Bri Steves Is Doing Music Her Own Way
Bri Steves continues to expand on what it means to be a musician with her coverage feature at Wildfire: The Series.
“Understanding that the thing you cannot waste is time— put into perspective how bad you want success and move to achieve it.”
Bri Steves changes gears for Wildfire: The Series. Catch the artist in a new light as she interviews creatives and guests about their event experience. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
The 21 year old rapper/songwriter began her music career during her senior year of high school. “Writing poetry sparked my love for stringing words together, and listening to Camp Lo, Marvin Gaye and early Kanye West did it for me.” With encouragement from friends, Bri Steves decided to dive into recording. Like many other creatives, Bri Steves draws inspiration from her family, specifically her mother. "I looked to my momma. I know that sounds cheesy, but she's a formidable woman. I want to be the same." For everyday inspiration, the recording artists finds that she looks to anything out of the ordinary; colors, people, etc.
The summer of 2015 changed everything for Bri Steves. Originally, she planned on attending a fashion internship in New York, but instead she met her mentor, Dyshon Penn and manager, Dave Ghetto. The trio instantly had connection. "I finally got around people who understood the place where I was at musically and who could pour knowledge into me about getting better, that's what I was searching for." Very close to quitting music, meeting the new duo put everything in perspective for Bri Steves. She promptly called back the internship, declined the offer; she then purchased studio equipment and never looked back. She currently has several tracks on soundcloud. Some of which she has performed at World Cafe Live and Pubb Webb. With a list of growing events and appearance, you can find them all at bristeves.com
In the upcoming year, you can expect to see Bri Steves traveling much more and expansion within her brand. In the expansion, she plans to become more of channel for young girls. Also with goals to become more polished and respected within her industry. For the month of April, she has a few shows in addition to Wildfire, including one with REC Philly. Expect to see her at April 30th at Wildfire: The Series.
Quick Q&A with Bri Steves
We saw that you attended SXSW this year, what was your experience like?
Eye opening. I saw first hand how the music business is highly a relationship business. Networked with a lot of people down in Austin and made some great plans for the future. As an artist, I learned a lot; whether it was performance wise, watching other performers or having to first hand travel out of state to represent myself with my team.
During a set what is something you do to set yourself apart from other artists?
I have a pretty tight relationship with my Dj, DJHvnlee, and her scratching throughout my set is pretty important. I prefer a great show experience, so I'll rotate between drums and other instrumentation to make my set bigger. Mixing in whats hot now for my audience is very important to me, and being super interactive with the crowd.
What advice would you give to anybody who wants to do your job (or at least begin the journey)?
Quit your day job and pursue what you want all the way. It'll be lucrative if you put your time into it. But 10,000 hours is needed to be great at anything. Understanding that the thing you cannot waste is time-- put into perspective how bad you want success and move to achieve it.
If you could collaborate with any artists, who would it be?
In the city, it'd be Chynna Rogers and Joie Kathos, I admire their swag, flow and work ethic. J. Cole is definitely on my list for the big leagues, he's one of my biggest inspirations musically, alongside Kendrick Lamar.
Learn more about Bri Steves at www.bristeves.com
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Mary Jane's Closet is Making Your Vintage Dreams Come True
Jasmine Anderson does vintage differentyl... and we love it.
“Run with your ideas, you never know where they will take you.”
Based in Philly, Jasmine Anderson is set to showcase her vintage fashion line, Mary Jane’s Closet at Wildefire: The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
A recent college graduate, Jasmine started Mary Jane’s Closet (MJC) in 2015. MJC is a clothing brand that specializes in vintage and contemporary styles for women. What makes MJC distinct amongst other vintage or thrift style clothing brands is that everything is $25 or less!
It's no secret that being an entrepreneur is no easy feat. In the beginning stages, Jasmine hesitated with the thought of starting a company. She was unsure of her target audience and if she would be able to maintain them. She pushed through with the idea anyways and quickly fell in love with her business. Like many other entrepreneurs, parts of her success can be credited to an amazing support system. Jasmine draws much of her inspiration from the women in her life, particularly her Mother, Grandmother and Godmother. "Those are some of the strongest, hardworking, yet most stylish women I know!" She also finds inspiration in other 'boss babes' she associates with and admires.
On where she finds vintage and contemporary pieces:
"I originally started finding vintage pieces in thrift stores in Indiana, PA (where I attended college). When I returned to Philly for holiday breaks, I would spend so much time at different thrift stores and spending hours browsing. I had a few favorites where I would always go to for gems, many of which I still rely on."
In the upcoming year, Mary Jane's Closet projects brand exposure all over the U.S. MJC recently found brand ambassadors in over 6 different cities and states that will be assisting with promotions and events.
Expect to see Jasmine’s custom styles on April 30th, 2016 at the Wildfire: The Series pop-up shop, hosted by Access by NKC. The day long event is aimed at giving emerging designers and performers a platform to showcase their designs and talent.
Quick Q & A with Jasmine Anderson
Where do you find inspiration for new clothing design?
I use a combination of Pinterest and magazines to create visions for photoshoot concepts. I am subscribed to just about every fashion magazine, so I am constantly trying to stay in the know.
Are there any celebrities you would love to see wear your product? Why?
I would absolutely love to style Rihanna. Her style is admirable and very similar to the versatility that MJC goes for.
If there was one fashion house you could work with who would it be and why?
I would have to save Moschino, simply because their concepts are always so dope and vibrant.
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
THEakasha is Destined for Great Heights
Theakasha shares music because she wants to connect with others on a deeper level. Her message can't be said with just words..
“DO IT!!!! DO IT ALL! DO ANYTHING YOU WANT TO DO! EVER! BUILD YOUR NETWORK, BUILD YOUR BRAND AND DON’T EVER LISTEN TO A “CAN’T”! YOU ARE POWERFUL!!!!”
Up and coming creative, Theakasha, is set to spin for Wildfire: The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
With humble beginnings in Jersey City, NJ, most of Theakasha’s inspiration came from her childhood. “There’s so much beauty and pain in my city, I’m a product of all of it. Some things that particularly used to inspire me in my younger years were RIP street memorials.” Seeing countless memorial taught her to embody the struggle between beauty & pain. The creative has been always been drawn to things that aren't always aesthetically beautiful, but so detailed that they make you feel. Her need to evoke and create emotions from people is what keeps her pushing through all of her work.
The 22-year old creative took interest into DJ’ing after graduating high school. She looked at Vashtie Kola and other black female disc jockeys with admiration. It was after a Black woman, in multiple industries doing all the things she wanted to do that she quickly realized everything was in reach of her. Currently living in Philadelphia has provided her the perfect platform to get started.
“I’ve always had an eccentric music taste and I’ve always been skilled at discovering fire underground music, since high school.”
With her expanding lists of events, Theakasha hopes to make this her main source of income in the next year. "..Meaning that I won’t have to work anywhere outside of my brand, I’ll still have my hands in many pots engineering, directing, curating, etc., but I won’t have to go outside of what I love to be able to pay my bills and feed myself." If you can't catchTheaskasha at our upcoming event, no worries the summer will be crazy for her! Stay updated with all of her shows and appearances at theakasha.us/events.
Quick Q&A with Theakasha
How would you describe your overall style?
Gracefully nonchalant.
During a set what is something you do to set yourself apart from other DJ's?
I ask people to bring me packs of Tropical Skittles & I hate trap music, so don’t come to a set of mine expecting to hear that all night.
Are there any celebrity events you would like to DJ? Why?
I really want to live DJ a Paris or Milan fashion week show. For a cute designer brand like Kenzo or Chloe. Just because I always think certain songs should be Naomi Campbell walked to and I’m always thinking about how much better models & clothes would look if the music was better or more cohesive.
What would you say your spirit animal is?
Saying “spirit animal” is very appropriative of Native American cultures, so I never say that. BUT, for the sake of the question it’d probably be a Tupac/Eartha Kitt hybrid.
LINK UP WITH THEAKASHA
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Meet the Visual Art Visionary at Wildfire:The Series
Kira Dixon will be your new favorite artist, get to know the body-painting creative.
Artistic Philadelphia Native, Kira Dixon aka Nebulus Flair, is set to showcase her art at Wildfire: The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Kira took her first leap into painting in 2012. At first it started as a hobby. Painting was a vehicle for her to escape the struggles of everyday life. Since then, her hobby has bloomed into a paid side project. Thanks to the emergence of social media apps, Kira has been able to showcase and capitalize her artwork.
“I just started posting my art and before I knew it, people began hitting me up for shows.”
Kira specializes in canvas art and bodypainting. Some of her favorite colors to use on her models are her black, red, and gold. "I love to make the body art look like cat suits - that's why my black lines are always so thick."
One of the most enjoyable parts about painting the models at creative events is the networking aspect. Whether it’s a photoshoot or a showcase, bodypainting is one form of art the offers effortless networking and friendships. Kira makes it a point to stay nonchalant about her work, she believes that putting too much pressure on herself would stop the fun.
When asked if she could paint anyone in the world, Kira said Josephine Baker. “I know she would have been inspired by what I created on her and it would have been interesting to see what she would have came up with.”
Expect to see Kira and her artwork at Wildfire: The Series on April 30th. Her paintings and upcoming events can be found on her Instagram (@Nebulusflair_).
Quick Q&A with Kira Dixon
How would you describe your overall style?
I would say it's raw and untamed..
If you could collaborate with any artists, who would it be?
I would love to collab with Solange! I know she doesn't actually do art but she's so creative & daring so I'm sure her and I could conjure up something dope.
Tell us a little known fact about yourself?
I'm a Leo and my favorite color is gold.
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Editor's Notes No.3 - 48 Hours in Boston
We're headed to "The City on a Hill". Spend 48 hours in Boston with us.
First time in Boston, MA. A quick little getaway. Originally, I was just tagging along on one of my mum's business trips, I haven't seen any family since Christmas. (Time to recalibrate my priorities.) But of course I found a way to turn a vacation into work, I scheduled a few meetings with local interior designers. I'm hoping they can shed a little light onto my design theme for Access by NKC's upcoming pop-up shop. I'm really pushing the team to come up with the most chic yet cost efficient decor. We might have to put in extra work, but I'm positive the unique, hand-crafted setting will leaving a lasting impression on guests.
- NKC, Creative Director
Share your thoughts with me at nkc@accessbynkc.com.
The weather in April is always so strange, but this year it's crazy! The temperature is so cold, mixed with the rain - it's almost unbearable. (It snowed in Philadelphia yesterday!) Unfortunately, my looks aren't very reflective of early Spring, but I'm headed up north so I had to bundle up. Regardless, the looks are still very simple & cute; perfect for a carry-on size bag.
Shop my looks for the next 48 hours below:
ASOS Suede Shearling Coat in 70's Styling - $291 / Ralph Lauren Brown Boswell Classic Tote - $200 / Forever 21 Hooded Side-Zip Dress - $35 / Ego UK Ivy Over the Knee Black Faux Suede Boots - $75 / Burberry Blue Exploded Check Cotton Flannel Shirt - $350 / Reebok FuryLite Cheetah Print Running Shoes - $75 / Go Jane Double Scoop Sleeveless Jumpsuit - $20 / Crea Concept Black Cropped Asymmetric Jumper - $79
Stay Updated With All of Our Editor's Notes & Travel Diaries. Subscribe to Our Newsletter.
Shoe Designer Renata Eileena Brings Glitz and Glam to Wildfire: The Series
Fashion entrepreneur, Reneta Eileena aims to mix things up at our upcoming pop-up shop with her custom shoe designs.
“I would mix bold colors and even at an early age I had been known for the unique clothes and shoes that I would wear.”
Fashion entrepreneur, Renata Eileena will be showcasing her shoes and cosmetics at pop-up shop Wildfire:The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, even at an early age, Renata always knew that her passion for fashion would take her far.
The 30-year old designer began creating her custom shoes in 2010 while working at a temp agency. After realizing that her craft was more than just a hobby, Renata went full-fledged with her footwear designs. By 2014, she developed her own custom footwear, thus creating Renata Eileena, LLC! To date, Reneta Eileena has seen a significant growth in visibility. Her brand has landed her magazine interviews with Karen Civil and a feature on VH1's, Lala's Full Court Life.
Currently Renata Eileena, LLC offers a variety of custom heels and sneakers, along with bedazzling bustiers. The brand’s mission statement focuses on creating custom pieces for bold, fearless, and creative women. The ideal client is a woman who is not afraid to be a showstopper. In the near future, Renata plans to open a cosmetic line, Possible by Renata Eileena.
Expect to see Renata’s flamboyant designs on April 30th, 2016 at the Wildfire: The Series pop-up shop, hosted by Access by NKC. The day long event is aimed at giving emerging designers and performers a platform to showcase their designs and talent.
Shop Reneta Eileena Custom Shoes Here!
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Accessory Designer Melissa Janae Brings Her Charm(s) to Wildfire: The Series
Glam Nation brings the finishing touches to Wildfire: The Series.
“I’ve always had a love for accessorizing. I believe that accessories are the heartbeat of any outfit.”
Philadelphia native and accessory designer, Melissa Janae shares her designs at The Wildfire Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
The self-described creative and free spirit started Glam Nation in 2012. Originally set to be a cosmetics brand, Glam Nation eventually transformed into an accessory line.
Much of Melissa's inspiration stems from vintage fashion, old Hollywood films to be exact. With the likes of Carmen and Casablanca, decorative and ornate styles are the foundation of her designs. “I would describe my overall style as BIG, eye catching, and controversial.”, states Melissa Janae.
In the future, Melissa envisions her Glam Nation pieces being worn on celebrities such as Solange, Janelle Monae, Lupita Nyong’o, Erykah Badu and Rihanna. In addition to opening a boutique, she also plans on adding more simpler pieces to her collection.
The 28 year old designer’s custom headpieces and necklaces can be purchased at Wildefire: The Series, as well as Etsy.
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Carley Rose the Label: Meet the woman behind this sustainable label
Conforming isn't apart of Carley Rose's agenda, find out why!
Q & A: Carley Rose the Label
Name: Carley Rose Wolski
Age: 23
Occupation: Fashion Designer
Location: Central Coast NSW
Photo provided by Carley Rose the Label
We had the chance to pick the brain of Carley Rose, owner/designer of Carley Rose the Label. In a world were conforming is taking the lead, Carley Rose stays true to herself and authentic designs. A soon-to-be graduate from Raffles College of Design and Commerce in March of this year with a Bachelor of Design, Carley Rose excited to watch her brand take off. In the midst of her designing, she looks forward to a more simplistic lifestyle with her husband, in cute house on a little land providing a fruit & vegetable garden. Along with a special dye garden for fabrics and garments. Read the rest of Carley Rose's interview below:
How did you conceptualize your blog and brand? What is your creative process?
My brand is really an extension of my own passions and style, which I would say is a very laid back, chilled out bohemian style, with a sense of respect towards the environment. It’s responsible fashion that makes you think about where it has come from, each step of the way.
My creative process involves a lot of inspiration gathering where I collect drawings, photos, books, music, magazines, go for walks in unusual places, anything that gets the sparks flying. Once I’ve gathered my material I start sketching, I like using lots of different mediums and that helps me think outside of the box too. The designing process needs more than simply sketching though, it also involves finding different fabrics and touching them, sewing them in weird ways just to see what you can achieve. My latest obsession is natural dyeing which you can see in my graduate collection GRADATION, where I used vegetables such as cabbage and onions to dye the pieces the colors they are today. Each of those fabrics were white when I bought them, and it fascinates me that I can take natural, compostable resources and create these beautiful colors without the pollution that comes from many other dyeing processes used in industry. That changes how I design dramatically because now I’m designing around that process and the results are sometimes surprising but always wonderful.
Growing up, where did you look for inspiration? Who or what inspires you now?
Photo provided by Carley Rose the Label
It’s funny to think about being ‘inspired’ as a child, I feel like the whole world is amazing at that age and you are learning so much each day. I found my Nanna pretty inspiring, I wanted to be able to do what she did every day which was mostly knitting, gardening, making jam and sewing. I’m an old lady at heart, I still want to just do those things in my free time. I always loved the idea of making everything yourself from scratch, for a while there you stopped seeing that kind of resourcefulness but I think it’s starting to come around again.
Today, I am inspired by a lot of things, my Nanna is still up there too. Specifically to my design work I would say nature inspires me most. That’s a broad subject matter but that just means there is so much to explore. I love snorkelling and looking at underwater photography for shape, color and texture references. Looking at different plants and their structure for interesting shapes, or the pattern in a birds feathers, it can all help spark ideas and it’s just so limitless.
I’m not the type of designer who looks at what other designers are doing to get inspiration, however in saying that I’ve got to say Vivienne Westwood is at the top of my Inspiring People List, particularly because of her attitudes about fashion and sustainability.
When was the moment you realized your craft was more than just a hobby?
I used to make a lot of jewelry and when I was about 17 and discovered Etsy I thought I’d have a go at selling online. The minute someone actually bought something, actually paid me for something I’d made with my own two hands was euphoric. I never wanted to lose that feeling.
If there was one fashion house you could work with who would it be and why?
Photo provided by Carley Rose the Label
I feel privileged to say that I have already had the opportunity to work along side one of my favourite labels as an intern, and that is Romance Was Born. I love them more now after interning with them than I did before, just seeing the passion they have for the artists and artworks they incorporate into their designs. There is a whole collaboration process that you don’t see in many other labels, that was really cool to see. If I could work with anyone else I’d like to work for an ethical and sustainable fashion house, perhaps for someone like Rachael Cassar.
Anything we should look forward to in your upcoming collection?
I’m working on a couple of made-to-order bridal gowns at the moment so the next collection is on hold for now, however I’m planning on using more natural dyeing techniques on some really chilled-out silhouettes.
What is one closet item that you feel is absolutely necessary?
I’ve always got a good pair of black leather ankle boots which through the colder months (and as much of the hotter months as is comfortable) I wear just about every day. They’re great because they go with almost everything, they’re comfortable, they’re good work shoes for someone who is on their feet all the time, they last well and can be resoled as needed. I’m all about making things last as long as possible and buying clothes and shoes that can be worn in different ways with a lot of stuff I already have, so my black Chelsea boots are one of my favorite things at the moment.
See more by Carley Rose the Label
Travel Diaries: The Row NYC
Find out about The Row NYC and our stay during New York Fashion Week!
With all the madness during New York Fashion Week, we managed to slip sleep into our schedule! During our stay in the city, we took up temporary residence at The Row NYC. The Row NYC is conveniently located in the heart of Times Square, sitting on W 44th St & 8th Ave. Upon arrival we were amazed to see such a grand entrance, the main lobby of the hotel is elevated, promoting guest to travel by elevator or stairs to begin the check in process. We quickly learned that this was a innovative hotel, up to date with the latest technology. Most notable, the lobby contained a full Mac Desktop Lounge, while elevators were organized by punching your floor number into a keypad and in return your were prompted with a elevator (A-H) to wait next to; taking you to your exact floor, no stops in between. (see photo is gallery)
The rooms were quite cozy (very common if you're familiar with New York hotel rooms), rooms included a low bed, with a desk area, multiple outlets throughout the room (perfect for a blogger) and a bathroom hidden behind a barn-style door. Our favorite accent in the room was the one wall displaying a vibrant color and quirky phrase, our's was "Light Out Please"!
Now to the good stuff! FOOD! The Row is located near almost anything you could think you would need in the city; food, bars, shopping, drug store, Broadway, etc. But in the dead of a New York winter we would rather not go outside if we didn't need to and City Kitchen saved the day. City Kitchen is a food-court style eatery featuring a wide variety of cultural cuisine. From Luke's Lobster Rolls to Donut's massive gourmet donuts, City Kitchen is show to have something you're in the mood for. The Row NYC also featured a state of the art gym and full service beauty shop for any last minute needs.
All in all, we can say The Row NYC definitely made our week at New York Fashion Week that much easier. If you're in the city, be sure to give them a try!
#NYFW Day 3
Day 3: Recap our behind the scenes adventure of Walk Fashion Show
Here's our recap of New York Fashion Week Day 3! We spent the night backstage interview models and designers at the Walk Fashion Show! The Walk Fashion Show is a studio centered around their showroom of independent designer. Take a peek at the pictures and videos above to get an inside look of the night!
Designers are as follows below:
Burning Guitars | @buringguitars
Lord Andrew Couture | Name of Collection Vintage Vogue | @lordandrewcouture
LLEWELLYN | @llewllynofficial
The Unity Closet | The Education Collection | @theunitycloset
Lamaj Company | Diamond Collection | @lamajcompany
Sala J | Sexy Kitty in the City | @therealsalaj
THROUGH THE LENS OF SOLANGE’S SUNGLASSES
Winter.Spring.Summer.Fall. If we had to pick the most essential accessory, sunglasses would be at the top of our list and we think Solange would completely agree. Solange captivates us with her carefree style and mindset. Her choice in sunglasses can’t be boxed in either, from wide frame cat-eyes to sleek aviators; we love them all. The perfect pair of sunnies are the element of cool with any look. Headed to the gym-but not really look, add sunnies! Corporate cutie, add sunnies! Nighttime diva, add sunnies (maybe add VIP too)! We’ve pulled a few of our favorite Solo sunnies looks! Enjoy!
Master Class: Headwraps
Bad hair day or just want to add a little flare to your look? Jessica Pettway shows us four stylish ways to tie a headwrap. This quick tutorial will have you looking like a exotic goddess in no time!
Master Class: Belts
When in doubt think ‘effortless’. Keep your look sophisticated, yet eye-catching just by adding a simple element: a belt! We’ll show you a few tips to achieving the look.
Belt Buckle: Eliminate the need to over accessorize your outfit by adding a belt that stands out. The belt buckle will standout, tie your outfit together (literally) and accentuate your curves all at once! Check out our favorite ways to style the belt buckle!
Kendall Jenner makes her waist look amazing with the use of oversized belt buckles!
Tied Up: In case you don’t own a belt with a statement buckle, you can always get creative with a regular belt; it’s all in the knot! Look at few of our favorite ways to tie a belt:
SPRING 2016 ACCESSORY TRENDS
Since we love you, we decided to do you a huge favor.. We’ve searched through designer Spring/Summer 2016 collection to find you the newest spring accessories! These accessories are perfect for a adventurous, fun spring season, from feathers to royal inspiration! Enjoy!
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Novelty Socks - Not your middle school gym tube socks, fun printed and embellished socks are a hot item this spring.
(All pictured: Nasty Gal)
Tiaras - You’re a princess daily anyways, why not make it known to the world! Gracefully own the spring in a tiara.
(L: Saint Laurent, M: Louis Vuitton, R: Dolce & Gabbana)
Transparency - The 90′s are back; sorta.. Stay light & airy; let everyone see what your working with when you try this see-through trend.
(L: Maison Margiela, R: Loewe)
Drop Earrings - Not so subtle spring. Drop Earrings with funky shapes and bold color schemes add flavor to the spring.
(L: Dolce & Gabbana, R: Marni)
Graphics - Bright & Bold, You always need a statement piece, do it with graphics. Better yet a graphic handbag!
(L: Louis Vuitton R: Fendi)
Chains - Metals, Metals, Metals! You’ll be seeing a lot of chain accents this upcoming season.
(L: Burberry Prorsum, M: Marni, R: Chloe)