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- As one of Atlanta’s fashionistas with your own clothing line, EARTHCANDY, featuring obis (japanese double-wrap belts) and reconstructed vintage clothing, could you please share with our readers what inspires your design?
Firstly, style fills the gap between how you see yourself and how others will see you. I call mine "urban culture-fusion chic". What inspires my design is bold colors, using embellishment techniques, exotic textures and patterns that blend, and the fact that I wasn't seeing certain wardrobe pieces created that my "mind's eye" saw. Therefore, I decided to make it myself! I also have sandals and clutches that I'm premiering spring/summer 2010.
- As you know Naturi Beauty embraces the experiences of women with natural hair, what has been your experience as a trendsetter of locs.
Just like my clothing, my hair is an extension of my style. I often turn to the indigenous hairstyles of African women to inspire me, which in turn sets in motion some of my ideas that I'll add. However, my hair maintenance isn't always a "one-woman show". Rayna Nash of IT'S A NATURAL THANG in Atlanta, GA plays a reoccuring role in my "loc" life when I simply want the luxury getting my hair done!
- Under the umbrella of your EARTHCANDY enterprises, you a provide vegan private culinary services to the Stars. Who are some of the celebrities that you have worked with and what influences your pallet?
I've worked with Andre 3000, Erykah Badu (and their son, Seven Sirius:-)), and Dave Chappelle, to name a few. As for my culinary style, being that my mother is from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, I grew up eating dishes that weren't "standard" compared to the burgers and hot dogs of the USA . I'm influenced by exotic eats around the globe; from the rotis and daals of the West Indies, the complex curries of India and Thailand, to the vibrant salsas and layered moles of Mexico. I love how the base of almost every culture of the world's dining is rice, legumes and coconut, which makes fusion recipes so exciting to create! So with my cuisine you travel the globe through the portal of your tastebuds.
- In addition to Fashionista, Entrepreneur, and Chef Extraordinaire, you have also been a home schooling mom to two beautiful daughters: How did you find balance with young motherhood and your careers?
It wasn't hard, since my talents fall under the "Domestic Goddess Arts" category. Also, to make learning a tad more interesting, for instance, I would incorporate math problems into measurements; whether it be spices, grains, or fabric! I am so grateful my daughters take an interest in what I do, so I had my trustee "taste-testers" and the most honest opinions on the clothes/accessories I would design. Children are so honest! :-)
- The Naturi Beauty charge is to Nourish, Nurture and Grow. Please share with our readers how Jamila of Earth Candy is a Naturi Beauty everyday!!
I NOURISH myself by creating, decorating, reading inspiring writings, indulging in scentful body & hair products and unique adornments; NURTURE myself with singing, dance, laughing, metaphysical studies, occasional solitude, opening myself to HIGHER LOVE; and GROW by respecting my children's objective opinions (when they have some), stepping into unknown territory mentally, and honoring constructive criticism from my dearest friends!
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