MakingABrand Joins Homage Awards and FIT for the screening of IN Vogue: The 90s – Episode 5 – Streetwear
MakingABrand proudly sponsored Homage Awards for an exclusive screening at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) for Hulu’s exclusive film IN Vogue: The 90s, Episode 5 – Streetwear , which focused on the history and evolution of streetwear. The event brought together visionaries, industry legends, and aspiring fashion innovators to reflect on the impact of streetwear on global style, art, and culture. Esteemed panelists Andy Hilfiger, Peter Paul Scott, Professor Elena Romero and J. Alexander from FUBU enriched the evening with insights from their years of industry experience, giving attendees a unique perspective on the growth of streetwear. The panel discussion featured Andy Hilfiger, a key player in fashion’s crossover with music, Peter Paul Scott, an industry innovator and founder of Homage Awards, and Elena Romero, a scholar and expert on urban fashion, offered rich insights into the social and cultural forces that powered streetwear’s rise. They discussed how streetwear grew from niche subcultures to a global style phenomenon, touching on the roles of music, and urban identity in shaping its unique aesthetic. Attendees appreciated their reflections on the genre’s evolution, learning how streetwear both reflected and influenced cultural shifts over the decades. The screening of Episode 5 of IN Vogue: The 90s, titled “Streetwear”, provided an in-depth look into the origins of street style and its ascent in the 1990s. Through archival footage, interviews, and commentary from iconic figures from the likes of Tommy Hilfiger, Dapper Dan, and Mary J. Blige. The episode captured the spirit of the era and highlighted streetwear’s transformation into a dominant force. The audience at FIT had the unique opportunity to explore how streetwear became an emblem of cultural expression, merging art, music, and social movements. MakingABrand’s sponsorship underscored its commitment to both honoring streetwear’s past achievements and supporting its future. By supporting events like the Homage Awards and educational screenings at FIT, MakingABrand celebrated the pioneers of urban culture while encouraging future leaders to keep pushing boundaries. For MakingABrand, streetwear symbolized more than just a trend—it represented a lifestyle and a movement, honoring the art and self-expression of a continually evolving culture. The Homage Awards + FIT screening of IN Vogue: The 90s: Episode 5 – Streetwear was open to students, industry insiders, and streetwear enthusiasts, offering a memorable retrospective of the icons and events that have defined street style for generations. MakingABrand also took the opportunity to announce its new subscription-based platform, designed to support and inspire creative entrepreneurs and fashion enthusiasts worldwide. The platform will offer exclusive content, industry insights, and resources tailored to those looking to make their mark in fashion, art and design, film and other entrepreneurial endeavors. Attendees and fans alike were invited to register for updates to be the first to access exclusive offerings, including expert interviews, trend analyses, and more. Join MakingABrand for the ultimate creative entrepreneurial experience by registering on their platform today and stay connected for the latest in fashion innovation and inspiration!
Aligning the Starter Brand with Jermaine Dupri and Usher at the Atlanta Braves Game
When you talk about branding, it’s more than just slapping a logo on something and calling it a day. It’s about tapping into culture, understanding the audience, and creating a moment that sticks with people. That’s what happened recently when I had the opportunity to align Starter — the iconic sports brand — with two Atlanta legends, Jermaine Dupri and Usher, for the throw-out pitch at an Atlanta Braves game. Starter is more than just a sports brand; it’s a cultural staple. It’s that connection to both sport and street culture that makes Starter a perfect fit for a moment like this. When I was thinking about how to elevate the throw-out pitch at the Braves game, I knew Starter would bring the authenticity and credibility needed to make the event resonate. Jermaine Dupri and Usher are Atlanta royalty, and I wanted to tap into their deep ties to the city. Starter’s long history in sportswear, combined with its undeniable street cred, made it the ideal brand to represent the intersection of Atlanta’s music scene and its love for sports. From the start, the vision was to create a moment that felt true to the culture of Atlanta. I wanted Jermaine and Usher to embody the essence of Starter — bold, confident, and rooted in heritage. But it wasn’t just about wearing the gear; it was about creating a narrative that blended music, fashion, and sports into one seamless story. Jermaine has always been a trendsetter, and Usher’s style speaks for itself, so the challenge was to fuse their individual looks with the iconic Starter brand in a way that felt fresh yet timeless. Starter is all about legacy, and so are these two. By aligning the brand with these icons at the game, we were making a statement about Atlanta’s influence on culture as a whole. When the day of the game arrived, we knew the throw-out pitch was more than a ceremonial act — it was an opportunity to showcase the power of collaboration. As Jermaine Dupri walked onto the field in their custom Starter gear, the crowd erupted. The Starter jackets, with the signature star logo, instantly became a focal point of the event. The connection between the brand, the artists, and the city of Atlanta was clear, and it was something everyone could feel. Starter has always been about representing more than just the team — it’s about representing culture, pride, and the energy of the streets. Jermaine and Usher embodied that spirit as they stepped up to the mound. It was a branding moment that spoke directly to the heart of the city. Branding is about timing and amplification, and we made sure this moment didn’t stop at the stadium. We had a strong social media strategy in place to maximize the exposure Starter would get from this collaboration. From pre-game teasers to live coverage and post-event highlights, we made sure that the visual story of Jermaine Dupri, Usher, and Starter was seen by fans far beyond Atlanta. Starter’s legacy in sportswear is undeniable, but this event allowed us to reinforce the brand’s connection to music and culture. It wasn’t just about selling jackets; it was about making people feel like they were part of something bigger — a cultural movement. This experience with Starter, Jermaine Dupri, and Usher at the Braves game is just the beginning. It was a reminder that when you align a brand with culture — authentically and intentionally — you can create moments that go beyond the product and into the hearts of the people. Aligning Starter with Jermaine Dupri and Usher at the Atlanta Braves game was about more than sportswear; it was about making a statement on the convergence of culture, music, and sports. We didn’t just throw out a pitch; we threw out a brand moment that spoke to Atlanta’s soul and Starter’s legacy. – Tony Shellman
Elevate Your Brand: Harnessing AI for Next-Level Branding Success
In today’s fast-paced digital world, the success of a company’s branding efforts can significantly influence its overall growth and market position. As technology evolves, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool that can revolutionize how companies approach branding. From creating personalized customer experiences to optimizing marketing strategies, AI offers a plethora of opportunities for enhancing brand identity and engagement. Here’s how AI can help your company’s branding efforts soar to new heights. Personalization is key to modern branding. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to understand individual customer preferences and behaviors. This enables companies to deliver highly personalized content, recommendations, and experiences. For instance, AI can tailor email marketing campaigns based on a customer’s past purchases, browsing history, and interests, making the communication more relevant and engaging. AI-powered analytics tools can sift through large datasets to extract valuable insights about your customers. These insights can help you understand customer sentiment, preferences, and trends. By analyzing social media interactions, reviews, and feedback, AI can provide a comprehensive view of how your brand is perceived in the market. Creating engaging content is crucial for branding, but it can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. AI can streamline content creation by generating high-quality content tailored to your brand’s voice and audience. AI-driven tools can write blog posts, social media updates, and even design graphics, saving time and ensuring consistency in brand messaging. Platforms like Copy.ai use AI to generate compelling copy for various purposes, from advertising to blog writing. This allows your marketing team to focus on strategic initiatives rather than getting bogged down by content creation. AI enables data-driven decision-making by providing actionable insights from complex datasets. This capability is invaluable for refining your branding strategies. AI can identify patterns and trends that might not be apparent through traditional analysis methods, guiding your marketing efforts towards what works best for your audience. Predictive analytics powered by AI can forecast future trends and consumer behaviors, allowing your brand to stay ahead of the curve. By anticipating market shifts and customer needs, you can proactively adjust your branding strategies and maintain a competitive edge. AI-driven visual recognition technology can enhance your branding by providing interactive and immersive experiences. Augmented reality (AR) allows customers to visualize products in real-world settings, bridging the gap between online and offline experiences. Integrating AI into your branding strategy offers immense potential for creating more personalized, efficient, and impactful branding efforts. From gaining deeper customer insights to optimizing content creation and enhancing customer service, AI empowers your company to build a stronger, more resonant brand. By leveraging AI, you can stay ahead in the competitive market landscape, ensuring that your brand not only survives but thrives. Embrace AI today and watch your branding efforts transform, driving greater engagement, loyalty, and growth for your company.
The New Wave: How Independent Creators are Outpacing Traditional Branding Agencies
The landscape of branding is experiencing a major shift. Traditional branding agencies, despite their polished campaigns and hefty budgets, are struggling to keep up with the authentic, engaging content produced by young, independent creators. This transformation is reshaping how brands connect with their audiences. Legacy models that prioritize high production values and conventional channels like TV and print are losing their impact. Large agencies, with their bureaucratic processes, often fail to respond swiftly to the dynamic digital world. In contrast, young creators excel on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where authenticity and relatability reign supreme. Consumers today crave genuine content and can easily spot insincerity. Traditional ads often appear overly polished, while content from young creators feels more genuine and relatable. This authenticity builds strong connections, trust, and loyalty among audiences. Digital platforms have democratized content creation, enabling anyone with a smartphone to produce and share content. Brands must adapt by prioritizing agility, authenticity, and audience engagement. The shift towards digital native content creators is an exciting opportunity for brands. By learning from these creators and embracing authenticity, brands can forge lasting connections with their audiences. Those who adapt will lead the future of branding. Read more on our Making A Brand LinkedIn Page
Exploring The Rise of High-End Streetwear: Denim Tears
In the dynamic realm of fashion, trends ebb and flow, yet one trend has steadily surged in recent years: high-end streetwear. As luxury sales decline, brands like Denim Tears are seizing the spotlight, captivating fashion aficionados with their fusion of opulence and urban flair. The conventional luxury fashion scene, known for its exclusivity and steep prices, has witnessed a noticeable shift in consumer preferences. Millennial and Gen Z shoppers, now dominant in the market, are drawn to brands offering a more relaxed, accessible, and street-inspired style. This shift mirrors a broader cultural wave valuing authenticity, inclusivity, and individuality over traditional luxury norms. Denim Tears stands as a beacon of innovation, boldly embracing the seismic shift in fashion preferences and carving a distinctive niche in the realm of high-end streetwear. Spearheaded by the visionary designer Tremaine Emory, formerly a creative force at Supreme, Denim Tears seamlessly melds the opulence of luxury fashion with the raw energy of streetwear, crafting garments that speak to a diverse and fashion-forward clientele. To delve deeper into the evolution of high-end streetwear and its impact on the fashion landscape, read more on our LinkedIn account, MakingABrand. Join the conversation and stay updated on the latest trends shaping the industry.
Black History Month – 40 years of fashion with Maurice Malone
Maurice Malone commemorates a significant 40-year milestone this year by relaunching his iconic brand, Maurice Malone Designs. Pioneering the fashion industry since the establishment of Hardwear by Maurice Malone on February 15, 1984, and later Maurice Malone Designs, Malone has consistently led the way in streetwear and fashion innovation, influencing urban style in the hip-hop scene and setting new standards in denim craftsmanship. Beyond his initial ventures, Malone has introduced various sub-brands, including his latest venture, Williamsburg Garment Company (WGC). Specializing in premium denim streetwear, WGC stands out for its use of top-quality materials such as denim and Japanese denim, offering exclusive limited edition denim designs and bespoke denim tailoring. Go to Making A Brand Co. to read more.
Streetwear and Urban Fashion Trailblazer Tony Shellman | Black History Month
Celebrating the dynamic realm of fashion during Black History Month with the influential and brand extraordinaire Tony Shellman. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Shellman has transformed humble beginnings into a legacy, shaping some of the most iconic urban fashion brands from the late 20th to the early 21st centuries. As the visionary behind Mecca U.S.A., Co-Founder of Enyce Clothing Company, and Parish Nation, Shellman’s imprint on streetwear culture is undeniable. In 1994, Tony Shellman, alongside Seattle compatriot Lando Felix, co-founded Mecca U.S.A., swiftly establishing it as a cornerstone in urban fashion. More than a clothing line, Mecca U.S.A. embodied a lifestyle and embraced the cultural movement of Hip Hop. Having honed his craft at Parsons School of Design in NY, Tony collaborated with April Walker of Walker Wear on her marketing team before venturing out on his own. Drawing from Walker’s expertise, he mastered product placement, resulting in legendary rappers like the Notorious B.I.G. donning Mecca U.S.A., catapulting sales into the millions. With distinctive designs featuring bold logos and graphics, Mecca U.S.A. resonated with the emerging hip-hop generation, solidifying its status as a must-have in urban fashion. Read the full article here Making A Brand
Authentic Message Power: Kanye’s Super Bowl Commercial Breaks the Mold
In a bold move during Super Bowl season, Kanye West revolutionized advertising by airing a minimalist ad shot entirely on a smartphone. With a production budget of $0, West’s team defied conventional wisdom and captured the essence of authentic messaging, showcasing the power of connecting with audiences on a personal level. The ad’s success highlights the immense potential entrepreneurs have in leveraging smartphone video and Digital Storytelling to reach their target audience effectively. In an era dominated by social media and digital platforms, authenticity reigns supreme. Here’s how entrepreneurs can harness the power of smartphone video to connect with potential customers: Cost-Efficiency: Unlike traditional advertising methods that require hefty budgets, smartphone videos offer a cost-effective alternative. Entrepreneurs can produce high-quality content without breaking the bank, redirecting funds towards other aspects of their business. Authentic Storytelling: The key to resonating with audiences lies in authentic storytelling. By sharing genuine experiences, values, and aspirations, entrepreneurs can forge meaningful connections with their target demographic. Kanye West’s ad exemplifies this principle, captivating viewers with its raw simplicity and sincerity. Accessibility: Smartphones have democratized the filmmaking process, allowing entrepreneurs to create and share content effortlessly. With the prevalence of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn, businesses can amplify their reach and engagement through strategic video marketing campaigns. However, amidst the allure of smartphone video lies the risk of poorly developed messaging that could harm a brand. While cost-effective production methods offer opportunities for creativity and innovation, entrepreneurs must exercise caution to avoid pitfalls: Lack of Clarity: Ambiguous or confusing messaging can dilute the impact of a video campaign, leaving viewers disengaged and uninspired. Entrepreneurs must ensure that their content conveys a clear and compelling narrative that resonates with their target audience. Inauthenticity: Authenticity cannot be manufactured or replicated artificially. Attempts to deceive or manipulate audiences through disingenuous messaging can irreparably damage a brand’s reputation and credibility. Entrepreneurs must prioritize honesty, transparency, and sincerity in their communications. Technical Quality: While smartphones offer accessibility and convenience, they also have limitations in terms of technical quality. Entrepreneurs must strive for excellence in production value, ensuring that their videos are visually appealing, well-edited, and professionally executed. Kanye West’s groundbreaking Super Bowl ad serves as a testament to the transformative power of authentic messaging and smartphone video production. By embracing authenticity, entrepreneurs can forge genuine connections with their audience, driving brand loyalty, and fostering long-term success in an increasingly competitive landscape. As they navigate the realm of digital marketing, entrepreneurs must remain vigilant in upholding the principles of integrity, creativity, and authenticity in their messaging and content strategy.
Moor’s Brewing Success and Pioneering the Path as a Black-Owned Brewery
In the ever-evolving landscape of the craft beer industry, where innovation flows as freely as the brews themselves, a captivating story awaits our attention—one that revolves around Moor’s Brewing Co., a remarkable black-owned brewery that’s sending ripples through the craft beer world. Recently, our very own Maurice Malone, renowned fashion designer and beer aficionado, had the pleasure of sitting down with Jahmal Johnson, the visionary behind Moor’s Brewing Co. Together, they delved into Jahmal’s journey, the challenges he’s faced as one of the brewery owners, and the crucial role of representation and culture-forward marketing in this dynamic industry. As the craft beer movement continues to gain momentum, the importance of diversity and inclusion becomes increasingly evident. Moor’s Brewing Co. stands as a shining example, breaking down barriers and injecting a fresh perspective into the brewing scene. Jahmal Johnson, a passionate beer enthusiast with a dream, founded Moor’s Brewing Co. with the intention of bringing exceptional craft beer to a broader audience. In his candid conversation with Maurice Malone, Jahmal opens up about the inspiration behind Moor’s Brewing Co. He shares his deep love for beer and the burning desire to create a brand that not only crafts exceptional brews but also reflects the rich tapestry of black history and culture. Starting a brewery, much like any entrepreneurial venture, comes with its share of challenges. Jahmal Johnson doesn’t shy away from discussing the hurdles he’s faced as one of the brewery owners in an industry predominantly dominated by others. From securing a brewery partner to navigating the labyrinth of brewing regulations, Moor’s Brewing Co. has encountered obstacles that resonate with many aspiring entrepreneurs. But the story of Moor’s Brewing Co. isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about celebrating triumphs. Jahmal shares the sheer joy of witnessing their vision come to life, from brewing that very first batch of beer to gaining recognition for Moor’s unique and flavor-packed offerings. As Maurice Malone continues to dig deeper into the conversation, the significance of representation in the brewing industry takes center stage. Jahmal Johnson underlines the importance of creating an inclusive space where everyone feels at home, both as consumers and within the brewing community. Moor’s Brewing Co. is on a mission to drive change by encouraging diversity and fostering an environment where individuals from all walks of life can pursue their passion for brewing. Jahmal also delves into the concept of “culture-forward branding” and how African-American (and Hispanic) brands often lack representation in the craft beer industry. He highlights the vital need to craft messaging that resonates with these cultures while highlighting affordability and value, or the unique cultural factors that set their product apart from the rest. Moor’s Brewing Co. isn’t just a brewery; it’s a vibrant community hub. Jahmal Johnson stresses the importance of community engagement, revealing how Moor’s actively participates in events, collaborates with local artists, and supports meaningful social causes. The conversation also touches on Moor’s future aspirations, including exciting plans for expansion within the craft beer industry, new beer releases, and a continued commitment to promoting diversity. The interview between Maurice Malone and Jahmal Johnson offers a captivating glimpse into the inspiring journey of Moor’s Brewing Co. It’s a story that goes beyond just beer—it’s about breaking down barriers, shattering stereotypes, and ensuring that there’s room for diverse voices in the world of craft brewing. As Moor’s Brewing Co. continues to make its mark, it serves as an inspiring beacon for budding brewers and a reminder that the craft beer community is at its best when everyone has a seat at the table.
A La Fresca x Maurice Malone: Pioneering Film Production Mentorship in NYC
In the bustling urban landscape of New York City, A La Fresca, a unique video and film production company, is making a significant impact. Founded by Vinny Anand and Ron Austin Jr., this company has embarked on a mission to transform the lives of inner-city kids through the art of storytelling and film, specifically in producing commercials for high-end clients. Among their standout projects is a collaboration with celebrated fashion designer Maurice Malone. This endeavor is not just about showcasing Malone’s creative prowess but also about reflecting A La Fresca’s commitment to elevating diverse voices in filmmaking and digital storytelling. From the outset, A La Fresca made a conscious decision to involve youth from the inner city in every stage of the project. Recognizing the untapped potential within these communities, the company aims to break down barriers and provide a platform for aspiring filmmakers and creators. The company strategically involved inner-city youth in all aspects of this project, tapping into the potential of these communities. The aim was to dismantle barriers and offer a platform for budding filmmakers and creators. The result? A short story, available on A La Fresca’s YouTube channel, serves as both a tribute to Malone’s fashion legacy and a coming-of-age journey for the young crew involved. Under A La Fresca’s mentorship, these novices gained practical skills in cinematography, production, and storytelling, contributing to a project that seamlessly wove together the expertise of seasoned professionals with new, vibrant perspectives. Beyond the film set, A La Fresca opened networking doors for these youths, connecting them with industry figures and offering them a glimpse into a world that might have previously seemed out of reach. The collaboration with Maurice Malone, a renowned black designer, was particularly inspiring for the inner-city kids, fueling their passion for creativity and the realm of possibilities. Ultimately, this project transcended its initial purpose, morphing into a symbol of empowerment and a voice for the often unheard. A La Fresca’s partnership with Maurice Malone stands as a testament to the limitless potential that mentorship and opportunity can unlock for the next generation of creative minds.