Make-up is dissident. It claims control over identity. It rewrites...
In a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, the esteemed menswear brand Farah joins Bianca Saunders.
Read time 5 minutes
All Clothing by Bianca Saunders.
Titled 'Uptown Top Ranking', this collection serves as a testament to the transformative power of creative partnership, blending Farah's timeless style with Saunders's avant-garde aesthetic.
The collaboration between London designer Bianca Saunders and menswear brand Farah for their Spring/Summer 2022 collection, ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, marks a pivotal moment in fashion. Combining Saunders’s avant-garde approach with Farah’s timeless aesthetic, the collection promises to redefine menswear for the modern era. Through a fusion of heritage and innovation, Saunders and Farah invite fashion enthusiasts to embark on a journey of style and self-expression.
Bianca Saunders emerges as a visionary in the fashion world, challenging gender norms and exploring her Black Caribbean heritage through her designs. With her recent accolades and achievements, including the prestigious ANDAM Award, Saunders continues to push the boundaries of menswear design. Through her unique perspective and creative vision, she offers a fresh take on masculinity and identity in fashion.
Farah’s legacy of timeless style and impeccable craftsmanship sets the stage for the collaboration with Bianca Saunders. As a brand with roots dating back decades, Farah has remained at the forefront of menswear fashion, captivating generations of style-conscious individuals. With their commitment to quality and innovation, Farah provides the perfect canvas for Saunders to express her creativity.
The collaborative process between Bianca Saunders and Farah is akin to alchemy, where creativity and innovation merge to create something extraordinary. Drawing inspiration from Farah’s rich heritage and Saunders’s avant-garde approach, ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ comes to life. Through experimentation and exploration, the collection embodies the spirit of collaboration and pushes the boundaries of menswear design.
Delve into Farah’s extensive archive and discover the inspiration behind ‘Uptown Top Ranking’. Drawing from Farah’s iconic ‘FaraPress’ and male subcultures of the 1970s, Saunders reimagines classic silhouettes with a contemporary twist. By infusing traditional designs with modern sensibilities, ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ pays homage to Farah’s heritage while embracing the spirit of innovation.
Music serves as a powerful source of inspiration for Bianca Saunders, shaping the aesthetic and mood of ‘Uptown Top Ranking’. From iconic tracks of the 1970s to personal favorites, music influences every aspect of the collection. Through her unique blend of music and fashion, Saunders creates a harmonious fusion of sound and style that resonates with fashion enthusiasts.
Explore the creative process behind ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ as Saunders and the Farah team bring their vision to life. From initial concept sketches to prototype development, every step is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the collection. Through experimentation and iteration, Saunders and Farah push the boundaries of menswear design, creating garments that are both innovative and timeless.
Saunders’s Caribbean heritage serves as a central theme in ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, celebrating the vibrant culture and rich history of the Caribbean. Through vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and cultural references, the collection pays homage to Saunders’s roots. By infusing her designs with elements of Caribbean culture, Saunders invites wearers to embrace their heritage with pride and confidence.
“Embrace your unique style; it’s the canvas of your identity painted with threads of authenticity.” – Bianca Saunders
Meet the masterminds behind ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ as Chris O’Brien, Global Head of Design & Concept at Farah, shares insights into the collaboration. With Saunders’s bold exploration of masculinity and identity and Farah’s commitment to timeless style, the partnership is a match made in fashion heaven. Through their shared vision and creative synergy, Saunders and Farah redefine the landscape of menswear fashion.
Get ready to elevate your style with ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, a collection that pushes the boundaries of menswear fashion. From impeccably tailored suits to statement-making accessories, the collection offers something for every style-conscious individual. With its fusion of heritage and innovation, ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ promises to be a must-have for fashion enthusiasts.
As the fashion landscape continues to evolve, collaborations like Farah X Bianca Saunders pave the way for a more inclusive, diverse, and innovative industry. With ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, Saunders and Farah invite fashion enthusiasts to embrace the future of menswear fashion. By celebrating individuality and creativity, they inspire a new generation of designers and fashion enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Farah and Bianca Saunders represents a new chapter in menswear fashion. With ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, these visionary designers rewrite the rules, challenge conventions, and pave the way for a new era of style. Get ready to make a statement and join the fashion revolution with ‘Uptown Top Ranking’.
With ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, Farah and Bianca Saunders celebrate diversity and inclusivity in fashion. By embracing different cultures, identities, and perspectives, the collection reflects the richness and diversity of the modern world. From the runway to the streets, ‘Uptown Top Ranking’ invites everyone to express themselves freely through fashion.
Sustainability is at the forefront of ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, with both Farah and Bianca Saunders prioritizing eco-friendly practices and materials. From ethically sourced fabrics to environmentally conscious manufacturing processes, the collection sets a new standard for sustainable fashion. By making responsible choices, Farah and Saunders demonstrate their commitment to protecting the planet for future generations.
Farah and Bianca Saunders are committed to empowering emerging designers and fostering creativity within the fashion industry. Through mentorship programs, collaborations, and partnerships, they provide opportunities for young talent to thrive and succeed. By nurturing creativity and innovation, Farah and Saunders ensure a bright future for the next generation of fashion leaders.
Fashion has the power to spark conversations, challenge perceptions, and drive social change on a global scale. With ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, Farah and Bianca Saunders use their platform to address important issues and advocate for positive change. Whether it’s promoting diversity, sustainability, or inclusivity, the collection is more than just clothing—it’s a catalyst for social and cultural transformation.
As the curtains close on ‘Uptown Top Ranking’, the legacy of Farah and Bianca Saunders lives on, inspiring future collaborations and creative partnerships. By pushing the boundaries of menswear fashion and redefining the rules of the industry, they set a new standard for innovation and creativity. With their bold vision and unwavering commitment to excellence, Farah and Saunders pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in fashion.
Text by
Kyrie Carlo
Photography by
Djiby Kebe
Fashion by
Karen Binns
Posted
May 13, 2022
Text by
Kyrie Carlo
Photography by
Djiby Kebe
Fashion by
Karen Binns
August 9, 2018
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Melodic Mastermind: Aime Simone’s Dynamic Influence Reshaping the Music Scene
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July 1, 2023
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
In the dynamic world of music, fresh talents constantly emerge, captivating listeners with their unique voices and compelling stories. One such artist who has been making waves in recent years is Aime Simone
With a subtle pop sound and poignant lyrics, Aime Simone has captured the attention of music lovers worldwide, establishing himself as an emerging voice in the industry. Born with a passion for music, Aime Simone’s journey began at a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, he was exposed to a diverse range of genres and artists, which inspired his own musical aspirations. Drawing influences from soul, folk, and pop, Aime Simone developed a distinct sound that would later define his artistry.
Aime Simone made his mark with his debut single, “Say Yes, Say No.” in Berlin, releasing it independently in July 2020 – including the viral hit single “Shining Light” which would race to over 30M streams. Released to critical acclaim, the song showcased his powerful vocals and lyrical depth. It’s introspective nature and emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, earning him recognition as a promising new talent. The track’s success paved the way for Aime Simone to further explore his creative potential and solidify his presence in the music scene.
As Aime Simone’s career progressed, his musical style evolved, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He began experimenting with different sounds and production techniques, fusing elements of electronic music with his soulful foundation. This fusion created a captivating blend that set him apart from his contemporaries, allowing him to carve out a unique niche within the industry. One of the defining aspects of Aime Simone’s music is his ability to convey raw emotions and thought-provoking themes through his lyrics. Whether addressing personal experiences, societal issues, or matters of the heart, his songs resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Aime Simone’s introspective approach to songwriting has garnered praise for his ability to connect with listeners on a deep and meaningful level.
Aime Simone’s talent extends beyond the recording studio, as he delivers captivating performances that leave a lasting impact on audiences. His live shows are known for their energy, intimacy, and connection with fans. Aime Simone’s ability to create an immersive experience, combined with his magnetic stage presence, solidifies his reputation as a captivating performer. With his star on the rise, Aime Simone shows no signs of slowing down. As he continues to refine his sound and expand his musical horizons, fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. Aime Simone’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his unwavering authenticity, positions him as an artist to watch in the years to come.
Aime Simone’s emergence as a compelling voice in the music industry is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication. With his soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, he has captivated audiences and garnered acclaim from music enthusiasts worldwide. As Aime Simone’s musical journey unfolds, we can expect him to leave an indelible mark on the industry, solidifying his status as an influential and beloved artist.
Kelly: What is something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn?
Aime: People are usually surprised when they find out that I am French. I have lost a lot of my accent and I almost exclusively speak English at home, so if you don’t know me that might surprise you.
Or maybe I don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. That would probably surprise a lot of people.
Kelly: Can you tell us about a project you are currently working on and
what do you hope to achieve with it?
Aime: Right now I am working on the live show. It’s a continual work in progress, but right now I am making adjustments based on what I learn from the festivals that I’m doing. Every show is an opportunity to improve. I want to have a show that feels amazing to perform and to experience. I want the energy to be effortless, powerful, and cathartic. I want the show to carry you, lift you, and release something in you. So I’m working on that.
Kelly: What would be your dream project or collaboration?
Aime: I would love to make an album in a special place, like a villa in a warm climate. I would like to have the experience of completely immersing in the creative work for a while, isolated from everything else. Gathering the right instruments, tools, and people to be around and bring the right energy. That would be a luxury.
Kelly: How do you navigate the intersection of your public persona and your private life, and what boundaries do you set?
Aime: I think I’m starting to reach the point where I do have to set some kind of boundary. Before I was making the effort to address everything on a personal level, respond to all the messages, etc. I knew at some point that would become difficult. I do feel guilty but it’s just not possible for it to stay the same. So I think I have become more picky about what I put my energy into. For example, some fans give me a lot, a lot of love and I know they truly connect to me and my music. For them, I will always be there. But more and more some people just want something from me, and they don’t make the effort to know me. They just see that I have some kind of spotlight on me sometimes so they try to get something from me. I have to cut myself off from that kind of energy, it is depressing and empty.
” I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.”
Courtesy of Aime Simone.
Kelly: If you could have any historical figure over for dinner, who would it be and what would you serve?
Aime: I would bring back Salvador Dalí and I would serve lobster.
Kelly: If you could only have one app on your phone, what would it be?
Aime: Probably WhatsApp. Or Instagram.
Kelly: How do you balance the pressure to be perfect with the need to take
risks and try new things?
Aime: That’s a real challenge. But I don’t think about it too much. I know that the answer is always in the action. You can’t try too hard to do anything. Just do the work, don’t be lazy. Do it well, take it as far as you can. And let go if it’s time. It’s something you learn over and over again. That’s just the work of an artist I think.
Kelly: What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing your industry today, and how do you think it can be addressed?
Aime: The lack of attention span. The sheer amount of content and high stimulation of everyday life today is not conducive to people connecting to music and artists. While the advantage of today might be the huge amount of exposure, what is lacking is the ability for people to take the time to understand the depth of an artist. I think people are more likely to feel superficially stimulated by a song and enjoy it for a very short amount of time before skipping to the next thing, rather than discovering an artist and diving into their universe. I think it is still something that humans need. So there is this lack of connection, deep connection to art. I think reaching the hearts of people is more difficult today. Everyone is too busy, overstimulated, or apathetic. I think it’s a greater question of where we are headed as a culture. We are still physical beings. We have to make our relationship with technology symbiotic, not destructive. I think there is still a balance to find that will be more healthy.
Kelly: How do you maintain authenticity and stay true to yourself in an industry that can often be superficial and image-driven?
Aime: Always bring it back to the music. That is the center of it all. The songs. The melodies, the lyrics. As long as those are true then I am not worried about losing myself, that keeps me grounded in authenticity.
Kelly: Can you describe a moment when you had to take a leap of faith and
pursue a new path or direction in your career?
Aime: I’ve had to quit working with some people. That is always scary because when you work with someone for a long time you are used to that and you feel comfortable in the familiarity. But sometimes you have to change things. So for me, those kinds of moments feel like a leap of faith, and I just have to believe my intuition. It’s very scary in the industry where everything is built to make you believe that you can’t do it your way, that you have to do things the “right” way or you will fail, be punished, or be abandoned.
Kelly: How do you stay motivated and inspired to continue to create and innovate in your work, despite challenges and obstacles?
Aime: It’s all there is to do in this life for me. I don’t think I could ever give up, what would I do?
The challenges and the obstacles are part of the experience. They make me strong. I think I chose this path because I wanted to grow. Sometimes I feel like giving up. But I think that feeling is towards very specific things- giving up on certain aspects of the industry, for example. I could imagine someday choosing a more underground path. I come from that, so it would feel less challenging I think. The industry is very uncomfortable, but at the same time, I like the competition with myself in this very harsh context.
Kelly: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice at the beginning of your career, what would it be?
Aime: It’s strange because anything I can think of that I would do differently today is exactly what led me to be here now. So it’s hard to answer.
Catch Aime Simone on tour
May 12th – The Great Escape – Brighton (UK)
June 4th – We Love Green – Paris (FR)
November 6th – La Cigale – Paris (FR)
November 27th – Circolo Magnolia – Milano (IT)
Oh Glory is out now on Because Music.
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