Premiere Issue
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Photography by� Tevin Baskerville 2 NOIR magazine
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Spotlight Articles Indigo Green pg 8 Omar Jetter pg 12 DonBon pg18 Destiny Jackson pg 42 Brandon Bell pg 48 Brianna Green pg 54 Emilo Rios pg 66
Table of Contents Rhetoric Beauty... Press Play pg 10 Love Or Nah? pg 16 Designer: Prescence Sportswear pg 20 Designer: Jay Teylor pg 26 Colour of PowHer pg 34 Designer: Evolve and Rebel pg 36 Designer: Laijia pg44 I Like My Man Summertime Fine pg 50 Find Your Own, This One is Mine pg 56 Lookbook by: Olivia Jonn pg 68 The Vamps and The Werewolves pg 78 5
Tevin
Baskerville
I’ve never liked writing more than one draft of an English paper. In fact, when I was in school, I never turned in a 1st and 2nd draft. Whenever the teacher, or professor, would assign us a paper, I would always wait until the week of the due date before I even started on it and then would hand in a finished product. I know it’s not the best thing to do and not something that the kids would look up to; but hey, I would always get a good grade (With the exception of my 11th grade English teacher who gave me a C and said I was lazy. That was my favorite teacher by the way… go figure). When it came to writing, I’m not saying I am the best or even close. What I am saying is that I could NEVER become an author of a book so, my hat goes off to those guys (and gals). I think I did well by sticking with photography and design; well, and this magazine of course.
I’ve always wanted to start my own magazine. My cousin, Nila, and I (if you’re reading this: HEY NILA) would sit together and make up fake magazines with crayons and white paper, and actually thought about distributing them. We quickly realized that we would have to reproduce each one and considering we had no access to a computer or copy machine, that never got finished. At least we learned a valuable lesson: don’t color with crayons for too long or you’ll end up feeling like you have arthritis in your fingers. If you haven’t noticed by the name in big letters, or the extremely long introduction (or even then picture of me), I’m Tevin Baskerville and I am the Editor-in-Chief, Graphic Designer, and Primary Photographer of
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NOIR magazine. NOIR (pronounced “no-R”. Honestly, say it out loud and I promise you will get it right) was the name of my senior art show which is French for the color black. Yes, the name for my show was called “Black Art” in the English language (hilarious). The show was based primarily on the stereotypes that African Americans face because of the color of our skin. I had decided to paint people black to show the true beauty behind the color. I portrayed them as gods, kings, and even Mother Earth. When I decided to start the magazine, the name had such an impact that I had to use it, only this time, in an artistic and diverse context. Artists are repeatedly stereotyped. If we aren’t painters or sculptors, then we aren’t artists.
Everyone believes that, since they have access to a computer or camera, they can design or become a photographer. You have people that think since they can play “Hot Cross Buns” on the piano or flute, they can be a producer/songwriter. It takes a long time to learn your craft and if you think that one day you can just pick up a camera and start shooting, or pick up a keyboard and let the music come naturally to you; I will kindly tell you to go find a ditch and possibly break your ankle. I believe it does take talent to become an artist of any genre, but if you have that little speckle of it, then it would be a great idea to learn from someone how to build it. When I first started doing photography, it was garbage, but I took the time to learn under my mentor and professor to improve and see what is good and what isn’t. This magazine is dedicated to our artists. Whether you are a rapper, singer, actor, dancer, model, photographer, graphic designer, fashion stylist, fashion designer, sculptor, entrepreneur, etc… This magazine is for YOU! We are here to help promote you! That is our overall mission. In other words, enjoy the first issue! *wink wink*
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SPOTLIGHT
Indigo Green Name: Shakirah Khalifah Location: Baltimore , Maryland
How long have you been modeling? 1 year
What made you pursue your form of art? What made me start modeling was people encouraged me to do it and follow my dreams. Every where I went, someone would walk up to me and say “you should model” :-) plus I love fashion and all the wonderful things I could do with my career.
Who or what inspires you to create your work? Im inspired by other models like Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and the struggles I have encountered in my life also haters are my biggest encouragement!
How does your life play a role in your work?
What is your artistic style? My artistic style is all of the above its crazy , fun peaceful , classy , rocker. I love to be a little different.
If you could be compared to an artist what will it be? Naomi Campbell. Not her personality but her looks and style. I love her!
What is one thing you would like to say to other artist who are trying to grow in the same field as you are? Well just be yourself, know your worth, work hard, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t make it or do anything just stand your ground.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Having my own businesses , modeling all over the world , have some kids , married , and just be HAPPY :-D
My life plays a roll in my work by letting me see who I really am and letting me see beauty that I didn’t even know I had.
What is the best way to contact you if someone is interested in either booking you or purchasing your work?
What is your favorite art piece that you have done and why?
Via Facebook, cell phone , or email
This is a hard one, well one of my favorite art pieces I’ve done was a nude art photoshoot for one of my model friends Nova Gray. I just love working with him, he’s full of life and so many ideas and the pictures came out beautiful.
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Rhetoric
Press Priscilla Azaglo gives an inside look at which mixtapes should be in your playlist this summer!
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Press Play! Getting an exclusive look into the journey of the Still floating Kings...I got an opportunity to preview the GOD VS KINGS mixtape. I was impressed with Gee Marley’s smooth lyrical approach in addition to Smokey G’s 90s R&B sound. Listening to the mixtape allowed me as a listener to witness a battle within Gods and Kings, the artists both seem to be stuck within the two themselves. The mixtape reveals this journey that many can relate too, knowing their potential and knowing what they want but being surrounded by material gods and false kings. Two things that stuck out to me was the title of each song and the skits that played in the within each song, all seemed to tie into this battle within gods vs. kings (Self) and come into play with earthly gods and kings (the world). What the artists doesn’t realize is their ability to decode themselves into a war that they have created. The title of the mixtape can begin a movement within the generation, because it seems that everyone is now looking for answers, whether it is spiritually, mentally, politically, ect. Yet Gee Marley and Smokey G both answer the question that every human has once asked, and that is the purpose of humanity. Does our soul have the power to be gods or kings... do humans undermine their ability? Their mixtape is sure to drop soon and believe me when I say that it is well worth it.
Press play! as we enter into a jazzy intimate vibe with duo rappers, Von and SY G. The whole mixtape is an Introduction to this two rappers, both from different places yet share the same vision for their future. It isnt hard to notice that both rappers have different flows, yet both harmonize on each song as of it was a match made in heaven. Dedicating their first track it to the “niggas who think they fly”. This untitled EP, is an re-introduction to the artist, Von and Sy G. I enjoyed listening to the sweet sounds of instrumentals that compliments their flow. I was surprised to hear this side of both artist, it seemed this mixtape approached their audience who undermined the lyrical content that these boys had. Shortly after the release of their previous mixtape, Von & SY G released a self-titled EP. If you are looking for music that can relax the mind and motivate you in any aspect, listen to this mixtape. These artists have alot to offer...cant wait to hear what’s next.
Press Play! ROooooooouuunnnnnddddTAble! This lyrical son, doesn’t hide his New York flow with a southern influence when he spreads love on a beat. 80 Reef, passionately rhymes about his life by story-telling. “Aint here to save the game, Im not heroic”..Plain and simply, enemy at the gates, presents Reef as a prisoner in all aspects. Moren-less, introduces kids playing before the beautiful track begins, as if he was saying that we become prisoners from our innocence. ALready Reef, has captured my attention, with a mixture of different instrumentals that seems to express the different aspects of what he is experiencing as a artist and his everyday life. It seems that the Enemy at the Gates, isn’t an enemy at all, but rather a human who becomes his own enemy. .
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SPOTLIGHT The name of my brand is the House of Sincere Thai’Lin (H.S.T) My motto is silhouettes, radiance and creativity. I’m located in Philadelphia PA, home office. I’m a fashion designer, illustrator, stylist, makeup artist, event planner, set coordinator and iPhone photographer. I’ve been illustrating designs since I was a kid. I began my since of style in elementary school. My style enhanced in Middle School (2001-2004) and once I got to High School (2004-2008) I found myself. I began setting trends by wearing various ties, blazers, sweaters, scarfs, hats, shoes and sneakers with my uniform. I started putting together fashion events & gathering models & dancers in High School. I also came up with the name of my “future brand” in High School. After High School and through Trade School I illustrated gowns and sold my designs. I also styled many of my friends and family members. Around 2010 I stopped and began doing other things. In the first week of December, the vision came back. The Lord told to revamp my collection & get back into the fashion world. Now I’m doing tee shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants, hoodies, hats and more to come. As a kid, I was a fan of 101 Dalmatians. Glenn Close played as Cruella DeVil, the evil fashion designer and it was fascinating to me. That made me want to be a Designer. The Devil Wears Prada was my actual reason for going to the Art Institute. I wanted to become a Fashion Editor. Being a stylist was automatic for me since the beginning because I know how I like to see myself and I know how I like women to look. I’ve been planning events/parties/ get-togethers since High School. I picked up the makeup trade in College. The iPhone photography just developed a month ago because I’m not too good with cameras. Those two movies were my two biggest inspirations for wanting to be apart of fashion. I have a strong love for fashion. Being a designer
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Omar Jetter as been a dream since I was a kid. Anything that catches my eye or that pops into my head can be use as inspiration. Once I get that idea I elaborate and build on it until I get what I’m looking for. I want better for myself and my family. Just the thought of us living a better life inspires me. My life plays a huge role in what I do. Everything I do surrounds my brand. I like to surround myself around what I love. My work, the images I create, the joy I having in doing this. Recently I’ve done a photo shoot entitled, “The Dead of Winter.” The theme “Winter Wonderland” is so basic and cliché so I decided to do my own thing. Black and white scene, dark makeup and emotionless. It gives you the feeling of a cold hearted person. It’s been my favorite thus far. My style is really based on how I’m feeling at that particular moment. People can probably categorize my style but I can’t. Even with my person style, I go from sweatsuits & sneakers, to jeans & boots, into a suit and tie so it really depend on how I’m feeling. I don’t think I can be compared. I’m no better than anybody of course, I just know how my mind functions. My styles & ideas change frequently but I always produce a good product.
For booking and purchasing work my business email is sincere.thailin2014@gmail.com
God has given us all gifts, talents and abilities. Regardless of what those gifts are, they’re given to us to inspire others. God doesn’t sit down on us so we shouldn’t sit down on him. Use your gifts, follow your dreams, write your vision and make it plain. With a plan and through God, anything is possible. Never let anybody tell you what you cannot do. If you posses it, it can be done! In 5 years, I see myself doing great things. Inspiring my generation, older and younger generations. Giving hope to people how lost hope. Inspiring people who lost confidence, blessing people who are in need of a blessing. You’d be surprised of the impact you can make when doing positive things. By then, my family and I should have our needs met. It’s not only about me, it’s about the people that’s supporting me to help me carry out my vision. Fans, investors, buyers, workers, models, it’s about giving back.
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LOVE
NAH?
OR
By: Jazmyne Thompson
Somewhere along the lines those born in the late 80’s, early 90’s lost sense of having it all. Like, having it all meant you can’t have the ultimate career and banging love life! It is quite clear that social media controls the majority of today’s generations’ fingers as well as thoughts. Every day that I get on a social media site whether it be Twitter, Facebook or Instagram there are at least three people on my news feed/ TL screaming “F such and such!”, “F love, get money!” and let us not forget the infamous, “Ain’t nobody loyal these days”. Does no one know that it is in fact, humanly possible to do both? Here is the first PSA for 2014… YOU CAN WORK YOUR BUTT OFF AND COME HOME TO HAVE SOMEONE THERE TO RUB YOUR FEET!!! Omg! Did I just say that?! Why yes, yes I did! For a long time I thought it was just guys that walked around with this mentality. Nope. It is females also. Everyone is so bent on not letting people see you break, or see you weak even if it is for just a moment that we don’t take the time to find out who can be there for us when we do fall. I am aware that God and your mama got your back, it’s been said time and time again. Just stop. You sound repetitive and quite frankly it’s just not a good look. Here is my advice for the fellas. You walk around and say you can’t have a girl and make a career for yourself, let me tell you something… That’s simply buffoonery. Let me break this down for you. When you have a family or even just a wife it makes you grind harder. When you have someone that is depending on you for survival, you will find your motivation. The days you want to break or you want to give up, if you have a good one (because some of ya’ll haven’t come across this yet) she will be your
ultimate motivation and inspiration. This is the woman that is going to take care of home while you take care of business. This is going to be the woman that when you finally do make it (because you are going to make it) has already proven to be the woman to show you through the good and the bad. The ugly and the beautiful. The ups and the downs. Don’t be that guy that years later looks back and says “Dang why did I have to let her go?” Ladies… Stop walking around screaming, “Every guy is the same!” Stop trying them all! Look if you notice pattern in the type of guys you date, maybe just maybe you need you need to assess some things about yourself. You keep attracting A-holes? Maybe you are an A-hole? Every thought about that? The people that you attract are direct reflections of yourself. You want to have better you need to do better for yourself. You can have the career that you desire and at the end of the day have a man (or woman) to go home and curl up next to. Don’t be in a rush. Know what works for you. Learn your quirks, your kryptonite, things that make you mad and things that put you at your highest of highs (no pun intended). Learn how to love yourself and it makes it so much easier to love the RIGHT person. We as women have to learn how to be by ourselves. Jumping from relationship to relationship does not make the “love” process any easier. Love you and one day you can be his, “Perfect verse over a tight beat.” We as a generation have to do better. We can have it all. Stop allowing your fears to replace your desire for love and all things it can bring. Until Next Time, -Jazmyne
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SPOTLIGHT Name: DonBon Location: Washington, DC Type of Artist: Short Film Director
How long have you been doing videography? I’ve been doing this since I was a child I can remember being 12 and my mother got me my first camcorder, and I used to make home movies with my little brother because I had no one else that wanted to be on my camera, and I would edit them with my VCR. So I would say 8-9 years
What made you pursue your form of art? It was my love for storytelling. I think we all have that, it goes back to playing with toys with friends and using your imagination I would create stories, now I have ppl who want to be apart of these stories and that’s what BoyDrama (My webseries) is all about Creating Stories, that and my love for the camera
Who or what inspires you to create your work? My inspiration comes from my experience and the experience from the people around me. I get inspired by the music im listening to that as well or from my own “BoyDrama”. I think that’s what makes it relatable, the fact it really happen or happens
How does your life play a role in your work? My life plays a major role on my work. I believe True art comes from tragedy and you have to use that to create a good story. If you watch the show (BoyDrama) my character was cheated on by his cousin, Vincients character tylen had a 30 day noticed on his door, things like that happened in our lives and it sucks but it played a role.
What is your favorite art piece that you have done and why?
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My favorite piece of art that I’ve done has to be BoyDrama as a whole its my baby. I’ve put so much time and energy into it, something ive never done before. On top of that people like it and im proud of that, im proud of my team they rock, I call them my ride or dies, we’ve built a bond a family and a friendship in our 1st year now its time for year 2 and im excited about that.
What is your artistic style?(is it more of a peaceful, playful, grundgy,...bold... etc) My artistic style is more Playful, I try to have fun with it. Every time me and the cast get together it’s a good time and good vibes but we get things done at the same time. Its all about that balance you know.
If you could be compared to an artist or artwork/book/philosopher, what would you be? Spike Lee, because he was independent, he did things on his own he took a chance and hes now a legend in my eyes along with many others. I hope one day I too can be on that level. But I know it takes time and hard work.
What is one thing you would like to say to other artist who are trying to grow in the same field as you are? Don’t let no one tell you YOU CAN’T. Because you can, they told me I was crazy for Starting this, but this show has allowed me to meet great people and do great things, so never stop, Be brave and keep moving forward. You can’t fail if you never try. But you cant succeed if you never try either.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 5 years I see myself being the director of a major motion picture. I See myself with Awards, I myself being a sort of a humanitarian to the gay lifestyle. But most I see happiness, success and growth within myself
Don Bon
What is the best way to contact you if someone is interested in either booking you or purchasing your work? Email – BoyDramaTV@gmail.com Youtube - http://www.youtube.com/user/ itsDonBon FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/ BoyDrama
Photographer: Rene Renderos
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Photographer: Tevin Baskerville 21
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Photographer: Jimmy Haire
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Instagram: @jayteyler www.jayteyler.bigcartel.com
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Photographer: Tevin Baskerville 27
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My motive behind this selected art work is to build awareness of the true power, strength, and potential every African American Woman holds. OUR character is developed and defined through our determination to be everything other than a negative statistic. This art piece involves descriptive words and inspiration that allows others who have not found their character to know and work to surface each the roots within them. The image speaks to those who may discriminate sending out a message to not judge us because of who we are but try to get to know us and understand our character. WE are beautiful on every scale. -- Keosha Faison
kdfaison@gmail.com http://www.kedesignsit.com/ 35
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Evolve and Rebel
Photographer: Tevin Baskerville 37
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“Evolve the mind and let the spirit rebel. Design is everything� I created this clothing line to decribe my personality which is a mixture of edgy designs collaborated with a clean look. Fashion is always recreating itself so I decided to add a different perspecitive to the fashion empire. --Gabriel Harrison Instagram: @EvolveAndRebel
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image shot by: AJR photography
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SPOTLIGHT
Destiny Jackson Name: Destiny Jackson Location: Durham, North Carolina Type of artist: Model
How long have you been doing (form of art)? I have been modeling for about 4 years What made you pursue your form of art? (Be sure to name the type of art they do) I’ve always had a passion for expressing myself behind a camera. I love fashion and all the different things I could do with it. I enjoy having the spotlight.
What is your favorite art piece that you have done and why?I would say the Pepsi Promotion I’ve done has got to be my favorite thus far. It was a great experience, I got the chance to travel to many different towns and met a lot of wonderful people. What is your artistic style?(is it more of a peaceful, playful, grundgy, crisp...bold... etc) I would say my style is a mixture, I’m more so on the playful side. Fun, Classy, bold, edgy, peaceful If you could be compared to an artist or artwork/ book/philosopher, what would you be? Artist : Brandy, Monica, Yandi
Who or what inspires you to create your work? Tyra Banks. My family, friends, and even strangers has always asked if I model and if not that I should definitely go for it. Watching shows like America’s Next Top Model has always inspired me to push harder to become a model.
What is one thing you would like to say to other artist who are trying to grow in the same field as you are? Never let anyone tell you that your dream is not possible or too big just because it may not have worked out for them.
How does your life play a role in your work? My life consists of shopping, helping others, committing to fashion organizations and modeling troupes. I keep myself involved in as many opportunities possible that relates to my dream of becoming a super model. Staying motivated and dedicated to my passion keeps megoing and lifted, my best work is when I’m doing something I love. On a daily basis I simply continue to be the best me I can be.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I see myself living comfortable in a nice home, maybe in New York, Atlanta, or Miami. Modeling as many clothing lines possible, in commercials, magazines, fashion shows, and just simply progressing to new heights in this field. As well as providing my services to children, families, and couples as a Clinical Psychologist.
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Some of us know what we wanted to do as children. Others, like myself, were late bloomers, but that didn’t make my passion any less. Fashion has been a way for people to express themselves for years. This is definitely the gift that I’ve been granted for expression. This line is dedicated to the unique, super cool, beautiful but weird ladies all over. If this is you, do what we do best; SHOP! -- Laijia Robinson
Photographer: Tevin Baskerville 45
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SPOTLIGHT Brandon Bell
Name: Brandon Bell (B.BellZ) || Location: Greensboro, NC || Type of Artist: Videography & Beat Producer//Rap Artist How long have you been doing (form of art)? I been doing Videography for 2 years and making beats for 3 years. I been making music all my life, my mom and dad were both in gospel groups growing up so I always had that musical bloodline in me. When I was young I always performed in talent shows or doing something that involved music. What made you pursue your form of art? I’m a well-rounded individual, music comes naturally to me. Videography is my main focus now a days though. I wanted to pursue something different that still had a music platform. I feel as though I’m a creative person, so my love for music and being creative made me pursue videography and making beats. Who or what inspires you to create your work? My past inspires me. I grew up in a small town where no one really makes it out. There were never studios, people who made videos, or role models to help you make it. I want to be that person the people look at and say he came from nothing and he made. I also want to be that person to help the next main live his dream. That’s my way of giving back. My past drives me and inspires me to be the best at what I do which is make beats and videography. How does your life play a role in your work? My life plays a major role in my work. I like to create real music and make real music videos. I like to create images that people can relate to. I graduated from Elizabeth City State University and I have a Masters in Public Administration. So with my education I try to use what I’ve learned over the years and display it within my craft. I’m not out here doing random acts of violence or selling drugs. I’m a college boy who likes music, so that comes off in my work and affects it in a positive manner.
What is your favorite art piece that you have done and why? My favorite piece of art that I have done so far would have to be a music video that I done for a fellow artist by the name of Bleach out of Murfreesboro NC. I recently did his video for his song entitled “TheTruth”. It was my best work yet and the song had a positive message that people loved. What is your artistic style?(is it more of a peaceful, playful, grundgy, crisp...bold... etc) My style is well-rounded, I don’t like being put in a category or box. I like to explore and try new things because if you stay in that same lane people will expect the same outcome every time. My style is unpredictable. If you could be compared to an artist or artwork/ book/philosopher, what would you be? If I could be compared to any artist it would be Kanye West. I choose Kanye because he is very talented and diverse. He makes beats, and he does music. You never know what you’ll get when you hear something from Kanye. The element of surprise pleases most people, I like that. What is one thing you would like to say to other artist who are trying to grow in the same field as you are? How does your music describe you? Keep pushing never give up on your dream. My music describes me as talented, powerful, and breathtaking. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In five years I see myself being my brother’s manager. I manage my baby brother “Akward” he is an up and coming rap artist with tons of energy and I believe he has what it takes to make it. What is the best way to contact you if someone is interested in either booking you or purchasing your work? The best way to reach me is by Email: bellrbrandon@gmail.com Twitter: @bbellz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbellz Website: www.bellzbeatz.com || www.akwardstreetteam.com
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I LIKE MY MAN
SUMMERTIME
FINE By: Britney Jones
Spring/Summer time has finally ridden up on its golden chariot, about time! Now we can see men’s fashion how it should be.
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Photographer: Tevin Baskerville
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Men’s fashion has definitely enhanced. We are adopting a lot of the European styles from skinny fitted jeans, bright colors, carrying manly bags, sandals, and wearing fedoras. I must say it’s daring for most men but I absolutely love it. Looking at the color trends for the season and fashion trends for men excite me. Men are getting into wearing white skinny jeans, Bermuda shorts with patterns, and pretty paste colors. Bronchez (model) is wearing some street style pieces you may see this spring.
There are so many ways you can style these pieces; button up used as layering pieces under vest or on top of a V-neck t-shirt, skinnies cuffed at the button topped off with a paper boy hat and t-shirts used for a relaxed look, or cargo shorts with a t-shirt and boat shoes and to accessorize it up, throw on the hippie shades for the 70’s look. Bright colors, sophistication, different, and daring are what we hope to see!
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SPOTLIGHT
image shot by: AJR photography
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Brianna Green Name: Brianna Nicole Green. Location: Durham, North Carolina Type of Artist: Model & Actress
How long have you been doing (form of art)? I have been modeling and acting for about three years now.
What made you pursue your form of art? Ever since I was little, I always loved taking pictures and being in front of the camera no one could ever take my shine or doubt my confidence. In everything I did I always had to be fashionable. I always did fashion shows and enjoyed being on stage with a big crowd and lights, which lead me to believe i wanted the whole world to see that!
Who or what inspires you to create your work? God, Keke Palmer and Eva Marcille
How does your life play a role in your work? I enjoy being around people and being upbeat all the time basically being myself, and I love fashion and dressing individuals, putting together outfits. I’m constantly taking pictures and videotaping. I’m very outspoken to the world and have a huge heart and a showcasing personality. I believe that all these things play a role in my work.
What is your favorite art piece that you have done and why? I would have to say the movie I was in “The Remaining” had to be my most favorite piece I have done! Why? Because I got to see actors and actresses I’ve only seen on a screen, and do all the perks of acting and I got to do what I do best and be pretty and dolled up like a model in the movie! Meeting new people other than what I’m used to was amazing. Getting my make-up done and touched up on set was amazing can’t forget the food they served me with. Along with all the FUN.!
What is your artistic style?(is it more of a peaceful, playful, Grungy, crisp...bold... etc)? Bold, Classy, Expressive ,Animal Prints, Spiritual & Entertaining.
If you could be compared to an artist or artwork/book/philosopher, what would you be? Book: “It’s not how good you are, but how good you want to be” Author: Paul Arden Artists: Solange Knowles, Teyana Taylor
What is one thing you would like to say to other artist who are trying to grow in the same field as you are? How long did it take for you to figure out that you wanted to continue this career pathway, and that it was your calling to be successful?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? First off I see myself giving thanks to God because I pray to see 5 years from now, But I see myself in Hollywood or Florida with a nice place. Putting in work modeling designer clothes and acting starring in a lot of movies making decent money giving back to my community, Parents. Counseling married couples and kids.
What is the best way to contact you if someone is interested in either booking you or purchasing your work? Best way to contact me. By phone or email, I will always respond. Phone: (919)699-5789 Email: Bri_Green24@yahoo.com
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FIND YOUR
OWN THIS ONE IS MINE Style: The mode of expressing your own thoughts through clothing. Having your own personal style is effortless. You can simply throw on a black trash bag and be identified as having your own “style”. I believe having your own style is expressing freedom through clothing. I’m PERSONAL STYLE’S biggest fan. When you can walk outside looking like an individual, it’s the best feeling.
Don’t get me wrong, trends are awesome to follow but it’s supposed to be used as inspiration. Wouldn’t you rather look separable from the crowd, than look LIKE the crowd? Embrace your freedom and use people, nature, runway trends as an inspirational look book and live on the edge with your clothes!
(Send your personal style inspirations to noirfashion@gmail.com) Check out some of the personal styles that our NOIR models would like you to see!
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Photographer: Tevin Baskerville 57
Ashle
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Personal style can be described as the expression of your personality, tastes and preferences as reflected in your decor and clothes choice.When i get dressed and choose my outfit it is not so i can fit in with society but so i can stand out among all people. My personality and attitude plays a part in my personal style. I love bright colors, patterns, textures, etc. I am very much inspired by celebrities such as Ariana Grande and Leigh-Anne Pinnock. A large part of my personal style comes from choosing clothing that complement my petite frame, while showing some skin and leaving something to the imagination. I try to keep a good mixture of classic pieces, like black leather pumps, black slacks, and pencil skirts, and I also mix in current trends, like mini dresses, platform pumps, and bubble skirts.
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“A large part of my personal style comes from choosing clothing that complement my petite frame, while showing some skin and leaving something to the imagination.�
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Bronchez My definition of personal style is anything you put on to accentuate your attitude. I think society tries to label a person’s style as “urban,” “preppy,” etc. but there truly is no label for someone’s individual style. Your style is whatever you feel like wearing at that moment. I’m a very sporadic and wild person but can be extremely laid back at the same time. I love graphic tees and accessorizing with wooden bracelets and hemp necklaces. When I choose an outfit in the morning, I choose solely based on how an outfit makes me feel. If I look in the mirror and say “eh, it’s alright,” that’s not the outfit of the day. However, if I look in the mirror and I get a warm, fuzzy feeling inside, I know I’ve found that day’s outfit.
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www.bphotodesigns.com tevinb@bphotodesigns.com 704-953-8578 65
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SPOTLIGHT * My name is Emilio Rios and I’m from San Jose California, but born and raised in Bogota, Colombia South America. I like to create a variety of art but I’m a Graphic Designer mostly. * I’ve been creating graphic design art for over a year and a half now. * Being in school I took many art, and media design classes and courses that really influenced me and encouraged me to follow my passion and create art. As time goes by newer and newer technology is being developed that can be used to design some really innovating and eye catching things! * Media, technology and advertisements inspire me to create my work, every day information is transferred around the world, but not all of it is really looked at unless it’s different or innovative. As a designer, creating work that will interest the common people is one of my main goals. * Being a graphic designer can be very time consuming, but if it’s what you love to do then it won’t even seem like you’re working. I personally like to keep busy with other activities as well as staying social and meeting new people. The more I experience, travel and learn the easier it is for me to design new things that will be entertaining.
intriguing that would really emphasize the car and the idea behind the design. * My artistic style is very clean, sleek, and simple. I believe that sometimes less is more when designing. * I would love to be compared to Steve Jobs, by the way that he was an innovator and entrepreneur in creating his own business and company and never giving up on his dreams and passion. * As an artist/designer I encourage everyone to give art a try because there are so many mediums and ways that you can be an artist. Don’t ever give up on your passions and goals, because in the end if you’re happy then nothing else will matter. * In five years I see myself. Owning my own business, on my way to becoming the CEO of a marketing/ graphic design company. Following my passion with my family, friends always next to me celebrating my goals and success with me * At the moment the best way that you can contact me for any design work will be through my email at emilio10rios@gmail.com, you can view my work at: www.facebook.com/EmilioRiosDesigns and www.Instagram.com/EmilioRiosDesigns, but keep on the lookout as my company will keep on expanding!
* One of my favorite pieces that I have done has to be an awesome car design that I created for “SXE10 Crew Central” in Kentucky. I really enjoyed designing this car ad because I was given a simple photograph of a car and I had to go through the process of creating something
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68 NOIR magazine
lookbook
BY: Olivia
Jonn
When I wake up in the morning the last thing on my mind is clothes, it’s more likehitting the snooze button five or six times begging for more sleep. I usually think about what I’m going to wear the night before, it’s easier because in my sleep I think about what I have and how I can wear it. I know it’s weird, I dream about clothes but that’s when I’m the most creative. I reflect on outfits I’ve seen at work and throughout the day and piece together my outfit!
Photographer: Tevin Baskerville 69
She Has
Style Sm Simple chic is what I call it with an accent of attitude. This simple skater dress was getting really boring so I tried a different way to style it. My inspiration at the time was schoolgirl gone fashionable. The retro shades and bowler hat gave the outfit a bold and chic look.
Take a look at the school girl socks, remember these!?
Outfit detailsBowler Hat: Forever 21 Retro Shades: Amazon Tiger Dress: H&M White-collar button up: The Limited Frilly Socks: Target Steve Madden Buckle Boots: DSW
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marts
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MISS
ST. PA
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ATTY’S
DAY I thought about this outfit around Saint Patrick’s Day. What better way to be over prepared with the different shades of green? This olive green jacket turned down my loud lime green lace halter crop top, making it easy to wear to work. I paired it with my oversized boyfriend jeans to give the outfit a sexy tom boy-ish look. I polished the look with my neutral snakeskin pumps. The texture from the lace and the snakeskin makes the outfit fun and different.
Polka Dot detail on my cuffed sleeve
Outfit detailsKnit Jacket: The Limited Lace Halter Crop Top: F21 Boyfriend Jeans: The Limited Snake Skin Textured pumps: Target
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EYE CATCH Fun colors and patterns for a night out with friends and to make the outfit appropriate for night I threw on my black and white strappy heels with a gold bottom to compliment my gold jewelry. I love mixing and matching fun patterns that people wouldn’t expect to put together. I match the top half of the outfit and surprised the bottom half with stripes and a basic statement of black and white, which made the colors, pop!
Outfit detailsFloral Jacket: JcPenney (Nicole Miller) Sleeveless Bow tie shirt: The Limited Black and white striped skort: F21 Black/White/Gold strappy heels: Target
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HER
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76 NOIR magazine
SPRING HAS SPRUNG
I found this cute floral top that reminded me of the bottom of the ocean on a clearance rack and I just to have it! I thought the purple pants made the aqua blue and orange color stand out more. I saw the coral color hiding at the bottom and wanted to bring it out in my wedge heels. I’m sure your could play around with different color accessories to make the outfit more fun but I chose to KISS (keep it simple stupid) it and stick with my big gold hoops and gold knotted necklace. It helps focus on the beautiful colors and patterns.
Outfit detailsPeter Pilotto racer back blouse: Target Exact Stretch Skinny Pants: The Limited Coral Wedge heels: Charlotte Russe Gold-knotted chain necklace: The Limited
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78 NOIR magazine
&
The Vamps The Wolves The editor has a thing for Vampires and Werewolves. Here are some images from his shoot where he portrayed the personas through fashion!
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