A History of Fashion Presentations
How do you really want to show your style! More importantly is it helping you sell!
We recently researched the background of Fashion Presentations and we pull some together to share with you next week simply sign up for BkStylist to join us from whichever part of the globe you are! we continue to explore options for presentation and sales!
Today I find the group showings tiring, they deflect from the designers story and present a monotonous view on life . Fashion Weeks in it’s current form dates back to 1993 though it is reputed to have started in NY in 1943… via Wikipedia
In 1943, the first New York Fashion Week was held, with one main purpose: to distract attention from French fashion during WWII, when workers in the fashion industry were unable to travel to Paris. This was an opportune moment – as for centuries designers in America were thought to be reliant on the French for inspiration. The fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert organized an event she called ‘Press Week’ to showcase American designers for fashion journalists, who had previously ignored their works. The Press Week was a success, and, as a result, magazines like Vogue (which were normally filled with French designs) began to feature more and more American innovations. Until 1994, shows were held in different locations, such as hotels, or lofts. Eventually, after a structural accident at a Michael Kors show, the event moved to Bryant Park,…
Due to increasing pressure from Bryant Park management, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week will be hosted in Damrosch Park at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts starting in 2010.
See more on Presentation styles..
For the average Indie designer cost is a factor, but the investment is also one of time and (limited) resources. At Demarketplace we explore how technology can help and have been able do do twice as much with half as much effort and resources!
Having identified areas of concern and solutions the challenge is now one of sharing that info and knowledge! First we’re completing the documentation of that info with subsequent editing so please bare with us! It’s an exciting time to say the least! Sign up for BkStylist for more info!
Constituent, Customers and Consumers of Digital Product and Services
Constituent, customer and consumer… in marketing the goal is to make me a consumer! a constituent has an interest in your product! get me in your store and I am a customer especially if keep coming back! Get me to Buy… consume is the goal. It’s a game of strategy that needs to be executed with finesse!
Designed in line with the colors and theme for www.28squared.com for Sew Social February
I exist in the nexus of fashion and technology; ( I’m a FashionCamp proponent) and have been exploring and testing a lot of the theories that are put out as facts! My specialty custom and customized apparel and accessories and wearables!
I’m also a woman and a Shoes of Prey customer (not a consumer) so I’m uniquely qualified to comment.
I’ll admit it I read the Business Insider a Silicon Alley blog everyday , religiously and I love it! It’s smart witty and at the same time a bit gossipy, perfect for early morning coffee! So if that makes me a geek than I’ll own it!
This post on the viral campaign caught my eye. First of all the numbers are not surprising. Put “shoe” or “handbag and design” and “Free” in any statement and there is not a woman between 5 and 95 that will not take notice… anywhere in the world! It’s in the DNA. It has nothing to do with how attractive the young woman is or how great the video is! Women and their shoes (and Handbags) have a unique relationship!
I found Shoes of Prey in an email, all I saw was ‘Shoes and design “and I forgot all about what I was doing! I have visited the site a number of times and played with the software! I’m on their email list I consider myself a customer of their product not a consumer! Here’s why; I have no idea how the product will ‘fit and feel’, nor which size to order! It is as simple as that! Before they engage in social media or any type of marketing This company has a key part of their PLM to work out (especially coming from new Zealand, I live technology!)
They are not unique most web 2.0 companies are started by college graduates with no experience in their product area or sales, and they do little direct research in the actual industry! The ‘Macro’ of enterprise as opposed to “micro’ of “mom and pops…”
This post highlights a number of factors that I point out
- Social Media Marketing is not working… as it is presently practiced
- The web has an amazing reach
- There is still a lot of work to be done
- Most web based businesses cannot answer the question “who is your CONSUMER”
- You have to give to get ( That give away or flash sale works!)
- Video in marketing is powerful
Let’s tackle the video, “the problem is the length”; not because, as one commentator stated “ten minutes is a tad too long to keep anyone’s attention (especially 13-17 year olds!)”, but because few outside “early adapters and techies” have computers that can stream 10 minutes without faultering.
People watch and read content that engages them regardless of length even 16 and 17 year olds, TEACHERS TAKE NOTE! Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/16-year-old-girl-gives-best-day-ever-to-small-ecommerce-site-2010-3##ixzz0jlBlzZ9I
Many simply do not want to hear it, but social media marketing as it is practiced is not working! They have built businesses around it and so admitting that seems risky! Note I am not saying that social media is invalid… what I am saying is that it’s present use is not EFFECTIVE! If that many visitors (400,000, as saw visited the site) stopped by the window of a brick and mortar store and did not buy … I’d say that there was a problem!
Marketing is not about eyes it is about conversion and please do not bring fancy equations to prove “ROI”. As one store owner said “I cannot take that to the bank, show me the money”… or the sales!
Even if I got the visitors, to come in and take their credit cards out, but could not “hand the product over to them, without them first handing over another $40.00, many would simply walk away, which is essential what happens! I do not know a woman who will buy a shoe at that price without trying it out! That is at the core consumer confidence so I go back to Shoes of prey and wonder will it fit? Returns I don’t want the hassle and I need shoes… especially pretty ones!
EXCEPT FOR T SHIRTS AND JEWELRY and HANDBAGS, fit is an essential factor in higher price clothing especially with consumers who do not fall within industry “Standards!” the customer is willing to go around $50-60 US for a “casual” purchase anything that crosses $100 they place expectation, such as fit! Hit the $ 200.00 and durability, comfort and solid personal aesthetic comes into play. I have no idea as to how these shoes would “FIT” essentially the process is missing a core part of functionality! If I’m shelling out $300 on a pair of shoes I expect fit and comfort ! Yes I can return it but the hassle is not worth it!
But luxury brand are selling look at Gilt Groupe… essentially they are doing online what they are doing offline. Selling at reduced price-points. FIT is still an issue, but the customer does not mind paying extra to customize the length , or adjust the waits if they got it “on sale!”
The larger retailers already have brand familiarity, shipping , customer support , warehousing etc figured out! At that level the price of social media marketing is a steal when compared with traditional methods! For small e-commerce sites there are lots of challenges! Many ask about the many sites that sell hand-made items… reporting millions in revenue; how much of that is sale of actual product, and are the sales of those “products”, what’s actually making a profit. Questions few have asked, fewer will answer!
True Shoe of Prey missed their consumer mark in reaching out to this blogger ( though as a parent of a teenage it’s not much higher than some of their sneakers) but their CONSUMER may not be online yet (and frankly few Bloggers cater to their consumer) they are selling based more than just on the notion of individuality as a form of expression… That consumer is print on demand Zazzle, CaféPress. What Shoes of Prey is more sell is a customized product, that is a lifestyle choice, that customer also demands customized clothing, and differs from ‘custom” which is a luxury choice! In this case the site falls under my specialty; selling customized or custom physical products, “wearable’ items in the digital realm! It is potentially and extremely lucrative market but has distinct challenges, (for which I believe) which the core technology exist. Essentially that of FIT! While that customer does not demand as precise a fit as the “custom” or ‘bespoke” or customer, Make the exact dress they want and it is too short or long, they get angry! This is a passionate group!
Theoretically they should be able to use photogrammetry to match 3d renderings of customer feet to their digital making method! I say “theoretically” since I have not heard of this technology being investigated as a fashion tool , it is currently used in forensics, and what is good for the dead should be better for the living.
Web sites have constituents, customers and consumers. C customers frequently visit a site because they like the content the site owner offers they may or may not buy, Site owners can capitalize on this as Etsy and others have. Consumers actually buy and use the products offered! I am a Shoes of Prey customer they have no product or service that I can “consume”, and they have not figured out how to monetize the huge consumer base they will develop… remember women love shoes! Unlike Zappos that sells shoes from familiar brands and at significantly lower prices. But I am not a Zappos customer, at that price point and their offering, I prefer to go to the store around the corner where I can actually try on the shoe
Moving me from a customer to the consumer; “A shoe maker never has shoes” I like designing shoes, not necessarily wearing them women who want to buy may not have my design acumen. I found Shoes of Prey a little over a month ago and I have been back to the site several times, I eventually figured out the software, I could not save the design and offer it to others without a purchase, at least not that I saw. I like designing shoes, not necessarily wearing them! The “Shoes of Prey’ site may seem easy and I am sure that these teenagers did some great designs
WHERE IS YOUR CONSUMER AT! Then again the target is women like many of the customers from the custom designers in our project; who love their shoes and want the “unique and individual” and are not only willing to pay for it, they are in control of the credit cards! These designers, dressmakers, cleaners that can connect to the consumers are not online. But they have a client base that would pay and pay well for this product! Till the digital divide is narrowed reaching the right consumer needs to be an integrated approach!
Usability and USER Ability –essentially I have found myself having, not just to teach (more on that later) but also educate the consumers on how to use these sites… after figuring them out myself! That’s not how we shop especially for clothing and accessories. If nothing else people do online what they do offline! Store window and display space is essential in the sales environment!
Educate women on technology and you can change the world! Design with women in mind and your company’s bottom line will improve. Most sites are not designed for or with women in mind! I returned to the site and it has been redesigned though not with women who shop for shoes in mind! The front page needs to be purely about shoes and it’s display! Much like a store window! If you sell shoes you understand they need to be displayed , to us they are art! If I could try it on or see it “on” engage me! Design for me.. In fact most technology gadgets are not designed for or with women in mind.
Apart from not necessarily reaching the right consumer, social media does not stand on it’s own. Eventually it can point potential consumers in your direction, but if your ecommerce and M- commerce set up has not been designed to convert, it is a wasted effort! At the core conversion is about selling most web designers have no sales skills or experience especially in the clothing and products. Store display and layout is an artform and as yet not fully explored, as a concept in digital design!
- Social media does not reach my consumer… yet
- The Social media consumer is not my consumer… yet
They are not on the web and if they are it is not USABLE… for them. It’s not just shoes of Prey… I have a list of these great sites that essential mean little because the customer who would love them cannot use them. Essentially they are designed by tech people who have never been inside a custom design business store has never had a custom item made and have no inkling of the need, the process, essentially “THE CULTURE” of this sector It is experiential!
I am not ready to change consumers!
Shoes of Prey did due diligence and reached out to a blogger defined as a “fashion blogger” and probably listed on one of the emerging “list” However the definition for “fashion” has changed. So too has the “fashion” consumer. Essentially this is about branded, popular and celebrity! Social media, fashion and blogs, have become about “pop or Popular culture” custom is not! Selling to that consumer sometimes require a change of product!
It is not ready To serve my consumer’s needs!
The Custom culture is about “LIFE”, living and Style, the “custom niche” consumer is busy living… their hands are busy and often there minds and eyes are focused. They still read magazines (on their commute to and from work) how else can they afford the higher priced goods customized to their liking! Will the IPad make a difference eventually when it comes within their reach! For now they have little or no time to tweet and watch viral video… unless it is streamin on the larger screen that’s running across the room on the airwave, within earshot, essential the internet on TV will make a huge difference… If they can figure out how to use them.
Whose responsibility is it to bring consumers to social media and the technology that supports it?
There too is a problem as Idan Cohen from Boxee.tv’ said in a discussion we had, “we designed for early adapters, individual comfortable with technology!”
Which is the norm with many new web sites. The fact is early adaptors can make and code whatever they want (whether they have the legal or moral right to do so is another issue or know someone who can! Yet most of the best apps, cannot be used by the “average user and the companies market to themselves!
Social media essentially ask everyone to bring their list to the table, and then proceeds to “own” that list. The average custom designer I know has a list that will give about 70-90% response; their list is their business so they are unwilling to bring it to social media platforms!
The social media consumer is not presently their consumer… and making the social media customer their consumer needs investment and changes in the PLM and delivery of the fashion product that is not being addresses! Whose responsibility is it to reach the customer and educate them, mine, the business that uses the apps or the company that makes it! Frankly it is not in the vested interest of the small business owner! They can survive and thrive without the apps and social media tools apps cannot survive without the small business owner!
Yet off all the investment and VC money being poured into these companies how much is targeted towards “education’ and “digital literacy”. There exist a disdain towards consumers that are not as tech savvy! Few tech teams include the woman’s perspective, or people from various cultures! It is not bias there is a significant difference! Women love their gadgets I just wish they were more attractive and “had a mirror’. I’m kidding on the mirror but all the women I know have the same amounts of gadget s as the men, we just want it in “a pretty case with a handle (no pockets on those sexy dresses”), and with these nail a qwerty keyboard please!
Now If I can just figure out which shoe size to order.
FashionCamp LA, Seattle, Kiev
Macala and the LA team has officially launched Marketing for FashionCampLA. We need you to help spread the word!We have set up a FashionCamp page on FacebookMarch 17th will mark one year since I committed to FashionCamp. In less than a year after we have held two NY conferences and we are spreading… To LA… FashionCamp is in Kiev, and we hope soon Seattle or a Fashion capital near you! More Importantly we bring answers and affect lives and careers. From concept right through to consumer support Technology is affecting the fashion Sector and we help you sort through the hype and discover the gems!
March 10, 2010 – Fashion and technology. Two things that don’t seem to go together, right? Wrong – so wrong! And FashionCampLA is going to show you why, as this innovative event pulls the dazzling world of fashion into the twenty-first century.
The face of fashion is changing. The divide between designer and consumer is shrinking as fashion becomes an exciting community in which everyone can participate. Creating a stellar line in your apartment? You need to get that line out there so everyone can see how fabulous it is, you need to sell! Got things to say about the different lines and trends? You need to be heard! Technology is giving everyone a role to play in the industry. The internet is creating a venue for independent designers to set up shop, for those with opinions to develop blogs and become voices that other fashionistas turn to. But, a lot of us don’t even know where to begin! And until now, there hasn’t been one place where style mavens and mavens in training can come together to share, learn, and build the foundation for a successful fashion endeavor.
FashionCampLA will be a revolutionary event, one that invites all fashion enthusiasts and experts to present and share their knowledge and success. Industry professionals, members of the independent fashion community and of the vintage community, Los Angeles brands, technology start-ups, style bloggers, writers, and journalists, stylists, costume designers, and fashion students are invited to present at FashionCampLA.
Everyone will share their expertise while learning from the expertise of others. The event will leave participants armed for a thriving journey into fashion using technology and modern tools like social media. After these two days, you will no longer see fashion and technology as two separate industries. Instead, you will see how they work in hand in hand to revolutionize fashion, open the industry up to everyone with drive and talent, and create amazing possibilities. FashionCampLA is the first step. Learn, network, share, teach, and get involved in this thrilling new era of fashion.
FashionCampLA will take place May 15th and May 16th, 2010 at the California Market Center. If you’ve got something to say about fashion, technology, or the merging of the two, sign up to present. FashionCampLA wants to hear from you! Whether you want to present or focus on learning as an attendee, stay tuned in to www.la.fashioncamp.org for more details and updates. FashionCampNYC was a smash hit, and now it’s time for the West Coast to jump in, learn, and have fun!
Contact:
Macala Wright
@macala
l...@fashioncamp.org (email)
General Information on FashionCamp
Bonnie Sandy
@fashionCamp
i...@FashionCamp.org
It’s Time To Start Using These Tools
There are so many tools out there that are under utilized. I recently decided to start creating examples of them in use Picassa is a photo tool wwith some really great features including teh ability to create a movie file from images! You can add an audio file though it does not tape audio! Essentially you will have to tape your narration and then upload it as an MP3. So i will have to test that on another occasion!
a how to guide on creating an asymmetrical neckline
Fashion and Technology Finding answers at fashionCamp
“Virtual goods are hot, and 3D is even hotter! In this 45 minute presentation, new methods of marketing, sales and development using 3D will be showcased. You’ll learn about a sizzling new way to showcase your work using 3D in a 24 x7 virtual fashion show. Pick your models, pick their looks, pick your runway, and then select the outfits, garments or accessories you want to showcase..it’s that easy. Want to go deeper? How about easy-to-use product demo stations, where your buyers can interact with your product offerings, changing colors and patterns. Want even more? Your buyers can purchase your product directly from the runway; look at tech packs, or anything else you want to show them. Your buyers are overseas or not easy to reach? No problem. If they have a web-enabled or mobile device, they can get actual videos of your product. Join us for this visionary approach to marketing your product, and be at the forefront of trend. CEO Shenlei Winkler presents Virtual Fashion, Real Money in this 45 minute demonstration.”
Shenlei E. Winkler
Author, Designing Dreams: Best Practices for the Art & Business of Avatar Apparel Design & Development
Author, Shengri La Spirit: A Designer’s Perspective of the Making of OpenSim
http://www.shenlei.com
In Fashion Sometimes The Past Can Inspire
I’m in the middle of pulling 28 Squared together… then as I usually do got distracted and followed a link and found NINA SIMONE VIDEOS… A digital breather.. your have to click the link to the post if your are reading this on one of my various “outpost!
But that “OUTFIT”
BTW I’m Looking for sellers or collectors of Vintage black or/and African clothing.. (1920-1980)
But again, check the Jumpsuit out .. Ms Wyche you can do this! You already have a top.
I finally realize what I’m missing, one place that you can just find great clothing on a regular basis! Not the cheap poorly constructed stuff but a great boutique that has a selection of creative top class designers! I’m not speaking the “one Designer” store either! they are no fun… NY and especially Brooklyn used to be about great boutiques… now we have many “Fast Fashion” “Spots” with little ambiance, the worst store clerks, who have no sense of style, trying to hustle… shopping should be well fun!
I am willing to be corrected if you know of a great boutique please share and you cannot nominate your self! If your customers can’t vouch for you… you’re not doing something right!
Even On teh web as we’re putting together the designer online sale for later this month… there are so many great designers of African Heritage! You Can’t find them… unless you know them and their web address! Even Then their websites remain the same year after year…. PLEASE STOP USING FLASH! Get a platform with RSS, some sharing features and if you must then add Flash “widgets”!
Back to great design… and I’m not speaking costume, the dramatic stage effects we see. so often. I’m speaking great wearable, well designed clothing! That would still look good 40 years from now.
Maybe what we need are better events to wear fabulous clothing… promoters can you help… maybe get back to promoting events and stop trying to pimp … I mean Prostitute, I mean present… Fashion Shows!!
I AM (@$#^&ing) 4 RELIEF™
Now that I have your attention, what are you – - – - ing 4 RELIEF
its time to take action. You do not need to head over to our 28 Squared Site and sign up…just click this link or
Sign Up To Support Relief efforts
If you are on one of our web pages you can sign up below. if Your are reading a feed (we even brought it to you) You’ll need to head over to sign up!!
If you need some explanation read on but at the end YOU NEED TO DO SOMETHING!
I can ask you and even send you various emails of various length but frankly I do not have the time… your community needs you to get of your behind and DO…
We are good at waiting at putting on a show at appearing busy! The truth is most of you have the time! We have the desire. I cannot say this enough you’re an adult stop waiting for motivation get up and do something for your community
WHAT, HOW?
As project lead I design solutions to create change!
This project from the inception has been about using technology to create solutions! The process of design “creating to solve problems or add pleasure” , to problem and/or situations as defined, can be a hobby or a business. I chose it as an art project! Along the way however we have helped many!
So what are the problems and the solutions.
The recent tragedy in Haiti.. Affected us all and everyone I know wants to do something, all our communities are hurting!
Giving of oneself is a gift with it’s own rewards! We run this project in Brooklyn but for the last two years we’ve included a designer in France who has the same problems that local designers have… and no it is not marketing, There is a lot to do before “exposure”!
If all we have is time, talent or even the ability to communicate that can go so far in helping others since accepting this challenge on October 28th last year, I had set as a mandate to help locals needing to find a way to support themselves and their family and the team had in September decided to use group project to help community organizations! At Web 2.0, I met a two women both with projects outside the US, One I have promised to help in her quest to help artisans in Senegal, the other is helping us with her technology companies technology!
Europe, US, Africa the Caribbean.. There is more that connects us than separates us!
Ultimately the core projects help utilize natural “resources”, time talent, community to create and build change! We know it works the challenge issues in October was to take it national in the US and in then adapt it to the Caribbean region!
Fortunately we are able to communicate in real time across oceans, with little difficulty and even less cost! There is so much need how can we use distance technology to get the information out there, what do we as leader need to do … how do we get individuals to to put aside fears and preconceived notions and yes work together!
We usually have had a group of young people from various backgrounds volunteer as models. They work together even when culturally it was not the norm! It may seem simple, but there contributions have helped feed many families! Images sell and a small designer often cannot afford to cover these! Some use their knowledge of technology or their ability to post and text to share news and information, they use their networks! In a digital divide that is a great help! So yes giving of self time and talent is important!
What is significant they were giving what they had and doing what they loved!
Which is what I see has the most effect… Give what you have, doing what you love! So if you love to sew and have the time to, sew! If you have space and it can be used donate it! If you can cook have a taste party!
We are in the design field we either love to DESIGN or SEW, and yes some of us LOVE TO SHOP.. and some love to show off or perform! I now have to take the raw component and create something that people would LIKE! I am a connector … I love design as solution! So Sew Social one of the aspects of 28squared will focus on design for change!
Pulling The components together
One of the designers from our African Heritage Month celebration has created two designs, that we will be use on merchandise ! He too is Haitian, giving of talent! Any non profit needing to use the logo that type of service or merchandise can contact us!
I am already working on getting designers to donate clothing that will be resold or auctioned. I have a sign up page http://www.28squared.com/support
We’re donating some of our great images and photos to a Print auction online, that Flickr is hosting!
So yes photographers and artist can donate images! Performers, if you can’t do it alone get together with others!
From my friend in the tech community. We need individuals with tech skills to sign up for a one or two day type Tech initiative with Haitian organization, who know and understand what is needed… our goal is simple turn our talents time and efforts into cash for relief!
I actually have another young woman who lost 3 family members; her organization is the Haiti’s Hungry Task Force and has teamed up with Haitian
American Care, Inc. out of Boston. (operating for 2 years in
Haiti with 2 mobile clinics they supply.www.haitianamericancare.org. they need help!
I myself am donating all the profits from Sew Social and would love to work with any models designers or photographers who want to volunteer! Our photographer has volunteered his photography services! We have artwork and media services!
We can get volunteers.
We can Create , we need to sell relief … it should be easy but have you bought anything with Haiti in mind have you gone to local events supporting local causes, have you packed up your products, and I’m not speaking of sending the clothing you do not want…
Yes they need clothing but what type… where will they wash these, how appropriate is the relief!
Intentions are great, selling relief is HARD especially as memory of disaster fade.
so what will i do how do I Design Relief… I’ve done a brief inventory of what i have access to. I’m researching what I need; I have ideas. The process of bringing an idea to fruition is what actually Sew Social is about…
The reason there is no change is because
- we do not know how to design change
- We do not know how to implement change
- we are waiting for someone else to do it
So back to my main concept I want people to do what they love for relief but NIKE got “Just DO IT™”.. Probably the best slogan ever…
Let’s focus on the individual and taking responsibility “I AM”
AM Artist Mosaic the First phase of this project is still around, it’s about artist working together for change
“I am Brooklyn” did not seem right Brooklyn is everything! I AM not doing everything! “I am 28 Squared”, we wanted this to expand beyond the confines of “I AM (@$#^&)ing 4 RELIEF™” .
” I am —-ing 4 RELIEF™
I Like It… I’ll keep it but, will it work
Most, working in or on RELIEF, are Moms and Faith based organization, Imagine the Rabbi or Pastor with that shirt! So maybe, I need to modify the statement! That is just the start of the design process… we need to stop waiting and design for change!
www.demarketplace.com/blog
Where Would We Be If Martin and Malcolm Were Not Ready?
Or did not use the best strategy they could think of.
Please excuse the candor of this post. Two recent conversations have brought me to one of those rants that many will agree with but few will say out loud! The Journalist and Media outlets in our community are failing themselves and our community,
I cannot understand anyone in the 18 -40 age group serious about employment not wanting to learn or making extra efforts to beef up their technology skills…but someone from a local paper telling me they could not download and open a PNG file sent via Gmail was the last straw!
Why do we refuse to be ready for life as it is today…
Few speak honestly of the issues within our community… looking good especially in a public setting is a cultural obsession and we go out of our way not to air issues in public…
We have an issue with local communications and media centers as represented by local press!
The local press is a vital link, be it micro radio (underground radio) or print formats. If you want to access our community, they are vital. Yet, pick up the papers or tune into the local stations. For the most part articles are of little substance; they are the white bread in the media menu… filling but of no nutritional value!
These outlets are often lucrative money makers for the individuals in charge! In some, even articles are often secured when you take an ad! Expect that from newsletters, which are more about fetes than about issues!
I, like most, pick up the local papers hoping for information on our community. To be honest I find the style of journalism – dated, articles and images are focused on individuals not issues.. the result – an ill-informed community that is years behind in progress!
Yet, I still pick up the latest issue hoping for change…
I opened my email this morning to find a note from a freelance journalist stating that the local paper needed an image to go along with an article or the information would not be printed!
Do not let the name fool you – Caribbean Life is a major access point to the local readers in Brooklyn! If you want to get information into the hands of the Brooklyn Community this and it’s sister publications are key!
I have not seen the article I am just hoping it is focused on technology and the work I do to help businesses rather than on me as an individual!
As it was, I was in meetings with project sponsors for 28Squared… (more on that later) which will allow us to access some of the latest tools from tech companies. I came home to have an early morning conversation with a young woman … on why she was not ready nor had not attended the free seminars, and discovered on opening my mailbox today an email telling me that the local paper could not download a .png file…
As I See It that’s pure BS!
.PNG is available in the paint program that comes pre-installed with any computer today… it is one of the most basic file formats!
So I fired off an email… which may illicit some comment from the 28Squared PR team but… addressing the “Digital Divide” is a platform I am intent on taking on this year!
A Copy of my Letter To Kenton Kirby Editor at Caribbean Life Newspaper
PNG comes in the paint program that is on each computer. It is ONE of the basic file formats. Have whoever cannot download this call me… I will come in and show them how to do their job!I do not mean to offend anyone, however, if our community and businesses are to remain competitive; poor tools, policies, and usage by employees need to be addressed. Our press is a vital link in that information chain and I keep getting these basic questions and suggestions that a mid-school student would be able to do!
I was at meetings for our Black History Month special on “Bridging the Digital Divide” yesterday! While a piece in Caribbean Life would be great, the agenda is getting our community up to date with technology… it is more than an event, it is a platform and mission and I stand firmly behind it! That said, I have to address Caribbean Life and the lack of understanding of technology and what seems to be outdated knowledge and protocols!
It bothers me when those in charge with informing are not up to date with the basics. Far more, what is on the horizon, as far as developments in new media tools, formatting, protocols and practices.
These .png files very basic. Many media companies, actually prefer these because they are easier to work with. .Jpegs are lower quality! .Pngs are also transparent, so text can work around them!
The problem is most likely at YOUR end.
The download is basic and opening .png files could be done even in the public library by a 7 year old!It is either the System Administrator for whatever reason has blocked certain file types.
The staff is unfamiliar with basic media formats and protocol in use today.
The individual downloading does not recognize that this is a basic file format in any image editing software (yes even the pre-installed paint program).
I would suggest that a Gmail Google APPS account be set up that would allow (company name) to access these. There seems to be a need in this office to understand new media and its manipulation.You would be surprised the number of media companies and businesses taking advantage of Google apps for their business! www.google.com/a
I would also suggest that a review of the company’s policies as they relate to the latest trends and usage of media, for use by both it’s online and offline publications.
If for whatever reason the company chooses to accept media in a particular format that should be stated with any request!Here are some links to articles.
I am sorry if this affects the inclusion of your article, but I cannot be silent on this situation!
I will gladly come in and show whoever cannot download this file how to do this simple task and/or give a presentation on where media and technology stands today !
Please feel free to share these links with any interested journalist.
http://podcamptoronto.pbworks.com/MediaArchive2009
Please note this Upcoming event http://2010.podcamptoronto.com/
Closer to home – FashionCamp NY; the technology unconference will be at
Parsons that weekend.http://www.journalism20.com/
http://www.publish2.com/ PLEASE CHECK
http://publishing2.com/
the anatomy of a web 2.0 page and conversation or
What can your web page do for you?
The Caribbean Life is not the only paper whose dedication to it’s role I am looking at… they like many are getting the trappings on web 2.0 on their sites!
Not to be able to download a PNG … leave little hope for how these brands and papers conforms to the social and collaborative aspects of web 2.0 technology! When print space is limited how are they using the rss feeds or even exploring 2d codes to extend articles!
Let’s not even speak on the issue of business models and content and audience monetization as a part of that picture.
In 2004, I sat with the editor from another local paper who validated not covering Fashion, one of the largest local employers in our community as there was no valid, commercial value … So the paper still employs a connection, with a serious lack of industry knowledge to cover local and regional fashion! I can just imagine what else is happening in other sectors, health, business, real estate!
When will we get decent business and technology columns? Ones that are focused on current events and happenings, not pulled from generic online articles or simply press releases reformatted – articles that are researched or vetted. Articles that are not hidden behind walls or paid for by ad placements! When will our features not be glorified press releases from local companies with the correct connections!
If I cannot hope for the local press to be leaders in covering local news, I have little faith that they would educate the next generation of leaders!!
30 Days Hath September
Next Month Is 28 Squared,
28 Fashion Designers from Africa, Europe, Caribbean and the Us connect to showcase, Sell, Inspire and celebrate their African Heritage while taking on New Media and Technology! Above all though 28 squared seeks to “BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE
The goal is simple to get the 28 designers to sell to a global audience from their show rooms in various countries. Connecting them to Buyers and each other! The concept will put to test many of the theories, New media and technology tools! The ability to connect with, show and conclude a sale in real time has existed to various degrees to be able to pull together a system that would make it accessible to small businesses at what amounts to a fraction of the cost would have far reaching impact! There are many exploring this, getting these designers to the start line is a challenge, that these are tangibles actual good,s not digital fare , is even more amazing!
I can remember the exact day I committed to technology… I was watching my son then 12 play on his game-boy and I wanted my fashion on that toy… or something like it! that was Over five years ago! I wanted video, images text. When I started the technology did not exist at an affordable rate at least in the west! Thanks to my brother I was streaming taped video late 2005
Which brings another reason for this… Blacks in Technology, we are not adapting and adopting most importantly maximizing the technology.
We’ve found that by first identifying your goals , you are better able to make choice… and evaluate whether or not it is WORKING for you!
The gateway site is in what we call pre alpha www.28squared.com over the next two weeks we will add an online trade capability, as well as video and media features! We are excited , it is safe to say that none of the designers currently have access to the technology!
As I speak to designers It is clear we have more in common than we are different! We launch Feb 1st and run through February 28th… hence the limerick!
Loading…
SanKofa, Grandassa and Calabar Magazine
The wonders of Modern day technology and blogging platforms is the ability to look back and reflect! But what if you lost your database! Thanks to the way back machine I was able to save this from on of the earlier post on Brooklyn Fashion Gallery! As I make plans for African Heritage Month I am a bit Nostalgic! The many stories that are lost or rewritten!
photo Courtesy Kwame Braithwaite. AJASS members and Grandassa Models pose in front of some of the circulars from their multitude of productions up to 1968, the year that this was taken. Artists and photographers, they designed and wrote their own magazines, books and brochures.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF ARTIST
HISTORY OF THE BLACK ARTS MOVEMENT
The principle of Sankofa Suggest that is it is not until we revisit the past that we can move towards the future. This past January marked the 45th anniversary of the “Naturally You” series. “Naturally ’62: The Original African Coiffure and Fashion Extravaganza Designed to Restore Our Racial Pride and Standards ”, with the first show held at Harlem’s Purple Manor on January 28, 1962. The goal of the show was to prove to the world that “Black Is Beautiful.” That first show starred Abbey Lincoln as guest singer and commentator for the show, and famed jazz drummer, Max Roach as Abbey’s accompanist on piano, As we celebrate Black history month and prepare for the Jazz of Fashion 2007. We will be hosting photographer, advocate and historian Kwame Braithwaite, as ell as other who have been part of The last half Century of African Style and the Black Fashion Industry! The first step one place to access info on our independent business.
Then a quick and the articles from Calabar Magazine (print edition) are now being uploaded to their new site!
Brooklyn’s Fashion Melting Pot: Who are the African, Caribbean, Asian and Latino Fashion Designers in Brooklyn?
Now I can link to article and share (via the button on the bottom of the pages) them! I am passionate about creativity and culture and it’s preservation! Sadly many of the business I interviewed are gone! a cultural lost!
These two reminders came at exactly the right time, even as I question why the hell do I bother! I remember… things happen because, and, when people “do”. To those who make things happen… The Kwame Braithwaite and the Grandassa models, and Atim Otons and Osun, Bayyinah Sabur, … Thank You
For those who sit by wondering what went wrong and Why thing wont “happen”. I’d Like to introduce you To Bayyinah Sabur! I have been sewing since I was very young , 12, 13! As a child I would accompany My mother to the stores and look Through pattern books… Suddenly one day their were pattern that represented Africa and the many ways magazines tend to describe them! I was young enough to be impressed! During My years oat FIT I spent Hours in the costume lab, and libraries,little reference or documentation of African fashion and style could be found! Years later i would meet Bayinnah Sabur On of he First African American To Hav e her patterns carried By a major pattern company! The patterns That spoke to me as a child!
I can ask any young African American designer today about these individuals and they will not know that history! We cannot move forward without first looking Back! Sankofa!
I have completely redesigned the Brooklyn Fashion Gallery
All our sites were about researching Functionality of technology! Along the way we developed great search ranking and discovered Niche value! After five years, it is still a lead search result for any search on Brooklyn Fashion! Rather than let that go I have decided to redefine the Gallery aspect! For now though that will have to wait first February!
Please click on the links and read these segments! The project I undertake next month is more than technology it is more than commerce it is a responsibility to our legacy!
Thinks Happen when we do!
What’s Faith Got To Do with IT
This is the last of the Kwanzaa musings( I promise) we’ll wrap it up later this week with, what does this have to To It IT (technology) check out the others!
- Kuumba Go Ahead Try Something New today
- It’s 2010 Do You Know Where Your Purpose Is
- UJAMAA Anyone
- UJIMA Is The Only Solution
- Kujichagulia the quest to Define Self-Determination
- Umoja is a Verb
- culture + creativity+ community+ collaboration= COMMERCE
Imani (Faith): To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
As I read new Years greetings It struck me:- It has been a long time since I have seen so many people so genuinely hopeful! How fitting that this principle is observed at the dawn of a new year and in this instance a new decade! I once heard I believe it was Les Brown say of Faith:-
Faith is stepping off the cliff believing you’ll grow wings on your way down!
That is a powerful statement, stepping forward not knowing if the ground below is solid and cushioned or hard and jagged. Simply believing that you will have the will to safely guide your landing or swerve and avoid disaster! Faith is an act! Faith affects how we act!
On a personal level faith is the engine that propels a lot of what I do and I do a lot! In a recent interview I was asked,
“what are you afraid of?”, “what do you fear?”
“Afraid”, “Fear”,
I have not used those words in six years….
That is not to say there have not been challenges! When I undertake a project I am very aware of the pros and cons. The fact is that I believe that what is to be will be. I take precautions and yes careful notes! The next time around I tackle those things that could not be done the first time! Each project is an opportunity to learn… Each obstacle an opportunity for change! More importantly each time we undertook a project we helped a community artist or business!
Only Two artist have asked how they can help and how I can afford this! This Has Been Totally Unfunded! The truth is that we practice the principles of culture! We do not wait till the end of the year to utter and call them “phases’! Living the principles of Faith is a 24/7 process 365(6) days a year!
First of all nothing is free and many have come and accepted the help without asking how is this possible! At Mobile camp someone from one of the largest online recruitment services asked .. “How do you make this happen…? How can a little project in Brooklyn tests and sit in on discussions that large companies are challenged by’.”
How can we… COMMUNITY!
Yes there is a ‘we’, I am an instigator, but this has been a community project that is made possible by community! First of all the models; a group of young women who stepped forward, beginning in 2000, now each has or runs, community projects of their own or helping individual businesses, Stacia, Solo, Nnenko, Tasha, Kellie, Tacha, Max and her sisters, Draysia, to name a few. Many of the images designers use will not be possible but for these ladies or the photographers, Collin, Chris, Lem, Darryl… on behalf of the local designers…Thank you!
It is Faith that allows me to call on local Businesses to help… Phil from Streets of New York and www.NYRealt411.Com , Atim and her partner from www.calabarimports.com, and www.Calabarmag.com! Moshood Ms Selma www.4wcircle.org Glen from www.DeluxHairGallery.com . Community Leaders Jitu Weusi, Horace L Morancie and Ms Alma Carrol and Skip Rosebaum! It is with their help that I have been able to access and utilize many of the facilities and services that exist!
Then there are my cohorts Barbara from Sohe Designs, Tacha, Fabian Who would be there whatever crazy scheme I cooked up to test new technology and challenge theories!
If I act as though I expect their support, I did, and do; faith tells me that the right people will pull through! Faith allows me to speak up when transgressed and apologize when I offend! BTW if I have offended you, I am sorry!
There have been hundreds of artist and designers who I have had the pleasure of working with and discussing, the issues, Will From www.tbaclothing.com , Carla from www.CCW1453.info , Bweela , Michi and Earth! I have known they would pull through despite grumblings or hesitancy. I have faith in them not just as designers but as members of a community! I also understand and expect that designers will each find their niche and in turn affect their community like many have! So whenever I can I willingly share the news of what others are doing! Sue mission of art, yarn and her domestic violence program, Temitayo’s work in her local community and Ngozi’s events with other artist! They’re just a few and please do not get offended if I did not mention you I only have bit so much space! If you’d like to share what you do contact me via this form with your email details!
Has my Faith been tested… yes, countless times!
Faith does not guarantee the result you want but rather the result you need!
Sometimes we’re so focused on what we want, we fail to see the message right in front of us! When I decided that a fashion and technology “unconference” was needed I had nothing but faith! At BarcampNYC, Jonathan Berger stepped forward Tony from NWC stepped forward as did several others, by September We had a two day event at NYC ITP department!
Faith moves mountains, Opens doors and solves problems!
This year The FashionCamp community is spreading from NY, with FashionCamp LA led by Macala! Faith has a way of expanding your circle, Faith attracts faith! The Barcamp Methodology is a model of Faith that who ever is to be, their will be there. It is a belief system that has spawned thousands of gatherings exposing thousands more to technology at a fraction of the cost!
There is no harm in emulating that type of Faith!
Someone once saw Will, Moshood, myself and another designers simply hanging… you guys “Hang” yes we know each other and enjoy each others company! The reason you don’t often “see’ us together is simple . We’re really very busy! Each local business is an active part of their community, their Church, school-board and support, local businesses, churches, school-boards! Faith in Community is the common thread that binds us! It is why you will see our businesses in the community, despite the many drawbacks and challenges!
If Nothing Else this community HAS FAITH
2010 Get Your Business Together
Happy New Year!
If you are viewing this outside of the original blog post you may need to visit the post to access video and slides!
We had originally planned an all day seminar to jump-start the new year but canceled, frankly there is so much to do we had to pull back! At 10.00am I got the first email with questions, so I guess we’re doing the jump-start after all… but online!Interested in our workshops please use this form to contactus!
So Where do I start!
I’d suggest get a gmail account Gmail offers free tools through their Gmail accounts or Google apps for business Gmail Google Calendar Google Docs Google Sites
- Calendar- when does product have to be ready? What/when are your industry or sector trade events. when do you need to get material to press?
How do I secure a my web site name!
Remember your to ensure you are not infringing on existing trademarks when choosing your name. if the dot com is not available rethink your choice!
Company Name, Domain name, web Host and email address.
Dreamhost:-I like their simple one-click appurtenance…hint;- enter promocode 2010STARUPfor $40 off their yearly subscriptions!
Choose the add Google apps option In Dreamhost and it is automatic
If you are a non profit both google apps and Dreamhost offer sponsored accounts!
When It comes to office or working spaces a Real version of this Pop up office would be cool till then, consider a coworking space to cut cost! I’d recommend New Work City with several membership plans and a coworking visa (up to 3 complimentary, drop-in days at some spaces) when traveling ! Not sure they offer a virtual address
but
Sunshine Suites our current sponsor has a great offer till January 15th! This space also has a great ambiance! Visit http://tinyurl.com/yj37w2c
or use the promo code Meetup100 to get the $100 discount off your first month!
Where and how can I register my company.
NYC Business Solutions helps businesses start, operate, and expand in New York City.Their services are provided at no cost, regardless of the size or stage of your businesses. Services include:
-
Business Courses to teach you skills to reach your business goals, including FastTrac
-
Legal Review of Contracts and Leases with our network of lawyers offering pro-bono services
-
Financing Assistance to help you identify lenders, package your loan applcation, and increase your chance of receiving a loan
-
Incentives to save you money as your business relocates, expands or makes capital improvements
-
Navigating Government to help you understand regulations and meet requirements for your business
-
Recruiting Employees to provide you access to a ready pool of screened job candidates
-
Training Employees to improve the skills of entry-level employees and increase the quality of your business operations
-
Selling to Government services that can help you access government contracts
NYC Business Express is offered to assist you with obtaining general license, permit, tax, incentive, and other useful information online.links to search for New York City, State, and Federal information not currently included on NYC Business Express.
Before you do Please take a look at this video as well as the notes below
Presentation notes
Roman Fichman, Esq. practices in the areas of business and technology law. With a background in electrical engineering and media, Roman represents foreign and domestic start-ups and new media companies as well as a variety of other enterprises.
Before becoming an attorney Roman worked for some of the leading television news channels and eventually managed a video production company. Roman’s background in engineering, media and business management gives him a broad understanding of pertinent issues of business law and start-ups.
About New Work City – @nwc
This event will be hosted by New Work City, a community coworking space in Manhattan. New Work City is a gathering spot for a community of like-minded individuals who need somewhere to work that’s both creative and social, and professional and conducive to working. Members use the workspace when they need it, and pay based on usage. That means you could just show up for a day and get to work!
About RunwayProject.org – @runwayproject
Have you been laid off, or otherwise affected by the recession? This can be a great time to reevaluate what you want to do with yourself and get back on your feet better than ever. The Runway Project is a program which features regular events geared toward helping you figure out your next steps. And it’s completely community-driven– all the speakers and educators are members of a thriving community of independent workers in NYC.
About DeMarketPlace @Demarketplace
Our seminars focus on the Product Lifecycle Management! and how to use technology to cut cost and maximize results! If you want to learn more use this form to contact me This is a response to a contact on linked in That I believe needs to be publice! www.demarketplace.com is a teaching site, it is a virtual incubator and network that is used to discuss and show case technology to creatives in our Brooklyn project! Our numbers tells us it is well researched and we have found articles on other sites! Please notesite answers the question “what can a website do for me! Feel free to browse, but It is best seen in the context of one of our workshops! We are in the process of checking links as many have become obsolete in the 2 1/2 years it has been up!
Kuumba Go Ahead Try Something New today
Kuumba (Creativity): To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.
So what is creativity and how do we honor and celebrate it!
It’s a little after 12 midnight, we’re into 2010, I have been pondering this all day. More importantly I have been trying to find a tactful way to address how I feel on the issue…. too many of us have stopped exercising and nurturing our creativity!
2010 Let’s kiss Apathy goodbye
KISS (Keep It stupid Simple)
I’ve heard that said at countless community and even business meetings! It’s time to rethink that. Anything with “Stupid” attached to it need not be a part of any mantra!
It actually takes a lot of creativity and smarts to keep things simple and effective! Creativity requires thought… it demands deconstructing and restructuring patterns and theories! To do so we need to ask questions! They may be silently expressed to ourselves or discussed with others; but asking questions is a crucial part of creative process!
So why is the process of questioning now “taboo”. I’ve heard “sorry” so often when someone has a question… why do we apologize for seeking to expand our perception and knowledge!
I’m moving towards 2010 with a mission of nurturing creativity, so I’ll probably touch this topic some more, but I’d start with a simple exercise! Every day, be conscious of something you are doing! From brushing your teeth to your travel route ask yourself…
- … is there another way to do this?
- Can I make it better?
- Can I make it more fun?
- How can I change this,
- can I make it more pleasurable or solve a problem?
Creativity is not just about artistic expression, so you do not need to be an artist to exercise your creativity!
Go Ahead
TRY something new each day!
Kuumba
