"LLS Interview": BET Swag Check w/ Angela Simmons & Celebrity Stylist Jason Bolden

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DBROWN

"LLS Interview" : Swag Check with Mavado

"LLS Interview": Swag Check w/ Tamar Braxton

LLS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: BET "Swag Check" w/ ASAP Rocky

LLS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: "MAN BEHIND THE FASHION" w/ Celebrity Stylist Atiba Newsome

 CELEBRITY STYLIST ATIBA NEWSOME

 "The Man behind the Fashion" is who I call him. You may know him from his feature in the Oxygen Network show..."House of Glam", but he is the man behind the style of someof your favorite celebrities. I got the chance to catch up with Atiba and ask him a few questions about his career.

LLS:   At what age did you realize your love for Fashion?  Atiba: I think I realized I was into fashion at around 13. I was really into Guess and Swatch when they had a clothing line back in the late 80's. I lived across the street from Macys so I was always shopping. I would see things I liked, buy the one I like 2nd best wear it and then return and exchange it for the piece I liked most and keep it. Lol I was using my allowance, I had to be smart about my purchases.
LLS: How long have you been styling? Atiba: I've been styling for about 14 years. I didn't realize how long it really was until I was speaking to some kids at a youth center in the Bronx and one of them asked if I ever met Biggie Smalls. After I answered he said "I was 1 years old when he died." I thought to myself "WOW I'm getting old."


LLS: What would you consider your big break in the industry?Atiba: My big break came when I started styling Puffy. We worked together off and on for over 10 years. Through him I met Mary J.Blige and began styling her too.


LLS: Who are some celebrities that you have worked with? Atiba: I've styled Prince, Kelis, Nas, T.I, Cassie, Missy Elliott,Ryan Leslie, Monica, Nick Cannon, Kelly Rowland and almost every artist that was on Bad Boy.

LLS: Which of your clients would you say you learned the most from? Atiba: Out of all my clients Puff was the one I learned most from. Especially when it came to negotiating rates. He always told me if you want 10 ask for 20 because they'll always try and talk you down. He was right!



LLS: What excites you about styling? Atiba: I get excited when I can take someone who had horrible or no style at all and make them look great.


LLS: What has been your biggest obstacle as a stylist? Atiba: I'd say my biggest obstacle has been not being able to promote myself. I've never been one to go up to people and tell them what I do. I usually get jobs through referrals or word of mouth.


LLS: What has been your greatest accomplishment? Atiba: That's a hard one, I feel I've had many but I'd probably say styling Prince's "Welcome To America" tour last year. I lost my virginity to Purple Rain. Lol Prince is a legend! And I was the first stylist he worked with in almost 10 years.


LLS: Seeing to it that you have been in the industry for a long time.. How do you compete with the newer stylist and keep work? Atiba: I try not to think about the new stylist, experience and relationships can't be bought and I think over the years I've gained a lot of both. Most new stylist work for half of what we charge so that's a tough thing to deal with. I also try to stay current with the new styles and not follow trends. But I like the new talented stylist that are out here. I appreciate good style just as much as the next person.


LLS: What are some other interest (besides fashion) that you have? Atiba: I'm interested in writing screen plays, I used to write music and english was the only subject I excelled in. I have tons of ideas in my head and I'm a big movie fan.


LLS: Where do you see yourself in 3 yrs? Atiba: In 3 years I'd either like to be the wardrobe stylist for a tv show or hosting my own tv. Of course it would involve fashion.


LLS: What advice would you give someone trying to break into the industry as a stylist? Atiba: I always tell aspiring stylist to intern for another stylist whose work they respect and admire. It's not just about putting clothes on people, there is an art to styling. But you have to observe it first.



To find out more about Atiba Newsome:
http://www.atibanewsome.com/
http://atibas.tumblr.com/

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DBROWN

My inspirational interview w/ Fashion Designer Byron Lars for Gold Stiletto Magazine

Just incase you missed it. I had the pleasure to visit Fashion Designer Byron Lars production house and interviewed him on his line and preparation for Fashion Week.






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DBROWN

New Episode of "Swag Check" on BET.com w/ host DBrown and Rapper Trina

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DBROWN

BET.com "Swag Check" w/ One on Ones's Kyla Pratt

New Episode of Swag Check on Bet.com with actress Kyla Pratt.

"Swag Check" w/ Megan Good and host DBrown on Bet.com

Check out episode: 2 of "Swag Check" w/ Meagan Good on Bet.com








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DBROWN

"Swag Check" on BET.com Host: DBrown and guest: EVE

I have great news I will be hosting a segment on BET.com called "Swag Check".. in this show I will be interviewing some of your favorite celebrities about their style... Check out the first episode w/ EVE.....





Stay tune weekly for new episodes


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DBROWN

Exclusive Interview with BET News Sharon Carpenter

Hey People,

I told you guys that I would bring you exclusive interviews of  BET Talent and people who are behind the scenes of BET. Last month I gave you guys "The Deal" DJ Diamond Kuts. Today I had the opportunity to interview BET News Correspondant, Sharon Carpenter. I have been working closely with Sharon, styling her for BET News, Awards and  other Events.

Dress: Stop Staring

Shoes: Velvet Rose

Styling: DBrown
Dina: Where are you originally  from/Where do you reside?
Sharon Carpenter: I’m originally from Watford, a town just outside of North London in the UK

I now reside in Brooklyn, NY

Dina: What school did you attend and what was your major?
Sharon Carpenter:  I went to Pace University in Manhattan where my major was Business Management


Dina: How long have you been reporting/corresponding?
Sharon Carpenter:  I’ve been an on-air correspondent/producer for BET for about 4 years.  Before doing this I was a reporter for CBS Marketwatch.  I started off in the news business working behind-the-scenes as an associate producer and quickly worked my way up to a producer position.


Dina: When did you first realize you eanted to be a reporter?
Sharon Carpenter:  I first realized I wanted to be in television after getting a taste of it hosting a public access music video show while I was in school.  I would go out and interview artists and other celebrities for the show and I’d always get compliments on the way I conducted my interviews.  But it wasn’t until I came across the person who later became my mentor that I realized news would be a good direction for me.  I actually met him when covering an event for the video show.  He was the news director of a local NY newscast and ended up giving me my first opportunity in the field of news.


Dina: How long have you been doing BET News?
Sharon Carpenter: As mentioned above I’ve been a reporter for BET News for around 4 years.


Dina: How did you get this Gig?
Sharon Carpenter:  I got the job basically by working hard, working my way up in the industry and being persistent. I had already been a producer for BET News so the team was very aware of my skills in that area. After leaving and building up my on-camara expertise at cbs marketwatch, BET was very interested in having me back but this time on-air especially since the network had decided to go with a younger, edgier approach to news which fit my look and style.


Dina: What are some other things that you like to do?
Sharon Carpenter:  I absolutely love my job and the fact that I get to meet some of the most interesting people in the world (not just celebs but everyday people with amazing stories) and I often get to be at the center of major world events like the election and inauguration of President Obama.  Most of what I do right now revolves around my career but when I’m not working I love to catch up and enjoy quality time with friends and family.  I love trying new restaurants, I love music and seeing live performances but my favorite thing to do during downtime is travel home to England or to my favorite country, Barbados, to relax on the beach.


Dina: Where so you see yourself in 5 years?
Sharon Carpenter: I'm not 100 percent sure where I see myself in 5 years but I want to continue telling important and exciting stories and hope to keep inspiring young people who are thinking about a career in journalism.


Dina: How would you describe your style?
Sharon Carpenter: I would describe my personal style as simple yet chic, classy but sexy.


Dina: What is your favorite Trend/what Trend do you dislike?
Sharon Carpenter: Right now my favorite trend for fall/winter is over-the-knee boots I also like the layered pearls look which adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. I can't think of a trend I don't like but remember not all trends fit everybody and it's important to rock clothes and styles you feel comfortable in.


Dina: What is something taht every women should have in there closet/ Every man?
Sharon Carpenter: Every woman should have a white tank top in their closet. I have several different types.  You can dress it down with a pair of jeans or dress it up by tucking it into a fabulous skirt and adding some cool accessories.  It’s a simple piece yet very sexy. Every man should have a stylish (well fitting but not too fitted) white t-shirt.  That with a cool pair of slightly distressed jeans always looks great.


Dina: What is your favorite store to shop in/
Sharon Carpenter:  My favorite store to shop in is Intermix


Dina: What are some suggestions you would have for aspiring Reporters who would like to break into the industry?
Sharon Carpenter: Words of advice for aspiring journalists - put your all into any opportunity you get to enter or learn about the business.  Things don’t happen overnight so be prepared to work your way up in the industry like I did.  Network, ask lots of questions, stay focused and work really, really hard.  Public access television is a great way to gain on-camera experience and interviewing skills. Nick Cannon and I both got our start on public access TV.  Internships are also a great way to get your foot in the door.  One of the most important things people need to know is being a journalist doesn’t just mean going on camera to report a story.  You have to know how to produce too because most of the time if not all the time, you’ll be producing your own stories and writing your own scripts. be prepared to work some crazy hours and make sacrifices for your career and if you really want it don't let anyone deter you, just go for it!




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D Brown

A Day with DJ Diamond Kuts (Exclusive Interview)

Hey Guys,

Last week, I went shopping with DJ Diamond Kuts for the Hip Hop Awards. We went to Urban Outfitters to pick out some looks. As we shopped I used this time to get to know Diamond. Check out her responses:

Dina: Where are you originally from/Where do u reside?

Diamond: I'm Originally From Philly Pa. I lived in South Jersey for a while too.

Dina: What school did you attend and what was your major?
Diamond: I Attended Seton Hill University and My Major Was Communication.
Dina: How long have you been DJing?
Diamond: I've been djing for 9 years and professionally for about 5


Dina: When did you first realize you wanted to DJ?
Diamond; I realized I wanted to start djing after I kept playing on this djs turntables at one of my birthday parties. It seemed like he was having fun and I wanted to try it out


Dina: How long have you been DJing for "the Deal"?/How did u get this Gig?
Diamond: I've Been Djing on the deal from its beginning I got the job by guest djing on rap city so many times that I grew close with the staff and when they decided to do a new show I was first pick for the dj. Its been fun and a great experience.
Dina: What are some other gigs that you have?
Diamond: My other gig is of course parties and Radio, Power 99 FM In Philly

Dina: What is the Murda Mamis?How long and how did you become part of that?
Diamond: Murda Mamis is a clique of some of the hottest females in the industry that's doing there thing in the Entertainment world. I've been down with MM for well over 4yrs

Dina: What are some other things that you like to do?
Diamond: When I'm not working I love to spend time with my family. They are most important to me or laying around and watching a million movies.


Dina: Where do u see yourself in 5yrs?
Diamond: In 5 yrs I would like to be alive first and foremost; With a platinum album and still maintaining my TV and Radio job.



Dina: How would you describe your style?
Diamond: My Style is laid back, I'm somewhat of a sneaker head and when appropriate I like to dress up.


Dina: Who is your favorite Designer?
Diamond: My favorite designer issssss ??? I dunno lol I have a couple favorites, Hellz Bellz, Married To The Mob, of course Urban outfitters, 7 Jeans, Rock & Republic, Buffalo Jeans as far as sneakers go I'm Not a big label freak so all of the Gucci Printed, Louis Vuitton Sneaks don't really phase me. I can settle for some Jordans, Addidas, dope Nikes, or just some hot looking sneaks. I know I'm missing a lot of names but that's good enough lol


Dina: What is something that every women should have in there closet/Every Men should have?
Diamond: Every man and women should have some clean draws and socks in their closet lol nah every man should have a pair of J's in there closet. AT LEAST 1 PAIR. For all the ladies like me who may hate to wear shoes we should at least have 5 pairs of shoes or Boots in the closet. Even if u know u won't ever wear them. Just have it anyway :-/ you never know

Dina: What are some suggestions u would have for aspiring DJs who would like to break into the industry?
Diamond: All the aspiring djs out there know your music, know your crowd when rocking the clubs or radio. And study the actual technique of djing and all kinds of music, stay focused and more importantly Practice Practice Practice.
 
Check out some flicks we took while we were shopping:
 

I definetly had a blast with Diamond. Make sure you check out her website http://www.djdiamondkuts.com/

Stay tuned in for more "Behind the Scene of BET" Interviews.

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DBrown