The Fashion Guy With The Vintage Eye presents "Sunday Recap"

Sunday Recap

Lady LaTisha Hamilton

         I have been watching this young beatiful lady ever since I saw her during the 2013 Church Of God In Christ Aim convention in Baltimore, MD. I wondered all during service after getting a quick dance in and walking through the vendors three or four times, who is the high heel wearing, multi strand 62 inch pearl hanging, lap scarf waving, and wide brim hat adorning lady. Finally I was introduced to her by my close brother Sir Verlon Lofton and from that moment on I was captivated by Lady LaTisha Hamilton. Not only is she into her wardrobe but her depth as a person is much more than that. Interviewing her for this blog I found out that she is a personal aid to Dr.Judith Christie Mcallister (President of the International Music Dept of the COGIC), she is also a background vocalist for National Recording Artist Maurette Brown Clark, she serves on her Jurisdiction Music Dept (Greater Maryland First), and like everyone else SHOULD who works on a Jurisditonal and National level (however your church and or organization is set up) she operates in her local church "Carter Memorial COGIC" as a praise and worship leader (Pastor Carl Pierce). During my interviewing process I ask most of my female features, what are a five necessities they believe a lady should always have. Lady Hamilton gave six great necessities for women and they are; 1) Girdle (a firm foundation), 2) Great Chest Support (a good ole bra), 3) A slip that suits your style that day, 4) A good pair of pantyhose, 5) a genuine strand of pearls, and just for a bonus she also mentioned a Lap Scarf is always in order, also known as a COGIC Woman's Spiritual "Baton" says Lady Hamilton. Being that Sunday was Father's Day I asked; what did her plans consist of on that special day?  She said of course she made her way to Carter Memorial COGIC, after which she had dinner with her father. After dinner she made her way to the hospital (just like a missionary) to visit with her former Pastor and god father. There in her Louboutins she prayed for him and sang songs of Zion by his beside (be ye also ready). After appreciating her father and spiritual father she took the time out to appreciate and acknowledge her love interest and companion for Fathers Day, Elder Verlon Lofton! I appreciate Lady Hamilton for the little time I have been around her, and getting to know her I find that she is such a sweet heart and a lady of integrity. Lady Hamilton says "fashion represents Integrity and Substance; looking pretty means nothing without a pure heart and a deep rooted genuine love for God and his people". Lady Latisha Hamilton is my favorite look from this Sunday and is my Sunday Recap!

Her Look:

Ruffled Peplum Top and Skirt- Designed by Verlon Lofton

Swarovski Crystal and French Veil fascinator and hat pin- Designed by Verlon Lofton

Swarovski Crystal earrings- Designed by Verlon Lofton

Shimmer Pantyhose- Givenchy

Polka Dot Clutch- Kate Spade

Swarovski Crystal Christian Louboutins- Christian Louboutin (stoned by Verlon Lofton)

COMING SOON...

Fathers Day Blog ft. Sir Taron Pollard and Sir Ernest Stinson

Fashionista Blog ft. Legendary Singer Anita NiNi Wells

Fashion In COGIC Blog ft... Elder Verlon D Lofton (the man who changed the face of fashion)

THE FASHION GUY WITH THE VINTAGE EYE says "Happy Birthday To The Ad-lib Queen"

Lillian J Lloyd

"Sense Of Style" Confidence... 

             Blonde hair swinging, 6,7,8 inch heel wearing, rolling on the floor singing, hardcore preaching Evangelist Lillian J Lloyd's birthday is TODAY. A certain group of us fell in love with the "Ad-lib Queen" as she is affectionately called while she was one of the lead singers for Supt Nathan Simmons at Citadel Of Hope Evangelistic COGIC, but many of us (like myself) fell in love with her dramatics with her anointing when she lead "One More Chance" with Ricky Dillard and New G; a song written by Bishop Eric McDaniel. Some of you may ask the question how does she fit in the category of fashion and Christendom? Simply it's because she is SAVED and because of her personal style. I've said in numerous blogs before, you can have the most expensive Shellie McDowell hat, amazing Christian Dior patent leather black pumps, Swarovski Crystal bag, but without self confidence you will end up looking like everyone else. It would be best to just run to Conway and get you a 15.00 suit (no shade) if you plan on fitting in, but "GOOOOOOOOOOOOOD is looking for a people who are willing to step outside the box" (in my good preaching voice) LOL. Evangelist Lloyd owns whatever she puts on and she carries it as only as she can. To some people it may be to much; but guess what? They don't have to wear it. Her self confidence exudes through her pores, so whatever she is in, whether it's a multi color New G robe or a St.John Knit it becomes everything to my LIFE because of the way she carries herself. Self esteem isn't easy to come by but when you GET IT, don't allow anyone to take it away. Her message in 6,7,8 inch pumps is pure Holiness, whether she is singing it in Sinner Man, One More Chance, or many of her Pentecostal sound songs. Some people are caught up in her look with all the make up, hair, and jewels but she captures your attention. Not only does she capture your attention with her outward appearance but as you began to listen to her sing, going beyond what you see, she is sowing seeds into your life. She is quoting scripture throughout all of her ad-libbing, he is speaking healing and deliverance into the lives of those listening. I really do enjoy Evangelist Lloyd's ministry but I am in love with her "Sense Of Style" which is Self Confidence. Happy Birthday Lillian Lloyd, and I speak long life into your very existence.

THE FASHION GUY WITH THE VINTAGE EYE presents "A Lapel Pin Sale"...

The Big Fashion Guy

Michael Anthony Spearman

Menswear Image Consultant/Designer/Stylist

       If you follow different Fashionistas and Fashionistas in their own right on social media sites then Michael Anthony Spearman is certainly on your list. This budding fashion designer is clearly on the rise to becoming one of the most influential mens designers of my generation. He has a way of paying attention to detail, his use of colors and textures is beyond imagination, and his bold stand to step outside of the box is amazing to me. Michael Anthony Spearman inspires gentleman of all sizes (especially those who have more to love) through Fashion, Faith, and Fitness, and I appreciate and honor him for being a trailblazer in this category. With him being a personal and close friend of mine I know how many people (men and women) reach out to him asking for fashion advice concerning plus size and really all over the size chart. He is full of knowledge and wisdom when it comes to Fashion and Faith and he applies it to his modest but exciting wardrobe. When I found out he was having a 10% off sale on his one of a kind custom Lapel Pins I definitely wanted others to be aware and purchase while they are still avaible. Trust me my favorite lapel pin besides my Vintage Christian Dior Lapel Pin is one he made just for me. He has all different shapes, colors, material, textures, patterns, and pins. Check him out at www.etsy.com/shop/TheBigFashionGuy; the sale ends Thursday June 12,2014. The code to type in at checkout to get your 10% off is (TBFG10). I will be doing a full feature on Michael Anthony Spearman in the near future concerning his education in fashion, his creative designs, and all of his AMAZING looks! You can follow him on Instagram @THEBIGFASHIONGUY and on Facebook (Michael Anthony Spearman).

THE FASHION WITH THE VINTAGE EYE presents "Pentecost Sunday"

Pentecost Sunday 

                   Happy Birthday to the "CHURCH"; yesterday saints all over the world celebrated Pentecost! Christians celebrate Pentecost 50 days after Resurrection Sunday; it commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit. Most Christians who celebrate Pentecost will either wear White representing Purity and others wear Red which represents the Fire of the Holy Ghost. When it comes to my attire on Pentecost I dress in WHITE because I am PURE (sideeye lol), plus I think to much red can make an outfit go completely array and all the way left field. So how can some of the most fashionable people in Christendom wear the same color but still be set apart and keep their own Fashion Identity; this is when personal sense of style comes into play. Every male can have the same white linen suit on from K&G but there is something that separates the novice from the expert.1) Editing, when you go into a men's suit store they will try to sell you a suit, shirt, tie, belt, suspenders, socks, and draws which they believe all go together. DO NOT FALL FOR IT; they throw words at you such as bargain and sale in your face to make you think you are actually saving money but THE devil IS A LIAR, save your coins and just get the suit. (If you let them talk you into it I promise you people will throw words at you like crazy and tacky). 2) Tailoring; a tailor like I've said in previous blogs will be your best friend, especially ones by the name of Hong Yun Lee and Su Toi Lee (two Asian people I made up lol). What will separate your same suit from the same store in the same color that is being worn in the same church is having the pants tailored to a straight (tapered leg) or making them a cropped pant. This has been done over and over but adding piping to the jacket or making the pant a tuxedo pant. What I have done many times is adding different textured and pattern elbow patches to a few of my plain thrift store pieces. Adding a black tuxedo shirt with no tie or great custom shirt (by Jameel Moore) with an amazing thick material tie and an amazing pocket square. A great shoe will always take a 50.00 suit into a million dollar Neiman Marcus look! And of course adding a lapel flower (not these oversized bouquets) for a splash of color and an amazing time piece on your wrist. Just a few pointers I go by to allow myself to stand out from everyone else, plus I'm from NY living in the south so I will stand out no matter what (no shade), we are just bolder when it comes to our Fashion choices. I browsed my news feed on social media sites for some of my favorite looks from Pentecost Sunday and I've chosen Pastor Altavon Clark, Fashion Risk Taker Dion Dickens, The Young but Experienced Eric Johnson, Sir Michael Crutchfield, and The Ever Fashionable Dereck Coleman. Of course I have my top look of Pentecost which is Lady Stephanie Williams!!!!!! I was recently introduced to who she is "Fashion Wise" and I am in love and hopefully will be doing a full feature on her in the near future. 

Altavon Clark

Suit- Calvin Klein

Shirt and Bow Tie- Why Not Boutique 

Sock- Pierre Cardin

Belt- Kenneth Cole

Shoes- Todd Welsh

Dion Dickens

Suit- Tzarelli Italy

Shoes- Irregular Choice

Shirt- Steven by Steven Land

Socks- Happy Socks

Bow Tie- Custom (ND Designs)

Eric Johnson

Suit- Tallia

Shoes- Kenneth Cole

Socks- Calvin Klein 

Glasses- Warby Parker

Hat- H&M

Michael Crutchfield 

Suit- Express

Shirt- Michael Kors

Shoes- Cignal

Tie- Banana Republic

Pocket Square- Brooks Brothers

Cufflinks- Vintage Crystal Links (London Vintage Shop)

Dereck Coleman

Suit- H&M

Shoes- Guess

Shirt- Tuxedo Shirt (Hugo Boss)

Tie- Michael Kors

Accessories- Macys

Lady Stephanie Williams

Hat- Jack McConnell (Vintage)

Dress- Jody Davis Designs (Custom)

Shoes- Christian Louboutin 

Purse- Louis Vuitton

 

THE FASHION GUY WITH THE VINTAGE EYE presents "SENSE OF STYLE" Dr. Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou

"Sense Of Style"

              Today I began to work on a story for my blog concentrating on a beautiful double breasted Vintage tweed men's coat titled "Vintage Hunter"; but as I sat at my desk in my room looking out the window, hoping to be encouraged and compelled by what my eyes could see, looking for the right words to come to me, all I could think of was Dr. Maya Angelou. I knew her home going celebration was today and I thought with her being the LEGEND that she IS, I figured she would be on the mainstream networks (ABC, CBS, NBC) but of course she wasn't (we have much progress to make as people). Of course Mother Oprah Winfrey had her on the OWN Network and it was beautiful. As I listened to all of the dignitaries and the family of Maya Angelou give great dissertations concerning her life and her body of work I began to become encouraged and compelled to write about her! I sat and tried to figure out how can I apply FASHION, CHRISTIANITY, and Dr. Angelou in the same story. She wasn't a fashion model from the 50s, and she wasn't a recognizable clergyman of today; she was simply a Poet, Civil Rights Activist, Dancer, Film Producer, Television Producer, Playwright, Film Director, Author, Actress, and Professor. Which in my book makes her Fashionable; she is what you call having a "Sense Of Style". Sense of Style is not a Jack McConnell Hat, it's not a quilted Chanel bag, it's not a European Cut suit, or the finest preaching robe, although all of those things are wonderful (don't get me wrong LOL). It's about NOT being afraid to be different and or stepping out of the norm. You can have the most wonderful garments but without self confidence (I think I'm preaching) you are just another manikin (a life sized anatomical human model) WHICH EVERY STORE HAS THEM. You have to be daring to step out and be different. Being from NY the home of fashion, I have been privileged to many different fashions entities; through that I was able to build my own sense of style. I don't shop in thrift stores because I can't afford anything in Neimans or Bergdorf (trust me I can and do), I shop there because I can find things that aren't popular, that everyone isn't wearing, it suits my character, and my Sense Of Style. Dr. Angelou went against the grain, she went against what black woman were told they could be, she knew who she was, she was confident in her ways whether she knew the outcome or not. When it comes to having your own Sense Of Style it's ok to add what is popular and on trend at that moment, but add what makes you happy, and what makes you feel good. "Case in point"  and "for example" Christian Louboutins are very stylish and beautiful shoes, they have been a trend for the past couple of years; but guess what??? They are the most uncomfortable shoes you will ever wear in my opinion (which is the only one that counts at this particular moment). Step outside of the box like Dr. Angelou did, be your own person, take the limits off, don't allow your situations to be stumbling blocks but allow them to be stepping stones; and when finding your own Sense Of Style have respect for yourself. Growing up and learning about Dr. Angelou and in my adult years even on today while researching her for this piece, I didn't hear anything negative that she did. I read and heard of negative situations that she was in but it wasn't due to anything she had done, it was because of the times. One thing about it, she never let the times stop her; racism, roe vs wade which aided in the Feminist Movement, and last but not least in her own words "being uneducated, a woman, a young pregnant woman, 6 feet tall, and black" (which she said kept her from applying for a job at the United Nations) stop her from being who she BECAME. Again having your own Sense Of Style is not being like everyone else, you can have little money but be the most fashionable person. Sense of Style of going beyond the norm, and finding out, coming into, and being who you really are and it will show in your outward appearance. I love Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior; I love shopping at Nordstrom, and Barney's, I love my first pair of Christian Louboutin shoes and Jo Ghost shoes, but my Sense Of Style was built from my Confidence, and because of my Confidence I have a Sense Of Style. Marguerite Annie Johnson aka Dr.Maya Angelou was and is FASHIONABLE and a CHRISTIAN, she embodies everything my blog is! 

"Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it"

Maya Angelou

THE FASHION GUY WITH THE VINTAGE EYE presents Sunday Recap..

Sunday Recap

(A recap at a few of my favorite looks from Sunday)

Mitchell Johnson

"Communion Sunday"

        This Dapper gentleman is making a positive name and influence on the gospel community day by day, and song by song. He is known for being the mentee of none other than Pastor John P Kee (which is where I started noticing him) and as one of the lead vocals of the recording choir formerly known as Melvin Crispell and Testimony. A group of energetic, sanctified, Holy Ghost filled young adults who corporately love gospel music. I noticed Mitch (as he is affectionately called by his family and friends) while he was traveling with the Great late Melvin Crispell and testimony, his sense of style was always HIS SENSE OF STYLE; especially with him being so tall he had to really search of what was trendy and make it his own and that's how you produce a "sense of style". He went from the era of the pointy toe shoe, boot cut jeans, and short ties (which we all were apart of) to clean line tailored suits. As he continues to flow under the anointing in his music ministry and as the worship leader at Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church in North Carolina, I appreciate him not making a mockery out of fashion but always dapper and classic. His look from Sunday impressed and inspired me to make him apart of my Sunday Recap!

His Sunday Look:

Suit- Vitali- K&G

Shoes - Patten Leather- Aldo

Shirt- Michael Kors- EBay 

Tie- Cremieux- Belk

Socks- Happy Socks

Pocket Square- Macys

Accessories- H&M

Glasses- Ray-Ban (prescription) 

Michael Justin Myrick

"Casual Sunday"

The Fashion Guy With The Vintage Eye

MIJU

        For many saints first Sunday is dedicated for communion but for my ole apostolic church (the great St.John Apostolic Holiness Church) here in Atlanta, that Sunday is dedicated to our your department in which I am Vice President. I try to show and implement in my youth department that Jordan's, tacky platform heels, too tight short dresses, and too baggy or too tight jeans are NOT HOT. I would never tell anyone to dress just like me but have enough dignity in yourself to present yourself the best way possible. If you search hard enough and do your research on great places to shop, you will find out, to look great doesn't cost a great price. There is a term in the professional world called "casual friday". Casual Friday was put into effect in the workplace because the weather was so hot during the spring and summer it was uncomfortable for commuters to travel to and from work in everyday work clothes (suits, ties, etc). So people were a allowed to start wearing denim but it wasn't allowed to be worn with T-shirts and flip flops, it was a way towards the end of the week to be comfortable and still look professional. Denim jeans with a nice Ralph Lauren polo shirt, and a pair of inexpensive oxfords or loafers; a lady-like denim skirt with cute blouse and or blazer, with a decent pair of heels. This is what we, at my church are trying to accomplish with our youth and young adult department; it will help with their professional lives, and it will help with their self esteem. I believe "When You Look Good You Feel Good" (preach sir!). We must not only invest in our youth and young adults with their Spiritual and Educational lives, but their outward appearance is as important. When you are on an interview, meeting someone for the firs time, or just going to the grocery store, your appearance is what people will read about you first. You can have an Ivy League School degree, the greatest prolific speaker, with the cure for Aids (I know I'm being extra lol) people won't allow you to present anything because of the way you present yourself (HELLO SOMEBODY!). I usually don't choose myself for my own blog postings but I thought my look would encourage a young person to step outside of the norm and "be a trendsetter doing their own thing".

My Sunday Look:

Blazer- Vinatge- Metropolis Vintage Apparel (NYC)

Denim Jeans- 21 Men- Cumberland Mall (Atlanta)

Shirt- Jos. A. Bank (travelers collection)- Jos. A. Bank (outlet)

Shoes- Cole Haan (clearance)- Century 21 (NJ)

Socks- Happy Socks (just makes you dance better)- The Big Fashion Guy (Michael Anthony Spearman)

Watch- Michael Kors

Wrist Band- Smile- Burlington Coat Factory

Bow Tie- compliments of Sir Brent Brown (Wardrobe Stylist)

Pocket Square- MIJU Designs

THE FASHION GUY WITH THE VINTAGE EYE presents PRDW The Live Recording!

Patrick Riddick and Dvyne Worship

 The Live DVD Recording 

               Since I moved to Atlanta 6 or 7 years ago I have really been yearning for the sound and the feel of a MUSICAL MUSICAL. The Musicals I grew up attending in NY turned into Sunday night tarrying, joy night, revival services. People came dressed but the objective of the musicals were to showcase talents, and to fellowship with one another. And no "SHADE" to the musical scene of Atlanta but it just wasn't and isn't my "cup of tea". So when I found put the Patrick Riddick and Dvyne Worship (the most squalling, screaming, and sanging group of people I know) were having a live DVD recording I knew Virginia was calling my name (and for other reasons unmentioned!!!). I got in touch with my brother Brent Brown (a well known stylist), who got in touch with my other brother Jermaine Bunch and by way of Augusta we made our way to Virginia. Of course I over packed for a two day trip, bringing 4 suits, 5 dress shirts (all white), 2 pair of shoes, 5 handkerchiefs (if you can't find a pocket square, a handkerchief is always in order), and forgot all of my ties. Luckily my big bro Sir Brent Brown is always prepared for a Fashion Rescue Mission (let the church say AMEN, AMEN). Well I decided on a Vintage 1970s Burnt Orange suit I bought at a vintage shop in NY, a pair of amazing Giorgio Bruitini shoes from DSW (I'm sure everyone has), a vintage Dior portfolio, Michael Kors watch, and a pair of green and floral print Happy Socks (thanks to The Big Fashion Guy) and made my way to Gethsemane Baptist Church in Newport News, VA. The church was huge and to my understanding they are still building; I was a little upset about standing in a line although I bought a VIP ticket but It didn't matter at that time, I was anticipating the great move of God I felt on the horizon. We walk into the gymnasium being that the sanctuary I believe is still being built; there is a huge stage set up, lights, cameras, and action! Of course the always fashionable and my big bro Pastor Darryl Hill comes to the stage and greets everyone, almost took us up in a praise. So another artist introduced Dvyne Worship and I just couldn't wait to see what they were about to come out in. Dvyne Worship are known for their legendary robes. They started coming out one by one, women in amazing custom made gowns and all their necks adorned in layers and layers and layers or multi strand PEARLS! I was in heaven; the men were suited and booted in tailored black suits, crisp white shirts, black shoes, and black ties. I miss the days when choirs dressed like this (I sound old), all on one accord but with their own sense of style. The Elect Ladies of Dvyne Worship sang their GOOD notes, and danced in all of their 6inch and beyond heels, with these amazing gowns on; some with tool, others with chiffon, I saw one with a cape, one I loved had ruffles on the skirt, bell sleeves, wrap dresses, and not one strand of pearls popped out of all the the moving they did!!!!! I was praying to the Fashion gods "please hear my prayer hear my cry and keep everything together" lol. They men looked like MEN, no ill fitting suits, nothing to big, nothing was to tight, everything was just right. You can tell the majority of the tenors were Pentecostal because only those of the Pentecostal belief run out from where they are to the altar and DANCE, DANCE, DANCE! Of course the Professor himself Patrick Riddick wore an amazing piece only he could pull off, which was white with black graphics on it, an amazing black patent leather shoe, and his tie had a shine to it. Their recording would be remiss if they didn't come out in the second half with Brown, Tan, and Teal ROBES!!!!! They looked amazing, just like a choir should look! Lilian Lloyd looked great in her Pentecostal White, Bettina Pennon looked amazing in a yellow parachute sleeve blouse and an orange skirt with the most CAPTURING gold pumps, not forgetting what Lorraine Stancil had on but her anointing and voice trumped her pink peplum, black pencil skirt, and heels that she kicked up in the air and tore that place apart! Although Monique Walker Davenport didn't sing at the recording, when she walked in all eyes were on her! She had an amazing simple black dress on, with killer black platform heels, and a lap scarf (as a lady should always have one). All in All Patrick Riddick and Dvyne Worship looked absolutely amazing in my book and THATS ALL THAT MATTERS!!!! I do have my best look of the night from Dvyne Worship which the blog will be COMING SOON! I am now a fan of PRDW, those are some sanging Black Folk! 

Check out the new single "Without You"!!!! It's amazing...