June 2020
Variety Magazine
Janelle Monae needed a perfect yellow pillbox hat to match her outfit for a spread in Variety Magazine, June 2020. Her fabulous stylist Ali Mandelkorn reached out about the hat and I knew I had to make it happen - the only catch: I had moved cross country to Los Angeles only three days prior!
Imagine the scene: my studio supplies were still en route in moving boxes, and I was surrounded by the chaos of settling into a new city. Yet, amidst the unpacked boxes and unfamiliar surroundings, I was driven by determination to create something extraordinary. With limited millinery supplies scavenged from downtown LA, I embarked on crafting a custom pillbox hat for Janelle, knowing it was essential for the upcoming shoot. With urgency of the project I poured my creativity and skill into every stitch and detail of the hat to make it happen.
This project wasn't just about meeting a deadline; it was about capturing the essence of Janelle Monae's style and persona in a piece of wearable art. The vibrant yellow hue symbolized energy and optimism, reflecting both Janelle's personality and the spirit of the shoot. Each step of the process was infused with a sense of adventure and determination, embodying the essence of creativity under pressure.
When the hat was finally completed and placed on Janelle Monae's head, it was not just a fashion accessory but a testament to perseverance and artistic vision. It spoke volumes about the power of passion and resourcefulness in creating something truly remarkable, even in the face of logistical challenges and time constraints.
The Variety article with Janelle Monae talked to her all about her being a powerful voice and icon in the entertainment industry, using her platform not only for artistic expression but also for impactful activism. Throughout the tumultuous year of 2020, Monáe's activism has been particularly pronounced. From her electrifying opening performance at the Academy Awards celebrating diversity and Black History Month, to her ongoing support for initiatives like the Local Initiative Support Corp. (LISC) Small Business Recovery Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic, Monáe has demonstrated a commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, including women, LGBTQIA+, minorities, and veterans.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, such as starring in Amazon's "Homecoming" and the upcoming film "Antebellum," Monáe continues to advocate for social justice and systemic change. She boldly speaks out against issues like corporate greed and racial inequality, emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in media. Her unwavering stance against injustice, amplified by her artistry and advocacy, cements her status as a transformative figure and role model for empowerment and change.
This experience marked a significant milestone in my journey as a milliner in LA, reminding me of the magic that unfolds when creativity meets determination. It reinforced my belief that true artistry knows no bounds and that every challenge presents an opportunity to shine. This marked the beginning of my time in Los Angeles and makes me that much more excited for everything that is to come.
Janelle Monae needed a perfect yellow pillbox hat to match her outfit for a spread in Variety Magazine, June 2020. Her fabulous stylist Ali Mandelkorn reached out about the hat and I knew I had to make it happen - the only catch: I had moved cross country to Los Angeles only three days prior!
Imagine the scene: my studio supplies were still en route in moving boxes, and I was surrounded by the chaos of settling into a new city. Yet, amidst the unpacked boxes and unfamiliar surroundings, I was driven by determination to create something extraordinary. With limited millinery supplies scavenged from downtown LA, I embarked on crafting a custom pillbox hat for Janelle, knowing it was essential for the upcoming shoot. With urgency of the project I poured my creativity and skill into every stitch and detail of the hat to make it happen.
This project wasn't just about meeting a deadline; it was about capturing the essence of Janelle Monae's style and persona in a piece of wearable art. The vibrant yellow hue symbolized energy and optimism, reflecting both Janelle's personality and the spirit of the shoot. Each step of the process was infused with a sense of adventure and determination, embodying the essence of creativity under pressure.
When the hat was finally completed and placed on Janelle Monae's head, it was not just a fashion accessory but a testament to perseverance and artistic vision. It spoke volumes about the power of passion and resourcefulness in creating something truly remarkable, even in the face of logistical challenges and time constraints.
The Variety article with Janelle Monae talked to her all about her being a powerful voice and icon in the entertainment industry, using her platform not only for artistic expression but also for impactful activism. Throughout the tumultuous year of 2020, Monáe's activism has been particularly pronounced. From her electrifying opening performance at the Academy Awards celebrating diversity and Black History Month, to her ongoing support for initiatives like the Local Initiative Support Corp. (LISC) Small Business Recovery Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic, Monáe has demonstrated a commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, including women, LGBTQIA+, minorities, and veterans.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, such as starring in Amazon's "Homecoming" and the upcoming film "Antebellum," Monáe continues to advocate for social justice and systemic change. She boldly speaks out against issues like corporate greed and racial inequality, emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in media. Her unwavering stance against injustice, amplified by her artistry and advocacy, cements her status as a transformative figure and role model for empowerment and change.
This experience marked a significant milestone in my journey as a milliner in LA, reminding me of the magic that unfolds when creativity meets determination. It reinforced my belief that true artistry knows no bounds and that every challenge presents an opportunity to shine. This marked the beginning of my time in Los Angeles and makes me that much more excited for everything that is to come.
