I’m so excited! In celebration of Black History Month, tomorrow on FOX-46 Good Day Carolinas I’ll be showcasing some wonderful fashions and accessories by African American designers who all either live in or have ties to the Carolinas. Be sure to watch live (between 7:15 and 7:45 am) as I introduce you to:
on set
Watch the segment here: http://www.myfoxcarolinas.com/clip/11138830/fashion-show
JEZIGN by JEZ MARSTON
Designer Jez Marston was born in Jamaica to a Jamaican Father and African American mother and grew up in Maryland. Notably, his grandmother, Sara Lou Harris Carter from Wilkesboro, NC, was one of the first African American models to appear in national US ads.
Jez came up with the idea of illuminated footwear while studying design principles at the School of Architecture & Engineering at Howard University. In the year 2000, he applied for a patent on the invention and ended up receiving two patents for his technology.
The shoes have an on/off button on the side, allowing for continuous or selective illumination in the sole and a replaceable battery compartment in the tongue of the shoe that powers the technology. There is no blinking or flashing once the lights are on.
Jez’s designs have been featured in numerous publications including NY Daily News and STAR Magazine and are very popular with celebrities including Chris Brown, who wore them one year to the American Music Awards.
You can find his newer designs later this year in Downtown Locker Room (DTLR) retail stores and other select retailers or get additional information at www.jezign.net. Follow Jez on Instagram: @deuce_17.
DEJABOTIES by DJ BOYD and STEVEN ALSTON
In 2013 DJ Boyd and Steven Alston had the idea of making just a few bow-ties for themselves for formal events. Later, they decided to turn it into a business with the help of DJ’s mom, who was an established seamstress in South Carolina. The entrepreneurs took custom orders and she made them. They eventually converted part of their home into a what they call a “sewing sweatshop”, often staying up late nights making, packaging & shipping orders. They both knew that sacrificing and dedication came with the territory if they wanted to get their business off the ground. They encourage everyone to “allow your passion to align with your purpose” and to live everyday with a purpose and passion for what you do!
My first model, Michael French, will be wearing pieces from their Black History Line which includes a leather & kente cloth bow-tie, matching pocket square, burlap lapel flower & Egyptian-inspired cufflinks, as a nod to African American heritage.
All of their creations are custom made; bow-ties are adjustable/1-size fits all; and they also design lapel pins for men as well as lapel flowers.
You can find their designs at Silverfly in Charlotte or place custom orders at www.dejaboties.com
MANAZHE’ by ALESHIA MATTHEWS
Aleshia Matthews has been designing since she was a child, growing up watching her mother and grandmother sew. After studying clothing & textile design, graphic design, marketing and advertising at the University of North Carolina Greensboro she launched her strong, sexy, fun & fearless line in 2011!
All of Aleshia’s designs focus on the bodies of the people wearing them. Her brand motto is “The idea inside the clothes”.
Her model Billie-Rose Tachter will be wearing a Manazhe’ statement piece that can be worn as a coat or evening dress. Underneath, a green body-conscious lace dress is the perfect compliment to the white silk fabric with black damask print. With this outfit you’re ready for anything!
To shop Manazhe’ Designs or for more information on Aleshia Matthews, please visit: www.manazhe.com
ROBERT CRAIG
Robert Craig also started designing at a young age, creating clothing in high school at 15. He studied at Norfolk State University and the Fashion Institute of Technology and has designed for clients throughout the United States including four-time Grammy Award Winner Karen Clark-Sheard.
Joining fashion expertise and hair artistry, Robert is also a cosmetology instructor at the Paul Mitchell School in Charlotte, NC.
Model Tyree Murphy will be wearing one of his beautiful black & off-white creations which is a wonderful example of why Robert has been invited to show collections in New York’s couture fashion week as well as Paris’ fashion week.
Connect with Robert Craig on Facebook.