Lovello Elizabeth Sits Down with ETalksOnline
Lovello Elizabeth stopped by Etalksonline Radio!
Lovello Elizabeth stopped by Etalksonline Radio to tell us how she got started, her vision, and how Hip-Hop artist Dej Loaf got a hold of her pieces
Browse & Shop Lovello Elizabeth's Pre-Fall Collection
10+ Things You Didn't Know About Jasmine Jenai
Aspiring young blogger, Jasmine Jenai, describes herself as a mixture of Beyonce’s “6 Inch Heels” to “Formation”
An aspiring young blogger, Jasmine Jenai, describes herself as a mixture of Beyonce’s “6 Inch Heels” to “Formation”. She enjoys watching episodes of Bob’s Burgers, reading, and writing during her spare time. Jasmine Jenai, created Nai’s Visions in 2013 with a focus on inspirational content from areas of personal style to life experiences. Growing up in Tallahassee, Florida then moving to Atlanta, Georgia Jasmine have hopes of eventually moving to New York and starting her career in fashion. You can expect to see more honest conversations, brand collaborations, and personal style for blog in the future. Check out Jasmine Jenai’s full interview below.
Why did you decide to start this particular blog?
Nai’s Visions is a result of reluctantly creating a blog as part of a college course in 2012. I’d toyed around with the idea of starting a blog prior to being required to but I never got around to it. Once I started to take blogging seriously, I realized how passionate I was becoming about it and it made me want to create something that reflected who I am.
How would you describe your personal style? What influences it?
This question always makes me laugh because I used to try to come up with a profound answer but I would describe my style as feminine. I don’t like to put any other label on it besides that because I wear things according to how I feel. I like going with the flow. Lately I’ve been finding myself influenced by one of my co-worker’s style. She isn’t afraid to think outside of the box and wear what makes her feel great.
What are some of your favorite fashion houses or stores to go shopping in?
Right now I’ve been buying pieces from Zara and my job, Alexis Suitcase. I wholeheartedly believe in shopping a budget lol.
Would you consider yourself to be a feminist?
Do I consider myself to be a feminist? There was a brief period of time where I made it a point to call myself a feminist but I realize that I’m just a lover of justice for everyone. I don’t believe that people should be treated differently based on skin color, gender or any other limitations we as people place on each other.
You seem very passionate on issues such as empowering women of color and body positivity. Could you speak more on what these mean to you?
I was blessed to come in contact with the online movement #BlackGirlsWhoBlog, created by Morgan Pitts, in 2014 and found myself being introduced to so many creative black women. There are quite a few women that I still keep in contact with from this movement and they motivate me in so many different ways. The more I began to read and support the work of other black women, the more I realized how important it was for to me to open myself up and spread love to them. It’s no secret that black women face a myriad of issues regarding how we’re sometimes represented in the media or talked about on social media (*insert eye roll*) so I feel compelled to remind black women that we are brilliant and worthy. Talking about body positivity stems from coming to terms with being sexually assaulted as a teenager and being more aware of how many other women have body image issues. Sometimes when our bodies experience trauma or ridicule, we tend to hold on to the pain it causes us and it becomes a part of how we view ourselves. I decided that, as scary as it was and still is at times, I wanted to try something different by embracing my body as is and empowering other women to do the same. It’s okay if we’re not all shaped the same. Our bodies house incredible spirits that continue to persevere through the ups and downs of life. I say that’s a cause for celebration.
Who are some of your biggest role models? Why?
Anyone who knows me knows how much I adore Alexandra Elle, June Ambrose, Shiona Turini and Laina Rauma. Reading Alexandra Elle’s work has helped me TREMENDOUSLY during my self love journey. Her decision to be open, honest and vulnerable helped me realize that it’s okay for me to embody the same things. June Ambrose and Shiona Turini are admired because of their free spirits and work ethics in the fashion industry. Here you have two black women who continue to defy odds and break barriers in their careers. I can’t help but to love that. And Laina Rauma? My admiration for her stems from being fortunate enough to interview her for Nai’s Visions and realizing how down to earth she is. She’s light hearted yet is serious about her craft as a designer.
The writing on your blog is very passionate and inspiring and well put together. Do you think you would want a future in writing?
Thank you! I accidentally fell in love with writing after my mom made me practice my handwriting as a child lol. It was something I absolutely loathed at first but found that I was able to create stories from my imagination and the rest is history. I would love to work for a magazine one day. As much as I love fashion, I can’t see myself focusing solely on that. My main career goals include combining two of my greatest loves. I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for being able to express myself through writing.
What are some of your long term goals not just for your blog but also for you personally?
Some of my long term goals include moving to NY (finally), moving into my first apartment, starting my career in fashion, creating relationships with top fashion brands and eventually writing a book.
Does being from Atlanta have any influence on who you are and what you believe in?
I’m originally from Tallahassee, Florida and I moved to Atlanta when I was 16. At first I was apprehensive about Atlanta being that it’s much bigger than my hometown but after being here for 8 years old, I realize this is definitely a second home to me. Living here inspires me to keep going. It makes me realize that my dreams are possible.
You seem like someone who is empowered and full of self confidence, how did you become that way and what advice do you have for people who perhaps aren’t as confident and are less sure of themselves?
It has taken me a long time to wake up and feel comfortable with myself. As a child I wasn’t insecure whatsoever. I considered myself to be this fearless, imaginative little girl who wasn’t afraid to let her personality shine. As I got older and experienced different things, I found myself silencing parts of who I am in order to make other people comfortable. My advice for anyone who is struggling with their self esteem is to learn how to be patient with yourself. Learning to love yourself is a process and it’s important to remember that you’re not in a competition. The way you love yourself doesn’t have to look like another person’s self love.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time you can honestly catch me writing, reading, watching episodes of Bob’s Burgers and talking on the phone.
What can expect to see from you or on your blog in the future?
Expect to see more honest conversations, brand collaborations and personal style.
What are you most excited about for the remainder of 2016?
I am most excited about gaining more experience in the fashion industry and taking the necessary steps to make my dreams a reality.
If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
If I could go anywhere it would have to be Greece or Milan. I’ve always wanted to visit both places.
Which emojis do you use the most?
I probably use the “glow,” “kissy face,” “pink/red hearts” the most lol.
If you could use a song to describe yourself, which song would you use?
Choosing one song is so hard lol! Right now it’s a mixture Beyonce’s “6 Inch Heels” and “Formation.”
Curated by NKC (@therealnkc), Creative Director
Access Exclusive: The Meaning of MaCee
Candid, honest and drop-dead gorgeous, MaCee talks her new book, Kim K. inspiration, and why she's not afraid of platinum blonde.
Digging further into Instagram culture lead us straight to MaCee. For our returning readers, you know when we do social media features it's because they've really wowed us; MaCee did just that. She shows us that contributing to the social media culture doesn't mean you have to box your style or mind in. Sharing her thoughts and opinions on social, political and fashion topics; her followers are able to feel her unapologetic spirit. We dove a little deeper into that spirit.
Read MaCee's full interview below.
How did you get started designing?
I started stitching by hand at the age of 9. I would sew dresses on my barbie dolls. At that age I realized I loved designing things.
Finish this sentence: Dreamers are necessary because…
they are optimistic and always expect the best! Being a dreamer means your mind is open to all of the possibilities that life offers.
Do you plan on selling your pieces in the future?
I do plan on starting a line as soon as I can. Starting your own line is such a hard process. I hope to start within the next few years.
How did you develop your personal brand through social media? What's your secret?
I don't really have a media secret lol. I think the best thing I ever did when it comes to social media is to stop caring about it. Let it be something fun...do not ever let it become your life. Don't take it that seriously. At the end of the day.... it's just the internet lol. I also realized that the more you focus on what YOU feel comfortable with the better! Post what you like. Some people may not like it but its YOU that matters the most. When you become comfortable with yourself and the way you present yourself, social media becomes a breeze. When I began expressing myself through my writing on social media, I realized people connected to me better. They realized that I was much more than just a women who likes to "play dress up" lol. It's about connecting with people in a way that you love and most importantly staying connected to yourself.
Where do you go to write?
I usually write in my bedroom. It's where I feel relaxed.
For you, what’s the best part about living in New York City?
I think the best part is the subway lol. You can go anywhere you want without a car! You don't have to rely on others for transportation lol. I also love that the city is ALWAYS BUSY! You can be in times square at 3am and the streets are still full of people.
We’ve noticed that you use your social media platform to advocate for the beauty of black women. How important is it for you to continue to denounce the thoughts of what is considered “beautiful”?
I think it is so extremely important to show people that black women are so DIVERSE. Black women can pull off so many different looks and get away with it lol. I think people have placed black women in a box. We have to look and act a certain way because of society. People place us in a specific categories and expect us to act accordingly. I don't think the media represents black beauty correctly so I believe it's important for me and other women to break down these stereotypes and show people that black women come in so many different ways and are ALL beautiful in their own way.
You recently announced that you’ve started writing your book. What can we expect to learn + gain from your book?
I really want to pour all of my feelings into my book. I want people to learn and laugh from my book. I expect people to gain wisdom and see that everything isn't always what it seems. I hope people learn from my book. I don't want to give too much away but I really plan on revealing a lot of things I struggled with as a child and in my adult life.
In your opinion, what can fashion do to avoid mediocrity?
In my opinion, I believe that the more people start realizing that fashion is about what YOU like and what looks great on YOU...the more they will avoid mediocrity. I think people focus on who's wearing the outfit more than the outfit itself. If a certain celebrity wears a certain outfit, it immediately becomes trendy. I don't think people realize that you have to focus more on fashion for yourself, your body type.. and not just fashion. If a celebrity looks good in a certain outfit, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll look great in it lol. My style icon is KIM K. She sometimes wears things that I love on her but when I recreate the look on myself...it doesn't look as great lol.
Platinum Blonde seems to be a signature hair color for you (and you make it look amazing)! Any secrets for others wanting to pull it off.
Thank you!! I really think it's about confidence. I think it takes a bold black women to wear platinum blonde hair not care what people have to say about it lol. I Think its also about style. Finding a platinum blonde style that you love. Some black women look great in a short blonde pixie cut and not long blonde hair. It all depends on what you love.
Have you ever experienced racial discrimination in the industry? If so, how did handle the situation? What did you take away from it?
I think I experience racial discrimination everyday of my life lol, especially on social media. I feel like there are women who attack me more because I am black. I feel as though certain fashion media pages won't support me because of my color. It's one of those things that you can't exactly prove.. but in your heart you know what the issues is. I try not to let it bother me. There are so many other people who support me and do not care what color I AM. The best way I handle that is by shedding light on my experiences and other topics dealing with discrimination and show other people that they aren't alone.
Favorite book at the moment?
Well my favorite book will always be Go ask alice. Right now I am reading a book called "The doctor's wife"
If you had the chance to work along side one designer, who would it be? Why?
I would love to work with Tracy Reese. I feel as though she could teach me so many things about the fashion industry and her experiences.
One piece of advice that has always stuck with you?
My mom's advice always sticks with me. The best piece of advice she has ever given me was "You ain't got no friends" lol. What she meant was, everyone who smiles at you or is nice to you, doesn't always have your best interest at heart. People can be very conniving and its important that you keep your eyes open at all times.
What excites you most about tomorrow?
I think it excites me to know that everyday that passes means I am one step closer to my goals. I have so many hopes and dreams for my future.
Interview by: NKC (@therealnkc), Creative Director
Access Exclusive: Digital Art Gallery x Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew)
At the Digital Art Gallery's 1 year anniversary event, we had a chance to pull Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew) aside for a quick chat.
At the Digital Art Gallery's 1 Year Anniversary event, we had a chance to pull Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew) aside for a quick chat. Partnered up with Kwashee Totimeh, the duo works to create redefined art exhibits in various cities. With no limit on mediums or expression, the events pull massive audiences to celebrate the cities creatives. Many recognize Walt by his role on a popular network reality tv show, Black Ink Crew; what most don't know is he's first and foremost an artist. Displaying his art through photography, Walt finds expression in all things.
Check out our full interview below.
Digital Art Gallery: @theDAGtour
Walt: @da_Wizrd
Credits -
Interview: Megana, Access Intern, @anagem12
Directed by: Access by NKC, @accessbynkc
Keikoism: “Doin’ What I Do, When I Do It”
Keikoism. The creative talks Queen of the Week, black women empowerment and Steven Universe
Keiko El is a beautiful soul who divides her time between Philadelphia and New Jersey as a blogger and creator. This 22-year-old creative has founded an empowering concept that she lives by called Keikoism. It is all about becoming comfortable in her own skin and taking her life into her own hands. Keiko El began her blog and journey to self-love five years ago when she was about to graduate from high school. She always knew working for herself would make her happiest, so her blog is an extension of that entrepreneurial passion and drive, plus she always had a desire to express herself freely. As Keiko El’s blog and brand continues to grow, we can all look forward to more creative projects from her that will tackle social and cultural issues. Read her full interview below.
How did you come up with that concept?
Keikoism is empowering yourself to be all that you are as well as inspiring others to do the same. The inspiration for Keikoism came from trying to find myself and be my own person. I’ve always struggled with self-worth and stepping out of my comfort zone so this was a way of me taking my life into my own hands.
What are some creative projects you’re currently working on?
As of right now I’m working on doing interviews, such as this, called Queen of the Week. I’ll feature kick-a** women, who have inspired me to keep pushing. I hope that this will motivate others who are struggling with themselves to do the same. I also want to start doing video segments with my friends, where we discuss social and cultural issues.
After stalking your twitter for a while, I saw you watched Steven Universe. I love that show, too. How did you find out about it? Who’s your favorite gem (and you can’t say Steven)?
I think I stumbled across the show watching Cartoon Network one day. I almost immediately fell in love. I thought crystals, gems and lead female roles? This is a dream come true! Well the gems are meant to be genderless, but I like to see a lil’ womYn in them, haha. Hm, my favorite gem is DEFINITELY Garnet. It’s a little bit because I love their geometric fro and curvy bod, and a little bit because the amazing Estelle voices them, but mostly because they’re a fusion between two of my favorite stones in real life, Ruby and Sapphire! Their pairing is so dynamic! If you’ve seen the episode “Jail Break” you know that fusion’s love is the real deal, it’s kinda admirable.
I sense that you’re all about black, especially black woman empowerment. What do you think is the main thing holding black women back from being united?
This may not be the “main” reason, but I feel like our cultural portrayal in the media plays a big part. Thanks to the media, black women suffer from a lack of self-worth and are regularly trying to break away from countless everyday stereotypes. The media is constantly feeding us this negative ideology that black women can’t get along with one another. To no surprise, it’s as if this outside influence was and still is, trying to put black women (black people in general) against each other. Over the years, I’ve noticed we’ve become jaded to lifting each other up, and instead we’re deemed as a “threat” to each other. When shown love, we’ll tend to get defensive and distant at first. Now, I’m not saying that goes for every black woman because I know some very loving and accepting souls, but this is one of the issues I’ve been starting to notice. I can at least vouch for myself, when saying I used to be this way. When I was younger, if a black girl and or woman, who I didn’t know, were to have approached me, I would’ve automatically assumed it was because she had something negative to say. Sometimes I think it’s because of the deep internalized hatred I had for myself as a black woman, which the media’s negative stereotypes played a part in. I recently approached another black woman on the street to compliment her on what she was wearing. As I started to mutter the words, “I love your outfit” you could see her facial expression go from “What the f*ck did you just say to me?” to “Oh… thank you?” I’ll be honest, it was pretty funny in the moment, but I had to think, why was that her first reaction? It was clear that I wasn’t the only one who had been suffering from this belief. When it comes to speaking our minds, the media always shows us as loud, violent, and confrontational. As I got older and began to realize that those notions were complete BULLSH*T, I started to see a glimmer of hope for the love in myself, as well as other black women. I’m the first to admit, there was a point in my life where I was low, and had no love for myself. I thought because I didn’t love myself as a black woman why would other black women? Don’t get me wrong; I’m thankful that the love in myself started to grow. But as it grew, I began to recognize that it wasn’t just a few black women that didn’t have this love for themselves. Yes, Black women have always been portrayed negatively in the media but on the flip side, we’re taught our whole lives that we’re strong and independent, which we are, but some can’t find that self-love as easily as others. So now we have the terrible two, the “Loud, Angry Black Woman” and the “Strong, Independent Black Woman.” Considering our history, which one do you think our parents or guardians tried to make sure we were? When it all boils down, the “strong, independent black woman” tagline follows you around your whole life. That’s a lot of pressure; I didn’t feel like I lived up. With that being said, you start to feel like a disappointment to yourself and to your peers. So instead of searching for that love and support in women who will directly relate, we shy away to ourselves, because god forbid we let an ounce of weakness show. Depression and anxiety are not widely discussed and advertised amongst the black community especially for black women, considering we’re supposed to be such strong figures.
Going with the idea of empowerment, how do you find ways to empower other women and their work, while also keeping yourself empowered?
I give credit when credit is due, if I peep another woman doing dope ish, I’ll shout her out! I’ve started saying there’s always room for love. I hope that once my blog gets enough traction, I’ll be able to host all of the talented women I’ve come in contact with. The simple fact that I’ve been able to do this much of what I love, keeps me going. I feel empowered knowing that what I’m doing is helping me grow and maybe helping someone else too.
How do you know when you’re ready to create? What does your creative process consist of?
When I’m ready to create, random ideas and images run through my head all day, it’s the best feeling. I may be looking at a plant that’s a certain shade of green that triggers an idea and I’ll just run with it. Once all of my ideas are floating around in my head, I start piecing them together. It happens all of the time but especially when I’m out with a low phone battery and no pen and paper, I guess I should start carrying about a notepad!
What is the one thing in life that frustrates you the most but you couldn’t live without?
Unfortunately, money… I hate being confined to a job that isn’t exactly what I want to do. I work best when I’m working for myself and doing what I love. But being twenty-something years old and full of ideas doesn’t necessarily pay the bills. Sometimes you need to struggle through that boring day job in order to pay for creative projects, and so forth until you can be self-sufficient. I honestly wish money wasn’t a factor at all. I’d love to be able to create freely without having to be restricted because of low funds. But considering I’ve been a resident of LaLa Land for a majority of my life, that might not be realistic haha.
You’re so aware of yourself to be only 22 years old - where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Oh jeeze, I really appreciate you saying that! Ten years is so far away, but time moves so fast. I can only imagine what’s in store for me. Well, in 10 ten years, I’ll be 32 so I hope to have my blog in full gear by then and to have some type of e-commerce or brick and mortar business, maybe both! All I can hope is to see myself even better than I am today. Regardless, I’m ready to let life happen as it may but I’m determined for the best!
What is one thing that feeds your soul, mind and body?
Laughter! I love to laugh. I find that I’m my best self when I’m around the people I love and we’re having a good time. They’re the ones that really keep me going.
Are you happy?
I’m happy with where I am and the progress I’ve made, especially looking back at where I was. It’s definitely hard to just say I’m outright happy because I have so much more growth to accomplish. But I guess I could confidently say, I’m happy as long as I am growing.
IG: @keikoel / Twitter: keiko_el
Credits:
Interview - Bria (@briakiara_), Access Intern
Photos - Carolyn Valentin-Flores
Delve Deep into Culture Of & Carley Simone's World
Vintage fabrics, health & wellness and a forever-giving culture: welcome to Carley Simone's world.
“I’m a true advocate for health & wellness. You need to take care of yourself. That’s what I want my life’s work to be. ”
I took a break from behind the scenes to sit down with Carley Simone, founder of Culture Of: Bodega. Culture Of is a creative online bodega located in Philadelphia, PA. The name stemmed from Carley's studies in college, influenced by the culture of people. Culture Of: Bodega meant to suggest it could be the culture of anything; a store that could be the culture of anything. I was immediately intrigued by the concept of the name alone. Many times, especially in today's fashion you catch people trying to push clothes with no story or meaning. Those easily convinced latch on without question, making it harder for true creatives. The grand scheme of Culture Of will eventually branch out into health & wellness, possibly even food. Carley hopes to create a hub for all things life and creativity with the help of her business partner, Trey; an artist as well.
Typically considering herself a school girl, Carley Simone didn't feel the same connection at college. Since the 5th grade she has always known she'll complete school and go on to a university. She felt like a failure without the connection, but realizing that wasn't true she moved to the next step. "I don't believe black excellence is limited to a degree." Taking a break from college, Carley figured this was the perfect opportunity to get to know herself better and pursue her dreams. Using the time to focus on her health and regaining confidence, Carley had the chance to step back and take life in.
The next step was quitting her job, Carley took a leap of faith. She decided that now was as good a time as any to conquer her dreams of owning a store. (A very new store, one month old.) Yet despite the small space of time the brand has already had a very positive response. "It's overwhelming, you want a positive response and everything just happened so fast." At the moment, she even has trouble keeping an inventory due to the high interest. Majority of the site items come from other thrift stores, closet close outs and her grandma's closet. This helps keep the authenticity of the vintage clothing. The brand plans to accept donations to help open up the inventory as well. Carley's dream is to have a thrift store on Baltimore Avenue. Culture Of hopes to one day become much more accessible to the community. With a store front or studio space, she wants to create a place for young creatives to have photoshoots, parties or a general hang-out.
Once a definition fashionista, Carley used to devote time to piecing together outfits. Her style has since changed to much more relaxed and comfortable. Her new mantra advocates for being comfortable in your own skin, she no longer feels the need to dress for others. Her latest project, a T-Shirt Dress Line stems from this. The new line is set to debut at an upcoming fashion show she's co-hosting with the brand Minkless (Handmade Jewelry). When asked about designing for a celebrity, she said creating a bad ass t-shirt dress for Solange Knowles is definitely a goal.
After learning about her aspirations, we changed lanes to speak about where she manifest inspiration. The honesty was overwhelming. Carley Simone didn't hesitate to share that much of her inspirations comes from being poor. "I don't live in poverty, but I'm definitely a lower class citizen." She explains that not being able to afford things, pushed her to create them herself. It even gives her a sense of accomplishment. Other inspirations comes from youth culture and the dynamic voices that aren't afraid to demand more. The boldness the everyday life gives off much to explore. "I live for that. I might make some jeans that are wild and crazy. Or I might make something that's super chic and simplistic. It all comes from watching people do whatever they want to do."
A word of inspiration from Carley Simone: "I had someone tell me the art community is too competitive, you can never make it. I think everybody has their own lane, the world is built in such a way that you are designed in the imagine of other people. Me and you might not be carbon copies, but we both like chokers. So we're a creative hub from chokers; it's very small. But in big numbers you can create your own lane for anything, you just have to be yourself. Trust that the universe will reveal other people and a path for you to follow. I truly believe that. I believe that I'm going to be successful in what I do. Judge your success by your own standards."
In her free time, she gets into painting, stencil work and occasionally graphic design. "I model. Haha, I'll put that in quote. But I mostly just style now." She has her hands in many different things. She also has passion for the creative direction, the details and angles of things sparks interest for her.
Transparency. I can truly say that Carley Simone opened up and was unapologetically herself. I enjoy face to face interviews for this exact reason. People feel that in interviews they have to convey a rehearsed image of themselves to look good for others or that professionalism needs to be over the top. In all honesty for lifestyle interviews, the more unedited, the better. If I wanted to find out about a more toned down version of somebody, then chances are I can visit their social media profiles. In these, interviews I'm looking to learn about a person the world might not know.
As for Culture Of, the brand has a lot of photo shoots planned and as their schedule clears up they plan to become involved with more events.
Follow Culture Of: Bodega on Instagram for more information.
Curated by: NKC, Creative Director