I am excited to announce that I will be contributing at hypefreshmag.com! I kicked things of with my first artist interview, Richmond native Chris Scholar. Read the article below, or at hypefreshmag.com.
Read the article at hypefreshmag.com.
Author: ayminor
J Profile: This Fashion Entrepreneur Was Born to Stand Out – See How She’s Helping Others Do the Same
Knowing who you are and being able to embrace individuality is such an important part of life. – Sara A. Crawford-Jones
From an early age, Sara A. Crawford-Jones had to do just that while growing up with albinism, a genetic disorder that results in a lack of pigment, and a slight visual impairment. Crawford said it “wasn’t very easy” interacting with other kids who did not understand her unique features, but these days she is happy to stand out.
“I feel as though that confidence has allowed me to achieve all of the things I have done within the fashion industry, Crawford-Jones says.”
Crawford-Jones has taken a passion for fashion that was sparked as a pre-teen all the way to the big leagues, having worked with household names such as Tommy Hilfiger, H&M, Express, and JoS. A. Bank.
“I loved learning every aspect of the retail and fashion industry from creative director, to production assistant; every encounter from unsatisfied customers, to buying the trending items for the season.”
Though she graciously credits those experiences with providing the foundation she needed, she always had an end goal in mind – pursuing her independence as a fashion designer, consultant, and author. “I was born to be a creative entrepreneur. I was challenged with giving all my energy and creative juices to another brand when I truly thought it belonged to my own.”
Within embracing her purpose and being, Crawford-Jones has created a brand that helps other women, and men, do the same by taking pride in their features and figures, and then tailoring their styles accordingly. In the years since claiming her independence, Crawford-Jones began doing personal styling, created her own fashion line, Anara Original, and wrote a book entitled The Playbook to Essential Style, to help women and men explore and define their personal style.
“We all were created differently so why not define your style and explore what looks best on you.” – Sara A. Crawford-Jones
The Playbook to Essential Style provides many must-have tips and techniques for women, and men, including what key pieces you should have in your closet and why, how to create the best foundation so that your garments will fit your body properly, and how to begin to identify your signature style.
A few tips Crawford-Jones says every women should know:
- Your essential staple pieces are important – these pieces are the foundation of your wardrobe and offer immense versatility.
- Staying fashion forward doesn’t always mean wearing every trend that surfaces. Perhaps, sprinkling in a few accents of a trend and intertwining it in with your personal style will do the trick.
- Fashion isn’t just about following a bunch a rules, it should be fun! Explore many styles and combination of styles to identify which is best for you.
Looking to keep up with Sara’s latest projects, or meet her on tour? Visit her website saracjones.com for more information, or follow her at @AnaraOriginal.
J Travels: Memphis, Keeping Old Promises
This year, I really only had one official resolution – to travel outside of the D.C.-area every month. I knew it wouldn’t be easy given how fast a month can go, and how expensive traveling can be. The #majorkey would be planning out, at least, the first 4-5 months of my travels at the beginning of the year. I have some exciting trips ahead; I will make sure to document all of my new experiences here.
It was fitting that I traveled to Memphis first because it was the one trip I’d promised a friend I would make in 2016 that never happened. I didn’t know what to expect as I’ve never ventured to Middle (to me), Southern America, but Memphis definitely had some surprises in store.
Best Time to Visit
Summer. I visited Memphis is late January, and it was as if everyone was hibernating for the winter. I saw very few people on the streets, the tourist attractions were largely vacant and there was a quiet eeriness that hung over the city.
Although I was taken off guard, I could easily imagine how different it is in the summer. Beale street crowded with young people, outdoor concerts, joggers running along the Mississippi River.
Sightseeing
- The first tourist attraction people mention when you talk about Memphis is Graceland. Graceland, Graceland, Graceland. So where did I got 10 minutes after landing? Graceland. But, from the hefty price (start at around $50), to the dated Graceland complex, I was underwhelmed. My suggestion would be to skip it if not for the major renovation they were undergoing while I was there. Hopefully the exhibits I was unable to visit will provide for a much better experience.
- Now if you want to get your money’s worth, go to the National Civil Right Museum. I can’t say enough good things about it, I only regret that I didn’t allocate 4-5 hours to exploring all that the museum has to offer. You will want to watch every video, listen to every story, read every placard. The one good thing about going during the off-season – I basically had the museum to myself.
- The duck walk at the Peabody is a whole ‘lotta hoopla for a 5-minute affair, but it was a fun experience. If you go to the show (there are two a day), make sure to check out the rooftop of the hotel which has an amazing view of the city.
Nightlife
- Beale Street. When the weather is nice, I’m sure Beale Street is a blast.
Eats
- Central BBQ. My first meal didn’t disappoint. There’s a few locations depending on where you’re staying in the city. Rendezvous is another great option (or so I’ve heard).
- Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. We went to the downtown location, and let me tell you that chicken was fried to perfection.
- Second Line. If you’re looking for a place a little more upscale, low-key, with great ambience, food, and drinks, head here. Note this restaurant is in midtown so it’s a bit of a trek if you’re staying downtown.
J Music: “Diamonds” – Rihanna (Cover)
Watch a clip from my acoustic performance of Rihanna’s “Diamonds” at my job’s open mic night. I had a lot of fun helping to put the event together with my coworkers. It was a great night!
A Year Defined: Au revoir, 2016!
2016
/twenty sixteen/
noun
- a period of 366 days in which I struggled, cried (a lot), lost hope, found some, opened my heart, experienced new cities, made many new friends and collaborators, challenged myself through creative projects and uncomfortable circumstances, and took some exciting steps toward my lofty goals
2017
/twenty seventeen/
noun
- a period of 365 days that has me shook. that I don’t feel ready for. that will challenge me in new ways, some of which will be undesired. yet a period in which I will prevail over the hurdles that have plagued me for nearly two years. a period in which I will rediscover purpose in my work. in which I will build on the relationships I forged in 2016. in which I will travel more domestically and internationally. in which I will put my mental, physical, and emotional health first.
Thank you to all of my family, friends, and readers who continue to support ayminor.com, may you all have a blessed 2017!
