Month: July, 2011
2nd Annual Washington, D.C. Africa Festival
Saturday, July 30, 2011
When I initially started blogging, I saw it as a vehicle to share my work, love of PORK bacon and all things red velvet. However, over the past year, I’ve witnessed the power of social media and giving my readers insight to my creative journey. When people believe in your work and see your passion, opportunities arise. So, when the director of the Washington, D.C., Mayor’s Office on African Affairs contacted me to create a fashion presentation for the 2nd Annual D.C. Africa Festival, I wasn’t surprised the referral came from one of my Twitter friends, @Lavender_Chic.
The festival’s goal is to educate people on issues pertinent to the African community, disseminate vital outreach materials and emphasize social entrepreneurship as a betterment tool for the African Diaspora. Additionally, the festival promotes the community’s positive legacy by highlighting Africa’s talent, resources and capability to compete in the global marketplace.
Increasingly, industry professionals have made efforts to merge authentic African techniques with high fashion. For the past few seasons, the tribal trend has been “en vogue” with inspirations from Africa leading the way. Designers such as Diane von Furstenburg, Ralph Lauren and Dries van Norten have all incorporated African fabrics or techniques into their lines.
As a Nigerian (Igbo Man*pounds fist to chest*) living in the DMV, I saw this as a vehicle to visually educate the community on the versatility of African and African-inspired fashion. Don’t worry; I made sure to leave the bamboo shoots and loin cloths at home. LOL iKID. iKID. The presentation was a voyage from traditional to contemporary and combined eastern and western culture. I pulled from Parfait Designs, Côté Minou and Zagodi Fashion with jewelry from Art Aya, Nanichi and LolaRo. Each of these designers helped me convey a fashion story through each look. Based on the feedback from the show, I know a few people will be adding a little bit of Africa to their wardrobes. #missionaccomplished
***Photographer, Dana Greaves of Art Aya, MUA, Zenab Mustafa of ZFaces Beauty
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From the Boardroom to the Weight Room
Thursday, July 21, 2011
I always enjoy styling my family and friends for events and photo shoots. It’s a testament to my skill, and speaks volumes of my craft when the people that knew me as an industrial engineer want to hire me as a fashion stylist. So, when I received the call about a photo shoot last August from Sterling, my good friend/fraternity brother, I was more than ready to make this brother FLY-ER!
Sterling works for the government, or as we say in D.C., “gubment,” and is a fitness model/bodybuilder on the side. He wanted some updates to his portfolio, so he flew to Miami Labor Day weekend for a small vacation and lifestyle photo shoot. During the offseason, Sterling is at his leanest maintained by a very strict workout and diet regimen.
After a long day of shopping and fittings, I thought we would indulge in some fattening grub, however I was sadly mistaken. Sterling whipped out this Ziploc bag of yams and an UNSEASONED, UN-FRIED chicken breast, then proceeded to have “dinner.” *deep, bacon-filled sigh* While my mind respected his regimen, my stomach politely walked to Five Guys and scarfed down a real meal.
The shoot was photographed by Creative Hostel co-inhabitant, Cendino Teme. I picked locations throughout South Beach and Miami to reflect Sterling’s personality and diverse looks. We had a great time working together, and I know it will not be our last. This shoot demonstrated the difference in lifting weights vs. lifting strips of bacon. I may have picked up some tips on physical fitness, but Sterling learned a thing or two about fashion.” Enjoy!
P.S.: The cigar was only for effect; no judgment.
23 Comments
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Fabo
Why Sterling look like DJ Drama on the pay phone pic though…
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Damon
LOL @ Fabo & Kels…Not DJ Drama…But I have to agree. Good work per usual, Kalu….
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You killed this Apuje! Very nice shoot!DOPE STYLE!
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strong muscles
Hope you’re updating daily.. Would love to read up on more of your posts!
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Yes please!!!
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You sure his other side side hobby isn’t being a model? Because he got that down pat. OMWord. Great, great photos. My favorite is him jumping over the rail. Nice. Fantastic job with the shoot, Apuje.
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oh my damn he is FINE
oh my damn he is FINE
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Fabian… why was i thinking the SAME thing tho…. #dead
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Michael
This shoot is Dope… you can truly tell someone that takes their craft seriously, from those that simply put clothes together and take pictures. The pieces, the composition, everything! Great work Apuje!
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Almarene Lowndes
There is only one way to describe not only the photographs but the fashions you put together HOT!! Apuje you’ve always had a cutting edge and great sense of style. I only wish that I could hire you to ADD some style to this teachers life.
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ANTONIO
amazing job frat!
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Wow, NICE!!! Now why didn’t you call me for grooming???!! LOL =) Awesome work Apuje…
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LOL, this was before we met last September. Next time I’ll be sure to reach out.
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Puje, I know I am supposed to be looking at the styling here, but I must say your subject is distracting, to say the least. lol In all seriousness, you know how I feel, so in short…Apuje does it again!
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Lelsey
What is his number? #jesustakethewheel I love the versatility of each outfit. He wears them all well. He actually wears nothing well too…
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Bhoranie
Styling is on point and he’s a freakin hottie! LOL!
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Good God. Bless your heart. Jesus take the wheel indeed. But.. Jesus can’t drive. Save us all.
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Yarb
Dopeness! Loved this Apuje!
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Ummm he fine. Is he single. #famulife
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Love the styling choices Apuje! Your frat brother, aka the model, wasn’t too bad to look at either.
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tanaka guns
Great website man, hope it lasts
Hope you keep updating, I will be back and read up on more of your interesting stuff 
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You really make it seem so easy together with your presentation however I to find this matter to be actually one thing that I think I’d by no means understand. It kind of feels too complex and very wide for me. I am looking ahead on your subsequent post, I’ll try to get the cling of it!
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Hi! This post could not be written any better! Reading through this post reminds me of my old room mate! He always kept talking about this. I will forward this page to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read. Thank you for sharing!
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Rockin' Steady with Di'Ja
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
It is always a pleasure working with emerging recording artists. Not only are they purpose-driven and humble, but hungry. Often, that hunger and passion resonates throughout their sound and personality. The same can be said and much, much more about Nigerian/Sierra Leonean/Lebanese singer-songwriter, Di’Ja.
Last August, Di’Ja, born Hadiza Blell, reached out to me about styling and creative directing her next photo shoot. After listening to her hit single, Rock Steady, and reading her bio, I was excited to get to work with my first Nigerian-born starlet. *waves green & white flag* Di’Ja’s cultural background radiates through her unique sound as her music effortlessly merges pop, R&B and a hint of reggae. Like most Nigerians, Di’Ja is also degreed UP! She earned dual bachelor’s degrees with majors in psychology and biology, before pursuing what she knew to be her destiny: entertainment.
Her energy is infectious. If you ever have the opportunity to meet Di’Ja, you’ll know what I mean; people gravitate toward her as if they already know she’s a superstar. Once Di’Ja and I had our initial consultation, I knew I had to bring my ‘A’ game. The looks had to match her diversity in sound and culture without losing her as an artist. Di’Ja’s unique personality simply had to emanate through every look. I immediately enlisted the help of some amazing designers to bring my vision to life:
Dominique Auxilly: Look (1 &3), coral dress, and look (7), pewter dress.
Parfait Designs by Esosa: Look (4), unity skirt.
Delilah Johnson: Look (5), babydoll dress.
Artistic Aya: Look (5), paper earrings & bracelet and printed purse.
After pulling from designers, I went shopping to complete each look, and found great pieces from Betsey Johnson, Urban Outfitters, H&M, Steve Madden and ALDO. The mix of custom designs and off-the-rack pieces were the perfect fusion for the shoot.
As a fashion stylist, it is not only important to listen with your ears, but also with your eyes. Clients speak to you in many different forms and it’s your job to pick up on the minute details. Where possible, I infuse elements of my clients’ personal style. It provides them a fresh perspective on how to wear pieces in their current wardrobe. Using some of Di’Ja’s jewelry and shoes for this shoot ultimately helped her own each look.
The story below is what happens when an amazing team works with an even more amazing artist.
- Like Di’Ja’s Facebook Fan Page - http://www.facebook.com/pages/DiJa/184440925984
- Listen to her music on MySpace - http://www.myspace.com/musicdija
- Follow Di’Ja on Twitter - @aphroDIJA
- Download Di’Ja’s new single, Private Room on iTunes – http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/private-show-single/id435835147
***Photographer, Elton Anderson, Hair Stylist, R. Nicole Jenkins, MUA, Leontyne Reaves
29 Comments
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Okay, kay, kay… Impressive as usual! Keep up the good work.
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Gorgeous photos!!
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Kaven
Great write up and equally amazing images! I love Di’Ja’s sound. Looking forward to hearing more.
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Wow.. this is dope. I know Elton and i he does amazing work. Very exciting…
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I’m an aspiring fashion stylist and I really appreciate the tips you provide in your posts. I hope you continue letting us be apart of your journey. YOUR ROCK!
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Ummmm where can I get the jacket in the second to last row of pictures? I am serious Apuje!!!
No Really, I am Serious. -
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Stop Holding Your Talent Hostage
Friday, July 8, 2011
“Well, well, well … fancy seeing you. I was beginning to think a creative professional no longer lived here.” This is what I imagined my blog would say if it could talk. Many moons ago, I asked you to join me on my creative journey. However, it’s difficult to be a passenger when I’m not walking, when access has been denied, or when I’m holding my talent hostage.
While in NYC a few weeks ago, enjoying fish, grits and my signature bacon, the topic of my blog came up. *bbm can’t watch face* As I devoured the last bit of @ellegee47′s grits and body rolled with @jovizi the conversation got real. *cues opening from MTV’s series, Diary* “You think you know … but you have no idea.”
My issue was two-fold. For months, I’d been working on some amazing projects with great teams. (Judging by the October date of my last post, you wouldn’t know.) I felt growth with every shoot and saw the depth and range of my portfolio increasing. As a fashion stylist, I was elated! Then I thought, “I’m going to wait until after this next shoot before I update my site and blog. No, no, wait … after I get THESE images back from THIS shoot, I’m going to post.” By the time I got a handle on everything, it was May. All I could do was shake my head. I had become paralyzed by perfection. #Shoutout to Tia Smith.
Secondly, the more I hustled to build a stronger portfolio, the more I compared my work to other fashion stylists who’d been in the industry for YEARS. I started to think my portfolio was not on par with those I admired. It had reached the point where I actually could not stand looking at my work. It was a vicious cycle.
After completely revamping my website (coming soon), I had to take step back and have a few conversations with my family from the Creative Hostel. They helped me put my artistry in perspective. You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk. Suddenly in the background, I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now??? You sure, because I’m putting away my trench coat, umbrella and galoshes. I’m finally ready to release my talent from bondage.
In an earlier post, I discussed the goal of getting my work published and the pitfalls of chasing tear sheets. Well, a lot has happened since that post. My work has been featured in a several publications, with more on the way. *bbm party face* I want to share my very first tear sheet from the December issue of T&M Magazine. Shot by Joao Carlos in a penthouse on Miami’s South Beach, Perdida De Amor (Lost Love) delves into the soul of a woman whose husband has gone astray. I hope you enjoy viewing the images as much as I did styling them.
Special thanks to @lmoney21, @L10_MIA, @ellegee47, @HewbieMac, @carmtasticc, @Dino_Teme, @jovizi, @EUmphery & @ELLEvation.
***Photographer, Joao Carlos, Model, Marie Charlotte (Next Miami) Hair/MUA, Sindy Perez & Jenna Marie Streitenfeld
27 Comments
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“You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” AMEN!!! This is something I have to remind myself of daily.
Congratulations on having your work published! The photos from the T&M Magazine look great; definitely feeling the Lady Gaga inspiration. Glad to see you’re back on the site; can’t wait to view more!
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Dopeness! Was Truly inspired by your blogpost! Congrats on your tearsheet!
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GREAT imagery. Joao is an amazing photog and Gina is a kick ass retoucher.. Love those images!
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Great Stuff Apuje! Way to Go For Your Dreams! Big Congrats
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Doper than Dope!!
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So proud of you and hoping we cross paths again soon!
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Nick Payne
Those are terrific shots! Keep up the good work Apuje!
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Your work speaks for itself. You have a gift! I am inspired. Keep it up! Also, thanks for being transparent in your post. I think everyone can relate to the paralysis you spoke of. Thanks for sharing.
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Thanks for the constant support Yarb!
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Jag Saint Joi
Insanity!!! Once again my broda has delivered. The shoot looks amazing. I can see the growth and I am so very proud of you. You are sure on your way there my friend. Please remember the journey once you reach the destination. It is pivotal you continue to share these types of stories….inspiration comes in all forms.
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Whit
WOW Apuje! This shoot is amazing! I love every single thing about it. Just gorgeous!
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Thanks so much for the shout out! I have been waiting on a new blog post. I am so glad you have allowed yourself to be released from your self imposed bondage. Accepting that we are constantly on a journey and never perfect can sometimes be a challenge. Your work however is amazing and always has been, I am glad that you are continuing to progress. Congrats on your tear sheet, I am sure many more will follow because your talent is unmatched.
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kia flowers
I like Beyonce’s music but I am finally starting to respect her as an artist because NOW I am believing/ relating to what she has to say. I say that because I have heard her say several times now, that she doesn’t compare/compete w/other artists she competes against herself. she strives to elevate to a new level in all that she does. That’s how we have to be. Because people love different things. Have you ever noticed how many small businesses thrive because people have preferences. Think about all the Ereaders out there! Its a matter of personal preference. so from one creative person to another, I am glad you are tossing the shackles away and letting your creativity flourish.
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I completely understand what you’re saying Kia. I gained more of an appreciation for Beyonce once I saw her special on VH1.
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C Grange
Welcome back bro. and the work looks AMAZING! I see Apuje in these shots but on a whole different level. The class and elegance in the accessories is SO you. but the visual Eclecticism…. brand new level of Gordon Gartrell outchea! Major Props bro.
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Nice! Keep up the good work.
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Arminta
So happy to see that you are back! I missed seeing your posts! Awesome work as always!
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Apuje great post man! Eyes have not seen… the things you will create for the world with your talents! I believe that. I’ve seen tremendous growth in your work and I know I haven’t seen half of what you’re capable of. And lets talk about these one-liners in this post… “I had become paralyzed by perfection.” “You can never measure your success by that of other” “Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” “I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now???” — You gave me four great tweets just like that. Keep up the good work! Proud of you!
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This was AMAZING!!! Definitely inspiring and beauty images!!! Love everything about this. Congrats
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Kip
This is DOPE! Proud of you homie. Keep doing your thing. Soon the stylists that you look up to will be blogging about you.
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11 Comments
It was a pleasure to see you work brother. I am proud of you and the wonderful job you do as not only a stylist, but a fashion lover and organizer. Thanks for the opportunity.
Naija (with a little DC attitude courtesy ok Akua) LOL Good stuff!
The looks are amazing!
absolutely splendid. you all look amazing. best of yet, my little brother looks quite dashing! keep it up cuzzo!
Well done! Nice meeting you!
This is absolutely beautiful Apupu!!! Miami misses you.
Have you ever considered about adding a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is valuable and all. But just imagine if you added some great graphics or videos to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with pics and videos, this site could certainly be one of the best in its niche. Good blog!
With havin so much written content do you ever run into any problems of plagorism or copyright violation? My blog has a lot of exclusive content I’ve either created myself or outsourced but it appears a lot of it is popping it up all over the web without my agreement. Do you know any techniques to help protect against content from being ripped off? I’d genuinely appreciate it.
Hi there would you mind stating which blog platform you’re using? I’m planning to start my own blog soon but I’m having a tough time making a decision between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal. The reason I ask is because your design and style seems different then most blogs and I’m looking for something unique. P.S My apologies for being off-topic but I had to ask!
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