The September Issue
MADE IN THE MECCA
A behind-the-scenes look at some of Howard’s top student-run design companies.
D.I.V.A. ON DEMAND Divine Intricate Vintage Acssesories
Who Runs D.I.V.A.? Courtney Thompson, Rocky Hill, Conn., senior marketing major Do you run it with anyone? Not at this time, but I am in the process of expanding my business. Therefore, I am searching for others who have are filled with passion, drive and professionalism. What do you think separates you from the thousands of other budding designers/jewelers in the country? My company has three core competencies that separates me from my competitors. The first advantage is based on the uniqueness and quality of the products being sold. These accessories are one of a kind, vintage accessories, handpicked by myself. The second advantage is that my services are virtually accessible 24 hours. Even though many competitors are only in service on the weekends, D.I.V.A On Demand is accessible to its clients 24 hours due to its convenient in house location in the East Towers. My final advantage is how I create a personalized shopping experienced for every client. I do not simply aim to sell product, but instead I try to match the client with the most suitable accessory to compliment the clients’ own unique style and personality. I genuinely aim to make my customers feel good about themselves, the accessories and supporting my business. What’s your inspiration behind your designs or collections? The inspiration behind D.I.V.A on Demand really comes from its name. ‘Divine’ comes from the power that God has instilled in me to be able to do all that I can for my business and clients. It also comes from the thought that everyone has their own divine power within them and the way they carry themselves plays a part on illustrating that strength. ‘Intricate’ comes from the need for my accessories to be beautiful, unique and elaborate pieces. ‘Vintage’ comes from this particular love of the industry, where you can essentially embrace old styles with modern swag. Finally, ‘Accessories’ is the description of what is actually being sold which is also not limiting to the line because the word accessory encompasses so many different facets. Therefore together this acronym represents all of those elements as well as the power that a Diva possesses. Where can students go to buy your merchandise? Accessories can be purchased through appointments at any time for personal consultations in my boutique located in the East Towers. Also, I frequent different events throughout campus such as ELI’s Black Market place where black owned business showcase their product on Fridays from 12-5pm. Appointments can be made by phone or email. (860)849-3968 or youdemandiva@gmail.com or courtneye03@gmail.com . Who Runs It? - Tanzania Bridgett (aka Taz/Tanze), Telecommunications Management major, Hampton, Va., is CEO Founder and President. - Christon Darden, Sports Medicine major, Hampton, Va., is Chief Operations Officer. - Kevin Copeland of Hampton, Va., Vice president. What eparates Anceztaz from others? The fact that it is an urban brand with a meaning behind it. Every article of clothing has a story behind it that parallels to the overall meaning of the clothing line. Another distinctive aspect of the clothing line is the logo which is a unique combination of all of the letters in the word Anceztaz. What type of pieces do you make? The brand consists of pieces such as tee shirts, cardigan sweaters, sweatshirts, polo shirts, and button up shirts. What’s your inspiration behind your designs or collections? The inspirations behind the designs for the clothing line are different aspects of history and historical figures, known and no so well known. The word Anceztaz is pronounced “Ancestors” which is important because the line uses ancestry as a basis for its designs. What should we (HU students) expect next? Anceztaz Clothing has many various endeavors coming in the near future, but the most recent that Howard students can look forward to is the cut and sew line coming very soon. The details of this line cannot be released as of yet; however, it will be something new and improved for the line. How is your style reflected in your designs? My style is reflected through my designs because the clothing I make is very urban, and my style is also urban. I am a college student meaning I know what kind of clothing my main consumers, which are college students, like and what I like; therefore, reflecting it in the style of my clothing. Where can students go to buy your merchandise? Students can purchase the clothing online at the website, www.AnceztazClothingCo. com. The clothing will also soon be featured in a boutique in Hampton, Va, called Almighty Soul Crew.
A N C E Z T A Z 10
C L O T H I N G
The Hilltop