EVENT: AFRICA FASHION WEEK NY | DAY 1 + 3

Day 1 - [12-7-12] - Ah! Day one of Africa Fashion Week, was not at all what I anticipated it to be. In fact, I barely anticipated it. I arrived at the venue and I was immediately consumed by the energy lingering in the air. I was greeted by the smiles and overwhelmingly beautiful warm words by faces who recognized me from here and there and so on. As I made my way through backstage, I knew immediately hard work and thrilling fun laid ahead. I found myself going from rack to rack, speaking with some designers, commending their work as well offering assistance where needed. In my doing so, I got the opportunity to peruse what each designer had constructed and I was deeply impressed, to say the least. My absolute favorite collection was by Carolyn Long of Fienes Couture. Her brilliant pairing of fur + leather is what captivated me most (the feathered white blouse was part of her collection. Wish I photographed more). In addition to her, the women behind Messanga, Kachi Designs and Kibonen absolutely blew me away with their use of textures and pattern. As showtime drew near, the air grew thick. The ushering of volunteers back and forth, the heightening sense of urgency as models came off the runway and were immediately undressed and redressed for the next collection, the lineup of makeup Artists, eager to retouch and tweak bits of the models prior to unleashing them unto the runway yet again - it was all new to me. I have been a part of fashion shows (nothing of this magnitude, of course) in the past, but I'm usually amid the slew of guests, photographing. Never have I been hands-on with the production of anything so grand. It thrilled me so. Mind you, this was my first major styling-debut. Can you imagine the excitement?

VIDEO: LOCKE KAUSHAL x "LET THERE BE"

VA-bred, rising Hip-Hop Artist, Locke Kaushal earned my allegiance almost immediately upon being charmed by his performance last year, opening for Dom Kennedy and Big K.R.I.T. at N.C A&T's Aggie Fest. I met him shortly after the show, expressed to him how pleased I was to make his acquaintance and commended him on giving his heart on stage. In an effort to deepen my knowledge on his music, I anxiously got on the computer and began searching. To my pleasure, I heard his H.A.M. Freestyle and Rich Man Begging and I was sold. I publicly lent my allegiance to him via Twitter; told him he'd gained a believer. It pleases me to admit that nearly over a year later, I still hold similar sentiments. Having heard some of his latest tracks titled, "let there be" and "Oxford 64" and observed the growth, I grew excited - yearned to hear more. And, as a Lover of music, you crave that feeling, anticipate it often; it's partly what keeps the passion alive. You understand? Peace.

A 1000 WORDS x CITY ORANGE

[16-7-12] - There's something wildly captivating about the colour, orange. Perhaps it lies in its blend between the creative energy of yellow and passionate vibrancy in the color, red. Or in the way wearing it amplifies the gleaming, gold undertone in my skin.

There is also something incredibly appealing about a photograph, set in the city. I Love the appeal of people wandering about, heading to somewhere or nowhere at all, the myriad of lifestyles, blending in the create an intoxicating vibrancy, the colours and so on. However, the sour bit about that is: they tend to stare. Ha! And, what makes matters worse is I now shoot manually - manual lens, manual settings, so when my camera is in the hands of a novice, it takes rather...long.All-in-all, a great, productive, fun-filled day spent with my sister, Sally and my cousin, Lotanna (that's a Nigerian name, in case you were wondering)! I The longer it takes, the more eyes gather and gaze. In other news, finally got some Jamba Juice! My favourite smoothie is the "power pineapple" - try it sometime. Peace.

AUDIO: KENDRICK LAMAR x "SWIMMING POOLS" [DRANK]

- Came into the realization that my blog has been missing a bit of none other than the sounds of the amazing King Kendrick himself. Fortunately, my ears just got blessed with his newest track titled, "swimming pools (drank)" and it immediately dawned on me, "this is exactly what I've been lacking - a bit of Kendrick Lamar." He still holds the title as one of my favourites (I really want to call him a rising Artist, but he is apparently above that) simply because he continues to remain engulfed by the ability to deliver in a manner that commands.

PHOTO-DIARY x AFWNY | FITTING DAY 2

[3-7-12] - So, as some of you fashionably-aware bunch may know, AFW New York just took place this past week. Last year, I attended day 2 of the shows, but as guest. This year, however, I took on are more hands-on role by applying for the position of stylist/creative coordinator. For those of my readers that are unaware of the procedure, I'll provide a condensed version. As for the visuals, my position did not permit the taking of a slew of pictures of the actual set, but here are some(of the many) I took on said day.
The scheduled shows are usually preceded by what is called a "fitting" - this is where designers, stylists, event coordinators and of course, models meet and greet in an effort to create for lack of better words, the big picture. The designers, assisted by stylists, fit the models, establish who will wear what in devise an order (usually the designers have already constructed an order prior to the fitting). Excitement filled the air along with sights of myriads of African-inspired culture; garments, hairstyles and demeanor, roared the longstanding presence of African pride. I roared with African pride. Peace.

A 1000 WORDS x NEOPRENE DREAMS

[7-6-12] - On the 7th of June, I finally launched this Cynthia Rowley [for ROXY] S/S 2010 neoprene cocktail-dress. I mean, who would have thought to infuse neoprene - a rubber, used in creating diving-suits - into high-fashion? The idea alone is ingenious.

PHEO x CALIFORNIA SEX [EP]

There is something, incredibly intimate about an EP. I mean, it's like, the Artist takes it upon him or herself, depending, to cultivate a minimum amount of tracks that caters to their sense of Artistry, that still speaks true to a sense of completion. This ideology transcends into my intake of this compilation by California native and Hip-Hop artist, Pheo. The title alone exposes a bit of what the content of the compilation dictates; the seemingly calm, easy-going essence of California-living, amplified by the implication of well, sex.

The tracks generally encourage the warmth of Summer and the need to just lay back, crack open a brew and just chill. This EP is my first introduction to the artist, Pheo and I am thoroughly impressed, to say the least. And, it has definitely been thrown into my Summer playlist. Enjoy; Peace.

H&M | SUMMER 2012 CATALOGUE

[8-7-12] - Ever since its first introduction back in 2009, I have been an avid viewer of H&M's seasonal catalogues. Initially, I thought of neat and brilliant of the ever-evolving retail powerhouse and over time, grew to enjoy its content more and more. It definitely helps that the copies are distributed via H&M stores for free. Simply grab a copy and indulge. I particularly love it because it provides insight on what H&M has to offer in stores worldwide being that, to my observation, their merchandise varies region to region, depending on the preference of its demographics. Stores in Europe, I've noticed, tend to have much more items that appeal to my sense of style. Ah! I must admit I deeply desire to vacate to Europe (again) and see and experience the stylistic-climate. If you haven't already, visit the nearest H&M store and pick up a copy. This is definitely one of their best editions to date next to Spring 2011. The colours - just...sublime. I snapped some quick shots of some of my favourite looks. Peace.

A 1000 WORDS x DRUG-DEALER CHIC

[28-6-12] - This was inevitably one of the hottest days of New York's summer and conveniently, I had a mile-high list of errands to tend to. Actually, I exaggerated that bit. I had about two stops to make, but movement, coupled with the heat, enhanced the duties-at-hand. Funny enough, these weren't taken on a later day; too hot to photograph. Ha! Anyhow. The reddish undertone in both patterns allowed for these two pieces to coalesce harmoniously.

VIDEO: BLACK IVY 02 x A NOBLE SAVAGE

Created by: Street Etiquette.

Since my first brush of familiarity with the lifestyle blog, Street Etiquette , I was immediately drawn to the overwhelming presence of attention to detail - one that simply implements a certain sense of theatricality and sophistication. And I admired that deeply.

The second installment of Black Ivy, by Street Etiquette, features Ali of A Noble Savage. A Noble Savage - the term, to me, embodies the perfect paradoxical blend, representing one who's high-minded and grand in conduct and thought, yet capable of being wild, rampant and ravenous - the two extremities of the human-mind and human-behavior. Incredibly similar to the concept behind Dank & Dapper which is why I am so taken by it. I love the entire presentation of A Noble Savage and after having perused the site for the past hour, I am impressed and borderline smitten. Enjoy; Peace.

THE (MUSE)UM PROJECT | BUCH x DIPLOMATIC-APPEAL

[9-3-12] - In unusual Teff fashion, I shot mostly vertical shots as opposed to a much more favourable wide, horizontal shot. I am beyond pleased with the outcome, however. I love that I am finally able to include my twin in a project.

What I kept brewing in the rear of my mind was 90s editorial. Fortunately, the Universe helped blend the elements that brought my vision to life so perfectly. From the choice in colours to the location. Initially, we planned on shooting outside by some pillars, but the controlled lighting definitely enhanced the appeal of these shots. x Makeup by: Buch Styled by: Her and I (Teff) Shot + edited by: Teff. © 2011-2012 The (MUSE)um Project.

VIDEO: CLASH MAGAZINE x A$AP ROCKY

In all honesty, I posted this because of the use of colours and textures and shapes. How much more praise can I award A$AP Rocky after having featured his related works twice in less than 24 hours? Peace.

CAMPUS-COOL VOL.37 x SUGAR FOR MY SUGAR

[3-4-12] - That's the third of April to eliminate any possible presence of confusion.

A couple months ago - actually, Valentine's day to be exact, I was contacted by a LA-based online boutique better known as, Sugar Lips. I was asked to be a part of their blogger-affiliates program to which, I agreed. Overly excited by the opportunity, I immediately began sifting through the content of their site to find a suitable piece. Now, if you're familiar with my usual taste in garments, and you have just clicked on the THIS hyperlink to satisfy your curiosity, you would have concluded by now that for the most part, their merch is not necessarily my cup of tea. But, that was then. In this past 4 short months, the Sugar Lips. team has managed to wow me with each batch of "new arrivals", expanding its range to cater to fashion-Loving individuals of different styles. This piece, however - this retro-structured T-shirt - is absolutely amazing in its own little way. I was most taken by the zipper detail along the shoulder line. When I received the package, I was even more taken by the fabric and even more so when, in the glory of my clumsiness, spilled a bit of Pepsi(*palms face*) on it and watched as it slithered down and failed to absorb. Now, usually when I wear white, I am already conscious of the inevitability of it getting stained by the day's end. But...I digress.

Again, I will like to extend my appreciation for the opportunity, Sugar Lips; beyond grateful.

TEFF x COMPANY | LOVE, FROM KID-LOVE

[25-5-12] - A couple of shots I took of my good-friend, Elijah Pryor, whom some of you may know as Kid-Love due to his acclaimed fame on the Tumblr scene, along with his crew, Tribe NYC. I took these prior to his shoot with Brad of Swagger New York. Eli has widely gained fame and respect for his representation of retro-style and not to mention, that mile-high bit of hair sitting on top of his head. Ha! What's wild is that: when I first met Eli some 2, 3 years ago, prior to either one of us having a blog with Tumblr (in fact, if you check my archive, his photo was my first post, I believe), he was incredibly camera-shy and soft-spoken. Soft-spoken - not to be mistaken with foul-tongued. Ha! 'Cause he definitely took hits at me each chance he got.

At the time, I was a novice in my practicing of photography and I would grasp at any chance to photograph anyone - anything - in the name of perfecting my craft. Now, look at him - biting his lip at me, the little Devil. Ha! I teased him about this, like, "my! how things change". Incredibly proud of the King that he was and is growing to be. I love you, "Kid". Peace.

VIDEO: A$AP ROCKY x SCHOOLBOY Q x "BRAND NEW GUY"

Directed by: The ICU + A$AP Rocky - Upon hearing this track back in late March, early April, I immediately felt compelled to keep it on constant replay. I formulated and entertained thoughts such as, "yo, Q Diddy lyrically ripped this joint" and " Rocky is bloody brilliant for having Q on this track!" I knew right away it must been a crowd favourite and probably a personal favourite for both Artists. Being that it is lyrical excellence, I began anticipating the release of visual - y'know? 'Cause I was so certain one would be in the works ASAP. And, here it is and I am pleased - to share it with you, considering you are yet to see it. Well-done to say the least. Peace

HYPEBEAST STREETSNAPS x PHARRELL WILLIAMS | BY TASHA BLEU

- So incredibly impressed by fellow Queen and creative, Tasha Bleu of Treu Bleu Imagery's street-style shots of none other than the Great Pharrell Williams. Pharrell is known for his bold choices within the realms of self-expression through style and fashion and I believe she captured that perfectly. Oddly enough, I enjoy this outfit 'cause of its sophisticated quality; with the sophistication dwelling within its ease and effortlessness. Hats off to Tash again for her recently-acquired successes. We've been working on a project together, along with some other phenomenal women. Looking forward to that coming together and being presented in a fashion that speaks highly of the quality of the Artists involved. To view more of her work, visit be-treu.com. Peace.

CAMPUS-COOL VOL.35 x SOCIALLY-SATIRICAL

[5-3-12] - It has been my greatest delight and plight to be an introverted extrovert. Incredibly paradoxical, yes. I thrive on moments spent within myself, yet I am open to establishing an effortless unification with others. When I find goodness and wholeness and Love in someone or no-one at all, my aim is to never part with it. The thing is that it must flow naturally, like water and grow gradually, like Nature. I have expressed this many times, but I always feel the need to reiterate each time someone wonders the purpose of my sudden absence or leave from their circle or realm of existence. The behavior is inherent; it's not as though I have much say over it. Can it be manipulated? Yes. But that goes against my principles. It would require me to feign a sense of excitement by simply being in whomever's presence. And, that I don't condone, nor do I practice. I am not in the least bit apologetic about it, either. These photographs were taken towards the conclusion of last semester by my good-friend, Ashley. It was right about those crucial last-couple-of-weeks. Y'know - the moment between panicking simply 'cause you fervent slacking has caught up with you and relaxation 'cause all of the hard work invested from start, to finish, has inevitably paid off. I am proud to state I was with the latter. Which, believe it or not, has been a bit of a rare occasion. I am a procrastinator and it ails almost as much as you can imagine. If you can help it, avoid procrastinating. Conversely, if you can't, still - avoid it. Peace.