, pasta, and pastries. We even have a wheat beer we make on the property,” Vittoria says.

Previous Spread: Boro Gate

This Spread: Il Boro, Salvatore Vigna, Il Borro, Relais Chateaux Villa Dimora Viesca

THE MOST DELICIOUS WINES

Il Borro is most famous for its wines, which are also produced sustainably. After lunch with Vittoria, Salvatore, Jr. joins us to discuss his passion project, the vineyard. When talking about wine, Salvatore’s voice becomes animated. Il Borro produces 150,000 bottles of wine yearly on 222 acres, with the grapes meticulously arranged by territory.

“We also believe in using the old methods for how some of our wines are made. So, we have wines that are made in clay pot containers and not steel or oak barrels,” says Salvatore, Jr. “They are aged in the containers for a year and then bottled. It’s unique and goes back to the origins of wine.”

Il Borro wines are genuinely creative and flavorful. My favorite is the Bolle di Borro, a sparkling Rosé, which is a treat to drink. It is a limited release, with just 5,000 bottles produced annually and made from 100 percent Sangiovese grapes. The flavor is unlike anything I’ve tasted.

VIESCA: STAY WHERE THE FASHION DESIGNER ONCE SLEPT

After experiencing Il Borro, I moved on to Viesca. The 170-acre property is between Florence and Arezzo and houses 17 suites in understated whitewashed buildings. There are also seven villas, including a 16th-century manor house where fashion designer Salvatore Ferragamo and his wife Wanda spent portions of the summer. Wanda bought the estate in the 1950s, and it became her passion project as she worked tirelessly to restore it. After her death, her grandson continued her legacy but turned it into a boutique hotel.

Viesca has a different feel from Il Borro and a timeless, elegant charm. It is the kind of property you visit to escape city life and be at one with the gorgeous Tuscan countryside surrounding you. This is a spot where you can take long walks or sit in the shade to read a book for hours. It also makes a good base for exploring Tuscany. There is also an on-site restaurant and full-service spa.

IF YOU GO

Il Borro is in the Tuscan countryside, about 30 minutes from Florence. Coming from the US, you will likely fly via Rome. From there, it is just under three hours by car to Il Borro and Viesca. You can arrange a private transfer or drive yourself in a rental car. Trains also run from Rome Termini to Arezzo. The journey takes around three hours, and from Arezzo, you must take a taxi or arrange a transfer to Il Borro. The airport in Florence is a third option, but a transfer will be needed to get to either property.

HOW TO SPEND 24 HOURS AT

NIAGARA

FALLS

By Anna Kim

Though long associated with honeymooners, Niagara Falls appeals to all ages, as I recently discovered on a whirlwind trip with my 70-something parents and their best friends. We joined the 12 million annual visitors to Canada’s Niagara Parks, which showcase the three mighty cascades of one of North America’s Seven Natural Wonders.

Everyone had different goals: a helicopter ride (my father), gourmet dining amid spectacular scenery (my mom), and getting acquainted with the region (their best friends from Washington, D.C.). I needed to balance all that with my thirst for immersive experiences, like allowing the mist to envelop me on a boat deck. Yet our dreams knitted together into 24 perfect hours, highlighting how underrated this destination—77 miles southwest of Toronto’s Pearson airport—is for family and multigenerational travel.

WHERE TO STAY

Our group set up basecamp at Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, across from the Canadian and American falls, in Ontario’s Clifton Hill, the heart of the tourist district. Neon lights blaze on this promenade, known as the “Street of Fun.” It doesn’t disappoint either, with everything from a SkyWheel to adventure golf below 30-foot-tall dinosaurs and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, a museum of curiosities (now with a selfie studio).

We checked into our Juliette rooms, named for the petite balconies that reveal breathtaking, unobstructed vistas of the falls. With the window open, the water’s roar resembled soothing white noise. I was happy that the hotel had accessible rooms for people with mobility and hearing impairments. Everyone should be able to experience these intimate views.

Fresh from a $50 million renovation, the hotel boasts amenities like the city’s best spa and luxurious rooftop cabanas. The VIP one includes a private plunge pool and offers the best vantage point for firework displays. Nightly, from mid-May to mid-October, these illuminate the cascades and churning mist at 10 p.m. Visitors can watch from their Juliette rooms and also reserve premium seating—plus sparkling wine and a charcuterie board—beside the Sheraton’s rooftop pool and bar ($99 for two adults).

WHAT TO DO

9

-10 a.m.

CRUISE ALONG THE FALLS

We started strong with the classic Voyage to the Falls boat tour. This 20-minute journey skims past Niagara Gorge and the site’s two smaller cascades. Then, it lets guests feel the largest spray—the iconic crescent-shaped Horseshoe Falls—on their skin. High as a 13-story skyscraper, this ferocious cataract stretches 2,200 feet wide as 90 percent of Niagara’s water shears off its rim, flowing up to 68 miles per hour.

Passengers receive recyclable souvenir ponchos to protect themselves from the spray but consider layering on extra, tighter-fitting waterproof gear to stay bone-dry. Alternatively, opt for a “light mist” sailing after dark or a seat behind the glass door, which is also a good vantage point for people who have difficulty standing and families with strollers.

My parents and their friends appreciated escaping the flying froth while I reveled in getting soaked and being part of the action. The falls channel outflow from the Upper Great Lakes—Michigan, Huron, Superior and Erie—represents almost one-fifth of the world’s fresh water. Around 3,160 tons of it crash down every second (think “the weight of two Sierra redwoods”), and I wanted to experience that with all my senses. I left awestruck and slightly damp but with no regrets.

1 p.m. LUNCH OVER THE CANADIAN HORSESHOE FALLS

One of the area’s newest eateries, Table Rock House Restaurant, offers a menu of locally sourced cuisine at the brink of Horseshoe Falls. We indulged in the crispy vegetable samosas, perfectly paired with creamy coconut yogurt with fresh mint and wild mushroom cannelloni topped with tangy pickled honey mushrooms and aromatic truffle shavings. And, of course, we had to finish with dessert: caramel apple cheesecake and triple chocolate mousse.

Chef Matt Krupa trained at a European restaurant with three Michelin stars, and it shows. He deftly blends classic French elements with international flavors, catering nicely to groups like ours with diverse tastes. I especially appreciated his emphasis on regional and seasonal ingredients, from peach lemon mimosas to Lake Erie pickerel fritters and Niagara honey butter with the artisan breadbasket.

2 p.m. DISCOVER NIAGARA PARKS POWER STATION

After lunch, we visited Niagara Parks Power Station, a pioneering hydropower plant that has generated electricity since 1905. Although this destination may sound dry, it wound up being (ahem) illuminating and a hit with all the ages in our group.

We entered the rustic stone building, admiring its arched windows and Romanesque features, where kids swirled around the interactive exhibits. Then, our group descended 180 feet in a glass elevator. Long ago, workers excavated a 0.4-mile tunnel by lantern light here, using only shovels, pickaxes and rudimentary dynamite. Today, the smooth, flat, wheelchair-accessible walkway is part of the new Underground Experience, which ends in a riverside observation deck providing a never-before-seen perspective on Horseshoe Falls.

Bundle up to best enjoy this journey, as the tunnel averages 60°F. And bring a waterproof layer, or borrow a rain poncho, to fully soak in the river-edge views, where sunshine can paint rainbows in the mist. Comfortable shoes are also a must, though the power station has five “first come, first served” wheelchairs for unexpectedly weary guests with mobility challenges.

4 p.m. SOAR IN A HELICOPTER OVER NIAGARA FALLS

A 12-minute jaunt with Niagara Helicopters ended the afternoon perfectly. The company has a fleet of four Airbus H130 whirlybirds that seat seven passengers each. They depart every two to 10 minutes, depending on the demand, as this attraction doesn’t accept reservations. However, the staff strive to keep visitors waiting just 15 minutes or less.

As our group took off, the dynamic landscape revealed some of the secrets behind its misty veil: fierce whirlpools, rapids that can churn waves up to 20 feet high, and the edge of Lake Erie tumbling into Niagara Gorge and onto Lake Ontario. We got to peer over the Rainbow Bridge, a graceful steel archway linking the U.S. and Canada, and caught a glimpse of Bridal Veil, the smallest of the area’s three waterfalls. Everyone loved flying in a helicopter and the aerial views, even me, which was surprising given my fear of heights. But I was distracted by the exuberance of soaring above waters that looked incredibly powerful and like delicate lace at the same time.

8 p.m. DINE BESIDE ILLUMINATED CASCADES

After a full day of activities, our group craved relaxation and a two-hour nap. Thankfully, we didn’t even need to exit the Sheraton at suppertime: we just headed to Massimo’s Italian Fallsview Restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows revealed Niagara Falls, flooded with spotlights.

Old-world tradition meets new-world style there, thanks to Chef Massimo Capra, a Canadian culinary star. The early service features a three-course prix fixe menu, but after 6 p.m., diners design their meals a la carte. We ordered the gnocchi amatriciana (potato and parmesan dumplings in a spicy tomato sauce with locally sourced crisp pancetta). The sous vide Ontario lamb rack gave us different insights into this striking landscape’s bounty, along with the cavatelli ai funghi (cowrie shell-shaped pasta with mushrooms, Swiss chard and caciocavallo cheese).

Dine later like us to cap your Niagara multigenerational getaway, watching fireworks bloom and shower light onto the roaring waters below. Romance may still be in the air—just look at Hallmark’s 2024 flick “Falling in Love in Niagara,”—but happily, it turned out that the rest of us had plenty to adore, too.

Omarion

GLASSES JAMES ORO

SHOES VIRON

HEART

PHOTO L10

PHOTO ASSIST JACKIE TAYLOR JR.

STYLIST GEORGE ST. THOMAS NELSON

GROOMING MONIQUE HARDY

JACKET/PANTS GVDS

NECKLACE UGO CACCIATORI

A LEGACY OF RESILIENCE, AUTHENTICITY, AND ARTISTIC EVOLUTION

By Nino Reyes

In the vast landscape of American R&B and culture, few names carry the same weight and profound resonance as Omarion. Born Omari Ishmael Grandberry, the singer, songwriter, and actor was raised in the vibrant streets of Inglewood, California, and his journey to the bright lights of Hollywood is a testament to talent, perseverance, spirituality, and the power of family and community.

From his early days as the lead vocalist of the legendary boy band B2K to his evolution into a multifaceted solo artist, Omarion’s story is one not just of fame but of self-discovery, authenticity, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

VEST GOODFIGHT

PANTS DES PIERROT

SHOES VIRON @VIRON

GLASSES JAMES ORO

JEWELRY KSUBI

A NAME WITH POWER

The Origins of "Omarion"

Omarion is more than just a stage name—it carries deep significance. As a child, Omarion dabbled in rap, but it wasn’t until his early teenage years while performing in a group called The Wild Kingdom that his now-iconic moniker was bestowed upon him. A fellow bandmate fused Omari, which means “king,” with the suffix “-on,” signifying “king forever.”

Little did they know, this fusion would become synonymous with a two-decade legacy in the world of entertainment.

INGLEWOOD ROOTS

Shaped by Environment, Driven by Dreams

Omarion credits much of his resilience and outlook to his upbringing in Inglewood. “Inglewood shaped me—my attitude, the way I walk, the way I talk,” he shares. Growing up, he witnessed friends fall victim to incarceration, a harsh reality that reminded him of the consequences of straying from one’s dreams. Instead of succumbing to the pressures of the streets, Omarion found solace in the arts, allowing him to stay grounded and focused. He found creative spaces like the Boys & Girls Club, which provided a sanctuary from the violence and instability that surrounded him.

A MOTHER’S INFLUENCE

The Foundation of Success

At the core of Omarion’s success story is his mother, who had him at just 16 years old. Her unwavering support became the foundation upon which he built his career. “She poured her dreams of Hollywood and fame into me,” Omarion reflects, acknowledging that his mother lived vicariously through his journey, having sacrificed her own aspirations at a young age. It was she who recognized his talent early on, securing an agent and encouraging him to pursue acting, which led to his first commercial for Corn Pops. Even then, Omarion remained true to himself, confidently wearing his natural hair in braids—an authenticity that captured attention and opened more doors.

This nurturing and supportive environment instilled in Omarion a sense of confidence and self-worth. His mother encouraged him and his brother to follow their passions, emphasizing the importance of believing in themselves. “It’s vital to have a parent who speaks life into you,” he notes, underscoring the responsibility he now carries as a father to instill the same values in his children.

NAVIGATING FAME

Lessons in Growth and the Entertainment Business

Omarion’s ascent to stardom came with its own set of challenges. As a teenager in the public eye, he had to navigate the complexities of adolescence while managing a burgeoning career. “If you haven’t experienced what I have, you just wouldn’t understand,” he reflects, speaking to the pressures of fame and the personal growth it required. Transitioning from B2K’s heartthrob to a solo artist meant learning the business of entertainment—understanding contracts, protecting his creative interests, and avoiding the exploitation that so often plagues young artists.

Throughout his career, Omarion has drawn inspiration from music legends such as Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Prince. Michael, in particular, became a guiding light for Omarion’s artistry, influencing his performance style and musical direction.

CAREER HIGHS

Unforgettable Moments and Artistic Triumphs

One of the standout moments in Omarion’s career came at the 2005 BET Awards, where he performed his hits “O” and “Touch.” The electrifying performance marked a peak in his career, showcasing his evolution as an entertainer with boundless energy and charisma. “It was fulfilling to give an outstanding show,” he recalls, cementing that moment as a pivotal highlight.

Omarion’s artistry isn’t limited to music alone. He’s also made a mark in acting, skillfully balancing both disciplines. “Being an artist and an actor requires the same level of skill—they’re two sides of the same coin,” he explains. For him, both endeavors are rooted in storytelling, requiring authenticity and vulnerability. Music, he believes, serves as a platform not just for entertainment but for addressing social issues and inspiring consciousness.

FULL CIRCLE

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth

His latest solo album, Full Circle: Sonic Book 1 & 2, represents much more than a collection of songs—it is a reflection of his personal journey. The title itself speaks to the many “full circle moments” in his life, where he has revisited past experiences and embraced the lessons they’ve taught him. Tracks like “Big Vibez” and “The Usual” resonate deeply with listeners, blending rhythm and introspection in a way that only Omarion can.

SHIRT/SHORTS GVDS

FRINGE WOOL JACKET DES PIERROT FLANNEL JACKET GOODFIGHT

GLASSES VERSACE

SHOES VIRON

“ When you truly know yourself and pursue your dreams with love and purpose, everything is attainable.”

UNBOTHERED The Power of Choosing Joy

Omarion’s personal journey toward healing and self-acceptance culminated in the release of his book, Unbothered: The Power of Choosing Joy. In it, he explores themes of spirituality, mental health, and wellness, offering readers a glimpse into his own path to inner peace. One of the most talked-about aspects of his journey has been his decision to practice celibacy, a choice he believes enhances his overall well-being and spiritual growth. He even advises other individuals to practice celibacy in order to gain a different level of self-discipline and self-control, which will eventually reflect in other areas of their lives.

PAJAMA SET GOODFIGHT

JEWELRY KSUBI

JACKET/PANTS GVDS SHOES DR. MARTENS

JACKET/PANTS/TIE GVDS

SHOES VIRON

SHIRT GOODFIGHT

GLASSES VERSACE

BLACK OVERCOAT GVDSSUPPLY

SUIT SONIA CARRASCO

SOCKS LE SAINT IDEE SHOES VIRON

JEWELRY MY DEAREST WORLD

A LEGACY REVISITED The Millennium Tour and Beyond

Reuniting with B2K for the Millennium Tour was more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane for Omarion—it was a deeply emotional and transformative experience. As he described it, “reliving past experiences” brought both joy and reflection, as the tour encapsulated more than just the group’s chart-topping hits. It was a celebration of brotherhood, resilience, and the collective growth of the group over the years. For Omarion, it marked a pivotal moment in revisiting the foundation that propelled him into stardom while affirming his evolution from boy band frontman to a distinguished artist and solo performer.

The Millennium Tour highlighted the enduring impact B2K had on R&B and pop culture while also showcasing how far Omarion had come, both musically and personally. It was a testament to his legacy—a journey of survival through the pressures of fame and industry politics and his ability to remain relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape. Beyond the performances and hits, the tour symbolized a celebration of growth, illustrating how Omarion had matured into an artist deeply rooted in self-awareness, with a renewed sense of purpose that continues to shape his path forward. It was indeed a full-circle moment for him.

“If you haven’t experienced what I have, you just wouldn’t understand,”

FULL LOOK PERTE D’EGO

SHOES JAMES ORO

JEWELRY MY DEAREST WORLD

THE POWER OF AUTHENTICITY

Omarion’s Message

to the World

Omarion's journey, from a young boy navigating the challenges of fame to a seasoned artist and devoted father, is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and growth. Through his music and life, he continues to inspire others to embrace vulnerability and lead with passion. His message is clear: when you truly know yourself and pursue your dreams with love and purpose, everything is attainable. Omarion’s evolution into a man deeply conscious of his identity, his community, and the world around him speaks to his unwavering commitment to personal and artistic growth. As his story unfolds, he remains a living example of the power of self-awareness, reminding us all that true success comes from within.

How Guy Anthony Is Making His Mark and Democratizing Luxury Fashion With Grover NYC

By Simone Harvin

Like many kids growing up, the early years of Guy Anthony’s Eastside Detroit upbringing informed much of the inspiration that drives him today. From the city’s signature gators and minks to the fashion presentations every Sunday at church, Anthony learned early on that dressing well was important.

From the beginning, style has become a central part of Anthony’s life, marked by OOTD calendars long before the existence of social media. “Mr. Best Dressed”—as evidenced by his superlative titles in middle and high school—went on to study at Michigan State before transitioning to Bauder College in Atlanta, Georgia. However, with limited school resources and no internships in sight, Anthony pursued a career in public health and activism—a cause that stemmed from his experiences as a young person who journeyed through an HIV and bipolar disorder diagnosis between the ages of 21 and 26.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Anthony recalls being in a “state” when he took the season of solitude as a sign to revisit his fervor for fashion. Missing a creative outlet in his life, Anthony drew sketches during a manic episode, with jazz playing in the background. It was Grover Washington, Jr. and Bill Withers’ “Just the Two of Us” that ignited the spark for the brand’s name. Coupled with his love for New York as a now-Brooklyn resident, Grover NYC was born.

Anthony turned to Fiverr, with only a modest hand-drawn sketch, to begin pursuing what he refers to as his “visual calling.” He had used the platform to help build his nonprofit Black, Gifted & Whole years earlier and hoped he could find a factory to work with. Working entirely online, he eventually connected with a vendor that helped him learn the ins and outs of production.

From 2020 to 2021, Anthony recalls putting pen to paper to understand every aspect of the business he was taking on. The designer officially formed the business in 2021 and had his first sample in hand in the following year. Anthony officially launched Grover NYC in 2022 with a unisex messenger bag named “BALDWIN” after iconic writer and activist James Baldwin. The introductory style debuted in vibrant orange, a choice Anthony says was his way of making a “grand entrance” onto the fashion scene.

Naming each new style is just as intentional, which Anthony considers a form of personal expression. His most recent launch, the AILEY Unisex Wallet, pays homage to Alvin Ailey, the world-renowned dancer, activist, and founder of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Reflecting on the significance of the legacy of those who came before him, Anthony shares: “I'm a Black queer man living in America, and two people that were instrumental in who I am and my art are James Baldwin and Alvin Ailey. I went to a performing arts middle school and high school. One of the first dances that we did in middle school was “Revelations” by Alvin Ailey, and I have to pay homage to him. One of the first books that lived with me for years after I read it was Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin. These are two Black queer men that were open at a time when it was criminalized. For them to be who they are—and be so proud of who they are—and then also impart their art to the world, I stand on their shoulders. But not only them, I stand on the shoulders of Black designers that most people don't talk about, like Ann Lowe, Patrick Kelly, or Tracy Reese, who's also from Detroit like me.”

For Anthony, who considers himself an all-around artist, affordable luxury accessories are his current canvas of choice. In addition to encouraging people to remove binary ways of thinking regarding fashion choices, he also wanted to ensure his designs were priced to

appeal to younger shoppers as much as his “grandma or her friends.”

“I'm successful because of word of mouth. The whole world doesn't know about Grover, but the girlies that know know, and they're telling the other girlies,” Anthony dotes over his customer base. “Once they see the quality of the bag, they think that they're getting over on me. I'm like, ‘No, this is my love letter to y'all. You deserve affordable luxury too.’”

Although Grover NYC is exclusively available online, Anthony promises exciting things to come for up-close-andpersonal experiences with the brand in the future. The world has only gotten a glimpse of Anthony’s vision for Grover NYC; he foresees a full leather line of goods later down the road. While the self-funded designer is still basking in the recent launch of his latest release, his plans include the

“I’m successful because of word of mouth. The whole world doesn’t know about Grover, but the girlies that know know, and they’re telling the other girlies,”

exploration of affordable luxury keychains, messenger bags, and carry-ons, to name a few. However, Anthony insists that “slow and steady” is how he wants to run his race.

“I'm not out here trying to compete with my brothers, Brandon Blackwood, Telfar, or Sergio Hudson,” Anthony reflects. “I'm competing with myself. I am gradually doing what feels good for Guy and the brand.”

A REVOLUTIONARY ACT

By Evan Majors

IN TODAY'S SELF-CENTERED social media landscape, the idea of self-love feels radical. I'm not referring to Instagram thirst traps that thrive on external validation but a profound, internal love that nurtures our true selves. This type of love is especially crucial for people of color, who live in a world that often celebrates our culture but degrades us as individuals. Our black and brown skin is frequently seen as a threat, leading to violence and death against our bodies. Radical self-love is what needs to be in style more than ever.

Radical self-love is a revolutionary act, a declaration of our worth in a society that persistently tells us we are unworthy. It is a balm for the soul, soothing the wounds inflicted by systemic racism and societal neglect. This love is not about ego or vanity; it's about survival and thriving despite a world that seems determined to diminish our light. It is a fierce, unyielding commitment to our well-being, an act of defiance against the forces that seek to break us.

Imagine a garden. Each flower is unique, yet all are beautiful in their own right. The roses do not compare themselves to the daisies, nor do the sunflowers diminish the value of the tulips. They grow, absorbing sunlight and rain, rooted in the fertile soil that nurtures them. Radical self-love is our sunlight and rain; it is the nourishing force that allows us to grow and bloom in a world that often seeks to uproot us.

In this digital age, we must be vigilant gardeners, careful of the weeds that seek to choke our growth. Unfollow on social media negative friends, content creators who race bait for clicks, and any content that causes anxiety or makes you question your value, worthiness, or attractiveness. These are the weeds that can strangle our self-love. Turn off news alerts on your phone and tune out of political discussions that aren't constructive but divisive. These storms can batter our garden, leaving us feeling bruised and broken.

Taking a long break from social media is akin to giving our garden a season of rest. It allows us to step back, nurture our soil, and strengthen our roots. It is a time to focus on the things that truly matter, to invest in activities

and relationships that build us up rather than tear us down. It is a chance to reconnect with ourselves and rediscover the things that bring us joy and peace.

For people of color, radical self-love is reclaiming our narrative. It asserts that our lives matter, that our experiences are valid, and that our worth is inherent, not determined by the prejudices of others. It reminds us that we are more than the stereotypes and stigmas imposed upon us. We are vibrant, multifaceted individuals with dreams, talents, and potential.

Consider the metaphor of a phoenix rising from the ashes. Our communities have endured so much pain and suffering, yet we continue to rise, stronger and more resilient each time. Radical self-love is the fire that fuels our rebirth. It is the spark that ignites our transformation, allowing us to soar above the limitations imposed upon us. In a world that profits from our self-doubt, choosing to love ourselves is a radical act of rebellion. It is a refusal to be diminished by the narrow definitions of beauty, success, and worth imposed upon us. It is an affirmation of our right to exist, to thrive, and to be unapologetically ourselves.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember that radical self-love is not a destination but a journey. It is a continuous process of growth, healing, and self-discovery. It is about finding balance, setting boundaries, and prioritizing our well-being. It is about learning to love ourselves fiercely and fully despite the messages that tell us we are not enough. Fashion is not just about what you wear but how you wear it. Because wearing the latest fashion trend doesn’t make you cool; you’re either cool, or you’re not.

So, let us be radical in our self-love. Let us cultivate our gardens with care, weeding out negativity and nurturing the seeds of positivity and self-worth. Let us rise like the phoenix, transformed by our struggles and empowered by our resilience. Let us love ourselves and protect our peace, for in doing so, we not only survive but thrive.

IN HER OWN WORDS

Redefining Femininity Lola Brooke

Brooklyn rapper Lola Brooke offers a candid account of her evolution as a woman and an artist—including the songs that shaped her identity, the challenges of embracing femininity in a male-dominated industry, and how she protects her peace in a candid conversation with Bombshell by Bleu. By Pretty Honore

MAKEUP NIASIA BOYD

HAIR ESSENCIA BANKS

PHOTOGRAPHY FELICIA ABBAN

STYLING PHIL GOMEZ

" I don’t feel no pressure because my story is my story. I’m not trying to fill nobody’s shoes but mine."

rom navigating a male-dominated industry to redefining her sense of femininity, Lola Brooke has mastered the art of self-preservation. In her own words and on her own terms, the Brooklyn rapper is rewriting the rules of the rap game, one bar at a time.

Born and raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant, a neighborhood synonymous with hip-hop legacy, Brooke isn’t worried about carrying the weight of her predecessors—she’s foraging her own lane.

“The greats do what they’re best at, and that’s their story,” Brooke shared in an exclusive interview with Bombshell by Bleu. “But I don’t feel no pressure because my story is my story. I’m not trying to fill nobody’s shoes but mine.”

Brooke initially started writing rhymes for fun, but by 2022, the entire world knew that she was not one to be played with. “To be honest, doing music was a hobby for me; I just turned it into a job,” she told us.

Following her viral TikTok success, not only is Brooke keeping that same energy, but she’s protecting it, too. She’s mastered the art of staying true to herself, both in life and in the booth.

BLEU: Can you share some songs that have defined different stages of your life?

BROOKE: Mary J. Blige’s “My Life” makes me reflect on myself and know that nothing is perfect, and some days you’re going to have some gloomy, rainy days, but the sun eventually will shine. And I’m going to go with “Cannon” by Lil Wayne because that was the first song that I actually kept playing back to back just to learn the metaphors. I wanted to know what a bar was and what the punchline was. And I would just play that song on my way to school every day.

BLEU: The music industry, especially hip-hop, is notoriously male-dominated. What specific challenges and biases have you faced as a woman in this space, and how have they shaped you?

BROOKE: Just hearing unnecessary opinions from people—people trying to put you in a box because of their own experience or things that they seen others go through. As a female artist, they tend to put a storyline on you that they’ve already seen before. But what I learned from that was [to stand] strong on who you are because the more you believe in yourself, the more people respect you and believe in you as well.

BLEU: How do you define femininity, and what role does it play in shaping your identity as an artist? How has your understanding of femininity evolved?

BROOKE: Growing up, I was a tomboy—so me finding myself as a young lady was knowing that I’m pretty, even when I don’t feel pretty, looking in the mirror a lot, just building supreme confidence and building it in other people as well. The more you’re around people that uplift themselves, [the more] you will do it naturally. I just look at it as just being nurturing. That’s a woman’s natural state—is just being nurturing. And I nurture a lot of things and people in my own way.

BLEU: Can you tell us more about that?

BROOKE: Like with music, I nurture music in a way of taking it seriously and really creating a storyline and creating a picture that people can follow along with, and nurturing people as in being supportive—whether it’s just being an ear for them to want to talk to or a shoulder for them to lean on.

BLEU: So, how do you nurture yourself?

BROOKE: I nurture myself by self-reflecting and taking time away from people. I isolate myself a lot. I’m a loner; I’m an Aquarius. And on top of that, I’m the only child. So, I isolate myself from a lot of negativity, or sometimes just in general, just so that I can reflect.

BLEU: This is Chapter 30 for you, and the future looks so bright. How do you see yourself evolving as an artist and a person?

BROOKE: Taking care of my family. I’ve watched my mom take care of me by herself for so long that it’s just in my blood. I feel like it’s in my DNA to be a provider. So, the more that I can provide, the more I know that I’m growing. Not just financially though— mentally as well, just maturing. Music is cool and all, but I feel like I gotta feed my inner self first.

BLEU: What are your biggest fears about the future?

BROOKE: Not being able to applaud myself when everything is completed. Not giving myself enough flowers, even if the world is giving [them] to me.

BLEU: What goals do you have for yourself outside of music? What can fans look forward to?

BROOKE: [I want to be] a businesswoman—in petite merch for women because I be going through it trying to find clothes. I always gotta find a tailor; I’m just over it! I’m into skincare as well. So, who knows, cosmetics might be a thing for me, too.

This interview has been edited for clarity.

" I nurture myself by self-reflecting and taking time away from people."

Devante Turnbull

ON STYLING SZA, NAVIGATING THE INDUSTRY AND EMBRACING HIS JOURNEY By Kirby Carroll Wright

DEVANTE TURNBULL’S JOURNEY into the world of hairstyling was unexpected yet destined. As a child, he became the "shop baby" after his twin brother, Dayvon, was badly burned by a careless babysitter. After the incident, his mother refused to let anyone else watch her children, and Turnbull spent much of his early life quietly observing in a hair salon. Although he didn’t realize it at the time, these early experiences would become the foundation of a successful career.

Fast forward to high school, where a simple challenge on a bus ride led to his first attempt at hairstyling, and to everyone's surprise, it turned out great. Although he was pursuing a career as a professional dancer, it was hair that continuously opened doors for him. In fact, he’s met all the choreographers he aspired to work with through his styling work. Today, Turnbull is a sought-after stylist, collaborating with top talent in the entertainment industry, including Grammy-award-winning singer SZA, all while blending his love of entertainment and creativity into his work. Check out BLEU’s exclusive conversation with the talented entrepreneur below.

BLEU: I have a friend who owns a salon, and she often talks to me about all the aspects that go into promoting it—especially in this digital age. I’m curious: how much does brand building play into your role as a stylist?

Devante Turnbull: I would say a large part of it. I mean, it depends on your goal, but even if you have a salon, you still need to market to get clients. In this age, where everything is on social media, you have to create an algorithm for yourself. You have to figure out your clients and bring them into your space. Is it going to be a luxury experience or a good conversation? You have to create the environment. People don’t like to go in blind anymore, and shaping your brand allows you to set expectations.

BLEU: Well, yours must be high! You’ve worked with so many of our favorites. Was there a client or experience that made you realize you were leveling up? Talk to me about your “I made it moment.”

Devante Turnbull: Sure. So, I was working at a wig shop that sold and styled them. Since it was a well-known shop, a lot of celebs and influencers would come in. And, of course, the stylists with the most seniority would get the biggest clients behind the scenes. Anyway, around the second year, I was just starting to work with higher-level clients, but it would be so quick that the experience wasn’t impactful. Still, I was scared to leave that shop because I was so comfortable, and it was the first time I was making a lot of money in the field.

But God did his thing and made it so I couldn’t work there and had to literally bet on myself. Anyway, time passes and my good friend Marcus, who’s close with @jstayready_ (Doja Cat’s hairstylist), and I connected over lunch. Unbeknownst to Jay, he was already following both of my Instagram accounts — my personal and hair pages before officially meeting each other in-person. Jay admired and was familiar with my work before matching a face to both of my IG handles; He ended up asking me if I wanted to assist him!

From there, I eventually started to post those cool experiences, share more, and my brand just continued to grow. I just always prayed for good experiences, good energy and that God would just lead me.

Later, I worked with Muni Long, but before her second single, she ended the relationship. I don’t know why, but it taught me how the industry is. It could’ve been management or her—it’s just how it is. But it shook me; I had to decide if I still wanted to do this. When I decided I was really into this, I found models to create my own content. Next thing you know, I get a DM from SZA.

BLEU: Okay, so tell me what it is like working with SZA because I’m a fan, and I have to know. Devante Turnbull: In the beginning, it was weird. Around COVID, she DM’d me about a shoot I did and asked if I could make a wig for her. At the time, everybody’s page was getting hacked, so I was worried it wasn’t real. I tried to finesse installing it, but there was a lot going on, so I had to send it through the mail. Anyway, two months passed, and then she randomly asked if I could do her hair for a performance. I was so nervous, but when I got there, she was super cool and kind. I’ve been doing her hair ever since. Styling her is literally everything I said I wanted. It’s being able to do what I want to do in such a calm environment. Even when there’s an obstacle, her personality helps me get through it. And being around Jay, who styles Doja Cat, really helped because I just applied all that I knew.

BLEU: I love that you trusted your path even when things got difficult. You are who you wanted to be. Speaking of, what’s a style trend that you’ve had your eye on? It can be popular or under the radar—but give us the tea; what look should we be embracing?

Devante Turnbull: Okay, so this style isn’t new, but it’s coming back: curtain bangs. A lot of people like the big, full hair with the “undone” look. For example, every time Kash Doll posts her hair, people love it. It’s trendy but timeless. It’s like a safe space to be beautiful and girly yet still a moment.

BLEU: Finally, if you could give a piece of advice to someone who desires to be in your position, what would you say?

Devante Turnbull: First, you have to put 100% in to get 100%. I’m talented, but I realized earlier I had to give my all—like initially, I wanted to dance and do hair, but I had to focus. Second, enjoy the journey because each moment is a part of it.

You have to figure out your clients and bring them into your space

MIGUEL HARICHI

You might recognize this fitness model from Peacock’s Love Island, where Miguel Harichi won hearts on this summer’s biggest show. The sixth season of the reality series became the top streaming show, amassing 919 million minutes watched during its first week in July. Though he was the runner-up, Miguel’s popularity has skyrocketed. With 1.1 million Instagram followers and counting, his fame has yet to stop growing. As he captured America’s attention, Harichi has furthered his career as a fitness model on Instagram, where he highlights his impressive physique through a variety of creative photo shoots. Additionally, his fitness journey is featured on TikTok, where his videos have attracted thousands of views, and his following is nearing 250,000 people. His influence continues to expand following his appearance on Peacock’s acclaimed reality dating show, making him someone you don’t want to miss.

NATHAN SAMUEL

Nathan Samuel has garnered over 400,000 followers on Instagram, and his profile seamlessly blends his roles as a model, digital creator, and business expert. He frequently shares personal photos and reels with his partner, and the pair manages another Instagram page with nearly 350,000 followers dedicated to highlighting their relationship. On Samuel’s main page, the model showcases various fashion brands, including Boss, Kim Kardashian’s Skims, Android Homme, and many others. His feed features a cool, neutraltoned aesthetic, predominantly in cream and white, which has become his signature look. Additionally, his reels highlight his work as a digital creator. Recently, Samuel shared his skincare routine in an Instagram reel featuring the brands he uses regularly. He also offered five reasons to start a content creation journey, emphasizing personal and professional growth benefits. What lies ahead for this emerging model and content creator remains to be seen.

S X N C L A I R

Known on Instagram as SXNCLAIR, this fashion model has likely appeared on your feed promoting fashion brands like Shein, boohooMAN, and Fashion Nova. Based in Europe, SXNCLAIR often showcases his physique and body art, featuring tattoos across his entire upper body. He skillfully uses social media to merge fashion promotion with insights into his daily life, whether dining at a restaurant, enjoying a bar, or relaxing in a peaceful location in the United Kingdom. His influence extends beyond Instagram, as highlighted in 2023 when he promoted cosmetic surgeries, including veneers and hair transplants, to his nearly 120,000 followers. Additionally, he reaches a broader audience on TikTok, where one of his videos has garnered 1.9 million views, offering a similar behind-the-scenes look into his life to his 100,000 followers. What new brands will this rising social media and fashion model partner with next?

JORDAN MAINOO-HAMES

Jordan Mainoo-Hames is another figure associated with the Love Island franchise and the older brother of Manchester United soccer player Kobbie Boateng Mainoo. Jordan, a Ghanaian model, competed on the fifth season of Love Island UK in 2019. With over 718,000 Instagram followers, he regularly updates his audience on his life and emerging fashion career. From attending high-profile fashion shows in Milan and Paris to showcasing innovative styles, Jordan’s career is rapidly progressing. In 2023, he celebrated a milestone by sharing his first magazine cover on Instagram, marking a six-year journey to achieve this accomplishment. That same year, he also showcased a Louis Vuitton bag on Instagram and had previously modeled Jean Paul Gaultier’s signature scents, further establishing his presence in the fashion and modeling industry. Beyond modeling, Jordan continues to expand his digital presence, showcasing various aspects of his life and redefining the roles of model and social influencer.

JUSSIE SMOLLETT

IS ROOTED IN

AND FINDING HIS CREATIVE STRIDE

THROUGH IT ALL

By Simone Harvin

PHOTOGRAPHER OWEN DUCKETT STYLIST DOUGLAS HICKMAN

SUIT TAIBO BACAR TANK HONOR THE GIFT

JUSSIE

SMOLLETT IS FINDING JOY AND SUCCESS THROUGH THE ARTS AND COMMUNITY

When the world was introduced to Jussie Smollett in his breakout role as Jamal Lyon on the awardwinning TV series Empire, the actor was facing a devastating personal loss. Smollett’s father, Joel Smollett, transitioned on the same day as the show’s premiere, a time that would have otherwise been a celebratory milestone in the artist’s career. However, with a long road ahead sorting through life and grief, Smollett eventually discovered the beauty in that pain, a relationship that might not have otherwise blossomed, and the inspiration for his latest cinematographic creation.

The Lost Holliday is an emotional, nuanced, and humorous look at love, family, loss, and reconciliation. Starring alongside Vivica A. Fox, the feature film is Smollett’s second as a director, and he also wears the hats of co-writer, producer, and lead actor in the production.

In the film, Fox plays Cassandra Marshall, an estranged mother-in-law who meets her son’s husband Jason Holliday, Smollett’s character, under the unfortunate circumstances of Damien Holliday’s—played by Jabari Redd—untimely passing. The film’s plot isn’t too distant from Smollett’s real-life loss and grief reconciliation, as it was inspired by the relationship Smollett’s mother and his grandmother formed after his father passed.

“The story was inspired by my mother, [who] in 1975, as a Black woman married into a non-Black family. We grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s, and it wasn’t always easy for her to navigate that. But I saw how she did, with such grace, beauty, and class,” says Smollett. “Then, I lost my dad almost a decade ago—the day that Empire first aired on television, he passed away. After he passed, although my mom and he had been separated for some time, she bonded with his mother, my grandmother, and they had not bonded before. Watching that inspired me with my grief. That helped me want to make amends with him, although he was no longer here in the physical form.”

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“ The holiday season is one of those times where everybody’s supposed to be happy, but honestly, a lot of people just are not. ”

He continues, “I am an openly gay man, and many of my mentors, in listening to their stories, [were] extracted from their partner’s legacy, particularly during the height of the AIDS pandemic in the ‘80s. The way that when they lost their partners—not able to go into the hospital room [or] make the decisions that any partner would make—was [also] really interesting to me.”

Over eight years, Smollet developed the idea of bringing this kindred connection to the screen, eventually landing on the backdrop of the holidays as the ever-entertaining time of year. With the support and backing of Mona Scott-Young and Tressa Azarel Smallwood as producers, Smollett reimagined one relationship into a cinematic love story that resonates across identities.

“The holiday season is one of those times where everybody’s supposed to be happy, but honestly, a lot of people just are not,” Smollett reflects. “Grief is its own animal— one minute you’re crying, and the next you’re laughing at something that happened and then feeling guilty. You may end up resenting the goodness that’s happening to you. You may be angry or resent the world for moving on so quickly when you’ve lost somebody so close to you. All of those things are really what inspired me for this film.”

He adds, “The characters of Jason and Cassandra are my mother and grandmother,” he continues. “My grandmother is nothing like Vivica’s character, Cassandra, and my mom is not a gay man who lost her husband. At the same time, it further proves these are universal themes we can all identify with.”

WHEN OFF-SCREEN FAMILY COMES TOGETHER ON-SCREEN

The relationship between the characters Jason (Smollett) and Cassandra (Fox) is a slow yet endearing journey that keeps viewers silently rooting for them throughout the film. The on-screen banter between Smollett and Fox’s characters, even in their disagreements, are the makings of a nearly lifelong relationship between them in real life. The pair, referencing one another as “family,” have known each other since the ‘90s TV series Out All Night, starring Patti LaBelle, Vivica A. Fox, Morris Chestnut, Duane Martin, and his sister, Journey Smollett. From then on, their relationship grew deeper than something merely of the industry. Smollett recalls fish fry invites from his mom, Janet

Smollet, to Fox growing up that sealed his family status with the Soul Food actress.

“This truly is my family. She would come over to the house—growing up—and my mom would make fried fish, spinach, and French fries from scratch. Vivica would come over, and we would have a time,” Smollett shares.

After working together again on Empire, with Smollett directing multiple episodes of the series, he reverently shares the role of Cassandra in this newest project “had to be her.”

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“There was no one else that I wanted or asked or even thought of for this because she’s just it,” Smollett dotes over Fox. “I didn’t care to create a film that Vivica Fox was in. I wanted to create a Vivica Fox film, and I wanted it to be able to sit next to any of the great films in her filmography.”

Shot in only 11 days, Smollet credits Fox with supporting the production by setting a tone that was joyous but rooted in hard work. Working with a tight timeline and budget, Smollett recalls Fox encouraging him to “trust yourself” while filming as the multi-hyphenate juggled on-screen and off-screen roles.

“We all joined together with one mission—to make something special,” he says. “We had a great time. We were constantly laughing on set, but we were there to work. Vivica set the tone as a leader. I proudly lead this, but Vivica set the tone on set as such a well-known actor. It was a beautiful piece to create, and it’s a beautiful piece now to be able to present to the world.”

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“ I didn’t care to create a film that Vivica Fox was in. I wanted to create a Vivica Fox film ”

LETTING JOY TAKE THE CREATIVE WHEEL

As for Smollet’s hopes for how people will resonate with the film, “understanding, forgiveness, [and] grace” are central to his mission.

“What Cassandra and Jason show is that they’re dealing with their own grief, but they’re also dealing with their guilt about what they could have done better for this person who is no longer here while they were here,” he says.

Although legal challenges still lie ahead stemming from his alleged hate crime hoax in 2019, the multi-talented artist is spending his days on the projects and people that bring him joy. Smollett leaves no stone unturned in real life, exercising his creative passions across mediums. His second album, My Mind, arrives on November 19, with his first single, also titled “My Mind,” featured in the film.

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CRYSTAL LENSES

A FUNCTIONAL EYEWEAR THAT REDEFINES FUNCTIONALITY

By Dr. Dominique M. Carson

Eyeglasses are essential because it is necessary to correct vision problems, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism so people can function daily. Well-chosen glasses improve vision, enhance comfort and quality of life, suit people’s preferences, and can also be a fashion statement because consumers can select various styles. However, there is a new form of “crystal clear” eyewear called Crystal Lenses. Devon Graham’s—the founder of Crystal Lenses—mission is so “colorblind individuals can witness the true beauty of our world enriched by the radiant hues that life unveils,” and people can wear them comfortably since it’s going to be a daily wear. While designing the glasses, he was thinking about preventing strain in the eyes and neck and discomfort while wearing the glasses.

Graham also gives back to the community by donating a portion of the profits for those who are returning citizens, making an attempt to rebuild their lives on the website. As quoted on the website, “with every purchase, we pledge to make a difference; a portion of every sale goes towards supporting silent victims of crime, giving hope and helping them rebuild their lives.”

Bleu Magazine spoke with Graham about the origins of the innovative eyewear line, how the lenses enhance vision correction, why it’s an eyewear to look out for in 2024, and revolutionizing fashion for eyewear lovers.

Bleu: Based on the current description of Crystal Lenses, “beacon of transformation, bridging the spectrum of color for all,” why did you decide to launch your business?

Graham: The fact that the oldest glass known to man is actually a crystal. And I just saw the way today’s society is everyone’s really wearing plastic, in a sense. And now, fast forward, we’re starting to see the dangers of plastic. We deserve better quality or even more natural quality, and the most natural thing you can really get is a crystal, so that really inspired me to really push the business and follow natural law. I found that conscious leaders wearing glasses or even sunglasses actually decrease your melanin receptors when it comes to the sun and absorbing the sunlight. So why not look through the earth that is used to the sun and have many natural fractal therapies when it comes to the sun and just mainly looking through nature.

Bleu: Did you have people in your family who wore glasses? Did you wear glasses?

Graham: I used to be nearsighted as well. And, fast forward, today I no longer wear glasses due to sun gazing practices; detoxing as well also helped clear up mucus out of the eyes so I can see better. And, it inspired me to just keep on the path, and with today’s technology that is giving off the blue light, that is not really healthy to the eyes. The more I fasted throughout the years, the more I started to notice the sensitivity when it comes to light. So it’s no coincidence that not just students, but people who work in certain offices feel the type of stress that they do is also because of the lighting as well. So even in my personal practices, even when you come to our home, there’s this mainly infrared light all over. That’s what we use. And I’ve noticed a huge difference using it for the past three years.

Bleu: You describe Crystal Lenses adorned with the beauty of minerals. What was so fascinating about these minerals that help you create the glasses?

Graham: Mineral content is interesting because of the water within us and our eyes; when you place certain writings or certain tags or certain symbols next to water itself, it leaves an imprint; you can actually freeze it for 18 hours and take it out; you can actually see the imprint; you can actually see if you were to curse that water, you would see what would happen as well; in our eyes, is filled with water. But what intrigued me was the fact that they emit infrared. And the infrared spectrum is very healing for the mitochondria. So I know when everyone wants Crystal Lenses. But ideally, the more you wear them versus your subscription, the easier it is to actually

probably get off your subscription and not really the prescription at a certain point.

Bleu: Describe the groundwork for launching Crystal Lenses, like creating a business plan or creating ideas for the business. What were the high and lows, the triumphs and challenges?

Graham: I would have to say 160 phone calls telling me no, for starters. I was calling people nonstop for four months until the first lenses came out for consumers. I wanted to start here in the US to see if there were any factories around the US that I could work with or engineers. And it was a whole bunch of nos. It was no because the specific machinery that is needed to cut the crystal is no longer really like here in the US. It’s mainly for diamonds, but the actual certain machinery that would be in a mass producing sense, you know, is not really here anymore; it was mainly from China. So we actually source our crystals in Japan, and they get cut and framed in China.The frames are also from Japan. So 160 nos led me to go to Japan and China and combine two teams together, which also helped us get the certifications and even get the crystals tested and verified. So, it was a great symmetry and a big relief.

Bleu: Would you say overseas were more receptive about Crystal Lenses?

Graham: I told my business partners about the vision I had long-term; they didn’t want the lenses to be short-term. I showed my background, Instagram, and other social media handles. They became a fan themselves; money wise, $20,000+ was invested for the business, and it was just a big leap of faith as well.

Bleu: Did you experience other challenges while promoting Crystal Lenses?

Graham: As a musician, I already had a following, and that was good traction. It also helped flourish Crystal Lenses. It was the social media that propelled it further because I made a post saying, “I don’t care if anyone takes my idea. Crystal Lenses need to be a thing. If anyone has resources, please DM me.” And the resources came in, started taking them seriously, and that’s what led me to be on my crusade and make it become a reality.

Bleu: I love the six different lenses, you know, calmness, creativity, stressfully spiritual, awareness, energy, and positivity. How did you come up with the six different lenses?

Graham: The six lenses are basically each mineral, and they have their own content based on chromotherapy, which is color therapy.

Bleu: From a marketing standpoint, how are you planning to set yourself apart from other eyewear companies?

Graham:: None of them specialize in eye breathing exercises with the crystal lenses. So, actually, the first event we’re going to pull off is going to be in Atlanta society. And Atlanta, Georgia, I think it’s going to be around August 8, so I’m going to bring some of the lenses up there, and everyone’s going to wear them, and we’re going to also maybe do silent disco headphones and literally use the eye, the breath, have a connection, show how harmonious the crystals are, and have people experience what the crystals can do when you bring life to yourself and awareness to your eyes.

Bleu: How does Crystal Lenses lengthen and strengthen the eye muscles?

Graham: Crystal Lenses can alleviate the tension in the eyes, and I feel like maybe also the underlying layer is the main fact of the infrared spectrum. When everyone puts on the lenses, it has a calming effect, so it shows that the infrared properties improve blood circulation around the eyes, reducing strain, and has a soothing effect due to the natural factors.

Bleu: What are your long-term goals for Crystal Lenses?

Graham: Longevity is in collaboration, and that’s working with different artists and communities. We want other creatives to come in and expand their own brand and communities. And with that, I feel like there’s endless possibilities at that point beyond what we can even fathom now.

Without Glasses

“With every purchase, we pledge to make a difference; a portion of every sale goes towards supporting silent victims of crime, giving hope and helping them rebuild their lives.”

With Glasses

Menswear Designers

Romeo Hunte

Birth of Royal Child

Aime Leon Dore

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John Varvatos

Victor Mudhe

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Future Proof Atelier

Diet Starts Monday

Lee Rickie Collection

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Wild Things

Valabasas

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Cannon Mitchell

True Classic

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The Shirt Bar

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Freedom Supply

J.Loren

Soif De Luxe

OAS

Beaspunge

ciciful

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Goorin Bros

Rich Weirdo

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Hustle Gang

Akoo

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Gotcha

Ice Cream

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BREAKING BOUNDARIES ON THE RUNWAY

RENAULD WHITE’S JOURNEY TO BECOME A BLACK SUPERMODEL

By Dylan Atilano

AT THE HEIGHT of 6’2”, with a slender physique and a charming smile, Renauld White was destined to walk down runways for luxury designers. He was regarded as the first Black American supermodel and walked for designer brands like Versace, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein. As a talented model and actor, White left a legacy that broke racial barriers in the modeling industry and cemented himself as an icon in the arts.

Renauld White was born February 1, 1944, in Newark, New Jersey, to Maybelline Scott White, a hat model, and Robert White, Sr. On a night out at the Latin nightclub Palladium, White would meet Black designer Stephen Burrows. Burrows was also from Newark and ultimately encouraged White to pursue modeling.

In 1968, White was rejected by the Ford agency for being too tall and having a scar on his nose from when he played football in high school. At the Wilhelmina agency, White took matters into his own hands and was determined to get signed as a model. He walked up to the receptionist, claimed to be a delegate of the N.A.A.C.P., and demanded

to see how many Black models the agency represented. If the numbers weren’t sufficient, he’d come back the next day with a picket line. Instead, White went home with his first modeling contract, and with a foot now in the door of the modeling industry, his career flourished.

White’s modeling career showcased how he broke racial barriers with his talent. Some of White’s earliest appearances were in magazines such as Ebony, Jet, and Essence. In 1979, he became one of the first Black models to be on the cover of GQ and Esquire. Additionally, he was the first Black model to endorse the popular hair product Vitalis Hair Tonic, which was mainly marketed towards white men. He worked until the very end, and a year before he passed, he modeled for Dolce & Gabbana. Throughout his career, White left his mark in films, television, and on Broadway. One of his most notable appearances on television comes from the show Guiding Light. White appeared in seven episodes of the soap drama as the character Willam Reynolds. In 1979, he appeared as himself in the episode Fashion: Male Models from Andy Warhol’s show Fashion. He can also be seen in the 2019 Ralph Lauren documentary, Very Ralph, as a young model on the runway. On the stage on Broadway, White performed in several plays, including “Antony and Cleopatra,” “Medea,” and “Twelfth Night.” The wide range of talent displayed by Renauld White would catch the eye of another highly impactful Black creative.

White’s success garnered the attention of Aretha Franklin after she saw him in a commercial for Black Tie cologne in the 1980’s. Soon after, she requested him to be her personal escort. This included Franklin’s trip to Washington to receive an award at the Kennedy Center in 1994. She and those who got to know White knew

him as a gracious gentleman.

As one of the first Black male models to break into the modeling industry, White recognized the impact his actions had. No matter the setting, he would maintain a respectable manner and was known to never curse. He felt like a representative of his race and needed to uphold himself to a high standard of excellence. By doing so, he helped to pave the way for future models of color. Although White passed away on June 26, 2024, the legacy he left behind will live on. He called for greater Black representation in the fashion world and was a trailblazer for future models of color. This included Musa Jackson, who White mentored, and the first Black male model for Gap. White’s impact surpassed racial barriers in the modeling world and rooted himself as an art icon. In an interview, Renauld explained

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