DCLIFE Cultural Fusion for Social Change
Magazine
Vintage Nights Fashion and nightlife come together
Roy Cox Photography
July 2011
Granville Moore’s Chef Teddy Fokman serves up DC flavor
DC’s Underground Music scene How Rap is fighting for credibility
Articles | News | He alth | Lifestyle | Food
The First Official Fragrance To Bene
efit Susan G. Komen For The Cure
contents
JULY 2011
45
27
16
Features 12
Max Muscle VrginiA Classic Close-up look at the NPC Max Muscle Virginia Classic 2011.
16
Get fit with gigi
Gigi Smith takes us with her through her body transformation, this mother of three trains for her 1st pro-qualifying figure competition.
18
22
effortless etiquette
Raquel Riley Thomas, former Mrs. America 1st runner up and Mrs. Maryland 2010, gives tips on etiquette and overall manners.
27
Chef spotlight
Jennie Tai - The Hungry Muse interviews Teddy Folkman owner and Chef of Granville Moores Restaurant.
anna’s beauty tips
45
Vintage Nights
Anna Castillo -Crabb Owner of ink...Cosmetics. (NOW AVAILABLE AT W SALON) shares some make-up tricks and even shaving tips for men.
Ayanna Scott gives a preview of how much fashion-power the city is set to release this summer.
12
18 64
ON THE COVER
45
05 vintage nights
Columns
Get to know DC’s designers
10
granville moore’s
52
Music
The scoop on Teddy Folkman
Reviews of the area’s hottest unsigned musicians.
52 D.C. Music scene
60
fashion
Nikki Tucker interviews Natalia Sanz, and more from Ayanna Scott Fashionista extraordinaire.
64
ART
Local galleries and artists offer up their work to our diverse audience.
Local musicians to watch
Photography: Roy Cox, roycox.
52
com Styling: Kara Allan & Associates, karaallan.com Hair: Monae Everett, monaeartistry. com Makeup: Anna Castillo Crabb, inkcosmetics.com
Editors letter
DC LIFE
Magazine
Editor
Eugene O Smith Jr Tel: 202.670.4373 Email: editor@dclifemagazine.com www.dclifemagazine.com
general MANAGER Gigi smith
Email: gigi@dclifemagazine.com www.dclifemagazine.com
PUBLISHEr
Life Diverse Network Tel: 877.423.2836 Email: admin@lifediverse.com www.lifediverse.com
Design Will Grier
Email: design@dclifemagazine.com www.dclifemagazine.com
IMAGEs
Welcome! A
s a child I was intrigued by how other families lived, and being an “Army-Brat” there was never any shortage of races, creeds, religions or cultures to observe. My grade school experience placed me in different schools and in a different state or country every year. (Sometimes we would even move twice within the same school year.) The opportunity to see how people live in other countries had a significant positive impact on my life. I credit much of my social aptitude and awareness to my childhood and life experiences, and I hope that you enjoy the content I curate for you. Our feature article, Vintage Nights on page 54, is an excellent example of the type of magical creativity found at a DC Life Magazine sponsored fashion event! This upcoming season, the DC SAGA continues to produce quality diverse content for our audience through our close-knit family of expert bloggers, journalists and content providers. Our Cultural Campaign in 2011, ”Cultural Fusion for Social Change”, will be to support as many local charities through our DC SAGA calendar of events and our WebTV channel (DCLifeTV) we can manage.
Contributing Photographers Roy Cox Jennifer Jordan Harrell Charles Butler Damon Moore Thuy “Bebe” Le Angela Pan Chandler Ramelli Email: photos@dclifemagazine.com
I find great joy in supporting and sharing the many wonderfully talented people that make up our diverse community. Our region is among the most culturally rich and diverse areas in the world, and my aim is to continue to expose it. For too long the world has only know DC to as ”Politics and The Pentagon”, overshadowing the unique cultural and social blends the city makes. Now with the advent of social media, we seek to assure that the diverse cultural fabric of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Region will be seen by all.
visit us ONLINE www.dclifemagazine.com To submit calendar events: events@dclifemagazine.com To follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/DCLifeMagazine To like us on Facebook: facebook.com/DCLifeMagazine
Editor-In-Chief Eugene O. Smith Jr.
Style Guides
Anna
was signed on to modeling agencies as lead makeup artist and have been paired with wonderful photographers who have helped me grow as an artist and allowed me to be creative with every shoot. I have worked with several designers and was given the opportunity to do makeup on a TV promo for designer Mark Eisen. My work was featured in Latina Magazine, and I was hired as a hair and makeup artist on the Houston Texans Cheerleading Calendar. I also have experience with pageants, weddings, and print. Other projects include work in Project Runway, America’s Next Top Model, Red Bull, ZINK Magazine, AMUZE Magazine, DC Life Magazine, local ads and newspapers, Avant Modeling Agencies Calendar, Berjouhi.com and Midgettgray.com. I continue to do makeup for New York Fashion Week and VH1 Glam God Winner and NY Fashion Designer/Stylist Indashio. After getting my Esthetician License, I decided it was time to show America what I had to offer, so I am launching my line and signed on other Makeup Artists and Stylists in various cities to represent my company and brand. Our philosophy is to help everyone achieve their beauty goals and make them feel fabulous in every way. We welcome you to experience our definition of “true” beauty. So, “stop being cute; ink… it up, be gorgeous, live your destiny, and cultivate your creativity!” XOXO Besos!
Ayanna
felt the best way to move forward was to create something that everyone could benefit from. “I was the new girl on the block and I was not prepared to beg.” “I knew I had talent, I knew I could contribute a lot” Not one to allow someone else to control her destiny, Ayanna decided to add FashProof Media™ to her portfolio of services. “I was meeting so many talented and driven people, I couldn’t understand why they weren’t working!” “We decided to form a network and work within the parameters of it, the FashProof Media™ network is a place for anyone interested in working in the industry of fashion.” Since the formation, I have been on project after project and the work requests keep rolling in. It’s been a great thing for my business but what I’m most happy with is having something to give back to others; business owners, freelancers, professionals, interns, students and those who are just thinking about their future and need an environment where they can be influenced positively.” “We connect with others through the quarterly networking events and online. People interested in joining FashProof Media™ can go to www.scottnco.com and click on the FashProof Media™ link.” “We will be involved with many events and projects over the summer, any professional looking to get involved or build their portfolio can connect with me the same way.” That’s all I have!!!!
Style Guides
Kara
is the CEO of Style by Kara Allan,LLC. Kara services clients such as CEO’s, corporate professionals, lawyers, actors, entrepreneurs, former military personnel and others who are “fashion-challenged”. Style by Kara Allan provides services such as personal shopping, closet organization, wardrobe styling, color consultation and body shape analysis, custom clothing for men and women, group shopping trips, couples styling, interview dressing and corporate image consulting. Her team consists of makeup artists, clothing, shoe and jewelry designers, hair stylists, manicurists, custom shape wear services and bridal beauty services. Kara is a stylist with Stacy London’s (of TLC’s What Not To Wear fashion makeover show) new venture, Style For Hire, a national styling firm. Eventually she hopes to build “a state of the art studio like Project Runway’s Tim Gunn’s, where I can have a 3D machine that measures clients exactly for perfect fittings. Kara is also the stylist for the magazine I Am Modern and DC Life Magazine. com. She’s emceed several fashion shows, judged A Cities of America Teen Pageant and Project FundWay. In January, Kara added Glamabassador for Glamour magazine to her resume. It is Kara’s aspiration to live out her purpose in Christ and express Him by using her abilities and talents to assist others to be their best and have positive interactions with those she comes into contact with. Clients are assured VIP treatment with an unmatched level of customer service. Looking current, stylish and polished is essential for everyone today!
Giovanna
is the CEO of Capital Icon which is an event and talent consulting firm. Her agency also provides Media, PR, and Marketing services to clients such as Cima Talent Management and Verdict Stores. Giovanna’s team of consultants are structured to help establish an identity for events, venues, talents, individuals, and non profit organizations by showing them how to use fashion and style to present a positive and influential image that enhances their success. In addition to her modeling and acting experience, Giovanna has a strong portfolio and experience in various communities, agencies, and national organizations in the areas of human rights, health policy, research, public health awareness, and consumer product safety. She has been active as a spokesperson for the Hispanic and African-American communities. Giovanna has been recognized by several agencies for her outstanding performance and also for her entrepreneurship in spearheading an internship program to permit college students to earn paid-internships. A natural entrepreneur, Giovanna opened her first fashion boutique in 2004, headquartered in Central America. She eventually expanded this business into an online boutique in order to reach a wider consumer base. Her experience as a business owner led to several mentorship and speaking engagement opportunities, such as the EDUSERC Career and Professional Development Conference, for which she provided business startup, fashion industry, and personal image advice to young adults.
1.866.876.6684 • info@laserbella.com • www
w.laserbella.com
SHOWTIME contents
The First Annual Max Muscle Virginia Classic JULY 2011
By: Eugene Smith
A
healthy body is an absolute necessity if you intend to enjoy your life to the fullest. Napoleon Hill ranks "Sound Physical and
Mental Health" #2 on his famous list of The Twelve Riches (12 things that make a person truly rich). Number one on his list is "A Positive Mental Attitude", which is something that you can always find inside the Manassas Max Muscle Store (located at Galveston Ct., Manassas , VA 20112). The team at Max Muscle is special; they're made up of fitness professionals, Personal Trainers and Dietary Wellness Experts. Max Muscle is one of the few places I can shop and find someone who might know more about pushing my body than I do. From the outside Max Muscle looks like the tradional Vitamin Shop. However, it's what's on the inside that counts. Inside you'll find super-fit store manager Erika Davitch and IFBB Figure Pro Shelby McDaniel, (Owner of Shelby K Fitness). Shelby is Prince William
County’s most popular dietary consultant, and she knows the tips and secrets to giving any athlete the nutritional edge they need to compete. The store is owned by Correy Matthews who is also an IFBB Figure Pro. Not your local vitamin shop! This place has 2 professional athletes on site to answer all the training and dietary questions a customer might have. The auxilary staff is comprised of wellness gurus and the some of the area’s top personal trainers like Bruce Williams, the star trainer of the local L.A. Fitness. Store Owner (*and Over-Achiever) Correy Matthews managed to bring the NPC to Prince William County for the Max Muscle Virginia Classic, a bodybuilding competion sponsored by Max Muscle and other local sponsors, and it was a huge success. This year’s event was held on Saturday, March 23rd at Woodbridge High School in Woobridge, Virginia, and the athletes came prepared to compete. The atmosphere was electric as the packed auditorium erupted in applause for these athletes who have endured months of greuling training and intense dietary discipline to take the stage. These a some photos of some of the competitors.
Health
Life Without Dieting Part One - Breakfast | by Gigi Smith
I
know it sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it? But there really is such a thing. The first thought that comes to mind when I hear dieting is “where are my Samoas, Jamaican beef patties, and I need at least 4 gulps of Pepsi.” LOL!!! “Dieting” as in the verb/adverb does not work. There it is, I said it. I’m sure you know it also. It’s a nutrition conscious lifestyle. Somehow, the concept seems too overwhelming. The loss of eating your favorite foods from the grocery aisles. The prep work of fresh food eating at every meal. The whole “can’t eat” this or that thing from XYZ restaurant. And the truth is that it’s all a matter of choices. You decide whether or not your life is ready to accept a healthier version. I started on a quest about seven years ago trying to figure out how I’m going to feed my young family. I worked in a restaurant so long that I didn’t appreciate or have the patience to cook at home. Today, most of our meals come from the family kitchen. I made the menu plan the weekend before and shopped all the ingredients myself. You can do this too, but understand that it doesn’t necessarily happen overnight.
Gigi’s Favorites “If you’re ever in a time crunch or just trying to get max cardio out of your workout, this little baby will make sure you never forget a second or rep!”
First things first, breakfast and vitamins. NEVER skip breakfast. If you have time to drink coffee or tea, you have time to eat oatmeal or yogurt parfait. Breakfast not only saves your mood and your appetite for the rest of the day, it also boosts your metabolism (the thing that helps your body lose weight). I typically eat a packet of regular oatmeal and a protein shake with my vitamins. Yup, I said vitamins. I use Nature’s Secret Women’s 73 Nutrient Soft-Gel Multi-Vitamin, 60-Count. Amazon has the best deal on these vitamins, where they typically run about $15-20 a bottle at many other retail stores. In fact, I love the whole Nature’s Secret brand; they have four lines of herbal and botanical products for complete wellness which even includes a “Childrens’ line”. In my next article, I will list my entire day’s schedule of meals and how I calculate my body’ts needs. But for now, before you leave the house, please remember to take your vitamins with your hot coffee or tea and don’t forget your yogurt parfait or oatmeal!
“If you are ever serious about your workout and nutrition, get one of these journals and find out how to solve your body’s mysterious physical changes. ”
Q & A About Liftoff®David Heber, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.N. Chairman of the Herbalife Medical and Scientific Advisory Boards Liftoff® effervescent energy drink helps you gain energy and mental clarity for better performance throughout the day. Below, Dr. David Heber answers questions about Liftoff®. Q: Is the amount of caffeine in Liftoff® effervescent energy drink safe?
Peanut Butter Power Bars
A: Liftoff® contains approximately 75 milligrams of caffeine,
1 c. natural peanut butter 1/2 c butter 1 c. maple syrup 2 t. vanilla 2 beaten eggs 2 1/4 c. whole wheat flour 1/4 c. flax meal 1 c. dried milk 1 t. baking powder 1 t. baking soda 1/2 t. salt 3/4 c. chocolate chips
which is what is found in a cup of brewed coffee. In people who are sensitive to caffeine, this may cause a jittery feeling. Most people who try Liftoff® report more mental clarity without jitters. Q: Can Liftoff® be mixed with other caffeinated drinks, like tea? A: The total amount of caffeine-containing drinks consumed should be less than three per day for most people, or approximately 240 milligrams of caffeine. If you combine Liftoff® with one or two cups of tea, there should be no problem unless you are sensitive to caffeine. If you notice any sweating or a rapid pulse, just cut back. Liftoff® can be mixed in cool water for
Cream the butter and peanut butter. Add the maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs. Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then combine them with the p.b. mixture. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread into prepared 9x13" baking dish and bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until done.
refreshment on the go, or be mixed with hot water, like a tea. Q: What do the nutrients in Liftoff® do? A: Liftoff® contains B vitamins, vitamin C and taurine, which provide additional nutritional benefits in helping your body use nutrients more efficiently while also protecting the cells of your body. As with all Herbalife products, Liftoff® provides Cellular Nutrition. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
“This waist cincher is just for the gym... as a mother of three, I needed extra support for my weak core after the doctor gave me the OK. It helped me stabilize and support my back, and gave me better posture.”
“Jumping rope is one of the fastest and easiest way to get some cardio in. And it’s a great travel item!”
Beauty
DAY
by: Anna Castillo Celebrity Makeup Artist THE LOOK: Back to basics… The Social Setting: An afternoon in DuPont Circle The Makeup: “Spring makeup should be fresh, clean, easy.” The trick is to focus on one favorite area and think light and flawless-looking eye makeup in flesh tone shades. Most women will mistakenly use too much foundation or one that changes their skin tone. Finding the right tone can become a challenge. I recommend having one above and below your natural skin tone. This will help you add dimension and mix to match. There are specific things you should keep in mind when choosing your winning formula: 1. 2.
Skin type: Is your skin dry or oily? You may have exact needs. Skin texture:
To create this canvas look you should use a tinted moisturizer with SPF 15 and smooth to perfection. Flawless can be described as a nude pinkish lip with lashes so naturally defined its mesmerizing! Awaken and whiten your eyes by adding a crème white eye pencil in the inner bottom waterline of the eye in ink…cosmetics eye pencil, “bright eyes”. Define the upper lash line with a black brown liquid liner and fill in between each lash. Apply individual lashes on the outer edges and top with mascara. Add foundation over your lips to bring down your natural tone then use a nude lip liner your entire lips. Top with a matte lipstick. Support the appearance of healthy skin with our reformulated natural blend of herbs – which includes corn silk, dandelion, parsley
Infused with
and asparagus
antioxidants, this
– traditionally
skincare system
used to support
includes the
healthy elimina-
convenience of a
tion of water.
Lotion Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer with SPF 15 for UVA/UVB sun protection.
SHAVING TIPS FOR OUR MEN! Take a hot shower; the heat will open pores and soften stubble, making whiskers easier to shave. After you dry off, leave face damp and massage shaving oil into skin. Start with the cheeks and slowly work your way down, leaving the chin area (where the beard is toughest) for last so it is properly softened. Remember to shave in the direction of hair growth to minimize irritation and guarantee the smoothest results. Rinse the razor often to clean the blade. Do not press the razor down too hard. Then rinse with cool water to close pores. Pat, don’t rub, to dry the face. Some men like to use an astringent, toner or after-shave at this point. Regular rubbing alcohol will also do the trick (as long as you don’t have dry skin).
1.
REGIMEN by: Anna Castillo Celebrity Makeup Artist 1.Boss SKIN: Make Up for Men $32.00 Hugo Boss Skin 3 Piece Grooming Kit Set Includes: 50ml/1.6oz Performance Shave Gel + 100ml/3.3oz Relaxing After Shave Balm + 15ml/0.50oz Refreshing Face Wash
2.
2. Vaseline MEN: $6.00- $10.00 Fast absorbing, extra strength, and deep penetrating Body & Face Lotion for Men which will withstand extreme conditions! 3. LAB Series: $12.00- $37.00 Lab Series Research Center has developed high-performance, technologically advanced skincare, hair and shaving essentials to keep men looking healthy, comfortable and well-groomed.
3.
4. The Body Shop Men’s Essentials Kit: $30.00 Hydrate his skin with this set of products from our Men’s range. Includes: 1.69 fl oz For Men Maca Root Face Wash 1.69 fl oz For Men Maca Root Shave Cream 1.69 fl oz For Men Maca Root Razor Relief 1.69 fl oz For Men Maca Root Energetic Face Protector Re-usable dark blue mesh bag with zip closure
4.
Oily Scalp/Dry Hair by: Anna Castillo - Celebrity Makeup Artist
Do you have an oily scalp, but dry hair? Or, is your hair compounded by all the chemicals? When choosing a shampoo, you need to think your scalp’s condition and not your hair. Find formulas that are meant for limp/fine hair, or specifically oily hair. These types of shampoos will remove excess oil. Add a tad of condition to the ends of your hair before you shampoo; this will protect them from the harsh ingredients in the shampoo. It isn’t a big deal if you can’t clean the ends; shampoo runs down the hair as well as when you lather the hair before the rinse. Apply shampoo to the scalp only. Make sure the product is spread throughout. Select the condition for your hair type. Apply a deep moisturizing conditioner where you need it and avoid using it anywhere near the scalp. When styling, add pomades and frizz serums to the ends. Need to extend your washing for a day? You can use a spray dry shampoo or add witch hazel with a cotton ball to your scalp.
“ECOMONICALLY FEARLESS COSMETICS!”™
Photo by: Guillermo Velez
WWW.INKCOSMETICS.COM MULTI-MEDIA MAKEUP FOR THE MULTI-TASKING INDIVIDUAL! ink…cosmetics was created for the fast paced and creative! Built specifically with high pigment ingredients to last longer without the high cost! ink...cosmetics launches SUMMER 2011 in our Nation’s Capital! Available at W Salon, VA – JULY 2011
Hello Effortless Etiquette Fans, Raquel Riley Thomas here... We like to be upfront with our readers. Well, we had an unpleasant etiquette experience this week that was so annoying, we decided to write about it in this week’s etiquette column. The unpleasantry was the improper use of a cell phone. And it seems we are not alone in our annoyance. According to a Harris Interactive poll, 72 percent of adults list bad cell phone behavior as one of their top 10 pet peeves. Below are our “Top 10 Cell Phone Etiquette.” And to make this even more interesting, we have listed fractures we personally have had the “pleasure” of witnessing. 1)
Please do not talk on your cell phone while you are walking two pit bulls…near a playground. The dogs may get loose and attack the children or for that matter, vice versa.
2)
Please do not argue with your wife, on your cell phone, while you are out with another woman, at a restaurant. Not making judgments here, we would just rather you take the conversation outside the restaurant.
3)
Please do not talk on your phone when you are in a public computer room or a library. Do we really need to know how angry you are at your boss for not giving you a raise?
4)
Please do not talk on your phone while you are sitting on the train, next to a mother and her sleeping infant. Need we explain?
5)
Please do not talk on your cell phone while your groceries are being rung up by the cashier, only to find out your credit card is declined and you have to hold up the line to fetch another credit card. Being rude and broke is just plain wrong.
6)
Please do not talk on the phone while you are holding an infant in your arms, as you walk across a busy intersection. (Sidenote) -In America, a general rule is that children under 1 should be in a car seat. However that’s another column.
7)
Please do not answer your “other” cell phone while you are having a phone interview for a job.
8)
Please do not talk on your cell phone while you are riding a bike down a busy two- lane street. We would hate for you to drop your cell phone and we accidently run over it.
9)
Please do not talk on the cell phone while you are in a bathroom stall.
10)
Please do not talk on your cell phone while everyone else is praying…in church. If it is not God on the other end, then take the call outside or better yet , after the church service.
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: Human Rights Jaime EvanoskiPittsburgh, PA
On May 2nd, the Pittsburgh City Council will vote on whether to regulate sex trafficking out of the massage industry--or not. Women trafficked in massage parlors may be forced to see 6 to 10 clients a day, working 10am to 2am, seven days a week. It is a crime which degrades our common humanity. In Pittsburgh, there are 15+ massage parlors advertised and reviewed on forums catering to men who buy sex. These are only a tiny number of the 5000+ brothels which appear to sell sex in the United States, and are at a high risk of involving sex trafficking. However, there is no acceptable number of slaves in any American city, so even these few must leave. The massage parlor regulation ordinance, Bill No. 2011 - 1635, builds upon the strong work of Pennsylvania Massage Therapists’ state licensure law and teases apart legitimate from illegitimate massage establishments. The ordinance includes requirements that windows be unbarred, massage-room doors unlocked, and establishments properly advertised. If it passes in tact, Pittsburgh will be the first city in the United States to comprehensively approach ending sex trafficking in massage parlors. If it does not, women will continue to be enslaved. Please help us encourage the Pittsburgh city council to vote YES on this bill. If you are interested in ending sex trafficking in your neighborhood using a similar bill, please contact Jaime Turek (jevanoski@endhumantrafficking.org). If you are interested in learning more about human trafficking or if you would like to become involved in Baltimore or Washington, DC, please visit The Project to End Human Trafficking at www.endhumantrafficking.org.
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Chef Spotlight
Granville Moore’s
by Jenny Ling Tai
A
few weeks ago, I got a chance
Read more about Chef Teddy’s inspira-
Edward Island, from a fishery called Icy
to head into the H Street
tion, what he wants to say to other aspir-
Blue. When we first opened, we tried
corridor to meet and inter-
ing chefs, how he found the courage to
out six different mussels, all from differ-
view one of my favorite DC chefs - Chef
quit his robotic job to chase his dreams,
ent farms. We worked on this for about 3
Teddy Folkman of Granville Moore’s,
and how he ended up doing it here in our
months.
and winner of Food Network’s Bobby
very own Nation’s Capital. 3) What are one of your favorite dishes on
Flay’s Throwdown (Season 5, Episode 2’s ‘Mussels and Fries’) and I have to
1) Tell us a little about your inspirations
say, I couldn’t have asked for a better
for your menu and what new visitors can
interviewee. Chef Teddy was a pleasure
expect on their first visit.
the menu? A: I’ve always been a fan of the blue cheese mussels, they’ve just meant eve-
to interview, and his contagiously cheerful and eccentric personality explains the
A: Basically, we’re like a little gastro pub
rything to this place. It’s a kooky concept
unforgettably bold and vibrant flavors
with a little more style. The food is what
that I came up with right at this bar, and
on the menu; such as the Chipotle Lime
you could expect from a bar or a tavern
has grown into what it is now. It just start-
Moules, Frites with Truffle Aioli and
– restaurant quality food in a non-preten-
ed out with some bacon and some crappy
Curried Ketchup dipping sauces. If his
tious bar atmosphere, where its’ focus is
blue cheese, onions, but then we refined
double fried frites and six dipping sauces
on the main ingredients.
it, added some spinach for color, found some amazing blue cheese from a wiscon-
don’t have you munching and dipping endlessly, then the bottomless basket of
2) And where do your ingredients come
sin creamery that we now probably burn
bread, with leftover pumpkin, blue cheese,
from?
through 24 to 30 pounds a week.
A: We get our mussels from Prince
4) After graduating from JMU, how did
garlic, or chipotle lime broth from your mussels will.
you know that you wanted to become a chef? A: I’ve been cooking since I was 14, and I’ve always done it as a hobby and as a part time job. I wasn’t playing sports in school, I was working at a deli in New York, and it got to the point where I was doing a lot of catering for this deli… and I just fell in love with the place, watching eggplant turn into eggplant parmesan. It was always instant gratification finishing a dish and being able to taste and see the difference. (Cooking) has always been a hobby or job that I did very well and was always fun to do. In college I was bartending, waiting tables, managing restaurants, and cooking – so I had always been doing it but not thinking of pursuing it as a career. Until 3 or 4 years after I graduated from college – I was frustrated because I didn’t like what I did. I was making really good money, I had a great benefits, free weekends, but I had no passion behind it and I thought – wow I’m like a robot. I did a lot of volunteer work and kept on cooking; cooked for friends for parties, but I eventually quit my job and went to culinary school where I got my first job at C’est Bon French at the Reef Hotel which became my first linecooking job. 5) Having grown up in NY, one of the largest culinary meccas of the country – what made you want to cook in DC? A: I went to college in Harrisonburg where I met my best friend who moved to DC. My sister also went to school there, so it
sidewalks, a shuttle, and a trolley system that will not only be a
seemed like I didn’t really want to go back home. It’s funny
great form of transportation for the people who come here, but
because I don’t think my parents understood my sister and I.
also people who live by this area – which again is something that
They would ask us – “Why would you want to move out of the
the entire restaurant community has come together and thought
block? Just stay in our house and take over after we move out.”
– ‘we need to figure out how to get our customers here!’ So it’s
And that was sort of what people in my town did, but my sister
really cool the way this whole community is put together to
and I got out of there and found our own selves.
become an active whole. I feel like it’s one big happy family.
6) What do you think of the revitalization of H Street?
7) For all the young aspiring chefs out there, what are three piec-
A: I think it just proves what neighborhoods and people can do.
es of advice you would want to give them?
When I first saw this neighborhood about 4 years ago, it pretty much seemed like an abandoned neighborhood. Even when I
A: One – be patient, because it’s not going to happen over night,
lived here 5-10 years ago, I never went this way, but now I think
and its something that you’ll really have to work hard at. I
it’s beautiful, because it actually is a corridor that is built on the
started out as a dish washer, so with being patient you have to be
values of its’ community. Its’ become a community of restaurants
humble. You have to learn from your mistakes, learn from others,
where every single restaurant on this block is not in competition
deal with and respect what other people say – and do it for no
with the another. We are helping each other, and we’re getting
other reason than to learn everybody’s way as much as you can.
better police protection in the area as well. We’re getting new
Constantly learn. One of the coolest things is learning new things from other cooks, and thinking – well, how about this? Don’t be afraid to try new things. I mean some of my dishes started out horrible, but then it grew into something great.
Granville Moore’s 1238 H Street NE Washington, DC 20002 202-399-BLGM (2546) Also – a special thanks to Angela Pan of A B Pan Photography for taking the photos of this interview. Thank you so much, Angela!
Fruity Yogurt
Peking Gourmet Inn
Little Saigon
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Sushi Taro
Alexandria Pastry Shop
Present
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Ray’s Hell Burger
Cashion’s Eat Place
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Feature Article
Vintage Night
The DC Saga Crew Take Fashion To The Club by Ayanna Scott & Eugene Smith
DC
Fashion is well on it’s
There is little doubt that there is some-
ers on a stage with models, we have to
way to becoming a lead-
thing magical happening. It’s young, it’s
showcase the TALENTED designer on a
er and a destination for
fresh and it’s ripe for the picking. Not
spectacular stage with GORGEOUS mod-
unique, trendy and urban inspired fash-
being the nucleus for fashion can be a
els.” Ayanna said of the level of aesthetic
ion. With each passing fashion influenced
good thing. For the enterprising entrepre-
that must be associated with DC fashion.
event, the professionals multiply. Many
neur that seem to be bread in this city, the
serious minded fashion enthusiasts still
opportunity to create something dynamic
Ayanna faced many challenges while
look to New York or Los Angeles for work
and special is a cocktail for success.
building her style management brand,
and relevant experience. However, there
Market saturation is not an issue here.
Scott & Co., the main concern was connecting with like minded individuals. “I
is a core group of trend setters who have decided to take DC by the horns and cre-
A budding fashion capitol filled with
began to understand quickly, who the
ate the element that has long escaped this
artistic spirits and enterprising energy - a
players were in DC, I couldn’t see where I
cosmopolitan-politically-driven city.
unique cultivation which will undoubt-
fit into their agenda or their brand.”
edly churn out the most interesting and What many have missed for so many
brilliant professionals DC has yet to see.
Ayanna felt the best way to move forward was to create something that everyone
years is the type of ethos that you can only get from a fashion capitol. It wasn’t
It’s no mistake Ayanna Scott of Scott
could benefit from. “I was the new girl on
long ago we looked to the north and west
& Co. has forged ahead determined to
the block, and I was not prepared to beg.”
coast to stay connected and involved. In
make her mark on the DC fashion scene.
“I knew I had talent, I knew I could con-
the recent years, many companies have
Determined to define high fashion and
tribute a lot.” Not one to allow someone
cropped up to give DC a little taste of the
quality the Scott & Co. brand has dreams
else to control her destiny, Ayanna decided
action. Fashion shows small and large are
of evolving DC into the city where eve-
to add FashProof Media™ to her portfo-
increasing and the excitement is swelling
ryone comes for an esteemed experience.
lio of services. “I was meeting so many
amongst the arts crowd.
“It’s not enough that we showcase design-
talented and driven people, I couldn’t
understand why they weren’t working!” “We decided to form a network and work within the parameters of it, the FashProof Media™ network is a place for anyone interested in working in the industry of fashion.”
"My good friend Kelly Haywood showed me that fashion is more than just your clothes. She took vintage gowns off of cold manequins and created a living gallery of beauty. She infused the creative elements of music, art and clothing into one glorious event at Sutra Lounge in Adams Morgan. The images captured by world renowned photographer Damon Moore reveal true "Fashion"...... and I present them to you here." - Eugene Smith Editor "The Saga Continues"
R.A.P.
Alison Carney
Minh
A class act. Washington, DC “Hip-Hop Prodigy” R.A.P. makes waves throughout the Nations Capital in his debut mixtape release. The 23 Yr. old Jamaican implant is a D.C Native and has the ability to reach audiences from his hood in D.C. to reggae and dancehall heads worldwide.
Alison Carney is an experienced vocalist whose natural born ability to create sound, is a gift to us all. Born and raised in Washington DC, her sound transcends any categorization of how music is defined.
No rookie to the music industry, Minh has further mastered his sound in his latest release, “The Shape Of You.” Years of soul searching and honest self-assessment have yielded this singer/ songwriter/composer an album worthy of recognition. This volume of Minh’s work proves to be his finest. His confidence shines through, and the wisdom of his words are finally equalled by his soothing delivery.
An affinity for similies and metaphors creates witty highbrow lyrics topped only by his passionate delivery. This young man has has managed to remain positive throughout adversity, finding solace in his writing. Thus proving himself worthy to represent us all. He speaks the truth, whether in Patois or D.C. slang... And he is the truth behind all of D.C.’s unsigned hype.
Her live performance can be described as pleasantly energetic and astonishingly chill. With a firm understanding of how sound effects emotion, the structure around her songwriting is structureless. Thus, she presents herself to all in natural form, the result is honest music.
The maturation of Minh’s sound has been a joy to experience and is sure to be nothing short of musical matrimony to his loyal fans. Minh is a musical craftsman who takes care in every note he composes and every word he writes, he is THE unsigned STAR of the DMV.
Orion Wildflower is singer/songwriter Orchid and producer/emcee/visual artist ryknow. Together they have crafted an other worldly album that blends futuristic sounds with electronica, boom bap hip-hop and funk. Orchid’s old school jazzy vocals float atop ryknow’s celestial soundscapes taking listeners to outer space to melt your face. Q: What was the inspiration for this album? Orchid- I was taking an astronomy class and my head was filled with wonderful poetry about the stars and our universe and about how everything is connected. A mutual friend played ryknow’s AKTIVATE album for me and suggested that we collaborate and that was it. ryknow - Once I heard some of Orchid’s music I knew it was the right fit for my next project. Originally, we were going to work on one song together, but it turned out so good, that we decided to form the group and do a whole album Q: How did you come up with name Raspberry Constellation Revival? ryknow - Orchid was telling me about this chemical ethyl formate that’s found throughout the universe. It’s the same chemical that gives raspberries there taste. So our collaboration is like a constellation and the revival is the reference to the older musical genres that influenced us like jazz, funk, reggae and punk Q: Where did the cover art come? Orchid - As well as being a producer, ryknow is a photographer and graphic designer and has his own business RSWMEDIA. So one day we were hanging with our friend, and we decided it would be kind of cool to use jam and berries to make the artwork. We mixed it all together and ryknow turned it into artwork. ryknow - I love photography almost as much as I love music, so It was only natural that I would design it. I currently have an exhibit of some of my photos at Epicure Cafe in Fairfax, VA. Q: What’s next for Orion Wildflower? ryknow - We plan to have series of Star Parties to promote the album Q: Star Parties? Orchid - A star party is when astronomers get together to stargaze and contemplate the vast beauty of the cosmos. Raspberry Constellation Revival is the star party soundtrack. We want people to be inspired by the music and appreciate the mysterious loveliness of the universe
Music Scene
Underdog DC Rappers Fight for Recognition in a Go-Go City by Brian Bradley
W
ashington hip-hop insiders say the local rap scene’s popularity has been growing throughout
the last five years, but area artists face many obstacles in a city whose musical landscape has historically been dominated by go-go, and whose entertainment industry has been overshadowed by the ubiquitous presence of the federal government. The lack of support for local rap artists “is on a lot of levels,” says Andre “The Mayor” Hopson, president of Washington record label 368 Music Group. “Being that the street music of D.C. has been go-go for so long, nobody felt like they had to give [rap] any recognition or the respect it deserved.” In contrast with rap, or hip-hop, which usually incorporates electronic beats in its songs, go-go involves percussion-loaded live music, usually with additional brass and string instruments. Go-go sprouted out of the funk genre in Washington in the 1970s, and has continued to be a local phenomenon. Ricky Parker, general manager of
weak local hip-hop industry. Before recently, “we didn’t have
Washington record label Studio 43, says that when he went to
industry here,” Hopson says. “It’s all government. So you had to
high school in the early 2000s, the only way for a “rapper” to get
go to Atlanta, you had to go to New York, you had to go to LA”
recognized was to join a go-go band. Being a traditional rapper –
to get noticed.
without the backing of go-go’s live instrumentation – “wasn’t a realistic dream,” says Parker.
While insiders say appeal for Washington hip-hop is essentially localized, rap fans in cities like Atlanta, New York and
But today’s unique Washington rap scene essentially draws
Los Angeles have rallied behind artists like TI, Jay-Z and Snoop
from the same pool of would-be artists as the go-go scene,
Dogg, respectively, to catapult those hip-hop scenes to national
according to Hopson.
prestige. The difference between those cities and Washington, Parker says, is related to the identity of the city.
Before recently, “nobody was focusing their energy on trying to be a hip-hop artist,” Hopson says. “Everybody was either an
“Entertainment is the engine for those cities,” Parker says.
athlete or they were trying to be in a go-go band….In the past, it
“In D.C., the government’s the prevalent body. Obama’s here,
has been the trend or the culture for, if you wanted to be in hip-
[so is] Congress, Capitol Hill. Government has so much control.
hop, or if you wanted to be in R&B, you had to leave our area.”
Entertainment’s always going to be here, but it’s never going to outshine that.”
Part of the reason for the emigration of artists out of the Washington area, Hopson says, has to do with the historically
Another part of Washington’s identity crisis stems from its
geographical location, according to rapper and hip-hop blog-
play. In northwest Washington’s Petworth neighborhood, Island
ger Stefan “Stef” Grant. Washington’s mid-Atlantic location has
Café hosts Monday-night open mics, where local rappers perform
brought about questions of whether Washington is a northern or
under dim lights on a ground-level stage.
southern city. Grant, a Hyattsville, Md. resident, says that rappers’ efforts to distinguish themselves by region might descend from African tribal traditions.
Inside the restaurant, filmmaker “Weaze” walks to a microphone wearing a baseball cap with white Gothic lettering, reading “DMV,” a common acronym in the regional hip-hop scene
“African tribes…always found different ways to represent their tribe, their village, their family,” Grant says. “So in a way,
referring to D.C., Maryland and Virginia. He pleads with audience members to be more enthusiastic for the performers.
gangstas…want to represent their ‘hoods, they want to represent their cities, their streets. You gotta’ have pride in your hometown.”
“I’ve been hearing a lot of people in the industry talk about D.C.’s not supporting each other,” says Weaze, who produces “Metro Video and Film Festival,” a program which showcases
Hopson also attributes the Washington hip-hop game’s lack
local rap talent on Comcast leased access channel 190. “That’s
of national appeal to the limited amount of time that local hip-
really why [the rappers are] not going to go anywhere. So that’s
hop stations play local rappers’ music.
why I had to get up there and let ‘em know, man, ‘y’all got to support.’”
Hopson says that, although local hip-hop radio stations have been playing Washington area artists’ music – including
After Weaze says this, a group of rappers leaves the venue
Boobie’s “My Way” recently – more than previously, the level of
and starts walking away on Upshur Street NW, after laying down
Washington media promotion for local artists “still isn’t where it
some tracks. He points them out as an example of the disunity
needs to be.”
he had cited earlier: “They just got offstage, and they leavin’. You know, well, it is what it is, man.”
“The streets are calling for [radio stations to play songs by] certain artists from this area,” Hopson says. “The South is not
But, Parker says the fervor for local rap is stronger than in
importing any records from anything we do, so they’re not listen-
2005, before Washington native Wale (WAH-LAY) signed with
ing out for what [rap stations WKYS and WPGC are] playing, to
Studio 43. Parker added that much of the cachet Wale gained en
start playing it in the South. It’s always been the opposite.”
route to his signing with national powerhouse Interscope Records in 2008, arose from his consistent performances and frequent
Hopson added that when Washington radio stations first start
radio play of his songs.
playing southern rap songs, they usually have been playing on southern stations for about two or three weeks.
When Wale “was constantly on the radio, or he was doing shows, it really showed people that [rapping] wasn’t lame, and it
To be sure, some Washington area artists are working to advance their careers regardless of their prospects of radio air-
was a realistic goal if you wanted to be a hip-hop artist and have a lane to be successful in it,” says Parker. Parker noted that Wale’s infusion of go-go into his music early in his career helped turn people’s attention to Washington’s fledgling rap scene. “Even before Wale got a deal, a lot of people were saying his show was just so amazing because he had [go-go band] UCB and…live instrumentation,” Parker says. “It really gave you that D.C. feel, that D.C. culture. He really encompassed what go-go was with his music and the whole feel.” While Parker added that many Washington rappers have followed Wale’s blueprint by trying to integrate go-go into their music to illustrate their city’s culture, other local artists go against the grain, and fuse their raps with other genres to tell their story. And Parker says the diverse range of backgrounds in the Washington area is helping to broaden the local scene’s appeal. In “a lot of cities, it’s just one story,” Parker says. But in Washington, there are “so many different cultures, there’s so many different
people, where perspectives on life are so different.” Sonny Duboise, who helps run Washington indie record label Grindhouse, says he sees an opportunity for artists under his label to stand out by differentiating themselves from mainstream hip-hop. ”Let’s say [the mainstream music industry] is giving you all of this pop/rap that doesn’t have any meaning behind it, then there’s availability there to create our own lane and do it opposite of them,” Duboise says. “I think our strongest suit would be to stand up and say that we’re independent.” Duboise compared his record label to President Barack Obama’s “change” campaign. “He wanted you to see that he was going to do things differently because he realized we were sick of government,” Duboise says. “The music fan is the same way. We’re kind of sick of what you’re giving us as far as hip hop. We’re used to the tricks – the dances and so forth and so on, so in order for us to succeed, we
Group’s Phil Ade (AH-DAY), a Grindhouse artist who goes by
need to prove that we’re ‘anti.’”
“Vito Bronson” and Yamil Martinez (who goes by “Eye Deal” onstage) – use rap as a language to communicate different per-
Parker added that because people of many different back-
sonal experiences.
grounds live so close together in the Washington area, there are opportunities for aspiring artists to find unique ways to express themselves.
Ade, who lives in the Briggs Chaney area of Silver Spring and attended high school at Takoma Park’s Takoma Academy, says he mainly raps about his journey as an artist, moving out of his
On “Georgia Avenue, you can have somebody like who’s in
parents’ house, and traveling.
the hood, like around the 640 projects [on Buchanan Street NW],” Parker says. “And then you go further up to Silver Spring, you
“My song ‘Hollywood’…[is] a song about not forgetting my
probably got someone who goes to [Bethesda-Chevy Chase High
family and friends when I make my come-up,” Ade says. “And I
School] or something like that….It’s definitely unique….There’s
have another song called ‘One in a Million,’ which basically talks
so many people that everyone’s story’s different.”
about my…family relationship and my relationship with music, [and how] it’s kind of like having two girlfriends.”
Among others, three Washington area rappers – 368 Music Bronson says he mostly raps about living in an urban environment. The Grindhouse co-CEO grew up on Fairmont Street NW, in Washington’s Columbia Heights neighborhood, where he says he observed, firsthand, the harsh reality of the streets: drug use, single-parent households, parental neglect. “I’m a product of” a single-parent home, Bronson says. “Lucky for me, my mom wasn’t into the drugs, but I got a lot of homeboys and the females that I came up with that, you know, their moms wasn’t like my mother, wasn’t there for real.” Bronson added that he also talks about financial frustrations in his songs, and views hip-hop as a vent through which to air out some of his emotions. “I wouldn’t have nothin’ to write about if I didn’t live through certain
things, go through certain struggles,” Bronson says. “That’s really what it’s about. [Rapping is] a constructive way for me to get some of these things going on inside of me out without nobody getting hurt.” Topics of Martinez’s songs range from the stresses of college life to poverty. “I make sure in my rhymes I let you know where I come from,” says Martinez, whose parents emigrated from
“This is what you shall do:
Panama to the U.S., where they worked menial jobs for a time, to get by. “I don’t live in a golden spoon, but I’ve lived through a
love the earth and sun, and animals,
struggle.”
despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, In an effort to convey their individual stories to the biggest audience possible, Washington area rappers have utilized differ-
stand up for the stupid and crazy,
ent media: from participating in interviews for blogs, to posting videos on the Internet, to providing radio hosts with their music.
devote your income and labor to others,
While Martinez, a University of Maryland senior, says he
hate tyrants, argue not concerning God,
has put some of his freestyle videos on the Internet and has been helped by a friend’s independent hip-hop radio show – FlyBoy
have patience and indulgence towards the people,
Radio – he has also gotten noticed through performing at open mics on Maryland’s campus. While Ade says he has gotten exposure through many hip-
take off your hat to nothing known or unknown, or to any man or number of men;
hop-centered blogs, including Nah Right and 2dopeboyz, he has also cultivated his following through performing at different ven-
go freely with the powerful uneducated persons,
ues in the Washington area.
and with the young, and mothers, of families: At Ade’s Nov. 26 performance in LIV Nightclub at U and 11th streets NW, most members of a packed crowd stood and silently
read these leaves in the open air every season of every
watched while about three women in a corner in front of the stage boisterously danced and sang. “His lyrical abilities are unmatched in this area,” says Rebecca
year of your life: re-examine all you have been told at school or
Tangie, who went to the concert. “He’s not rapping about the streets or anything, trying to be something he’s not.” Ade and Bronson’s appeal has spread beyond the Washington
church, or in any books, and dismiss whatever insults your soul,
area, according to them. Along with his Washington fan base, Bronson says he also has a following in North Carolina. Ade says
And your very flesh shall be a great poem and have
his “Hollywood” video has aired on MTV Jams, a cable channel which plays hip-hop music videos. Ade says he expects more Washington artists to burst onto
the richest fluancy not only in it’s words but in the silent lines of it’s lips
the national stage soon, and that Washington hip-hop will soon earn the respect it deserves. “There’s a lot of talent in D.C., a lot
and face
of it,” Ade says. “The eyes are starting to point in this direction. It’s just starting. It’s just on the up-rise.” “Time’s gonna’ tell if D.C.’s gonna’ be as big as a New York
and between the lashes of your eyes and in every motion and joint of your body.”
or an Atlanta, but it’s still in the beginning stages,” Parker says. “It’s so fresh that the possibilities are really endless right now.” Southeast Washington rapper Young Sleep, founder of Keys 2 tha City, a company which organizes open mics throughout
-Walt Whitman
DC
Life Magazine followed
Celebrity Make-up Artist Anna Castillo-Crabb (Owner ink... Cosmetics) behind the scenes of the Ms. Synergy Fashion Show at the French Embassy. Anna also got us a peek at fashion designer TSNDYMA
and her showing at Trunk Show. And shown below are photos from Glenn Jackson’s Hair Gaga event, which took place in the Washington, DC Convention Center. DC Life Magazine will continue pushing fashion through the Nation’s Capital with the DC Saga Calendar. DCSaga.com is where to go to find the calendar of the city’s most anticipated fashion events. DC region’s most fashionable publication will continue to follow local fashion innovators like Kelly Haywood, Ayanna Scott (FashProof Media), Anna Castillo (ink....Cosmetics), Kara Allan
(Kara Allan & Assoc.) and Giovanna Desara (Capital Icon). Nothing fashionable happens if it’s not on the DC Saga Calendar! Special thanks to www.sweetdreamsstudio.com for capturing the behind the scenes look at TSYNDYMA’s Trunk Show Hosted by NINA SNOW and featured hair and makeup by the newly partnered W SALON and ANNA CASTILLO Celebrity Makeup Artist/Owner of ink... cosmetics! What a successful night! Just a glimpse of what’s in store for fashion in DC!
Natalia Sanz Niccolette Tucker Interviews Natalia Sanz For An Exclusive Story For DC Life Magazine
W
hile many 23-year-olds are busy trying to find their place in the world, Natalia Sanz is
busy with her third fashion collection. Sanz, who was born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland, is far from average. Honing her talents during her junior and senior year of high school, Sanz took studio art classes and composed a portfolio which led to her matriculation at Miami International University. After achieving a bachelor degree in fashion, two years later, Sanz is making her mark in the
A:The colors in my Fall line were different. They were a lot darker.
fashion world with her Spring 2011 collection, which debuted dur-
I did suits last season, I’m not doing suits for Spring. My last
ing NOVA Fashion Week at the Hilton Mark Center.
Spring collection was a little bit more classic, where my Fall collection was more edgier in a sense, inspired by origami. Fall 2010 was
Q: How did you get the inspiration for your collection?
more angular a lot of diagonal lines and structural pieces, while
A: I started looking through a book that has clothing from different
Spring 2011 has more draping, a lot more chiffon.
time periods and it didn’t have anything recent there, but it led me to start thinking about classical influences. I then started looking
Q: How do you feel when people compare you to Lela Rose?
up photos of what the ancient Greeks wore. Their garments were
A: It’s a compliment. I don’t mind it.
called chiton and that’s how I found my inspiration. I also found this fabric, which has a particular print, it’s very abstract, but I
Q: What does fashion mean to you?
drew all my color inspiration from the print. All my other fabrics
A: Fashion is an expression of who you are and how you want to
came out of that print. I also decide to use fabrics such as chiffon,
portray yourself. I think what you put on your body really affects
etc.
how you feel about yourself and if you look good, you feel good.
Q: How did you get involved with designing for Dekka
Q: When did you begin designing jewelry and how does it differ
Showroom?
from designing clothes?
A: I first did a few pieces with Circle Boutique. From there, I got an
A: I started my jewelry line in 2009. It differs because; with jewelry
internship with Ashley Jefferson, who has a vintage line. She was
you can be little bit more playful and funky. It’s a different process,
selling her pieces through Dekka Showroom, which is on U Street.
because you can lay things out and play with them right in front of
As I became her intern, she had me put pieces in the store.
you, where as clothing it’s more of a lengthy process from beginning to end.
Q: What statement do you want your collection to make? A: It is for a woman that is sure of her self, who’s confident. A
Q: Who is your favorite famous designer and who is your favorite
woman who needs versatility in her wardrobe, she wants to be
local designer?
able to go from day to night easily. She is a woman on the go—
A: My favorite famous designer is Versace; I love Donatella,
that’s my statement.
because of her ability to drape. Her evening gowns are amazing; they’re so edgy and innovative and they fit so well. As far as local,
Q:How does your Spring 2011 collection differs from your Fall
my favorite designer is Andrew Nowell. He design’s really great
2010 collection and your Spring 2010 collection?
men’s wear.
Ankara Fabrics Ayanna Scott shares the inside scoop on the latest growing trends
N
igerian designers have taken Ankara Fabrics to new
say o i brought this from H&M f***ing sh**!! a**holes can’t we have any-
heights with proper designs remarkable enough to gar-
thing????? and no i am not jealous i am f***ing angry!!” (Underdarock.com)
ner the attention of fans world wide. Celebs have taken
these fabrics and created a trend thanks to designers like Boxing
I’d have to agree (to an extent) with the angry commenter,
Kitten. Turning Ankara” vintage” is a brilliant display of art and
these fabrics may never see their just due therefore leaving the
imagination. While many of us think it original and daring to don
public void of knowledge.....but what’s new? Not to say this in
Ankara designs, there are some native Nigerians who dislike the
dismissal, in contrast, it’s an acknowledgement Ankara Fabric
idea of American’s wearing or producing fashion inspired and cre-
pioneers may never receive the acknowledgement deserved. While
ated by Africans.
Ankara Fabrics are on the radar of many bloggers and fashion designers, main stream consumers remain a bit unsuspecting of the
“They won’t let us africans have anything. They use to make fun of
potential these beautiful fabrics have on fashion. Celebs Ferggie,
our clothing and say it looks weird now they wanna steal our fashion after
MIA, Beyonce, Alicia Keys and Solange have been spotted wearing
stealing our riches and labeling us terrorist and scammers. they can wear
looks from the Boxing Kitten closet. Other designer’s like Jewel
our clothes but they can’t even embrace the African heritage inside of them
by Lisa (West Africa) has turned Ankara fabulous with her designs
(African Americans) they want 2 make fun of our names and our cultural
appearing in Arise Magazine, London and many other publica-
differences yet they want to now rock our clothes. Ankara designs are unique
tion. There are many ways to wear the multi-textural fabrics. I
and hard work goes into designing and sewing a dress (from the tailors
cover the “how to” in my next article. Until then try something
presepective) now they are going to begin mass producing this sh** in a
new and share the out come with us!
warehouse resulting in it losing its value, uniqueness, and its connection to Africa!!! instead of saying oh this is an African fabric…people are gonna
Local artist George Travez, born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Maryland, has been commissioned by private patrons in the D.C. area. George received his B.F.A. in Illustration from Rhode Island School of Design and is pursuing his M.A. from Savannah School of Design. George’s artwork has been in showcases in D.C., Bethesda and Olney and has been commissioned George enthusiastically works in a mixed media and digital formats that could be used in editorial and commissioned formats. Interseted parties can contact George Travez at 240-418-6001 for inquiries.
Art Gallery
Pop Up Gallery DC LIFE MAGAZINE: Chandler Ramelli brought back footage of the MFA Gallery off of 18th and U Street. The gallery owner Amy Morton shown showcasing Vonn Sumner.
Continued from page 62
Continued from page 68 company. In general, I look for models 5 feet 8 inches and above. I don’t design clothes for the Washington area – including Island
Q: What are some of your major accom-
really straight women, so I look for models
Café’s – says in order for the Washington
plishments so far?
that have curves, so that it will show off the
hip-hop industry to establish a national
A: So far my major accomplishment is pro-
contouring in my garments.
presence, people shouldn’t concentrate all their efforts on writing lyrics.
ducing my third collection. I’ve been doing everything on my own, from design to
Q: How long does it take to construct a
sewing to construction—everything. Also
piece?
being in two boutiques in the DMV area I
A: It depends on how complicated the gar-
consider that a major accomplishment and
ment is. Suits take a little longer than dresses about people actually becoming execu-
I also will soon be selling through online
and also the fabric determine how long it
retailers who sought me out.
will take.
Q: What are your major challenges when
Q: Do you plan to design shoes?
pendent scene to back up what’s going on
producing a collection, fashion show and
A: Not as of yet, but I wouldn’t say never.
with the [major record labels],” Bronson
“The music business is not just about making songs,” Young Sleep says. “It’s tives, starting labels, DVDs, movies.” “It’s going to be more up to the inde-
says. The majors are “starting to pay atten-
photo shoot? A: For producing a collection my major
Q: Ten years from now where do you want
tion a little bit, but it’s going to take some-
challenge is having the time to do every-
to be?
body to build something from the ground
thing. For shows the hardest part for me
A: Ten years from now I would like to be
for the area to get really respected.”
is marketing and promoting. For photo
in major department stores like Saks and
shoots, the hardest thing is coordinating
Neimans and maybe a little later than that
Washington rap, Bronson sounded a resil-
everyone’s schedule.
a few of my own boutiques in major cities.
ient note.
When asked about the future of
Also I would like to have full collections Q: How do you select your models?
going all year. Right now I’m doing two, but
A: For NOVA Fashion Week, there was
would like to do four [collections] per year.
Bronson says. “We’ll kick it open.”
a model call. I also worked with a guy named Peter Joseph, who owns VU Management, a modeling management
“If people keep grindin’, the door’s going to have to open eventually,”
To learn more about Natalia Sanz collections you can go to www.nataliasanz.com
DIVERSITY
Hot Men Help Save Lives Tina Morris explains how local hunks are coming to the aid of battered women
More than a pretty pinup, part of the calendar sale profits
“
gave me the idea. Modeling for a Hair Show, one of my counter-
will be donated to the Domestic Violence Awareness (DVA)
parts was a gentleman with a fabulous six-pack, Mr. Lawrence
Organization ‘Saving Promise.’ Domestic violence affects so
Johnson (Mr. September in the 1st N*VA Men Calendar), and he
many people in many, many different ways. Everyone, from the
suggested that a few more like him should carry me into my 40th
victim to the victimizer to the children and families on all sides of
Birthday party. Long story short, it started out as a party favor
the issue, is affected. It is everyone’s issue.” ~Thomasina Perkins-
for the female party guests and blossomed into a calendar and
Washington, Founder & CEO Tru DIVA Productions, LLC
subsequent business.
Tru DIVA Productions, LLC is kicking off 2011 with a multi-
TINA: What is the inspiration for donating part of your profit to
racial hot hunk calendar to fuel ladies dreams all year long.
domestic violence programs?
While drooling over these sexy men, be thankful for the healthy
THOMASINA: The inspiration for donating part of our profits to
relationships in your life and remember sisters who are less
the Domestic Violence Awareness (DVA) Organization “Saving
blessed. Sadly, too many ladies find their dreams marred by
Promise” is due largely to the role domestic violence has played
domestic violence. Saving lives and spreading a message of hope
in my life and my desire to assist women and families break the
is very important to Tru DIVA Productions, LLC Founder & CEO
cycle. We also donated a lot of our time and resources to a recent
Thomasina Perkins-Washington and the gorgeous male models
tour geared at getting people to talk about DVA and its effects on
who posed for this calendar. Success is best enjoyed when it
the family and community as a whole.
involves giving is the motto of Ms. Perkins-Washington. While finishing up their calendar shoot I had the chance to talk with
TINA: What was it like to work with these models?
her and two handsome models, Mr. Cross Thompson and Mr.
THOMASINA: It was wonderful working with each of these gen-
Lamont Reid, about this project and what it means to them.
tlemen; we’ve assembled the guitarist of the rock band Arteless,
Raymell “Manwich” Smith, personal trainer Karamoko Lopez, TINA: What inspired the idea for this calendar?
and Cory Bell, a fitness model and youth counselor. Cory also
THOMASINA: I was going through a life change, separated from
came in 2nd place in the Bod Cologne “Hottest Bod in America”
my husband of five years, and approaching 40 when a friend
campaign I’d like to add. A wide range of careers are represented
here, from our successful professional
much about. I’ve been through a lot of
gentlemen Travis Frye and Darnell to our
relationships and dealt with a lot women.
newest gentlemen, Moroccan soccer player
I cannot name one woman that I have
Sammy Labriny, former National Football
dated, that has not been a victim of some
League (NFL) and Canadian Football
form of domestic violence. This is sad and
League (CFL) cornerback Lamont Reid
needs to change.
Policy Financial Group Momentum Financial Services
(Denver Broncos, NY Jets, AZ Cardinals), fitness model Cross Thompson, and up
TINA: Lamont, I’d like to ask you the
and coming R&B singer/model Christian
same questions. How do you feel about
Peoples, Ryan Sherwood, MBA and
being part of this?
Richard White.
LAMONT: I am always happy to support
E. Odell Smith, B.A., MSBA Former Teacher, Retired Military Licensed since 1992 in VA, MD and DC Insurance Agent/Manager
or help others, being a part of this gives TINA: This is certainly a diverse group.
me a sense of pride that I am helping
Clearly there aren’t many multi-racial cal-
someone overcome such an awful experi-
endars like it. Can you share a bit of their
ence. Although I have not experienced
backgrounds?
or witnessed domestic violence, I think
THOMASINA: Yes, the men are diverse.
it is definitely a concern that should be
We have Panamanian Ryan Sherwood,
addressed. I am grateful for this opportu-
Moroccan Sammy Labriny, Jamaican/
nity to show my support.
“We find the best policy that fit your needs” Triangle, VA Bus: 703-637-9930 Fax: 703-637-9920 Cell: 703-201-1763 Email: odell@policyfinancial.com
Puerto Rican Cross Thompson, Puerto Rican/African-American Karamoko
TINA: Cross, is modeling your full time
Lopez, African-American/German
job?
Christian Peoples, Caucasian Travis Frye,
CROSS: No. I have a nice government job
and African-Americans Richard White,
that handles the bills and allows me to live
Cory Bell, Raymell Smith, and Darnell
very comfortably. My goal with modeling
Jeffries. This group is multi-racial and
is to get my foot in the door for acting. I
multi-talented. Most of these men are col-
am currently taking acting classes that will
lege graduates and a few hold advanced
give me the credentials to pursue an act-
degrees and there is much more to them
ing career.
than their looks. These are men of substance, God fearing, and sensitive to social
TINA: Lamont, modeling is not your full
issues such as DV and assisting programs
time job. Will you be doing this again?
for Wounded Warriors and children. I’m
LAMONT: I plan to allow God to order
proud to have these men be a part of this
my steps and we will see where that leads.
second N*VA Men Calendar project. They
I enjoyed the modeling experience and I
have enriched my life and the integrity of
must say that if the opportunity presented
the project.
itself again and it is in my best interest,
Are you a Victim? Employment Discrimination Sexual Harassment Medical Malpractice Personal Injury
I might consider modeling in the future TINA: Cross, I think people would really
although, I have not given up on football.
like to hear from one of the guys. How do you feel about being part of this? Is the
TINA: Please don’t. Thank you all for your
fight against domestic violence something
time. This is an exciting project. When will
you support or have been involved in?
the calendar be available and how can
CROSS: I feel great giving part of the
ladies buy it?
proceeds towards domestic violence pro-
THOMASINA: The calendar is currently
grams. Domestic violence is such a bigger
being sold online at: www.trudivaproduc-
picture than most of us realize, especially
tions.com , Amazon.com and on www.
men. As men we are naturally born and
novamencalendar.com
taught that we are strong, powerful, and born to be the protector. So where does
Tina Morris is a freelance writer and
that leave women? It leaves them with a
Staff Blogger for The Rappahannock
sense of needing “to be protected.” The
Independent Film Festival.
fight against domestic violence is defi-
(Freelancewriter.morris@gmail.com)
nitely something I support and care very
Over 15 years of Experience www.victimlegalrights.com Call for a Consultation
Law Office of Jonathan C. Dailey 202-625-4348 Jonathan@victimlegalrights.com
Licensed in VA, DC, MD
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ABOUT THE COVER This cover was styled by Professional Stylist and “Fashionista Extraordinaire” Kara Allan and photographed by Roy Cox at Roy Cox Studio in Baltimore, MD. The cover is sponsored by Washington, D.C.’s newest make-up and skincare line “ink....cosmetics”, for our 2011 Charity Campaign ”Cultural Fusion For Social Change.” Featured are some of DC Life Magazine contributors that have shown a commitment to charitable support through Fashion, Beauty, Health and Wellness events brought to you though our DC Saga Calendar. Thank you all so much.