NYFW: Paco Rogiene Runway Show

Light rain fell and it didn’t bother me at all. I was too excited. This was the show I’d been looking forward to all week long featuring young designer Paco Rogiene. A Baltimore native who began designing as a teen, Paco has always been one to watch. Gaining popularity in the DMV, he then set his sights on New York where his collections earned him esteem from fashion icons like Naomi Campbell.

Upon arrival I was inspired just by the window – why? Because it was full of dancers practicing, after all this Show was being held at the Alvin Ailey American Dance theatre on the sixth Floor. Stepping off the elevator I could feel the energy. After check in I quickly I found my front row seat as VIP guests were being served wine.

The DJ began playing 50 Cent & Biggie as the lights dimmed. Showtime. A sea of black pieces in sheer and lace flowed my way. I was close enough to see the quality of the fabrics and tailored finishes. The men’s lace shirt with matching jacket was perfect!

Then a flow of white pieces followed. The men’s 3 quarter white shirt was a standout from this collection and the fringe pants for women was done in such a modern way I was amazed!

The Diversity of the model selection was thoroughly impressive. Backstage access allowed me to meet and greet the designer and models. Paco’s modern use of classic fabrics was refreshing & the entire show was a joy!

– K. Vaughn, Philadelphia Designer

Exclusively for Sing Pray Shop

Brunch & Bloggers

In the past two years I’ve made a conscious decision to try and connect with other creatives in my city. Since then I’ve met some very dope bloggers with various backgrounds. While there’s always the occasional handful whose idea of “networking” is more about half priced drinks than building relationships, the majority have inspired me to grow and establish my brand. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of having Saturday brunch with a group much like the latter.

Iesha Thompson, a local fashion and lifestyle blogger reached out to several local creatives with the goal of creating a network of bloggers and photographers to work together on collaborations, campaigns, and special  events. At our recent gathering I got to meet her along with four other fabulous Philly fashionistas: Tivoli, Hara, Amanda, and Macarena. The four of us enjoyed a scrumptious brunch (best french toast ever) at Bank & Bourbon inside the Lowes hotel where we were joined by photographer and momprenuer Taylor, the lovely soul responsible for these dope photos.

My look for our brunch features one of my favorite summer shirt dresses by Philly boutique Smak Parlour and booties by Bebe. The thin fabric was perfect for 90 degree weatherwhile my Rampage tote was big enough to carry my walking flats. So cheers to meeting new friends and building community. Take a look at each of these lovely ladies’ websites listed below and follow them on social! XO – Kira

 

“Losing My Religion” – Kirk Franklin

The highly anticipated “Losing My Religion” by “Uncle” Kirk Franklin, which is the first studio album from him in 4 years, is finally here. The album’s first single “Wanna Be Happy” debuted on BET’s Sunday Best and has been a hit ever since. The catchy song samples a classic by the Reverend Al Green, which has drawn some criticism from other Christian artists and believers in general. In an interview with Christian Post Franklin states “With this song, I’m saying, if you really want to be happy, you have to start with the originator…My goal is to lead people to the manufacturer of their souls”.

Franklin is certainly no stranger to the criticism of his music and has even admitted to fans via Twitter that he was apprehensive about releasing new material, “Every artist is afraid, I’m just not afraid to admit it! WANNA BE HAPPY?” Now that the album is available to the masses many are curious to find out why he wants to lose his religion. In the title track Franklin poetically lays out the concept for the entire album with the following:

“In the beginning religion created a mask…for generations’ church was where we went to go hide. Rules without relationship is empty inside. There’s room at the cross for everyone even me…religion is prison but truth sets us free. The next time you think America, please include me. The preacher isn’t God, religion’s first mistake. I’m losing my religion, thank God…helping you lose yours is my job.”

Having now fully listened to the album twice, I like what I hear and have already chosen a favorite track, “My World Needs You”. I can personally relate to Franklin’s desire to produce music for the people. Not music that compromises sound doctrine or is scripturally inaccurate, but rather music that causes the listener to turn to God the father. The fact is that even if every line in the song doesn’t start with “Jesus”, the message of the song can always lead back to Him if the music is inspired by the Holy Spirit. Have you heard the album? Share your thoughts!


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