BRAND SWAGGER
Posted by AK Cabell at 4/9/2008 10:54 PM and is filed under Fashion,Sean Combs,african american,Sean John brand,NY Fashion Week,self esteem,menswear,men's fashion 
Given the endless amount of negative imagery concerning the African American male (and on the heels of the whole LeBron Vogue cover, nonetheless), when positive black reflection is done right, you must tip your slightly tilted fedora. Or raise your glass. Either way, mine is nodding towards the Sean John brand these days.
(Okay...My locs were blown back a bit from their website, too. But I digress, because...)
I just finished watching MTV's documentary of Sean Combs revolutionary NY Fashion Week show (which was back in February), "The Story of a King." Beautifully shot, tastefully edited and also, a nice little inside peek into the real Sean Combs: a workaholic perfectionist.
Combs own statement from his company's press release reads: "I am so excited that this documentary is airing at such a crucial moment for the Sean John brand as this year marks our 10th anniversary. What better way to emblazon the current success of the brand and to recognize our unbelievable past."
It really was a revolutionary vision: to have an entire high end NY Fashion Week runway show solely featuring African American male models. Early in the doc, even his hired fashion team couldn't get it right. I do believe that when we demand that our image be respected as we embrace our heritage, embrace our looks, we gain control of who we are. This documentary was self-affirming. Ah, marketers, ad world--take note!
I get the feel that Combs being a Harlem brother is not shy of leaning the brand towards a Harlem Renaissance look, a time when black men--be it numbers runner, literary stars or jazz musicians--enjoyed the sheer sophicated look of a good suit. It's possible I'm romantacizing here, after all--I'm a whippersnapper who only read about the Harlem Renaissance (and so did you!). But because Combs himself is always impeccably dressed, his brand doesn't have to scream: it speaks softly and says, "I am a power-player. All eyes on me."
(Which is why I don't understand the first t-shirt on the website. But the second: I AM THE BLACK AMERICAN DREAM is much better. Still: his brand doesn't have to scream.)
I am excited that Sean Combs brand has become what it has. It is refreshing to see clothing geared to the African American crowd that doesn't scream. It's quiet and full of class. You gotta luv it!
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I agree! Nothing wrong with being grown and classy! But did you check out the website? What'sup with those t-shirts? I personally feel like the t-shirts throw off the line a little, but not necessarily the brand. The statements definately fit Combs personality, the good and bad!
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This article gave me insight to Sean. Just from this article alone, I learned tidbits about his line and the person, Sean and why he does what he does and HOW he does it. The background character depiction on Sean is seen in his clothes and the person that he is. This was a great and informative article. Good looking out!
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Wow. I had no idea. I didn't see the doc nor did I know it's Sean John's 10th anniversary. And not to romanticize the past either (I don't believe the grass was greener. I think it was simply a different shade of green.
hugs,
Althea
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