My Own Sense of Fashion: #exclusiveinterview

#2017FaceofFFFWeek

Catwalks and Briefcases- An Interview with 2017 Face of FFFWeek © Mallory B. Richardson

12:30:00 PM
By artstarsky
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I had the chance to speak with Indian Plus Size Model & 2017 Face of FFFWeek© Mallory B. Richardson. In between her busy schedule, I asked about her journey to become the 2017 Face of FFFWeek© & more. Keeping reading to find out more.

1. Congratulations on being declared 2017 Face of FFFWeek©. What motivated you to enter this year’s competition and what has been your favorite moment so far?

MBR: Thank you so much! I decided to enter this year after casting as a runway model last year. After watching the FFFWeek© brand build over the years, I thought very carefully about how I wanted to be involved this year. I was unable to make either casting and couldn’t get the thought of not submitting for The Face out of my mind. I had recently worked with a videographer I trusted and truly am a public speaker at heart. Once I heard Gwen on the radio explain the basis for creating The Face role, I was that much more assured, I should submit. The journey has been incredible so far. I have been contacted by previous Face winners, media, embraced by industry professionals and instilled with a new sense of self as me being me and all the hard work I have displayed over the past two years was all worthwhile for a moment in time like this.

Image Credit: Erika King

2. In addition to being a model, you are also a Clothing Stylist and Fashion Producer. Would you say that this has allowed you to have a unique perspective when it comes to modeling?

MBR: I am that much more selective, hands-on, and meticulous when it comes to the treatment of all parties involved in my productions, and what I command when working as a model for a designer in a production. Being a stylist allows me to use my creative abilities to unveil a new and refreshed version of a person via their clothing and appearance, which internally gleams from the inside out as their self-esteem begins to enhance as well.

People do care about their personal appearance, or at least they should, and what others think. As a model, I am there to showcase designer attired suitable for sale. I am a spokesmodel with no words, I am the template to a piece of artistry, I give life to garments and let the audience envision themselves or loved ones enjoying collection items based on my representation of the brand, that is powerful. When I am in production mode, I am constantly thinking, how best can I show my team I value them and receive the best performance both from my staff and the expected attendees.

What type of experience do I want them to have? How can I continue to evolve my productions and keep the core values of creation the same… these are all things I think about. I have produced both Birth of an Empire, my first runway show and now Crusade of Curves which will be an annual production. I hope to continue to build my legacy in the fashion marketplace both for straight and plus women to highlight incredible design aesthetic.

3. Here is a fun question. What is your must have item in your beauty arsenal and why?

MBR: I must have an amazing statement piece. Whether jewelry, belt, or clutch, I am an accessories kind of girl. I believe anything can look like something with a splash of accessory. It takes your look to the next level of completeness.

Image Credit: Erika King

4. Lastly, where can people find you online?

MBR: Facebook: Mallory B. Richardson

Instagram: Malthemodel

Instagram: (Styling) Largerthanlifestyling

Instagram: (Nonprofit) Beaucoup919

Instagram: CrusadeofCurves

Website: www.malloryb.com

Special thanks again to Mallory. Be sure to find her online and catch her at this year’s Full Figured Fashion Week next month.

Did you enjoy this interview? Who should be the subject of our next interview? Let us know in the comments below.

All opinions expressed on the blog appear courtesy of Tamarah Brown for My Own Sense of Fashion © unless otherwise stated (i.e. interviews, guest blog posts etc.). No use or reproduction may occur without the written consent of the author. This blog uses affiliate links & generates a small commission from purchases.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to see what we have in store. Let us know what topic you would like next on the blog.

#accessories

Definition of a True Gentleman-Lloyd Rayner of Kurtis Paul

10:30:00 AM
By artstarsky
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#art

Crowns, Tablescapes, and Easels-An Interview with Julia Greer Fobes

10:30:00 AM
By artstarsky
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I had a chance to interview Artist Julia Greer Fobes of Julia Greer Fobes: Fashion, Art & Flowers. After seeing her incredible work doing the recent Mardi Gras season I was intrigued by her sense of style. I was lucky to catch her during a break in her busy schedule. Check out our exclusive chat to find out more about her and where you can find her work.

Logo

Image Credit: Julia Greer Fobes

1. Can you share with our readers a little more about yourself?

JGF: I am from Mobile and I have been creating art since I was a child. I always knew I wanted to do something creative in my everyday work. I studied art and photography through high school and then went on to Ole Miss, where I graduated in 2007, to pursue Studio Art in addition to Costume Design and Technology. Since college, I have had the opportunity to work with three of the most talented artists in our area: Nall, Bruce Larsen, and Ron Barrett.

The lessons I received in technique and craftsmanship were second only to the advice they shared with me on what it means to be an artist in our community and to sell yourself and your work in a positive and productive way. I learned quite a lot about myself and my art during those experiences. Last March, I decided it was time for me to work for myself so that I could focus all my energy on what I now see as my contributions to the art of this community. That is how Julia Greer Fobes: Fashion, Art & Flowers was born.

My main priority now is the fashion of Mardi Gras. I design and create costumes, trains, gowns, collars, pins, umbrellas and just about anything else for the royal monarchs and court members of the different Mardi Gras organizations. Throughout the rest of the year, I also produce florals and decor for weddings, corporate events, residential and commercial properties and participate in community involved projects like the Annual Providence Hospital’s Festival of Flowers. I also love to paint, so I do take a handful of commission pieces each year to keep my hand in that world too.

Juvenile King Joseph Little (left) with Julia Greer Fobes (right)

Image Credit: Julia Greer Fobes

2. During the Mardi Gras season, you worked with the MAMGA court in more than one compacity. Can you share more about the overall experience?

JGF: This was my first year working with MAMGA and I cannot say enough good things about the entire experience. I worked with the Juvenile King Joseph Little and his family to create a new costume and train for his reign. His look was inspired by an old military photograph from the Regency period as well as his love for football and his school, St. Paul’s Episcopal School… which is also my Alma Mater. I also designed and produced a new costume for the MAMGA King Olabode “Dayo” Anise.
He borrowed a train from a past King, but I made five large motifs to add to it, in order for it to match his costume. In the end, the entire look felt personalized to Dayo and the Anise family. I also designed the King’s royal pin, which was taken from the family crest I produced for the train.

Besides having the opportunity to work with the two kings, I was delighted when Queen Katherine Smith came to me to decorate her Queen’s Party, which takes place after the Royal Coronation.
She didn’t want Mardi Gras and she didn’t want a wedding, so it was up to me and my team to find out where the happy middle ground would be and I think we accomplished that! The entire three-room space was completely covered in ice pink and champagne gold. I had great feedback from all of my clients and the MAMGA community as a whole. I hope to continue working with MAMGA for years to come and look forward to building more relationships through those experiences.

Royal Pin for MAMGA King Olabode “Dayo” Anise

Image Credit: Julia Greer Fobes

3. Switching gears a bit you come from a costume design background. What would you say is the most challenging?

JGF: Before getting into building these Mardi Gras trains and costumes about six years ago, my only costume design background was in college while studying Costume Design and Technology at Ole Miss.
There are always challenges and I feel like I am constantly learning as I go. I joke that as soon as we finally have something figured out, it’s over and we are moving on to something else… but that is just the nature of this business too I think.
The costumes and collars or anything that requires a specific “fit” are always the most difficult to get right. We are all so very different and come in many shapes and sizes, so getting that right fit or drape or curve can sometimes be very tricky. Creating the trains are a much looser art for me. I see them as large paintings…. instead of paint, I layer different fabrics, appliqués, and rhinestones!

4. Now for a fun question. Name one event (past or present) that you would love to work on and why?

JGF: I strive to continue building my portfolio of Mardi Gras work in Mobile. I would love to expand on my fashion, art and flower designs for the Mobile Carnival Association and the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association. I would also love the opportunity to work with any of the other dozens of Mardi Gras groups within our area. I also think it would be great fun to maybe one day try my hand in float building and design. Mobile Mardi Gras is such a special thing and I am proud to help represent a new generation of carnival artists in our local community.

Train for Natalie Reynolds (left), Logo (top right) & Collar for MCA Queen Greer Stimpson Turner (bottom right)

Image Credit: Julia Greer Fobes

5. Your business is based here on the Gulf Coast. What is it that makes this area so special especially to someone looking to visit?

JGF: I was born and raised in Mobile and lived across the bay for years, before moving back to Mobile about five years ago, where I work out of a studio behind the midtown cottage my husband and I live in. My grandparents live on Mobile Bay and my parents have a house on Soldiers Creek in Lillian, so I have grown up on the water. The environment that surrounds us is so unique and the older I get the more I appreciate every part of it.
The fact that I am able to be creative in my everyday work and make a living doing what I want to do in my hometown is wonderful.

There was a time when I thought I would have to be in a bigger city to realize my dreams, so Mobile, Baldwin County, the Bay, the Gulf, Mardi Gras and all the culture that surrounds us means everything to me. There is always something for everyone going on here, so it is a visitor’s paradise. I am so lucky to have been born into this community and there is nowhere else I would rather be creating. I feel truly blessed in my life here because the inspiration is endless.

6. Lastly, where can people find you and your work online?

JGF: Please follow me on Facebook… Julia Greer Fobes: Fashion, Art & Flowers. That is where I post a majority of my work and excursions! I also use Instagram and Snapchat and you can find me there under @juliagreerfobesfashionartflow.

Thanks again to Julia and be sure to check out her work online.

All opinions expressed on the blog appear courtesy of Tamarah Brown for My Own Sense of Fashion © unless otherwise stated (i.e. interviews). No use or reproduction may occur without the written consent of the author. This blog uses affiliate links & generates a small commission from purchases.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to see what we have in store. Let us know what topic you would like next on the blog.

#CanadianFashion

The Final Edit- An Interview with Diana Di Poce

10:30:00 AM
By artstarsky
1 Comments

Our first interview of 2017 comes courtesy of you the readers. For this interview, I went even further into the world of fashion specifically fashion editing. I had a chance to chat with Diana Di Poce. She is the Founder and Director of DARE Magazine, the Canadian plus size magazine. On a break from her busy schedule, we discussed various topics including how she got her start, the magazine and much more. Check out our interview below.

1. First off can you tell our readers a little more about yourself?

I’m Diana Di Poce—the founder of DARE Magazine, Canada’s plus size fashion magazine. With an Honours Bachelor of Design Degree in Fashion Communication from Toronto’s Ryerson University, my expertise and passion lie in art direction and both print and digital editorial design. In 2013, as part of my thesis project, I combined my skills and love of curves to launch DARE Magazine, and have since continued to pursue my dream of producing Canada’s digital go-to guide for plus size fashion and beauty.

Aside from DARE, I am a wife, daughter, and aunt to five beautiful nieces, whom I adore!

2. You founded DARE Magazine in 2013, how would you say working with other publications helped in creating your own digital magazine?

Working with other publications before launching DARE Magazine helped me immensely. Through working with the art, styling, editorial and sales departments at several publications, I gained the necessary experience to produce my very own magazine. My work experience helped prepare me for what was to come in the near future: DARE Magazine.

3. What would you say is a common misconception about fashion editing?

In terms of fashion photography, a common misconception is that all magazines retouch models in order to hide all of their “imperfections”. This, however, is not the case for all publications. Although we do make some edits in order to enhance our photos (lighting and exposure, for example), we do not alter or retouch our models, as DARE Magazine focuses on celebrating curves. Over time, I believe we will continue to see less retouching in the pages of magazines and in media.

4. DARE is a go-to guide for plus size fashion, beauty and so much more. What is it that sets your magazine apart from similar magazines currently on the market?

DARE Magazine is unique in its messaging and aesthetic. Although the magazine is targeted towards plus size women, our mission is fashion first, which is why we stray from using terms such as plus size, curvy, voluptuous, etc., on a constant basis. We want our readers to be drawn into the magazine through the fashion featured, captivating content and striking editorials.

Our groundbreaking hashtag #DAREtoWear also makes a statement. This movement inspires women to #DAREtoWear clothing they wouldn’t normally wear. Whether it’s baring a little extra skin, sporting your first bikini or rocking a new trend, I find so much inspiration and happiness from browsing through our readers’ posts.

5. You have worked with a lot of great brands already. Who is your dream collaboration and why?

Through DARE Magazine, I have had the opportunity to work with leading plus size brands and retailers who have introduced plus size lines. I hope to continue to make a mark on the industry with future collaborators!

6. Lastly, where can people find you and DARE Magazine online?

DARE Magazine is available online only, at www.daremag.ca. Stay tuned for our Spring Issue, launching this March.

Follow us on Instagram @daremagcanada for the latest in all things curvy! Share your daring outfits using #DAREtoWear for the chance to be featured.

Special thanks again to Diana and be sure to find DARE Magazine online.

Did you enjoy this interview? Who should we interview next? Let us know in the comments.

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#exclusiveinterview

New York Style – An Interview with Model, Stylist and Creative Director Leon “Mr. Gumby” Freeney

9:30:00 AM
By artstarsky
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Clip Art Source: ClipArtBest and Canva

We here at My Own Sense of Fashion not only want to highlight women making moves in fashion but the men as well. For this interview, I am talking to Model, Stylist & Creative Director Leon “Mr. Gumby” Freeney. We talked about the world of fashion styling, and how he gives back to the community. Keep reading below to find out more.

1. First off, please introduce yourself to the readers?

Hello, readers, I go by the name Mr. Gumby and I am a full-time Model, Stylist, and Creative Director from Staten Island. People know me best for being one of the founding fathers of a hip hop crew called the Funky Fresh Crew a group of talented people that embraced the 80s/90s style of fashion.

2. You are known as Mr. Gumby and I feel that there is a story behind this name. Would you care to share its origin?

The name Mr. Gumby comes from the 80s cartoon character and from the style of the Gumby haircut of the 80s hip hop fashion era. I gave myself that name to be different to be bold & wanted something that would stand out.

The Lady Sings the Blues Photo Shoot

featuring Plus Size Fashion Stylist & Style Blogger Nanthale Collins of N.E.C. Style

Photography: powardbysoul

3. I notice that you pull fashion looks from specific decades. Are your selections based on personal preference or do they hold some significance?

A lot of shoots that I do are based on time periods I want to give the world a different vibe, it's about showing the beauty of life.

4. You are also a big proponent of giving back to your community through fashion. What has been the overall response?

As an artist I think it's important to give back to your community, we are dealing with hard times now so I made it my goal to show others the gift of love. Each photo shoot that I have done was made to inspire the people. Lots of people see my images and it gives them life. As of today, I'm still ushering my gift to help people see that love is the key not hate.

Photography: powardbysoul

5. For those unfamiliar with the world of fashion styling, what would you say is a common misconception?

In the world of fashion, some people don't see the art in it. It's not about the clothes it's about a person that has been down and how they can use fashion to uplift people. I want people to be bold, never be afraid & look different. It's not about designers that make the clothes it's about the people that are willing to take a chance.

6. Let’s say a client is uncertain and nervous about the shoot. How do you handle this situation?

When I am at work and a person is nervous I take my time to build them up & have fun by giving my gift of joy. By the end of the shoot, they had fun because when you show love it helps.

7. Lastly, where can people find you and your work online?

Contact Info

Instagram

mrgumby88

Facebook

mrgumby Freeney

Special thanks again to Mr. Gumby and don’t forget to check him online.

Follow us on Facebook , Instagram, and Twitter to see what we have in store. Let us know what topic you would like next on the blog.

Catwalks and Briefcases- An Interview with 2017 Face of FFFWeek © Mallory B. Richardson

Definition of a True Gentleman-Lloyd Rayner of Kurtis Paul

Can you tell us more about your brand?

You and your brother Kurtis serve as co-founders as well as designers. What role would you say each of you plays in Kurtis Paul?

Kurtis Paul represents the true gentleman. In your own words, what is your definition of a true gentleman?

Your bags are finely crafted. If you could design a bag for anyone who would it be and why?

Kurtis Paul Men’s Canvas Backpack

Image Credit: Lloyd Rayner

What is the most popular trend at Kurtis Paul?

Lastly, where can people find you online?

Crowns, Tablescapes, and Easels-An Interview with Julia Greer Fobes

The Final Edit- An Interview with Diana Di Poce

1. First off can you tell our readers a little more about yourself?

2. You founded DARE Magazine in 2013, how would you say working with other publications helped in creating your own digital magazine?

3. What would you say is a common misconception about fashion editing?

4. DARE is a go-to guide for plus size fashion, beauty and so much more. What is it that sets your magazine apart from similar magazines currently on the market?

5. You have worked with a lot of great brands already. Who is your dream collaboration and why?

6. Lastly, where can people find you and DARE Magazine online?

New York Style – An Interview with Model, Stylist and Creative Director Leon “Mr. Gumby” Freeney

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Catwalks and Briefcases- An Interview with 2017 Face of FFFWeek © Mallory B. Richardson

Definition of a True Gentleman-Lloyd Rayner of Kurtis Paul

Can you tell us more about your brand?

You and your brother Kurtis serve as co-founders as well as designers. What role would you say each of you plays in Kurtis Paul?

Kurtis Paul represents the true gentleman. In your own words, what is your definition of a true gentleman?

Your bags are finely crafted. If you could design a bag for anyone who would it be and why?

Kurtis Paul Men’s Canvas Backpack

Image Credit: Lloyd Rayner

What is the most popular trend at Kurtis Paul?

Lastly, where can people find you online?

Crowns, Tablescapes, and Easels-An Interview with Julia Greer Fobes

The Final Edit- An Interview with Diana Di Poce

1. First off can you tell our readers a little more about yourself?

2. You founded DARE Magazine in 2013, how would you say working with other publications helped in creating your own digital magazine?

3. What would you say is a common misconception about fashion editing?

4. DARE is a go-to guide for plus size fashion, beauty and so much more. What is it that sets your magazine apart from similar magazines currently on the market?

5. You have worked with a lot of great brands already. Who is your dream collaboration and why?

6. Lastly, where can people find you and DARE Magazine online?

New York Style – An Interview with Model, Stylist and Creative Director Leon “Mr. Gumby” Freeney

About Me

Like My Own Sense of Fashion on Facebook

Independent Fashion Blogger Links á la Mode for the week of July 20th

Popular Posts

Follow My Own Sense of Fashion on Instagram

Follow us on Bloglovin

Alabama Women Bloggers

recent posts

Shop my ShopStyle Shop

Blog Archive

Subscribe To

Activate by Bloglovin

Follow me

Socialize!