CW at SXSW // Day One

/ SXSW/

We're on our adventure and exploring Austin, Texas like real hipsters, who love music, haven't been in heat in months, and can't stop staring at all the dopeness.

Day One at SXSW:

"Look at that yo!" was probably the tagline of the day, besides the epic reference to support local business, "Keep Austin Weird." Everything was eye catching, and random; just the way we like it. 

Austin SXSW scene reminds us of MKE's Water Street mixed with a Brady Street facade. The urban elements popping, the black magic enticing, and the street fashion too Steezy from day to night. 

Everyone here is looking for a connect, playing a showcase and grilled up. (mouth shots!)

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We checked out the Mazda Studio at Empire to catch Talib Kweli's set, which was packed, lit and of course, an honor.

We also got a chance to see The Blood is at the Doorstep, the documentary about Dontre Hamilton & his family, directed and produced by Erik Ljung, which premiered here at SXSW. (CW thought the documentary was very thought-provoking, and well filmed. #SupportTheLocal)

Guess who else is in town? Mike Regal! Dropping #Bars (of course) at the Coast 2 Coast showcase.

Let's see what today brings...we are excited to see if the SXSW culture is just what we need to put our own city on the map and FULLY in the mix.

Freakish: 

This is probably going to be the story of how I fell in love with Austin and just like any love story, it starts with me playfully disliking this city. There's no where to park, food is expensive, and I still haven't had a good taco.

Lines are long, people are rude, and I've had to change socks like three times, but this city is beautiful, and even through the driest of dry heats, I can see what brings people here. The knick-knacks are weird, the people are weirder, and there's a welcoming vibe flowing through the bamboo stalks around the corner from our hotel.

I can see myself loving this city, but for right now I'm admiring from a distance waiting for her to show me who she really is.

Syn:

"KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD, MAN!" & it won't be that hard when you're in this environment. 

SXSW; thus far, has been a hub for some dope shit. My favorite part is the intertwining of different cultures and the natural hair love was REAL. From #BlackGirlMagic and #BlackBoyJoy; you could see the support of the Puff and I love that. #SupportThePuff #MyCurlsWasPoppin #PinkFroGang #BetYouCantDoItLikeSyn... Even brands like Shea Moisture were in the city; supporting hair styles and types of all kind with a glam squad on hand, free products and of course some dope Instagram posts. (I may or may not be on their Instagram soon @sheamoisture)

Dirty: 

"CW is Sexi." - Words from a group of guys standing in the middle of 6th St.

It never fails no matter were we go, they notice. Good...because we are watching too. Talking to strangers, about fashion, music and where they are from always gives me a feel for the event. Who is at SXSW, and why does it matter? No matter where we go I want to see the REAL. There is nothing less intriguing then overly Bougie Street festivals cultivated by posers...and I know Bougie. Austin seems like a good balance of culture, people hungry for a moment to shine, and music...Music, Music, and Music. It gives me hope that maybe home can build something similar...I want this movement. I want this moment. This is research: Put in the work. Create the change. Perspective Babyyyyyyy! 

PLUS 

Supporting every genre of music was a beautiful thing to see. Seeing different people support local and bigger name artists was amazing. It was for every kind of person that wants to come together in one united front.

From civil protests on the streets of 6th to the perspective of seeing Milwaukee in Austin; I couldn't help but feel (a little) at home.

Love & All Things Urban,

/CW (GVNG GVNG SQUAD CIRCLE MoBB) 

Shooter: Mahdi Gransberry

Outfit of the Week // Aja Janay

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Aja has a sense of fashion like no other; she brings many styles of fashion together to create the ultimate look.

She gives me 70s/80s vibes (sexy yet classy but all around dope). 

Items you'll see:

High Slit Long Sleeve Dress in Ivory

Black Over the Knee Thigh High Boots

Gold Chain Choker

Check out her Instagram for styles @ajajanay

Photos by: Freakishnerd

Outfit of the Week // Carlos Cortez

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Carlos Cortez has a unique but flexible style. The model, dancer and overall creative can make anything look good and he definitely loves being styled in this years trends.

Carlos and his Cognac color jacket and shoes compliment very well together.

Items you'll see:

Tan fedora hat 

Cognac Brown leather jacket 

Baby grey short sleeve button up 

Black distress skinny jeans 

Leather strap watch

Gold evil eye bracelet 

Cognac lofter boots 

To see more of his looks follow him on Instagram @i.am.lio

CW Featured Designer Dee.Denim // Darla Shanae

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As CW Fashion Editor; Vato believes we need to know more about our Designers and other outlets for fashion in/out of Milwaukee.

I would love to represent the our 1st featured designer Darla Shanae of Deemolishment Denim. I've known Darla for about 3 years now and seen so much of her work. It is great! 

My first encounter with Darla was for a fashion show: she styled me in a white blazer trimmed in Denim. I loved it. 

I want you all to take a deeper look in to Deemolishment Denim.

Meet Darla Shanae.

About Dee.Denim

THE MOST FASHIONABLE WAY TO RECREATE YOUR WARDROBE! 

Deemolishment Denim™ was created by Darla Shanae in 2010. It started out as taking old, unattractive denim and turning it into GLAM, FASHIONABLE denim apparel! The initial goal was to have clients provide their old clothing for "deemolishing", but through displayed quality and professionalism, clients have been known to provide brand new and cherished items for custom design. This was beyond flattery! Whether clients provide new or old denim items ... once it has been deemolished, it has been blessed by the Heavens of Denim Fashion :) 

Over a short time span, Deemolishment has grown into providing custom clothing to customers in the Midwest area. Through our online Etsy store, Deemolishment has also grown to provide these beautiful pieces to people across the United States and also Worldwide! 

At this time in their career, DeeMolishment Denim is offering DIY Workshops (Universal Denim) around the nation to teach at-home ways to destroy and recreate denim. So far, the workshops have been provided to middle/high schoolers in hopes of inspiring them to become entrepreneurs of their own someday. Inquire with the shop members about this opportunity! 

All images provided by Dee.Denim // Etsy

Coffee & Creme Fashion Show: From Vato's Perspective

/ Company Brewing/

Get your coffee mugs and hot cocoa because it may have been chilly outside but this event had really cozy feel.

The day of the Coffee & Creme Fashion was a big day for Roshá (owner of the Style Hub). There was much to do, with limited time to do it!

Roshá Brister and Vato Vergara

Roshá Brister and Vato Vergara

8:15 a.m. rolls around and she is pumped; it’s go time! As she walks down the spiral stairs into the living room Mahdi pops into her mind. Upon booking him as the videographer for the event, we discussed him shooting footage of the setup process, which means she had to look fly while setting up chairs, thematic trees, and backdrops. After, jamming to some music and getting dressed, she hits me up with a text, “Where you at Slim?”

Roshá and I were finally able to meet up around 10 a.m. by that time she had already picked up the chairs and backdrop for the show. Thank Gawd that it all fit in my truck. We ran around town grabbing last minute items, that would ensure the Coffee & Creme was successful, yet glamorous event!”

For all my event planners, marketing coordinators and entrepreneurs, I’m sure you all can attest to that fact things don’t always go as planned. The Style Hub experienced great challenges planning The Coffee & Creme Fashion show, by no means was it a walk in the park. Roshá, came up with the idea in a coffee shop, hence the name. If you know nothing about her, just know that She loves coffee! She started planning this event back in August of 2016 and originally planned to do the show in November, but pushed it back. From past experience, she knew that she could not do this event alone, so eventually she reached out for help planning, developing, and implementing the event. I came up with a few great ideas on how to  promote, set up the venue, host model casting calls (I could go on and on). But still there were more issues to overcome.

So, what made it so difficult?

Murphy’s Law: Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.

Our backdrop was missing a pole, the photographer who was paid never showed up and a few model bailed out the show last minute. But as a team we worked together. There was no obstacle too big for the both of us.

Back stage was blissful and vibrant. The models were super ecstatic and Roshá even got a chance to get a live recording of the a model’s and I dancing and jammin’ out to the music. Each designer was tentatively getting each of their models dressed and fitted for their outfits. From back-stage the runway seemed to lit up perfectly. You saw this glimpse of elegance mixed with a chill vibe. In our eyes everything was perfect. It wasn’t crazy and the energy was positive. This time around we were not nervous to get the show on a roll. I felt calm and collected.

This time I wasn't able to see the show, because I was apart of it (Being one of the four designers, who styles ripped the runway). But being backstage was still dope. We had one bathroom and over 20 models lol. But fashion show chaos is an exhilarating feeling. The switch up, the make up, the final touches, we were ready.

With the runway looking like a winter wonderland, and the models ready to melt it all like coffee with cream, DJ Dub Deezy came through with music, Ricardo Wynn, killed it as a host interacting with the audience and keeping everyone engaged. It went well.

Was that a great story or what?

Now of course we can't just give you an ending like that. So I, Vato, would love to give you my REAL opinion of the show…here goes:

I'm normally in the audience; critiquing and talking my normal trash; but this time I was behind the scenes. Mannnnnnn, when I tell y'all I had to sneak to see all the designers in the show, it was so much going on. Anybody who knows me, knows I can show up to things whenever I feel it’s appropriate. Haha Fashionably late! I arrived back at the show at 6pm. All my models were waiting on me;  but of course my styles were already ready. The green room was a packed with models, designers, press, sponsors, and anybody who had a hand in the show. Live thats how we like it!

As the show started D.Denim went first. She displayed some of the ripest denim outfits i have ever seen. Denim dresses, skirts, chokers, heels, shirts; I mean absolutely denim everything. Her show set the bar for all the following designers. My favorite looks were Carlos, with the dark denim top and the light denim pants and Nicole, with the denim peplum top with the fitted denim pencil skirt and denim choker.

The second designer to go was Paul (Blue Eclipse) velvet, silks, and flowy fabrics with a dash of sparkle. His line up was awesome!  He styled the men in a very eccentric way, which was a bold move. “I Dare you to be different” is what I would call it. My favorite looks by him were worn by Natt Nyah in the Velvet dress and Brave Burks with his White and Gold boots. Both looks convey Regality, in a new way.

The 3rd designer is one of my Favorites and you all should know of her work by now; EmRis. She came through with the models and the styles. We all love the athletic look presented in the show; EmRis rocked her set like always. Of Course, my favorites was Briesha and Richon. (These models are the same ones featured in CopyWrite Magazine Issue VII: The Art of Perspective).

The last show was of course; no other the the fashion guru himself; Me. Lol

I'm not for the most part a designer; I'm a stylist. I make it a lifestyle; instead of your normal walking fashion show I wanted to entertain my audience with live styling and a diverse way of walking; my favorite look for my set was, Alex with the vintage bucks pullover windbreaker and Michelle, with the bad & bougie look; burgundy fur and velvet pencil skirt.

Now look here! Everybody in this show did great; the audience was hyped and someone's mother was walking all through the show; we should probably have her at the next model call LOL.

Despite all the chaos behind the scenes; I don't think anyone realizes the blood sweat and tears that was put into getting this show to be as successful as it was. The host had it going in the room; audience participation and gave out the best introductions. Hell he was even setting up too.

Closing out with the DJ subbing all types of ratchetness .... everyone got to mix and mingle when the show ended.

The next morning we all probably needed a little Coffee & Cream.

/Vato

 

Photography provided by The Style Hub and Emmanuel Brown Photography

Industrial Revolution // Spring Fashion Inspiration

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We know it's winter but we've been daydreaming about spring and with that, Spring Fashion.

That's why we're in love with Fashionable Demand's conceptual shoot, Industrial Revolution. We love the contrast between the pinks and softness of the florals with the urban environment in the background. And yes, once again florals are a must-have this Spring season.

Fashionable Demand, if you're unfamiliar, "is a fashion collective founded in 2012 by Michael Holt, Brittany Johnson and Michelle Gill. Our core value is creating aesthetically satisfying images per wardrobe styling, creative consulting and direction through various media forms. Since our inception our talents have been showcased on three feature films, most recently in the independent comedy feature, "Civilian Life", on web-series, "Mad Black Men" and several conceptual photo shoots featured on AfroPunk. As well as numerous music videos and short films."

And while the ladies of Fashionable Demand kill visuals, they're talents "have expanded into blogging and contributing writer for national fashion publication, Kontrol Magazine."

Fashionable Demand would also like to "give a huge shout-out to all of the creatives [they] have worked with in the past. Additionally, to all of the talented women that gave their gifts to this shoot; Photographer: Darianne Edwards, Model: Adela Raicu and HMUA: Glinda Dotson." 

We see you ladies.

"In our current times there are influences and ideals surrounding us that leave us cold and industrially sterile. Yet, in the midst of it all there can still be found some softness,solace and hope."

Check out there shoot below and if you want more, visit fashionabledemand.com to read more.

Instagram : @Fashionable__Demand Facebook: Fashionable Demand

All photos owned and provided by Fashionable Demand.

Sienna Jones: CW Featured Fashion Idol of the Day

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Sleigh your winter fashion looks all season long with neutrals and of course our favorite, fur.

Our featured model and fashion idol, Sienna Jones is wearing a white turtleneck bodysuit with a golden bandage skirt. To add more fashion to the mix, she added a blazer cape with a fur scarf, and nude heels to set off the look that is perfect for any occasion.

We love her look.

**CW Tip** Add shear tights and boots when adapting this look for colder days. 

/CW Fashion

Photography by Dexter Williams Williams Photography

WANT TO BE FEATURED FOR YOUR STYLE or FASHION BUSINESS?

E-mail us at copywrite.mke@gmail.com to get featured in our next Style of the Day.

Grandparent's Closet: Knit Sweater

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Introducing CopyWrite’s fashion series, Grandparent’s Closet.

We all have those one-of-a-kind or very unique items that we love to wear. The big question is “where did you get it from?” and with no shame; our fashion editor Vato will say his Grandparents Closet. “If your grandparents we’re as cool as mines when they were younger, then I’m sure you’re familiar with what’s in their closet.”

In this segment, Vato takes one-of-a-kind “vintage” clothing from his relatives closet and gives it a modern twist.

Vato shows off a sweater which looks knitted in the colors black, grey, and white. As you can see in the photos below; he wears the sweater as plain and simple as possible, making it easy for people to focus on the sweater. It was given to him by his great uncle who owns a collection of sweaters.

WANT TO BE FEATURED IN GRANDPARENT’S CLOSET?

Have an amazing set of earrings from your Aunt? A killer pair of retro jerseys from pops? E-mail us at copywrite.mke@gmail.com to be featured in our next post.

MKE Street Style Interview with Rosha Brister

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Read Vato's interview with stylish boss lady, Rosha Brister.

Prior to the interview; Rosha and I met at a festival, where we were able to share our passions about fashion. Rosha Brister is the owner and founder of The Style Hub, an online style directory where you will be able to locate local stylists from a variety of search options. Basically Rosha is dope and can connect with the people that you need for all things fashion and style related. In addition, this led up to Rosha asking me to host an event called, 'The Battle of Salons' Fashion Show.

We met at a coffee shop for the interview to talk her "street style."

What is your style?

Rosha likes to consider her style like the modern day 70s era. She is very fascinated with high wasted denim, crops tops, deep cut v-neck shirts, turtle necks, hats, and fur scarfs. Keeping it in a time she feels most appreciated in.

Who or what influences your style?

Rosha feels as if inspiration comes from other clothing pieces. Wondering how she could duplicate something and add her own twist to it. She says social media is one of her hugest outlets when it comes to looking at pieces to influence her style.

How does your closet look?

Rosha considers herself to be very organized and a bit of a neat freak. She has all her denim in one spot, but everything else is color coordinated, hanging up and or folded. One thing I found interesting is how she switches her closet as the seasons change.

Favorite places to shop?

Urban outfitters, American Apparel, and H&M

 

Follow Rosha's Style Hub on Instagram and Facebook @_thestylehub to get more updates on local fashion and style events or for your next fashion show.

- Vato

#WCW Modern Native Co.

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This week’s #WCW makes “soul inspiring spirit webs & crafts for lovers of the universe” also known as kick-ass dream catchers that fight off bad spirits and some accessories that you need in your closet.

Say hello to “Modern Native Co.”

Owned and operated by Kelsey Erin. The company creates one-of-a-kind and (I would say) magical spirit webs woven with love right here in Milwaukee.

In Native American culture, “Natives believed the night air was filled with good and bad dreams. The legend of the Dream Catcher is that it captures the bad Spirits and filters them. Protecting us from evil and letting through only the good dreams. It is believed that each carefully woven web will catch bad spirit dreams in the web.”

How awesome is that?

Kelsey, a woman of many talents, started the company as a needed outlet from her traditional tasks on the computer. As written on her Etsy bio: “Making dream catchers became a meditation for me. I put my heart and soul into them and to me they are a decorative symbol of unity.”

We all need a reminder of unity in our life and these dream catchers might do the trick. Check out there pieces below, follow them on Instagram and then go to there Etsy store to purchase.

If you don’t see anything that fits your soul, Kelsey is more than happy to sit down with you to create your own personal piece.

#SupportTheLocal

All images provided and owned by Modern Native Co.

( etsy.com/shop/ModernNativeCo )