Designer Feature: Ascend

FEATURED DESIGNER

50ASCEND

Writer: Colton LaCroix Title Page Photography: Kiana Jarman Editorial Photography: Scar Requiem

ale fashion has evolved over time, and the latest trends for the upcoming season are often highlighted on real life runways during fashion weeks months in advance. Is it the model that struts the catwalk that defines these trends? No. It is the vision of the designer that is woven into threads that directs the course of style and what may very well be the future furor. Men in Second Life™ have oft complained about how limited their options are in comparison to female clothing. However, it is brands like Ascend that have emerged, expanded and taken male fashion to new heights.

Envisioned by Invincible Anton, Ascend stands at the very forefront of the best and most innovative of menswear in this virtual world. Introduced to Second Life™ by his real life best friend, Anton was told how interesting it is and the social aspect involved. Ironically, the first day he rezzed in-world was the day his best friend left. His early beginnings are humble, as he enjoyed spending time at Helping Hand where he found happiness by the pure joy of helping newcomers like himself. While he readily admits that it did take him some time to fully understand Second Life™, he first began working as a model and host at other clothing brands. His curious nature would have him wonder how clothing was made and how the businesses were run. In

his youth, he found great enjoyment from games, “[where] you would make animated games using flash and I learned the basics back in 2005.”

It was Anton’s inquisitive disposition that directed him towards 3D software and his diligence that drove him to learn these programs in 2013. While many look to him as an expert within his field, he is quick to say that it is a constant learning process, and he endeavors “to improve everyday.” Furthermore, he stresses how it did take him time to hone his craft, and his expectation was never for quick results. His unassuming attitude is commendable, when he shares how grateful he is for those that have guided him, “I am blessed I had good friends who always were there to support me and teach me.” This idea is further perpetuated when he confesses that when he started his brand in 2015, he was “a total noob about running a business.” Despite this, he quickly grasped the intricacies of how to lead his brand with the mantra, “Improve the quality, keep learning.” It is this self-driven perspective that has brought him far in his journey and continually propels him to even more extraordinary achievements.

For those that dream of starting their own brand, Anton’s story serves as a great inspiration. His success was not founded overnight and was not wi-

style credits

53

style credits

54

thout difficulty. His greatest struggle as a creator in making 3D mesh clothes was to learn about skinning and rigging sizes. When he first began, mesh was still in its infancy — where very few people at the time fully understood the intricate details. Moreover, he had given up because his frustration was that insurmountable. Yet, he shares how “there is always one nice person who come forward to help you like a life-saving jacket,” and how he credits these people for helping him overcome this obstacle.

When asked to describe the Ascend aesthetic, Anton considers the fate of menswear four years ago. His inherent business acumen recognized a growing gap in male fashion for those who sought casual everyday wear but still demanded style and elegance. Thus, he chose to create clothing that fell within the realm of “streetwear, urban style, casual, business casual, etc,” and on the rare occasion he designs formal wear. A visit to his main store highlights the true depth and variety his designs offer. With such detailed creations, one might wonder

58

style credits

59

style credits

60

61

what influences and inspires the Ascend Fashion Creative Designer’s work. As expected, this is a question he is asked often; yet, it is also one that he finds difficulty in answering. The problem arises because the catalyst for his inspiration is not derived by one source. Some instances it is a customer that inquires about a specific style, or “It’s some real life friends who are good at styling.” The culmination is that his innovation and inventiveness is drawn from a variety of things that can change in an instant but will ultimately be realized in the art of his product. With the time and effort Anton dedicates to his craft, the idea of a favorite piece would tease the mind of more than one curious soul. Like the range of his collection, it would be an impossibility for him to anoint just one in such a coveted position. “I love all my work,” though he quickly adds in jest, “Even the ones that are not that good.” The gentle pride he takes in his craftsmanship speaks volumes, similar to the work he does showcase as a few of his most favored. There is the Johny outfit, a full ensemble that boasts fitted casual pants and a white

top that clings to the body. The unique detail is found in the rolled up sleeves, the tucked shirt, open chest and the timeless popped collar. Or there is the Enzo that Anton lists as well. A button up shirt, where the sleeves are rolled and bunched at the upper arm and the hem is not uniform to truly exude the concept of casual. Then it is the versatility of the Nicolas Blazer. A form fitted jacket with 3 shirt styles: the henley for streetwear, the untucked to highlight the devil-may- -care attitude and the tucked button down if the circumstance demands a slightly more formal presence. The similar components of all three of his favorites? They met his desire of compatibility with everyday style, and he “had so much fun while making them.”

Second Life™ is a place that empowers its residents to do and be whatever they want. It is this unique characteristic that Anton considers to be part of what makes this world an amazing place, “I love how it makes you creative and gives you the opportunity to be someone else.” Being a longtime resident of this virtual world, he has seen much change; thus, even if he had the ability to change something — he would not. His belief is that it is perfect as is with Linden Labs “improving and bringing new features from time to time.” The positive outlook he has can only make one wonder what is in store for Ascend in the future. The focus is to continue to enhance the quality of his mesh and texturing, while meeting the increased demand for footwear and women’s clothing. As for what he is most grateful for? “The love and motivation from all the customers

who have supported me and my brand,” and it is this encouragement for him that has brought Ascend to the degree of success it has accomplished.

Many thanks to Invincible Anton for allowing us the privilege to share his story and brand!

63

IN-WORLD LOCATIONMARKETPLACEFLICKRFACEBOOK