COLLECTION III 'FIRST SON OF SOIL'
Director of Photography // Gustavo Toledo
Director of Videography // Dax Matlock
Music Selection // Quinton Smith
Styling // Bernil Carmichael-Lopes & Stephanie Ridley
Models // Yemi Fadare, Danielle Pierre, Amaya Martin, Stephanie Ridley
Collection III is driven by its inspirational lineage of Black heritage and culture. This is supported by the scriptural roots and archaeological information found in the Bible through the stories of Noah’s sons; Ham, Shem and Japheth. Depicted through our use of tonal colors, soft textures, sense of variety and nature’s floral characteristics, this leveled foundation served as a launching pad to the pictorial ideas displayed throughout the “First Son of Soil” imagery. Fabrics such as velour, brown suede, and organic silks were arranged in such a way to highlight a persons natural beauty. We’ve reinterpreted our signature kimono by using drapery as an accent. Each garment was done by hand, bringing poetry and life to the clothing. The models worked with a collaborative effort to show an appreciation for living in your own skin majestically being grateful for it.
As done in past collections, we’ve also been mindful of environmental waste, by combatting the issue through up-cycling. Many pieces were re-interpreted from existing clothing which has prevented the necessity of using new fabrics. This method has challenged our label to think more critically and design more consciously. Our message is strong with intentional efforts to create a space for societal discussion. The current racial climate has sparked many protest, unrest, and political action efforts to eradicate a long history of racial divide. As artists, it is our responsibility to not only “reflect the times” (as quoted by Nina Simone) but to show a message of encouragement. Our designers have used Collection III as a means to highlight racial tension but also combating the issue by a means of uplifting self-esteem through imagery of majestic black people.
The black woman served as another strong inspiration for this collection. From our own mother’s, sisters, family and friends, the many women we are surrounded by have given a tremendous amount of inspiration for our creative efforts. Our hope is to reflect their good character through our art. Her aura is graceful, her mind is strong, her faith in Christ, and her will to grow is unmatched. As always with our work, collaboration is imperative. This collection was designed and hand constructed by designers Stanton Ridley and Rashad Johnson while Creative Strategist, Giselle Rodriguez brought the perspective into harmony through logistical perfection. Our creative imagery was captured by Gustavo Toledo and Dax Matlock. Modeling done by Yemi Fadre, Danielle Pierre, Stephanie Ridley and Amayah Martin with special guest music from Quinton Smith. We encourage you to enjoy the art created but also take the time to discuss the relations among today’s people and how we can contribute harmony towards our evolving society.
Daylight Studio Presents Designers from NYFW 2020 Virtual Fashion Show // Collection III First Son of Soil // Our Creative Director goes into detail about our flared sleeve kimono and organic cotton maxi skirt look from Collection III
Daylight Studio Presents Designers from NYFW 2020 Virtual Fashion Show // Collection III First Son of Soil // Our Creative Director goes into detail about our cropped kimono vest, tuxedo kimono and “Janae” trousers look from Collection III
