We caught up with Fashion Director and Stylist of Vibe Magazine, Memsor Kamarake to talk to him about his career in the world of fashion as the stylist of a hip hop magazine and his new project as a judge for the Swagger Awards. See what he has to say about the competitive industry is works in, his creative inspiration, and his new gig as a style judge...
When did you first realize that you wanted to be a stylist, and what inspired you?
I worked for a while at the Gap store on Oxford St in London as a member of the visual team. While dressing a mannequin, I had a light bulb moment thinking if it was this much fun dressing mannequins, it could be even more fun dressing human beings as well. Funnily enough, I would run to the newsstand monthly to pick up my issue of Vibe which inspired me immensely.
What do you like about working as a stylist for a magazine where things are a bit more structured as opposed to freelancing and working for yourself?
Having had a brief 2 year stint as a freelance stylist when I left Vibe in 2001, I soon realized that I much prefer the structure that working for a magazine provides. Also not having to chase folks for your money and having a regular pay check helps! Seriously, I like being able to focus on producing images for as discerning an audience as the Vibe reader, sharpening my focus, instead of having to constantly change my mind set.
What style elements, if any, do you consider "classic", as opposed to trendy?
I tend to advise people to find what works for them. There's nothing wrong with being trendy, as long as the trend works for you. Personally I tend to respond to very basic but well made clothes and accessories. I love slim cut trench coats, ralph lauren button downs, and basic jeans without any embellishment. Cordovan leather dress shoes should be in any mans wardrobe. I'm also partial to high top sneakers-dunks or jordans. Oh I've recently rediscovered to clarks wallabees-love 'em.
What trend are you ready to see go away?
Skulls on everything. People aping celebrity style.
Outside of the fashion industry, from movies to art, music, pop culture, etc., what influences your styling?
Everything influences my styling-art, music, movies. Whether I love it or hate it!
Who would you consider a style icon in today's media? Who is your favorite designer?
Hedi Slimane, former designer at Dior Homme.
Any advice for the aspiring fashion stylist? What does it take to get into the magazine business?
I get asked this a lot. Just the ability to put together a cute outfit does not make a stylist. More attention needs to be paid to the building of relationships with others in the industry. Also, a dedication to constant learning of your craft. I left a job and took a pay cut to start as Fashion Assistant here because I knew it was something I wanted to do.
What's next on the horizon for you?
Quite excited about Vibe's upcoming 15 year Anniversary this September. It's amazing to be part of a magazine that inspired me when I was coming up. Also, I'm partnering with SoftSheen-Carson and Sportin' Style and judging the 2008 Swagger Awards. Guys who think they have style and swagger can enter online at www.swaggervip.com. If I think you'be.
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