What inspired you to start Nelesc Designs?

I am attracted to strong people. People who dare to dream and then make their dreams a reality, people who are passionate either about social justice, or their craft. The people I represent in my clothing line are just that, activists, singers, poets, feminists. Growing up Puerto Rican in the 70’s and 80’s, well, I felt quite disenfranchised. I wasn’t taught early on about people of color who made a difference. I also found that the t-shirts in stores with cultural figures on them were very big and not flattering for women. I began altering large t-shirts to fit my frame and subsequently got the idea to print revolutionary/political/famous people, that inspire, on my own creations that women would be proud to wear. So I guess I want to educate while looking fierce!

Have you always known you wanted to be a designer?

Not really. I know that I  have always wanted to be surrounded by creativity. I have always been interested in the idea of art and art making. I drew as a kid,  loved fashion and learned to sew later on in college. My older sister also painted, my younger sister liked photography, my mom was a seamstress and made us these amazing dresses, and  my father dabbled in acting while working a real job. But, even though I went to an art high school and loved to create, I felt discouraged from making art as a living. So, in my mind, it became clear that if it was impossible to be an artist and make money, then my job had to be one that would allow me to be surrounded by art all day.  Thus, my museum career began, first as a curator and then as a museum educator. I subsequently became an art teacher where my love for printmaking was reignited while teaching my middle-schoolers.. I actually  became a designer after my second son was diagnosed with autism. I was forced to quit my job as an art teacher and stay home to care for him and organize his intense therapy schedule. Making art/clothes, especially with an inspiring theme, saved my life during these years. So God transformed this difficult time into a blessing. He is always in the business of doing that!

What is your favorite thing or piece that you’ve created thus far?

I absolutely love my cuffs. I think they add such a strong vibe to an outfit and they also become a wonderful conversation piece.

What has been your most popular piece with your customers?

My Frida Kahlo and Angela Davis items have definitely been my most popular. I never really saw that coming, but I understand why. These women surpass their cultural allure and have become symbols of strong femininity, no matter your cultural background.

We hear you have a fascination with ruffles, can you tell us about that?

I love texture whether it be in hair, clothes or art. Ruffles make an outfit pop, it makes you be noticed. I wish I had more time to use them in my line.  I did create a couple of pieces this summer, but I want to do more.

Tell us a little about your partnership with Stephen Shames.

I have been looking for ways to use Nelesc Designs as a vehicle that would help others in need. Early this year, a choir made up of Ugandan orphans came to my church to sing. Unfortunately, I was not in church that day but my husband told me all about it and through his zeal and heartfelt description, I was really touched. Although Nelesc Designs, is a small, part time business, that experience caused me to ponder ways that I could give back. The image of Angela Davis which I screen print on some of my items, is based on the 1969 photograph taken by Stephen Shames. After seeking him out, I found out that he was the Founder and Executive Director of LEAD Uganda. LEAD Uganda is an educational leadership initiative for abandoned children affected by AIDS, war and poverty. It was founded in 2004 by Stephen Shames, a New York based photojournalist on assignment in Uganda in 2000. So I thought, “this is it! I contacted Steve in hopes that we could create a partnership between our two ventures and he graciously agreed. Now, when you buy Angela Davis from Nelesc Designs, a percentage of the sale will go to LEAD Uganda. It feels great to be working with  a world renowned photographer and to also be part of this wonderful organization.

Do you have a piece that you’ve always wanted to create but haven’t yet?

I would love to do an all out couture dress with screenprinted images on it. A dress you would wear to a gala, but with some street style flair to it. We’ll see.

Does nature inspire you at all? If so how?

Hmmm, I have to say that I am a city girl through and through. I am in love with the city, I really am. I like buildings, graffiti, the subway, those images inspire me. Flowers and trees, not so much. If it’s a tree or a bush in the Bronx, maybe.

What is next for you as a designer?

I actually want to create items with the above images, inspired by the city. Not just t-shirts though, I would like to do more dresses, dresses you can wear to a museum opening or even church! I would also like to take my cuffs to the next level as well. I want to experiment with painting as well as screenprinting, and I would like to include text in my designs. Whew! So glad my youngest will be starting school in September so I will have more time to tackle these new ideas.

Thank you Nellie for this interview, as a girl who was born and raised and still goes to church in the Bronx myself I know exactly where you draw your inspiration from. I want to be first in line for the couture dress though–we’re waiting!

Visit Nellie and Nelesc Designs at:

www.nelesc.etsy.com
www.nelesc.blogspot.com
www.flickr.com/photos/nelesc

Every now and then at PrincessDominique.com we like to mix it up. Here is my interview with one of 3 hot bloggers that I’ve been wanting to interview for awhile now. We keep it raw and unadulterated here, so, you’ll never know what you’re going to get. Add them to your faves peeps because they’re regulars around here.

1. Who is Brooklyn Posh and why does she adore fashion?

Brooklyn Posh is a reckless 21 year old with an unhealthy obsession with everything. My real name is Rana (rah-naye). I think I love fashion now as a result of my childhood. When you’re a kid your mom might let you dress yourself on a good day in that atrocious sweater you love so much. Since I wore uniform for 9 years of my life, I never got that opportunity to just be free and do what I want. I’m really JUST starting to appreciate fashion. I definitely love it.

2. What one thing in fashion are you crushing on right now?

For the guys I love the business on top, play on the bottom look. There’s nothing sexier than guy that doesn’t abide by the rules. A Giorgio Armani button down, some plain jeans from anywhere and YSL sneaks on the bottom. Preferably tight around the ass. Manbutt cleavage = hott.

3. Can you name three things that you feel like you can’t live without?

Whooo. I went without TV for so long, I MUST have a radio. I need my Blistex and my unlimited Metrocard. What good is a girls clothes without it?

4. What was your most recent splurge item?

My last splurge was that damn rent last month!! LOL but seriously it was a Gucci Jacket for my boyfriend’s birthday. He really deserved it!

5. How would you describe your fashion style?

I can’t differentiate things I love more so my style is pretty much all over the place. Versatility is key! I’m a tee and Nike girl Monday, Christian Louboutin and bandage skirt girl on Tuesday! It’s all in the mood, usually however I feel when I wake up is how I dress.

6. Are there any Fall 2010 trends that you are looking forward to?

All that’s old is new again. You know that saying?While everyone was doing the ruffles and lace thing, Alexander Wang was doing deconstructed menswear. I can’t wait to get my pinstripe on!

7. Your site is uber popular what kinds of things do you get into offline?

I love food, I love liquor and I love partying. All at the same time preferable LOL. And of course getting frisky with my bf JT *If my dad is reading by frisky I meant pillow fight!

8. If you had to mix an inexpensive brand with a luxury brand which two would you mix?

That’s my favorite part of fashion! Last week I went to a launch party with YSL tributes a Marc Jacobs clutch and a dress from CONWAY. It was $14 I really couldn’t resist!

9. Do you have any favorite online shopping stores or websites?

I hate Forever21 in person because it’s always so junky. But I do love it online. I’m a member of gilt group; I swear by it. 80spurple and Karmaloop are also top contenders.

10. When you sit down to blog what things stir your creativity?

Alot of my blogs are inspired by conversations with people. Usually my friends, family and sometimes strangers. Talking to people really sparks the best ideas! I also read ancient magazines. I’ll be posting about something I found in Sept 2008 Vogue when it’s 2011. Fashion is awesome like that!

Visit her at: BrooklynPosh.com

In your bio it says you stopped designing because of the birth of your baby girl. What reignited your passion to become a top fashion designer?

I was actually asked to be a model for a designer that I went to high school with. After modeling in the fashion show my love of fashion was reignited. I learned of a fashion show that was to take place, so, I inquired for more info to design in it and was told to show some samples of my work. I dusted off the sewing machine that I purchased a few years back and went to work. My very first two sample pieces were a fitted tunic and a fitted knee length halter dress. After showing my pieces I was excited to learn that I was chosen to design in a fashion show for the very first time!

What type of woman are you designing for and why?

There is no limit to my style of designing. When I think of what I want my wardrobe to consist of as a woman, I think of a wide arrange of pieces. From cocktail dresses, formal wear, urban wear, vintage pieces, to high fashion pieces.

What inspires your line?

My line is actually inspired by my daughter. Named after her because she helped groom me into the woman I am today. Super classy, super chic, and undeniable sexy!

What are you looking forward to doing in the future with your designs?

My primary focus is to one day open my own clothing boutique that provides one of a kind pieces as well as costume made pieces on request.

Sani Auri was your first line that was inspired by your daughter, how so?

I put my dream as being a designer on hold to care for my daughter after discovering a condition she was diagnosed with. Throughout the years of raising her, I became more humble and possessed a lot of qualities I lacked prior to having her. When opportunity arose for me to start designing again, I learned that at that time, I truly was ready and had the mental and physical ability to  take on the task head strong.

What was it like during the production and debut of your first line, were your nervous, stressed, excited? What were you up against at the time?

I was so nervous because I really didn’t know what to expect. I had never designed in a fashion show or even sewn a complete garment from beginning to end for that matter. I was also nervous because I was designing with other designers, some of which had the educational background and experience that I lacked.  Nonetheless I was excited to have the opportunity available to me and was determined to make it work. Waking up early and sleeping late helped make my first line possible. It was well worth it!

You say you design for yourself and with the mindset that women should feel confident and sexy. What is sexy to you and what should all women should tap into?

My attitude towards being sexy and confident is not just one of physicality. Spiritually and mentally I am confident and sexy. Sexiness is not just how your body looks on the outside, but also how it should feel on the inside. Walking with pride, strength, positivity, all while loving and caring for my body inside and out is sexy!

What projects are you working on right now?
Currently I am working on more garments to add to my collections for four fashion shows I will be designing in this Spring. I am also working on a fashion event to raise funds to donate for Autism Awareness during Autism Awareness month which is in April. All proceeds will be given to Autism Society of Connecticut (ASCONN).

If you could sit at a round table with the current top designers, who would you want there?

I’d really rather sit around a table with  up and coming designers that are looking to gain the knowledge and experience as a designer. Simply to help pave the way for them to grow and have direction that wasn’t provided to me.

What celebrity do you fantasize designing for the most?

All of them! I want everyone wearing designs by Carmen Veal! Although I must admit I am and always have been a huge fan of Mary J Blige. Seeing her and any other celebrity in my designs may now be a fantasy, but in the very near future it will become a reality! I’m looking forward to a prosperous future!

Visit www.CarmenVeal.com for more info!

Everybody is inspired by someone or something what inspired BLACK Collection?

I would have to say the constant failure of DC focused clothing brands was really the motivation. Well I guess I can’t say “failure” because some of them are still open, and operating. I guess I should say the stagnant growth of them, and not creating products that would appeal to potential consumers outside of the DC Metro Area. I wanted to create something that spoke the complete opposite!

The someone’s??? Ummmmm? Growing up running my brothers shop (SOLO Sports) I instantly fell in love with clothes but especially the BUSINESS. I would go to school and run from MacFarland & Roosevelt to the shop to learn each day. I started as clean up boy though! LOL! But what really bothered me were the visits to other shops in DC for meetings with my brother, and I witnessed how stingy they were with helping each other out! He would ask where they got certain products from and they would say, “I can’t tell you”. I understood the competitive edge, but come on; their customers were only their hood folks! LOL! There are enough hoods in DC, and more than enough money!  Share the connect folks!

I was only 14 or 15, but instantly understood from that moment why we (DC & DC brands) would never reach at minimum East Coast recognition unless something completely different was developed.  I vividly remember going to Bloomingdales with my ex-girl (clearly when I had no business in there LOL) and saying that one-day my brand will be in these stores. My junior year of college with the help of some great friends: Tabi Bonney, Robyn Nicole, and Delano Hunter, BLACK Collection got started!

What do you want people, to think, feel, express while wearing your designs?

It’s rather simple! We want people to think, feel, & express: INDIVIDUALITY, FREE -SPIRITS,  & BE INSPIRED TO DO WHATEVER THEY WANT.

We want people to enjoy the fresh breath of simplicity, non-excessive designs, and chic products that carry a message through each product.

There are things that stands one brand apart from another brand what is that one thing that sets you apart from others?

Our brand is set apart from others because of our positive message we spread through our products, and also daily motivation we spread to our supporters! It’s clear that we send inspiration to our consumers through our products, and the messages we represent create a level of brand loyalty from our supporters. You would think we are some sort of positive energy group or something, and we love it! LOL!!! We receive tons of emails, Twitter post, Facebook messages, etc. from supporters that are truly inspired to follow their dreams clearly being inspired by what we do, and how we do it! Our consumers understand, and respect how much spreading positive energy means to us! Not only does it mean the world to us, what good will it to be to keep our positive energy to ourselves, so we share positivity and inspire those who have inspired us to keep this company going.  Consumer connection, and consumer synergy! It’s huge to us!!!

You use the word “INDIVIDUAL” to describe BLACK Collection do you believe that says a lot about who and what you are?

Indeed! When everybody was advising me to do create this brand on the normal DC status quo, I never listened.  They all wanted to see a rushed product, a half-ass website, and just some thrown together operation. At that moment I knew I was on the right track to creating something great. Even today, some people try to advise us to do certain things and we continue to choose to turn left, and do it our way.

Most importantly the word “INDIVIDUAL” was identified to be associated with our brand because we feel the word is powerful. INDIVIDUAL speaks volumes to our organization, consumers, supporters, and just everyday people. No matter what goals, dreams, or aspirations your after in life everybody is their own INDIVIDUAL.  The importance for us to spread INDIVIDUALITY is to advocate for people to chase their dreams, be themselves, self- validate, and focus less on what the media, are external factors are doing. INDIVIDUALITY IS SPREADING…

Would you consider BLACK Collection a unisex line?

Absolutely! Unisex 100%! Every product we release it’s unisex. We decided early in our developmental stages that this was going to be the direction, and layout of how released our products. However, there are some products that are released that are just Women’s pieces, and some that are just Men’s pieces.  We do have plans to create product line extensions that will focus on each specific gender, but our unisex product strategy will also remain. Stay Tuned.

There are clothes that just scream NEW BEST FRIEND and to me BLACK Collection is it. What do you think about that?

I’m glad that our brand screams “NEW BEST FRIEND” to you! We appreciate it! We’ve been around since 2005, and quite honestly our brand is really just starting to reach a large number of people that have never heard of us so the “NEW BEST FRIEND” term is great! What you won’t have to worry about is this “NEW BEST FRIEND” changing on you! We strive on our sharp point & mission, and we plan to elevate with the same game plan. It took some time for us to break the surface because most consumers were pretty much following trends, and didn’t quite understand what we were about or what we were doing. It seems as if consumers are beginning to live like INDIVIDUALS now!

Who would you love to see wearing BLACK Collection?

Oh wow! There are so many INDIVIDUALS in their own right!  I would love to see Alek Wek, Zac Posen, Kanye, Alicia Keys, Kid Cudi, John Mayer, Erykah Badu, Cameron Diaz, Ellen DeGeneres (by the way she can dance), Andre 3000, Corrine Bailey Rae, Tom Brady, Lady Gaga and Common wear our brand just to name a few.  Last but not least I would love to get our First Lady Michelle Obama in one of our cardigans!  She has a nice cardigan game! I know that was a slightly long roll call.   Oh, and if I could I would resurrect Lauryn Hill from the era when she released  “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” I would add her to that list of people I would to like to see.

Five years from now why will BLACK Collection still be standing while other entities may have folded?

I’ve been blessed with a huge vision for this brand, and most importantly I’ve been blessed with a great partner, L.A. Horton and a great team that understand what we are trying to accomplish, and exactly how were going to do so.  Business is a combination of creativity, and understanding business principles. Some entities forget one part or hold one part higher than the other. We have a great balanced blend of them bout. However, I do feel Lauren at times wants me to shut up sometimes with my business school stories, and principles! LOL!

We don’t follow trends; we remain in our lane, and drive accordingly! What brands fail to realize is that once you begin to follow trends, once the trend fades your brand does as well. We understand that everybody has their time, and we support others that are doing great! Hating blocks YOUR progression!

Life Is A Marathon, Not A Sprint…

Shop, Visit and Follow:

http://www.blkcollection.com
http://blackcollection.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/blackcollection

When it comes to designers, it’s not easy for me to fall in love. I don’t fall in love with names, I have to enjoy what a designer does with color, style and the overall fit of a piece as well as adore their unique use of fabric. Granted it’s their vision, however, as a consumer for me to buy into a product line and become a faithful customer they have to be savvy in all four respects and Gwen Beloti has caught me baby. She’s hooked me, roped me in, sent me chugging on the midnight train to Georgia. Trust, you want her hanging in your closet! Here is my exclusive interview with the designer bee herself.

Describe your individual style to us. What things do you absolutely love, adore just and can’t do without?

My individual style, hmmm, I’d have to say that I like to look expensive.  That doesn’t mean that my wares are necessarily expensive.  I find joy in making something that is minimally priced look high end by pairing it with something that compliments it to achieve an overall look of luxury.  I’m very much and accessory lover.  I can NOT go without my jewelry, so GB jewelry line is definitely on the wish list. I secretly have an addiction to HSN. I have some really fab ideas that I know would rock on there, but I’ll keep them under wraps for now. Maybe someone from HSN will see this article and give me a buzz. Big hopes I know, what can I say. I also love dresses, dresses and more dresses.  There so easy and simple to wear.  A fabulous dress is a complete outfit in itself.  I also love handbags.  I love making my clutch purses because I can be so creative with them.  I’d have to say my style is definitely contemporary but I love a classic look.

For me it seems that a Gwen Beloti design knows the shape of a woman’s body very intimately, has that always been a part of your signature style?

Yes, yes, yes.  Fit is SO important.  When I started designing originally it was only for myself.  I’d buy something and always want to tweak it a bit, so it would fit just right.  A woman’s figure is so beautiful.  Your clothing should compliment your shape, whatever your shape is.  Your wares should accentuate your best attributes.  From day one fit has always been up there with style and quality on the GB to do list.  Whether your wearing something form fitting or loose, it should still compliment your figure and that is something I try to incorporate with all of my pieces.

Spring/Summer 2010 collection
(in progress)

When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer and who are some of your all time classic inspirations?

Wow, I get asked this question a lot, when did I know, and I honestly can’t pin point it.  I can say though I’ve always loved fashion and wanted the luxurious things that I couldn’t afford or wanted to remix it to make it better in my eyes.  About 3 years ago I dibbled and dabbled with teaching myself how to design. I made some things that were pretty decent and in sharing what I was doing with others I’d have to say that is when I knew I wanted to be a designer.  It was the encouragement and sincere positive responses that I received from family and friends that made me think, “Hey wait a minute I can really do something with this.” My inspirations would include, Oscar De La Renta, Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan and Chanel.

Did you study fashion design? If so where did you go to school or did you intern with another designer?

Yup, as I mentioned, I tried to teach myself, but though I’m not perfection I do like to know as much as I can about that which I’m interested in.  So yes, I went to the Fashion Design Training Studio in New Jersey, a very small intimate setting.  I learned a great deal there.  I also went to the New York School of Design.  In addition I took a number of private lessons/classes with former FIT instructors.  Because I was working full time I had to somewhat create my own curriculum schedule that would fit into my work schedule.  These outlets of education did exactly that, I learned a lot and was able to perfect that passion of mine that had quickly become a reality.

(Silk Fun Patchwork Dress)

I’ve seen a photo of a celebrity in your Silk Fun Patchwork Dress and one of your other pieces, are there other people in particular that you’d love to see wearing your designs, if so, who?

Good question, you know I’d have to say Tracee Ellis Ross would definitely be on the top of my list.  I so love and enjoy her sense of style.  Another pick would be Sanaa Lathan, she always looks so fabulous and classy.  Rihanna is definitely Miss Fashionista so I’d enjoy seeing her in one of my pieces.  And last but most certainly not least, because GB loves a classic and sophisticated look, and knows what it is to desire to be stylish in the workplace, in church or a business meeting, I’d have to say the First Lady Mrs. Obama.

I absolutely fell in love with your Graffiti Clutch. I love clutches–especially that one. Your designs have an unpredictability about them and mix and match so well, is that intentional when you design?

Thank you.  The mix and match, I’m so glad you see that because I think it is important.  I find it somewhat of a sin to be too matchy matchy.  I love that you can mix and match my pieces despite the pattern or color differences.

What is your ultimate philosophy about style and fashion?

There is a quote I use quite often and I would have to say it does a good job of summing up my ideals on fashion:

“Fashion many times is misunderstood, but quality is always appreciated” – Gwen B.

What is your favorite thing about the designs in your Spring/Summer 2010 collection?

Oooh, I’m really excited about this collection.  I love color, so, that is definitely apparent in this collection. I also have a weakness for silk so you’ll be seeing that as well.  Silk just feels so good, it’s easy to work with and yet so luxurious. This new collection is actually inspired by the custom designs I’ve made for customs and myself over the past months.  So that is a little hint to the fact that you may have seen a few pics of designs from my new collection, but its nothing like seeing and feeling them up close and personal.  Not to mention the color pallet has been tweaked a bit, so you’ll definitely want to check this one out!

When women wear your designs what do you want them to feel, think and say?

OMG, let me start by saying when I make clothing for people it’s from start to finish, conception to execution. When I think about the design I’d like to create and then see it on paper it’s exciting. As you create the prototype and see it on the form it gets a little more exciting. Then there is sewing it, not that exciting (lol) but what redeems you is the anticipation of seeing the final garment on the customer. I get butterflies in my stomach when I see my creations on my clients. Primarily because from conception my goal is to make the GB customer look and feel amazing.  They don’t have to say anything to me, how they strut when they walk or the way the pose in the mirror with their hand on their hip and look of confidence in their eyes, says it all.