12.29.2011

Life of an Assistant

              As I eagerly await the premiere of Its A Brad Brad World, it makes me reflect on my past semester and my own personal first run at being an assistant. I am still undecided whether to refer to my experience as an internship or a short lived assistant position but either way it was a learning experience nonetheless. I feel that a lot of people tend to think that an internship or assistant position is glamorous and fun and dream fulfilling. This is rarely the case. My job was nothing close to what The City & The Hills try to make it out to be and more closely parallel to the hectic and pandemic reality that I would tune into on The Rachel Zoe Project.
             I came into this position much like most people, because of who I know. In this case the person I knew was my mother, whom happened to be the lawyer for who would soon be my future employer. My always child boasting mother mentioned to my new employer that I was in school for fashion and one phone conference and spring of emails later I found myself being the assistant for a very credible fashion stylist who had just relocated to Chicago. For discretionary purposes we will refer to her as Boss Lady. Being still in school and only 20 and already having gained the position of my dreams put me right on cloud 9. But my #WINNING moment was quickly brought back down to the reality of the real world when the work actually started.
             My position was a very unstructured schedule. I was in school full time and working at WalMart part time as well so time spent with boss lady had to be squeezed into any other spare time. I quickly found that this was quite the challenge. My main tasks were to handle the social media aspect for my bosses new business venture. Making a facebook, twitter, page and extensive blog to bring awareness to her company. It seemed like the perfect job description being that fashion is my first true love and social media is my forte. Although the work its self wasn't extremely hard, my boss was very detail oriented and specific. She was a perfectionist in so many words and expected the same from me. If I didn't do something right she would make me start all over and again and again until it was up to her standards. Coupled with that was the fact that she was a long distance boss because of me being in school. So all of our transactions were made via phone or email.
              Sometimes I would have to do personal secretary work as well including typing up mock invites and emails and doing research for her. And she also expected me to stay up on my fashion knowledge. She required me to research designers and collections of colleagues and clients of hers as well as stay up on what fashion and business trends were happening in our world. It definitely wasn't a job made for the weak. It consumed all of my free time. And being that I've never held a job while in school and now had an internship as well, it was a huge adjustment to say the least. I had to become Little Ms Balancing Act. Being organized and punctual; 2 things I had never been good at. Boss Lady was very demanding and there were many times when I missed the days I could just come from class and sleep or lounge around with my friends or actually attend campus events. Those were numerous days when I wanted to quit. It was even more frustrating because none of my immediate friends were in fashion so I had no one who truly understood to sympathize with me.
              I came to the realization that this is the reality of the fashion world. Being constantly busy and having to have stupendous work effort, having to start from the bottom and work your way up, having the courage to go after what you want and be willing to pay the price to succeed. With a year and a half left in my college career; my short semester being an assistant gave me the most credible insight and wake up call to what my life would be like in the near future, and how close I am to being ready for it. My semester as an intern taught me a lot about myself, and almost saved my career in an ironic twist of fate.
             Right before I was offered the position I was feeling really uninterested and disconnected to the fashion world. I just didn't love it like i used to and was seriously question whether or not I was cut out for it or even wanted to be in it anymore. It was also very easy to loose interest, being that I'm now away from the city of Chicago and the creativity of Columbia. But Boss Lady saved me by bringing back my passion and reminding my why I love this industry. I ended my first semester at NIU and my first internship gig with new found drive and dedication to my craft. I'm married to this game called fashion and I'm in it for life. To prove my dedication I got permanently inked up to prove it.



           My tattoo says "LOVE LIVE FASHION" in french. Its a reminder to myself and to anyone who sees it that fashion is what I live and breathe. I went into my position thinking I would just gain some experience for my resume out of it, but but in actuality, I regained myself.

9.30.2011

Fall Lust List

         As temperatures drop and my dressing habits switch between trying and not giving a fuck; my attention turns to the part of my closet that I've been waiting to premiere. Theres a reason why Autumn rhymes with awesome! Falls the best season and time to break out the boots, cardigans, light jackets, and dresses and skirts with tights and stockings. I can even still wear my leggings without having to layer or just plain freeze. There are some pieces I must just have like the following 5 and then there are trends that are necessary to incorporate in my shopping to keep on trend I listed those for you too.
Trends:
1. Black and white - I'm having a total black and white moment. Literally the last 4 things apparel and accessories i purchased were black and white its always a classic so it only make sense that it be a staple this fall as well.
2. Leopard print - animal print is big right now in general but other than my blushing zebra print comforter at home I really cant fade the Zebra. And I stopped watching cheetah girls awhile ago and left that print there as well. So naturally i took to the only one left. I have leopard shoes, leopard hat, leopard belt...u get the point...
3. Feathers - I was wary of this trend at first but the feathers are definitely back albeit the rest of the 70's classics. And even tho I'm more prepster than boho, I fux with the feathers; they're best worn with accessories but you can incorporate them into you wardrobe too.
4. Stripes - Forever21 has definitely taken this trend to epidemic proportions. The first week I was on campus, I must have seen over 50 "bitch stole my look" violations of the mass produced bodycon mini in every color and stripe length you can think of. I think the trend can be translated into different mediums.
5. Fur - a hard thing to pull off. Its the Rachel Zoe inside me and my love of challenges that makes me wanna pull it off. Still on the hunt for my perfect fur vest. But I WILL find one.

Trends embodied; here's a couple of #scores i scoured for:
  • B & W: Stripped Body Suit, A'Gaci
  • Leopard Print: Benne Hat, Forever21
  • Feathers: Feather Earrings, Rue 21
  • Stripes: Mini Skirt, Charlotte Russe
  • Fur: Faux Fur Vest, JCPennys

8.29.2011

The VMA's: Where Hollywood Stands in Fashion Now

          The VMAs is always one of the most looked forward to award shows every year. While most people are looking to see if their favorite artist won 'best female' or what funny jokes the host (hopefully) doesn't bomb while reading the teleprompter; my always fashion focused mind is analyzing the attendees attire (s/o to my friends who put up with my fashion ranting through that 3 and a half hours). In general, I found that this year the men pretty much killed and led the way from Kanye's ombre button up to Taylor Lautner's mix of casual button up and dressy blazer. The female artist and presenters were less than impressive in general but either way, here are the highlights:
         The Good:

best couple, i love that they subtly

i love that the shoes don't exactly match, chic as usual

beyonce looking amazing in her preggers glory

i love the guy look on a girl look

kinda diggin her black angel look. love the shoes and dress silhouette

Selena looks slightly evil but its still chic

ummm love the idgaf look mixed with nice jeans and blazer

idk y i kinda love this rugged look, it works

its kind of a beautiful disaster

i really love kanyes look he always has interesting clothes and combos
however i was extremely disappointed by Jay-z timbs ands tee
what was he thinking?? after so much clout and respect has been built around him
for him to rock this 'hood' look its not OK
         The Bad:
not really feeling harajuku mermaid look much as i love her

i expected more from her, especially cause she was honored

blast in a glass is not appropriate for a show

it looks too young and the shoes threw it off

2 words: i cant.
I'm all for self expression but this makes no statement
other than "im an idiot"

all that sparkles ain't gold, prime example

8.26.2011

Collateral Queens


             The only thing better than an amazing force in fashion, is when two amazing forces collaborate. Many retail stores have been collaborating with designers and brands to form capsule collections: Sears's, Charlotte Russe, JC Penny's are just some of the few. But the ones that take the cake and continue to shine as the best in this new trend, are H&M and Macy's. These two retailers are what my fashion business teacher would call category killers lol. H&M pretty much dominates the chain retail store sector and Macy's is most likely the number one department store (course as a Macy's employee I'm partially biased) but you can look up the facts! lol
             H&M is a company known for being a head of the trendy pack so it really comes as no surprise that they would be one of the leading pioneers of this new trend. H&M has collaborated with such designers as Lanvin (for H&M), Leigh Lezark, Sonia Rykiel (for H&M), and Versace. Each collaborative collection holds true the trendiness and styling/ silhouette and cheaper prices of H&M while also fully embarrassing the design aesthetic and of that designer.
crowded H&M stores
Sonia Rykiel for H&M

Leigh Lezark for H&M

            Macy's a designer collaborative efforts I personally think is a bit of a surprise. Because Macy's is a department store and by nature is very family oriented, it's interesting that they would put such a high end idea in stores where middle America shops. Not saying by any means that the typical family in the middle of the Midwest doesn't know anything about fashion; just interesting that the designs of some of the greatest designers in our time are mass produced and found in the same place as dishwashers and duvet covers. Nevertheless Macy's has its own line up of designer combos as well; the likes of Matthew Williamson, Karl Lagerfeld (available on the 31st of this month) and the newest edition, Giambattista Valli due out in October. I personally can't wait for the this Karl Lagerfeld collection, as I am a dedicated fan of this designer he is truly talented. I still am in shock his designs will be available at my fingertips just next week. But then again maybe accessibility is just one of the many things about the 'magic of macy's' ;-)
looks from Matthew Williamson

Karl Lagerfeld for Impulse


Giambattista Valli

8.07.2011

Body Art

               The connoisseur  of magazines that I am (I have at least 6 subscriptions to different mags and have issues dating back to 01'), I've noticed a subtle trend starting to form on the glossy editorials. Within the last 3 years tattoos have started to be shown off in magazine spreads and fashion ads alike. I'm sure of course this has a direct correlation to the sudden increase of people getting tattoos in general, but the combination of the 3 art forms intrigues me.
              I am a full supporter of tattoos, way before I got my first one I've been obsessed with the sentimental symbols and pictures and paragraphs that people choose to get permanently drawn on their bodies. Of course I prefer to see them in moderation (sorry Wiz Khalifa I'm not gonna ink my whole body) but generally speaking I think a well done, symbolic tattoo is one of the highest forms of self expression and furthermore, body art.
              For a long time visible tattoos were taboo, and to a certain extent they still are. Its true that some tattoos in some careers heed inappropriate and guarantee you don't get the job. However, this  fad of body art being paired with an industry that already breaks all the rules, I personally feel is a collaborative creative effort of epic proportions. Photography is an art, fashion is an art, and tattoos are an art form, and all three rap upon using the human body as a canvas of creativity and expressionism. I think together they make amazing visuals and produce higher level of creativity and 'art'.



(Rih Rih's side by her boob & shoulder tat are visible)

7.21.2011

Model, Model

            Aside from watching Top Model, I don't pay too much attention to the modeling world. But recently two up - and - coming have been catching my eye and popping up everywhere. I think they're kind of amazing and AestheticValue worthy.
          One I first encountered because she had a reoccurring role on Gossip Girl and was a character in Stomp The Yard 2. Since then I've seen Tika Sumpter everywhere. Shes more so known for her acting jobs but before she hit the big screen she was striking a pose in front of the lens of different sorts. She fabulous because shes so cool and down to earth and its not often that you see models or actresses alike her complexion and demeanor. Here is some of her modeling work:



          The next one I came across in my Nylon Magazine. Georgia May Jagger is also one of my new favorite rising models. Having famous parents definitely got her in the lime light. But she clearly can hold her own. Georgia May is that "model pretty": meaning she's pretty but has something unordinary about her that isn't that classic perfect airbrushed ideal of whats beautiful. Her gap def sets her apart. But one look at her work and anyone can agree this 19 year old prodigy is doing a pretty good job filling those humongous shoes her parents left behind.


6.28.2011

Local Talent Spotlight: Clout Club

           Being the Windy City Lovin Girl that I am, I am in full support of all things Chicagoborn. Although Chicago is not exactly a fashion capital, it is definitely up and coming. That being said, there are many up - and - coming clothing lines that hail right here from ChiTown. I will regularly post clothing lines and designers to look for so you can be informed and keep up on people our age who are making strides in the fashion lanes.
    I happen to have went to high school with the designer to a t-shirt line that is definitely creating a buzz.....Clout Club. It was started by one of my close friends Austin Robinson in 2010. "Clout Club is an inspiration brand that symbolizes power and being somebody without being "somebody". The brand is all about taking life experiences and transforming them into clean solid designs that focus on quality and that everyone, in all walks of life, can relate to". His mission is to achieve clout in life whether that be a social status or professional goal.

    I sat down and had a little chat with him about the birth of this line and his career goals and aspirations:

Me: " When did you start being interested in fashion?"
AR: " I have always been interested in fashion. But You can say I really FELL IN LOVE WITH IT WHEN I MOVED TO VEGAS AND SAW A WHOLE DIFFERENT CULTURE.I WAS VERY INSPIRED, BEING FROM CHICAGO WHERE OUR SKATEBOARD AND STREET WEAR SCENE ISN'T AS HUGE AS VEGAS AND CALI'S ITS QUITE DIFFERENT. I GOT INSPIRED TO BLEND OUR TWO STYLES"


Me: " How did you come up with the name 'Clout Club'"
AR: (LAUGHS) "the Name Clout Club little do people know was originally..called "Clout Couture" I was in love with the word Couture and I felt that with just the name alone I could establish longevity with not such a trendy name. I really LOVE "Clout Club" because when I was doing research for the brand (and I had no money) I was just looking at the world in front of me I started to realize that the people are blinded, most people think that money gets you everything when in reality it is "Clout" (power,status). I want to instill a feeling of importance in every garment that I sell.I want you to feel like you are " The Man" when you have on my pieces without having to do outrageous markups to make it seem like I'm adding "Exclusivity" to my brand"



Me: "What do you hope to achieve with your brand?"
AR: "I hope that Everyone who buys my clothes genuinely LOVE what I'm presenting to them.Not just buying it because it may be "In" people buy $90 shirts with just a 3 inch logo on the side just because its in a video and they feel they like they are on another level than someone who bought a $30 shirt.I DON'T WANT TO BUILD SUCCESS OFF HYPE, JUST BY LOVE..that's why everything that I release from " Clout Club" is something that motivates me or has something to do with what I went through.Like that saying that your mom gives you 'everything you doing or going through ain't new, we all did it or went through it'.That line inspired me to make LIFE/ART; everything that I release from "Clout Club" is almost relatable to EVERYONE. The teen that is going through his first heartbreak can relate to the " Fuck Love" piece or the fashion addicted college student with the "No.1 Sucker In the World" shirt.I TRY TO MAKE EVERYTHING RELATABLE...SO YOU FEEL THAT THIS SHIRT IS MADE ESPECIALLY FOR YOU AND YOUR SITUATIONS."

Me: "What do you feel that your brand contributes to the fashion industry, Chicago Culture and the youth that are exposed to it?"
AR: "I feel that I am apart of the new breed of urban brands...I am young and I am also a young brand so I am excited for the growth that I am going to have.[the] fashion industry as a whole is pretty competitive..(but just like everything else is). I am happy to say I am apart of it though,..and needless to say I will be a contributing member of the fashion community for years to come.There is a new generation bubbling here in Chicago.There is a lot of room for successful brands here and we have one of the largest cities in the U.S.I think everything is here for the taking.With so much history and influence we have had on the WORLD.I feel that THERE NEEDS TO BE A BRAND, CARRYING A LEGACY FOR URBAN FASHION AS FAR AS ONE OF THE TOP URBAN BRANDS. I am really creating a buzz and molding a brand without a flagship store."

Me: "Whats a normal day for Austin Robinson like?"
AR: "Clout Club days are LIFE DAYS.I'm big on just life, experiences, and learning from it..I usually start a lot of my days..with E mails; speaking with potential designers and shirt manufactures, time with my girl (laughs) ..and really planning my next moves months in advance. Constantly looking for different canvases (garments) to display my life/art on"


Me: "Tell me about yourself, Where you go/went to school"
AR: " YOU WANNA KNOW ABOUT AUSTIN ROBINSON!!?? (laughs)..Well I'm an 09 Hf Alum!! After high school I really jumped straight into my brand.I really didn't really focus on the whole 'Go to school and get a degree path'. I went to community college and dropped out{GOD HAD SOMETHING BIGGER FOR ME}. Ever since I was a child I never really liked to work for people, I got my first job at 14 so from there I learned how to be a good soldier so I can learn how to LEAD when its my time. I'm also an ARIES and we don't take too well with orders (laughs) Other than that I'm pretty cool..I DON'T SMOKE AND DRINK RARELY


Me: "What is your favorite shirt/thing about Clout Club"
AR: "MY FAVORITE SHIRT THAT I EVER RELEASED has to be the "Today's Goal" shirt, because it means sooooo much and it has really positive and deep message.My favorite thing about my brand is FREEDOM.I don't work for anyone so I'm not censored with my vision at all.I can put ANYTHING I want on a shirt I love having creative freedom. Also the fact that I don't just sit down and read blogs to try to cipher out the newest trends...I FEEL all my designs.I don't think about them, DON'T THINK....FEEL!"

Me: "How is clout club different than other local urban t-shirt lines?"
AR: "I really feel that I am in my own lane as far as what I stand for and what direction I am going for with my brand. I also have tunnel vision so I really don't like to look left or right..I'm just worrying about whats in front of me and that's my goal to be one of the Greatest brands PERIOD!"


Me: "Who is your target customer?"
AR: "My target customer..is YOU! The person that's reading this. If you have a pulse you most likely can relate to at least one piece from my collection! (laughs)But I try to aim for the Rebel..the people with the IDGAF attitude.."I wear what I like..not hyped"(quote me) type of people. Being a new brand I have to build LOVERS for my brand, not supporters.Supporters eventually stop supporting, but LOVE NEVER DIES"

Me: "What are the next steps for Clout Club? Planning to cross into any other market segments?"
AR: "MAINLY WITH #CLOUTCLUB I am trying to be HUGE in my city (Chicago) I am trying to be a Pacesetter for the new generation of Chicago brands.I really want to be the GREATEST..Until I become the greatest brand here.Than I will maybe venture out into doing other things but I am definitely going to expand.I will be looking for a team of business minded, loyal, individuals to add to my team.I HAVE SOME HUGE THINGS COMING UP FOR CLOUTCLUB...JUST STAY TUNED TO MY CHANNEL AND WATCH WHAT I DO!"


Me: "Any last words?"
AR: "FIRST I WANT TO THANK GOD, for putting me on the right path to achieve my dream and blessing me with HEALTH! Also everyone who has ever tweeted Clout Club,purchased a product,mentioned me to somebody,or said positive words about my brand. There are TIMES WHEN THINGS GET TOUGH ..AND I JUST GO BACK TO POSITIVE THINGS THAT PEOPLE HAVE SAID ABOUT ME OR MY BRAND and I instantly start smiling and get remotivated. I TRULY appreciate it"


You can purchase the products at thecloutclub.com
Also follow him on twitter: @CloutClubDoe