February Issue

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Spring Collection Dropping Soon





8 Editors letter 10 Style Profile: Cole 16 Celebirty Stylist Profile: Law Roach 20 Style Profile: Adriana

Strength in Vulnerability 26 Style Profile: Steve 32 Maya’s True Self 38 CRAZY, SEXY, COOL 50 Denim on Denim 52

68 The New Genertion of Rap Girls 72 Sunchild 82 NYFW Inside

Photography by @elivisuals, @pradapharaoh

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Kyle Mells

Editor in Chief

Asha Alaji-Sharif Vice Editor in Chief

Arielle Williams Managing Editor

Deni Dedmon Executive Editor

Laura Richmond Fashion News Editor

Jean Jackson

Culture News Editor

Shainya Frazier Beauty News Editor

Kayla McSwain Creative Director

Nkiru Emelle Creative Director

Amber Paige Visual Editor

Kyrstain Green Visual Editor

Sashanie Keise Copy Editor

Sarah Swint Copy Editor

Maia Pina Head Stylist

Nadirah Alford

Head Creative Director

Christopher Williamson Executive

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Letter from the editor

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appy Black History Month!!!! What a time to be black and beautiful! This issue’s cover star Maya Wiley, a stylist and digital creator, is someone I have respected from the jump. The way she carries herself, her style, and her brand has always been high class while showing humility. So when I decided the February issue would be a style issue, she was one of the top people I wanted to be the cover. She was ultimately chosen, because I felt like she needed the recognition as a stylist, like our very own fashion news editor Laura Richmond. I felt their talents haven’t gotten the recognition they truly deserved. With that being said she’s still growing and is only progressing over time so I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the future. I hope to maintain our friendship, because we will be seeing each other at the top.

Style. Something that plays such a big role in everyone’s life even if you’re not into fashion. Style is something that can’t be taught, it’s something you find on your own. You can copy and paste someone’s clothes but you can’t copy and paste their style. You can’t own their style, because you’re not them. That being said, I’m still on my style journey. I’ve been dabbling in a lot of styles such as Skater, Hypebeast, high fashion, artist, and recently minimal fashion editor. All I’m saying is, style takes time. In this issue we introduce 3 style profiles of up and coming creatives: Nicole, Steve, and Adriana. All hand-picked and shot by me so I can’t wait for yall to get a glimpse

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of three distinct styles along with their philosophy on style. ALSO LETS TALK ABOUT ME ON THE CAMERA!!! The style profiles and one of the shoots in this issue were shot by me. I’m quite proud of myself, especially for the shoot with Shalamar and Marci. Without further ado enjoy The February Issue: The Style Issue.


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Nicole Orr

Sanford

Style Profile

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photograghy by Kyle Mells


What’s the process when it comes to dressing? Usually i start off by deciding if I wanna give a street look or if I wanna be on more of the classy side and then after that I just base my outfit off of pieces I really want to wear. I never start with top or bottoms specifically. As far as accessories I always have a standard chain but I lose all my rings so i don’t have any right now lmao but I would be wearing one or two all the time usually. Where are your go-to places to shop?

“Style is just what ever makes you feel good and is truly you to the max.”

My go to places to shop are thrift stores always, ever since I started thrifting I can’t pay full prices when I know thrift stores have doper pieces than retail stores for less. I like actual thrift stores too not ones like buffalo exchange, it’s not as fun. What is your style philosophy? My style philosophy, I say style is just what ever makes you feel good and is truly you to the max. Style is definitely a lot less about the brand and more how you add your personal touch. Anytime I put something on and I dance in the mirror I know it’s a good one, I think everyone should do the same lol.

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THEE IMAGE

ARCHITECT, BY LAW by laura richmand

Thank god for social media, and standing the potential of having a real thank god for the Kollin Carters of career as a stylist during a time where the world and the Jason Ramberts and social media didn’t exist. “I didn’t the Jason Bolders--people who are understand--well this was pre-social really showing the kids that’s coming media--I didn’t understand you could behind us that you can really make have a viable career in fashion.” He it and be successful. And not only be delves deeper into societal viewpoints successful, but live in abundance. I for what a career meant at the time think that’s the most important thing.” he was entering adulthood. “Fashion direct quote from the Image was a hobby. You know when we grew Architect trademark king, Law up, it’s like you go to school, you get a Roach, also known as Luxury Law, job.” He says it wasn’t until the Rachel during a panel discussion at the EsZoe Project that he realized one could sence Fashion House 2020 which I was “live and thrive” a certain way in the fortunate enough to attend. Although industry of fashion. The Rachel Zoe Essence Fashion House isn’t listed as Project was one of the first real shows being a part of NYFW officially, it felt on television showcasing the work of a like the best way to end this NYFW celebrity stylist, and essentially allowseason. Great conversation, advice ing the public to see how much of a and commonly unknown background necessity stylists are to the industry. on how the Chicago native launched Law says, “It wasn’t really until the his career from the ground up. Law Rachel Zoe project came out that I Roach, born and understood that raised in Chicago, Law is a part of the collective who you could live and Illinois grew up thrive a certain way paved the way for people like myaround womself and our Editor-in-Chief, Kyle, in this business… en and loving because where he didn’t see anyone and then it really women, so it was wasn’t anybody who looked like him, he gave us almost inevitawho looked like someone that looked like us. ble that he’d be me that was doing iconic in dressing it.” And that was women. Before moving to Los Angeles, the line that struck us all. When you Law owned a vintage shop in Chicago think about stylists who have been reand Harlem called Deliciously Vinsponsible for some of the most iconic tage, which is where, he says, was the looks, today it is only men and women start of his styling career. During the of color that instantly come to mind. panel, when asked where it all started, Law is a part of the collective who he touched on the struggle of underpaved the way for people like myself

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and our Editor-in-Chief, Kyle, beTiffany Haddish, Anne Hathaway, and cause where he didn’t see anyone who the list could continue. looked like him, he gave us someone that looked like us. Rightfully so, he is the first ever African-American stylist to be on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter’s ‘Stylists & Stars’ issue. He embraces his role as being one of the few stylists of color to make such groundbreaking history, and he owns it in his own right. In the panel, he talked about how although gaining Zendaya as a client was a big win for him, many designers didn’t recognize it that way. He talks about how Zendaya has never worn Gucci, Chanel, Valentino and many more because at the start of their career together, those designers were uninterested in dressing a Black actress/artist for the benefit of a Black stylist. “She never wore them and never say never, but she will continue to not wear them because if you weren’t giving us the opportunity then why Image from The Zoe Report should we give you the opportunity now.” lthough he credits Barbie as his first client, Law’s launch to fame began with Zendaya. According to CFDA, in an interview, when asked about working with clients, Law tells this brief story: “A woman who was a client of the store was a really good friend of Zendaya’s dad. I’ll never forget this: [Zendaya] was going to Justin Bieber’s ‘Never Say Never’ premiere and she didn’t have anything to wear. They were going shopping and the client said, ‘Law said he’s a stylist, you should go along.’ So I did, and we’ve been together ever since.” Once he moved to LA, his name had already been in conversations and his foot already in the door. His clientele grew to Celine Dion, as he became well-known for transforming her into a fashion icon overnight, Ariana Grande, Demi Image from Chicago Magazine Lovato, Mary J Blige, Tom Holland,

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He takes full pride in being responsible for some of the toughest looks to ever touch the red carpet. The portfolio is as follows:

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Law’s influence on the industry has inspired so many young creatives to go beyond what is expected of them. He calls himself an image architect based on what he felt his position was for his clients, and how he embraced it as being more than just a stylist. “It was very similar to what an architect does for a building, right. So you survey the land, you figure out what the project is going to be, then you hire the independent contractors to come in. I felt like because I was doing so much research on trying to figure out who the girl should be or who she wanted to be, or who she could be, it just felt like more. So I just didn’t want to limit myself by calling myself a stylist.” Legally, he is the only image architect in the world and has “no problem sending a cis and disease letter to anybody who tries to use it.” To me, that is the best way to give your clients the best results. By looking at their style desires almost as an art or construction project. To think about what works for them from all angles, inside and outside the aspect of clothing. Mentoring other fresh stylists like Kollin Carter, celebrity stylist to Cardi B, and sharing his story only reminds us how possible it is. That is something he embraces wholeheartedly. “Private jets, the Birkins and all that--all that shit is fun but really what it means is that if I can do it you can do it. I came from nothing. I will never go back to that.”

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Adriana Fra zier Style Profile

Philadelphia

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photograghy by Kyle Mells


What’s the process when it comes to dressing? When I get dressed in the morning, I pick one statement piece (rather a shirt pants or accessory), and plan my outfit around that certain piece. I really like working with colors as well (matching accessories to colors in clothes, playing with complimentary colors). Where are your go-to places to shop? Recently, I have been challenging myself to try to not consume any fast fashion, so I get a lot of my clothes from thrifting, consignment shops, and smaller brands off instagram. Before that I was a huge fan of Urban Outfitters, but honestly most of the stuff they come out with really is not groundbreaking. Anyone looking to evolve their style, I would recommend leaning off Urban, because most of the clothes can be limiting. I love depop, especially when I am looking for something really specific. If I cheat, I’ll probably buy something off of dollskill or Urban Outfitters if I they have something that I feel would add to my wardrobe.

outward, it looks better than trying to force yourself to wear something else.

“I try to pick an outfit based off of how I am feeling. Sometimes I want to dress in bright colors, or be super feminine or just wear sweats”

What is your style philosophy? I am a big believer of it does not matter where you shop, but how you style items that really make an outfit. You don’t need to keep up with trends to be stylish, or shop at super expensive stores. I think the best styles reflect the wearer’s personality. When I get ready in the morning, I try to pick an outfit based off of how I am feeling. Sometimes I want to dress in bright colors, or be super feminine or just wear sweats. Not to be corny but when you are confident in what you are wearing and your inner feelings are reflected

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Strength in Vulnerability: Is That the Key to Good Art? by Ahnayah Hughes

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was at a camp in the 7th grade when a group of girls screamed at their phones that Frank Ocean was gay. It was the summer of 2012. Headbands were cool again, and “I Love Boobies” bracelets were a thing of the past. The world was in fear of a miscalculated “doomsday” as predicted by the Mayans. Obama was making his rounds throughout the U.S. on his way to a second term, and Michelle was still peddling for healthy meals in school cafeterias. Frank Ocean’s heartfelt ballad “Thinkin’ Bout You” dominated radio stations and was illegally downloaded onto almost every iPod Touch making it an unexpected anthem that has proven to pass the test of time. I, like many others I know, spent most of that summer and the school year that followed dodging boys who dedicated the track to me as “our song”. They sent it through SoundCloud links, played it when I walked on the bus or attempted to serenade me on my way to class. Despite displaying an obvious fondness to the track, whenever they sang their off-key renditions they almost always altered the line “my eyes don’t shed tears, but boy they bawl, when I’m thinkin’ bout you”. n an open letter posted to his Tumblr account, Ocean revealed that his debut album Channel Orange, was, in part, inspired by a man—his first love. Suddenly the lyrics on “Thinkin’ Bout You” started to make a bit more sense and older songs on Nostalgia, Ultra were analyzed for their queer subtext. Frank Ocean was out for the whole

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world to see. The raw and unfiltered emotion expressed in the letter served as a prelude to the intimate and tender sounds of Channel Orange. That summer, Ocean established himself as an artist to watch and we have yet to take our eyes off him. Ocean’s post is arguably one of the most important moments in queer and music history. Here, in a genre that is so often dominated by the notions of masculinity and virility, you have a young, Black, alt-R&B artist on the brink of mainstream success, publicly announcing something that many entertainers wouldn’t dare speak about. Although the music industry (and society as a whole) has become much more inclusive of the LGBT+ community as the years come and go, at the time, Ocean’s reveal could have deterred his success. But it didn’t. To this day, I believe that letter is one of the most courageous and impassioned pieces of prose I have ever read. If I wasn’t already a fan then, I became one that day. cean’s talents as a songwriter are incomparable to artists of his time. Under his pen, a track about ancient pharaohs and strip clubs, are regarded as ten minutes of lyrical genius. Channel Orange has gone one to reach icon status, and after years of false release dates for an album the world thought would never come, Ocean reminded us of his mastery with his follow up album, Blonde. Critics often accredited Ocean’s magic to his ability to be so vulnerable, yet so unafraid in his lyricism. “Strength in vulnerability” was a phrase used in

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nearly every album review to describe his sincerity and style. As a young writer attempting to develop their own voice, I embraced the idea of “strength in vulnerability” with open arms. From then on my work centered around the pure, unadulterated truth—my truth. For years, I believed that moving my heart from my sleeve and onto the paper was the key to creating real, powerful art. I wrote poems and prose and plays that addressed the most intimate and hidden parts of my being; because, like Ocean, I wanted to demonstrate the power one possesses when they are unafraid in their craft. hich is why last September, when Ocean told W Magazine in an interview that he no longer believed that idea to be true, I felt as though the entire foundation of my life as a writer fell from beneath my feet. “I believed for a very long time that there was strength in vulnerability, and I really don’t believe that anymore. “Strength” and “vulnerability” sound opposite as words. And so to combine them sounds wise, but I don’t know if it is wise. It’s just this realization that hit me: “Oh, right, it’s a choice whether you will be truthful or a liar.” If I start to tell a story and then I decide not to tell the story anymore, I can stop. It’s my story. The expectation for artists to be vulnerable and truthful is a lot, you know?—when it’s no longer a choice. Like, in order for me to satisfy expectations, there needs to be an outpouring of my heart or my experiences in a very truthful,

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vulnerable way. I’m more interested in lies than that. Like, give me a full motion-picture fantasy.” I empathize with his sentiment that the pressure to constantly expose your truth can be emotionally and creatively taxing. Since “Thinkin’ Bout You” fans have expected Ocean’s music to touch their hearts and transcend their emotional consciousness. It is understandable that any artist would want to divert from such a sensitive form of storytelling, but this was Ocean’s niche. The surprise release of “DHL” last October was the world’s glimpse into this new era of Frank Ocean’s career. He doesn’t croon about love and loss over idyllic instrumentals but raps rather boastfully about money, sex, and drugs. This idea of the “motion-picture fantasy” is not a new one. For decades artists have told narratives that are not their own and exaggerated feelings they may not possess. In songs, films, visual artwork, and all other forms of creativity, there is always the expectation of some sort of embellishment. When asked by The Quietus in 2011 how much of his personal experiences went into the production of Nostalgia, Ultra, Ocean exclaimed “I don’t do cocaine for breakfast!” in reference to his single, “Novacane”. Within nearly every song, Ocean has applied a number of symbols and metaphors to convey his messages, thoughts, and feelings, so why the change in methodology? I was at a loss on how to grapple with Ocean’s denouncement of “strength in vulnerability”. I thought about the day I first heard the organ start up

“To this day, I believe that letter is one of the most courageous and impassioned pieces of prose I have ever read. If I wasn’t already a fan then, I became one that day.”

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on “Forrest Gump”. I thought about the way my heart fluttered when he crooned by the glow of a fake campfire at the 2012 Video Music Awards. I thought about the letter. As artists evolve it is only natural for their opinions to shift with them, but Ocean’s desire to retreat from this artistic style caused me to reevaluate the ways in which I created and consumed art: When we produce art should we tell the whole truth or create a new narrative? When we interact with art should we attempt to uncover its hidden meaning or accept it at face value? These questions have an array of answers that can only be navigated by the artist themself. Although by definition they aren’t compatible, I do believe that there is strength in vulnerability. The decision to put pieces of yourself into your work is one of the bravest things one can do as an artist; nevertheless, it is a decision. Ocean explained that it becomes overwhelming when the option to choose is absent; however, there is always a choice. As an artist, you have complete control of how much of yourself you wish to reveal to your audience. You can bare your soul with your own “Thinkin’ Bout You”or tell a whole new tale similar to “DHL”. You can demonstrate one of these things, or both, and even change your mind, but it is always at your discretion. We should all be granted free range in the display of our own narratives. With this realization, I can now understand why Frank Ocean would insist on changing his ways. In 2012, that song set a precedent for Ocean’s musical talents and abilities, and although the formula propelled him to superstardom, he has the right to change it. That is something I had to come to terms with as a fan, and an artist. I’ll always have the letter. I’ll

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always have Channel Orange and the bus stop memories attached to it. I’ll always have the “strength in vulnerability” version of Ocean within arms reach. If this new side of Frank Ocean is anything like the other, we’ll be talking about it for years to come.

When we produce art should we tell the whole truth or create a new narrative? When we interact with art should we attempt to uncover its hidden meaning or accept it at face value?


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Steve Hudson Style Profile

Los Angeles

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photograghy by Kyle Mells


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What’s the process when it comes to dressing? when it comes to dressing I always start with the pants, your pants really make the outfit, if your pants are unique it stands out more than anything else, so from the pants I go to the top and then down to the shoes to see what shoes coordinate the best Where are your go-to places to shop? My go to places to shop are Depop, Grailed, and then just other underground online brands I just stumble across, I’ve made it a point this year to cop from each friend who has their own brand. What is your style philosophy? I believe you should express emotion and personality in your style. Styling to me is telling a story through the clothing. Ex. You’re a hardcore person and love the heavy metal scene, I should sense that through your style or or you want to be seen as a chill laid back person, wear Hawaiian button up tees and some shorts and ppl can sense your personality through your style. Thats why everyone’s style is personal to them

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“I believe you should express emotion and personality in your style.�

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photograghy by Rashad oliver

maya in her skin 38

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aya Wiley is a Rising Wardrobe Stylist, Creative Visionary, and Digital Creator attending Howard University. Upon her arrival at Howard, the LOVEMAYAXO brand was born naturally from recognition through her digital content and influence on social media platforms. During her freshman year, Maya created a personal shopping and styling service geared toward college students looking to re-invent themselves on a budget called HURevamped that remains active today. Through her work, Maya aims to cultivate visions and curate a style that reflects an elevated lifestyle in an everyday setting. After HU, her goals include pursuing a degree in fashion and working as an editorial and celebrity stylist through media outlets like GQ & Vogue.

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CRAZY, SEXY, COOL: MY FAVORITE GO-TO STYLES by laura richmand

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rowing up in New York, I had a lot of freedom in trying new styles and finding out which looks worked for me. I think a lot of people believe you have to have one aesthetic or style and only stick to that one “look”. Fortunate enough for me, exploring in different styles is what helped me realize how much I love the versatility within fashion, and how I could actually build a career out of my passion. Being that everything I do has a fashion base, I try to be conscious and smart about my go-to styles. I define go-to styles as your go-to chosen styles on your off-days. Off-days are essentially days where you don’t have a lot of time to plan out a dynamic outfit--maybe it’s laundry day--and you’re pulling out a look that says “my selection is frugal right now but I can still dress”. Being that I don’t like to stick to generic styles (i.e. boho chic, city girl, beach babe, etc.), I always change up my look. However, the general vibe of my go-to styles are, more likely than not, “crazy, sexy, cool”. Sometimes it’s just crazy and sexy, other days crazy and cool, on occasion sexy and cool, but one way or another I incorporate two of the three. My closet consists more of pieces rather than clothes, which is the best way to keep an interesting wardrobe as well as style for the off-days. Whether it be a vintage pair of pants, a one of a kind jacket, or a really dope pair of sneakers, if I don’t feel like planning a

well-thought out look, I throw one of these pieces on with a plain top/bottom and I am ready to go. My general umbrella styles are street and business casual, and then I turn those into a subcategorized style with a made-up name. For example, I can wear a pair of FuBu jeans, a plain name brand hoodie, and a long overcoat, but I will then add a silk white print scarf and style it as a babushka. For my business casual looks, I use business as the base (a button up shirt and slacks) and then add some sort of twist to it. An example of this look would be a pair of navy blue pinstripe slacks, a hot pink striped button up shirt with cut-up sleeves, my pink velvet Air Force 1s (gold tips on the laces) and a handbag with a long belt strap. Part of the construction of a look like that is just wearing what I like, combined with coordinating without making an effort to do so (probably because I have so many button up shirts and thrifted slacks). A lot of go-to styles heavily utilize accessories. If you still want to make a statement without doing a deep dive on pinterest for “cool looks in NYC during the winter,” you ideally want to also have a strong accessories closet. That can range from scarves, hats, necklaces, earrings, rings and, of course, shoes. You are less likely to come across a statement with shoes than you are with jewelry. Most of the jewelry I’ve found to set off my looks have been found at vintage shops

“the general vibe of my go-to styles are, more likely than not, “crazy, sexy, cool”

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such as L-Train Vintage and Buffalo Exchange. Thrifting, or second-hand shopping, is not as taboo as it was in decades before, where thrifting meant you were “poor”. No matter how much of that is true for me personally, thrifting is where I have acquired 90% of my best pieces and how I started to build what I call my “lifelong wardrobe.” lthough I do a lot of second-hand shopping, brands that I look to for inspiration on style and aesthetic are IAmGia the Label, Louis Vuitton’s Streetwear collection, and whichever looks stand out to me on my day out. The freedom of expression through style embraced by many in NYC, as the diversity in a crowd goes beyond measure, gives me a number of ideas from looks one could only see to believe.

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Denim on

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modeling by Shalamar and Marsi


n denim photograghy by Kyle Mells Creative direction by Loren Weatherspoon

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The New Rap Girls Are Here to

Stay by Ahnayah Hughes

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Renell Medrano, Fader 2019


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omen in hip hop have been huge contributors to the rap game since Queen Latifah and MC Lyte donned bucket hats and rhymed over boom-bap beats, yet seldom receive the same attention and success of their male counterparts. The musical stylings of those like Lil Kim, Foxy Brown, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Missy Elliot, to the more recent heavyweights such as Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, have cultivated and propelled the art form forward, all while in the shadows of men. Since its inception in New York’s South Bronx, hip hop has transitioned from a counterculture response to systemic oppression to one of the music industry’s most profitable and popular genres. In its inception the genre has provided a creative outlet for those affected by the suppressive socioeconomic forces that plague Black and brown communities; however, the women in those communities have often been pushed aside. Fortunately, in 2019, women rappers received the mainstream and commercial success that they so long have deserved. As a competitive genre, it is only natural for people to debate and deliberate on who they believe is the best rapper or producer, but a common belief within the music industry is that there can only be one women rapper that reigns supreme. As a result, top artists are often pitted against each other, headlines of forced beef overshadow the music, and there is a significant lack of diversity in sound. 2020, however, seems to be the first time in hip hop history where multiple women in hip hop get to share their time in the sun. A major component of these women’s triumphs can be credited to their individuality.The distinct sense of self these artists display through their per-

sonal styles, lyrics, music videos, and social media expresses the multi-faceted existence of women that all people, regardless of gender, can enjoy. The sounds and styles are endless. Whenever you need to rage and scream out your frustrations, Rico Nasty is there for you. Whether she’s rocking intricate finger waves, bubblegum colored wigs, or intense spikes, Rico is unabashedly herself. Her ability to seamlessly intertwine rap and punk music provides an alternative twist to the hip hop genre. In her lyrics, you can find her rightfully bragging about her success and denouncing her haters. On her most recent EP, Anger Management, Rico showed off her rapping abilities and proved herself as an artist to watch. It’s hard not to look at her when she stomps around her music videos in staggeringly tall platform boots and bold makeup looks. f you’re searching for something more poppy, Doja Cat has been circling the perimeters of mainstream success since her viral hit “Mooo!” but her most recent release, Hot Pink, has finally gotten her there. You can’t turn on the radio without hearing at least one of her songs, which all vary in sound and feel. Depending on the track, her tone can be soft as she whispers over R&B style beats, preppy with pop elements, or frantic as she rapidly spits over experimental techno instrumentals. Not including a few poorly placed wigs, Doja Cat’s style of colorful two pieces, animal prints, and over the top accessories matches the eclecticism of her music. If you feel like partying after a long week of responsibilities, drive the boat in Megan Thee Stallion’s honor and turn on her Fever EP. In a cover story last year, The Fader dubbed 2019 “The Age of Thee Stallion” and nothing has ever been more true. Reminis-

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Zhamak Fullad, SSense 2019

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cent of the musical stylings of Pimp C and Three Six Mafia, Megan eats any beat presented to her and instills confidence in people while doing so. Inspiring everyone to live their best lives with her now trademark catchphrase “Hot Girl Summer,” Megan’s sensual and explicit lyrics encourage listeners to unapologetically be themselves. With her colorful wigs, thighhigh boots, and revealing clothing, the Houston Hottie is unafraid to show her body and embrace her sexuality. As one of music’s biggest and brightest stars, there is no questioning that Thee Stallion’s reign is far from over. lthough these rappers are currently dominating the conversation, they aren’t the only women making their mark. For those trying to feel luxurious, the sounds of Saweetie and Kash Doll embody luxury. If you’re looking for something more poetic, reflect over NoName’s soft, playful tone. When you’re being braggadocious, Flo Milli will only validate you. Chika or Tierra Whack are perfect for those in search of something more experimental. The list goes on. Although they may share similar stylistic elements, none of these artists sound or look the same. Whether this influx of successful women rappers is a result of new-found inclusivity within the genre or women demanding the stage for themselves, it is clear that these MCs are claiming their power and perfecting their craft. As the new generation of women in hip hop continues to take over the music scene, there is hope for an even larger selection of representation in the future.

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“Although they may share similar stylistic elements, none of these artists sound or look the same.”

Julian Buchan, Flaunt Magazine 2019

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Sunchild photograghy by Tyinghe modled by Pricela

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TRIBER STUDIOS! SEASON 1 COMING SOON

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NYFW INSIDE SCOOP by laura richmand

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hat a time to be alive…Black History has a sister and her name is Fashion--a twin if you will-as they share the same month of curation. Many things the two have in common: beauty, glam, history (literally), and the embracing of legacies and legends. Contrary to popular belief, working fashion week is more fun than attending. Now I know that must be hard to believe, but if you truly love the passion and hustle behind sharing your love with the world, understanding the ins and outs of fashion week preparation is something every fashion enthusiast should have the opportunity to experience. Allow me to explain. From the outside looking in, Fashion Week is glitz and glam, A-list celebrities and D-list influencers, and of course, fabulous clothes on flawless models walking down the runway in all their glory. However, there is an entire team of teams making all of that possible. From the people who own the venue, to the designers’ making and remodeling the samples from their new collections, to the dressers following the guidelines for each look on every model—preparation for fashion week could very well be described as anything but glitz or glam. Each person participating in the show preparation has different stressors. As a designer, it varies. If you are presenting in fashion week alone (as an independent designer--not under any brand or collaboration) it is up to you on when your collection is ready, as long as it is completed before

the show. It is always best to have collections ready before the model fitting to allow up to 72 hours for alterations, however that is not always the case. If you’re presenting under a bigger brand or in collaboration with another brand, it is normally fashion etiquette to have a completed collection at least a week prior to the model fitting. Through the model fitting, designers are responsible for the garments flowing down the runway, as well as having a cohesive line-up. It is the creative judgement that is the most important for a designer to tap into during preparation for fashion week. The goal is always to be talked about--no press is bad press. For the show coordinators, stressors begin just a couple of months following the previous season. Most show coordinators are not only responsible for constructing the run of show, but attaining the sponsors for the show, the venue, the guest list, contacting the modeling agencies, the after party, and logistics to ensure the week runs smoothly (i.e. making sure everyone is fed!). Fashion week preparation for the show coordinators begins so early because without the necessary things sponsors, a venue and models can give you, there is no show. In addition to whatever will go wrong during official show prep week, dress rehearsal and show day (because something will go wrong). Those best to be show coordinators are the creative minds who are organized, detail oriented, who handle stress well, and good salesmen/women.

“Preparation for fashion week could very well be described as anything but glitz or glam.”

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odels are, in a way, always preparing for fashion week, especially if it is a full-time job for them. Most models from agencies that specialize in runway are required (via their contract) to keep a certain shape and weight. This means constant training, gym time, and maintaining a diet that won’t cause their weight to fluctuate. Models are different from designers and show coordinators because they don’t just get to do the one show and then be done-those who are lucky enough usually walk for more than one show in a season. The week before the season starts, a model’s daily schedule is mapped out, in some way, like this: casting to casting, fitting to fitting, smoothie while en route, more castings and fittings, brief agency meeting, and a workout to complete. Of course they fit in any other errands or jobs they have, but generally that is how their days go a week before the season starts. hus far, you’ve gotten a glimpse of what fashion week is like for designers, show coordinators and models, as well as a general understanding of how they claim their place in fashion’s favorite “holiweek”. Now for how I fit into this: I currently work as a Sales Associate for Flying Solo NYC, a retail store in Downtown Manhattan. However, Flying Solo is not your average retail store. Flying Solo NYC is a boutique with a collective of over 100 designers, some domestic and international. Everything from eccentric

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street style, to one of a kind runway dresses, to culture-inspired statement jewelry. Being able to sell interesting pieces is what keeps my job fun, but participating in fashion week adds an entirely new element. For me, fashion week preparation entails a sales team meeting, preparing to be available for overtime hours at least 80% of the following week, mental preparation for all of the “characters” you’ll be interacting with, and keeping your stamina up as you will be on your feet running for days. My fashion week was exactly that and more. 14 hour shifts, meditative talks with anxious designers, line-up crises during fittings, all to contribute to a beautiful show. And that it was. orking fashion week isn’t just about doing the job you were assigned. Almost every single person on the Sales Team does something else in fashion outside of the Sales Associate position. Working in fashion week, at a place like Flying Solo, is your chance to network, expand your connections, find other like-minded creatives, and assist to the best of your abilities. Getting involved with fashion week was never a goal of mine my first time exploring the industry. When I was 16, writing emails to any and everyone who would read them for a chance to shadow, intern or work for that person (or company) was what my days consisted of. I didn’t know too much about Flying Solo when they replied and requested an interview, but that is

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the beauty of the unknown. Ideally, I would like to debut my own collection in NYFW, but very few start there. It is the 14-hour shifts, the tedious tasks, the attitudes and more that you have to deal with long before claiming your spot. But when you love what you do, it makes it all worth it. When you contribute to making someone else’s dream come true, it makes it all worth it. No good deed goes unnoticed, and the route fashion is headed a lot more people are embracing the generosity of “paying it forward.” Don’t be afraid to go above and beyond, no matter how “small” you think your job is. With 100 designers in the room, I was setting a goal to make an impression on at least half. Sometimes all it takes is making the first move, and taking a leap of faith without knowing what follows. That’s the beginning of every great success story.

“When I was 16, writing emails to any and everyone who would read them for a chance to shadow, intern or work for that person (or company) was what my days consisted of.”

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