Jag Saint Joi

Aquarium - Quest The Artist

2011-08-26T17:14:00.012-04:00

Through this journey that I have been embarking on, I have met some extremely interesting people. People who have motivated me to be the best at whatever it is that I choose to embark on. In this case: Fashion. I live for style and aesthetic. I embrace everything that feeds positivity into my universe. I have gained a wealth of knowledge, style, desire, passion and what I pray to be life long friendships. I think I got my swagger back *not that I ever lost it*.

This song is from a good friend that has contributed to this journey when it mattered the most. Enjoy, listen to the lyrics...they're heavy! I owe you one bro!!

jag saint joi...be heard, bespoke

Why did I have to grow up...

2011-06-13T21:56:00.037-04:00

So yea, I have been on this trouser kick lately? It's crazy, because at one point I slept with jeans on, lol. No, but honestly, my love for jeans is slowly dwindling. I think I am growing up, you know, putting the childish things away *But in doses, it's a transition. Judge me not.*

More recently, trousers just speak to me! Well, since we're being candid and honest, I didn't completely get rid of denim; I just thought it would be cool to make some denim trousers.

The thing is, I get bored with the same look from time to time, so I like to experiment with new looks, but keep it sensible and original. My style varies, so the quirkiest things sometimes irk me. Little things must be in order or I'd go crazy. From the way I wear my pants right below or on my hips. How the opening of the hem of my pant must be a min and sometimes a max of 8" wide. Even my shirt can't go past a certain length, it has to fall past my hips comfortably. Wow, am I really that weird? I guess I am. It made me who I am today... Jag Saint Joi! It is what it is.

I understand that a distinction in the designer of a brand speaks to the instinct in their vision when creating; it's essential to be in-tuned. Gon get you some knowledge, I’m selling it for color thread and needles.

Jag Saint Joi... Be Heard, Bespoken!
Follow me @jagsaintjoi

Let's make a toast!

2011-06-01T19:48:00.006-04:00

Let’s make a toast... to Jag Saint Joi!

New logo, more dope pieces, more inspiration and a side split cotton varsity!

Wait, huh? A side split cotton varsity. Like, a jacket, yes, a jacket. o_O

Ha, yo I'm going to freestyle this blog. It’s been very long while and I am not going to make an excuse. I will just write like my last post was yesterday, lol. Why wouldn’t I, it’s my blog and I can do me, right? I am literally sitting on my couch surfing the web and seeing a myriad of things that are inspiring the h*ll out of me. It’s crazy! More than anything I respect it! It’s beyond liberating to see people doing everything in their will to make a dream a reality. It’s just crazy, that’s the only way I can express the feeling.

Nothing really to say... just like monograms, the details speak for me.

Jag Saint Joi...Be heard, Bespoken!

Follow me at @jagsaintjoi

It's all in the collar...

2011-05-06T20:26:00.012-04:00

I’m mad rude. I know I know, I hear it everyday when people inquire about why I haven't blogged! I’ve embraced the rudeness and intertwined it into my designs...in turn my style has become a little disrespectful and rude...sorry, I can't help it *shrugs shoulder*. I mean my style is just...just "different" some categorize it as disrespectful with a hint of rudeness but in the most respectful way, lol. It's so not intentional! But you know the rude? The rude when someone never speaks? The worst right? Well, I live by my brand... "Be heard, Bespoke" and with that I rarely speak but I will be heard with bespoke. Why speak when my style does the talking? LOL! *I'm not really rude, I just make clothes*

No, on a more serious note. It has been a long while and I owe yall some fire pieces. I’ve definitely been sewing but I’ve been keeping them secret because I wanted to add them to the collection so I couldn’t show too much. On top of that, work is kickin my ***, but it’s only inspiration for me to go harder on the sewing machine...just creating my passion.

I won’t talk your head off but here is the coat that I was raving about in the video in "Face Fall Off" that literally had faces fallin off when I wore it. Gon get you some. I’m taking orders and the line starts after "dope" right behind “as h*ll”. Get it, Dope...as h*ll, lol. I’m a little corny from time to time...sue me.

...Be heard, Bespoke

And you already know that collar does more tricks than a magician...

Face Fall Off

2011-02-04T13:17:00.004-05:00

So this is just a quick video I made, no editting (Sorry, I didn't have my stylist or barber on set... they were on vacation, lol). But this is just a day and life of Jag Saint Joi and the 'Joi' I experience when I go to the fabric store. I was extremely excited at what I found, that I had to record myself because none of my friends would answer their phones... losers, lol. But, I'm happy they didn't answer because I would not have made this video! So thanks to all my awesome non-phone answering friends, lol. You are loved!

But I had to set up this story because this coat is probably one of my favorite coats. I know I say that about all my pieces, but all my pieces are dope tho (pats self on back, Thanks God, you're the greatest!). What can I say *shrugs shoulders*

I'm not a videographer but I can hold down a sewing machine and any kind of fabric and edit, cut, paste, repeat and make up a dope clothing piece in NO time... with a little time left over to do ANOTHER homemade video. Who wants to bet on that? I got $5 on it!!

Be heard, Bespoken... Jag Saint Joi (@jagsaintjoi)

Feel free to comment...I welcome it!

Not your typical blog, but where's my shirt!!!

2011-01-28T16:41:00.008-05:00

This would be a dope shirt if I still had it in my possession.

Story: I was sending this to my lil bro @ChiTwnPrnce for a Christmas gift to take with him overseas to London, Paris and Rome for the holiday's to do some sales for me. You know, trying to kick off the brand internationally (along with Jag Saint Joi accessories). Unfortunately, that was not the case, because somebody at USPS (United States Postal Service) or in his building has my Chambray w/leather trim custom Jag Saint Joi shirt on their back and clearly it should NOT be on their back.

I'm mad but not really (anymore), there’s always a positive to every negative situation. Although baby bro didn’t get his shirt, somebody opened the package, looked inside, sized up the shirt, thought it was dope and kept it for themselves. So, I am doing something right!!! Eureka! You know you made it when the post office is high jacking packages and jeopardizing their jobs to be Jag Saint Joi fresh (insert sarcasm)... So, I can’t say I'm mad, just confused (WHERE'S MY SHIRT??). But if I would’ve seen the shirt, I would rock it hard body too, so again, I can't be that mad. Whomever has stole it has dope style and a day and half fresher.

My only regret...I didn’t tag it...lesson learned here...GET DOPER and Tag 'Errthang! Word to the culprit, the brand is Jag Saint Joi FYI, so watch me work because when I see you, I will work you while the crowd watches me (beat the brakes off you, literally, lol (no joke)).

Be heard. Bespoken...Jag Saint Joi (@jagsaintjoi)

You got your sleeves, now what?

2011-01-10T11:21:00.013-05:00

So, I have to be completely honest...when I was making this coat and it was at the “vest” stage I was convinced to stop and leave it as the vest and just add more detail. It was so dope, it was that one of those times when you’re stuck with two good options.

One is a dope mistake and the other is meant to purposely be dope. It was definitely a battle to make the choice, listen; it took me a two whole days to make the choice (that's a long time to put creative juices on hold). After I discovered that my style didn’t call for a vest, nor was I about to go and purchase a plethora of hoodies just to make a vest make sense I decided to stick to the plan. In this case my decision ended up being the best decision, only because I made the decision best for me! I went with my gut; my creative juices had blended up a concoction that resulted in a phenomenal winter piece that is once again, one of a kind, unique, functional and a Jag Saint Joi favorite. I say that to say a few things:

(1)Make a decision! Nine(9) times out of ten (10), if you’re confident in your ability, what you see as a failure will be one of your greatest successes...trust me!

(2) Watch me work

(3) This coat is one my favorites because guess what? My mistakes created the details and the details are Jag Saint Joi. I don’t pride myself on making the mistake but I do pride myself on making mistakes. Kinda like falling down 9 times and getting up 10. But this time around, my fall was protected by a leather trimmed, quilted down denim coat with navy suede elbow patches...LOL (sorry I had to laugh, it sounded fresh typing it)

You don’t have to listen to me, but I will be heard...

Details:
-Leather trimmed pockets
-Leather adjustable wrist tabs
-Denim piping on inner lining
-Suede elbow patches
-Bamboo toggle buttons (collar stays)
-Adjustable waist
-Functional Collar that operates in 3 different uses

...Any questions?? I mean really, really dude!!

-Be heard, Bespoken

Sleeves please...

2011-01-06T20:16:00.015-05:00

Yessss! Jag Saint Joi is STILL in full effect! You didn't think I was done did you? Naw, you gotta know better then that. Because I don’t blog as frequent doesn’t mean I'm not putting in work. I’ve been going in! Knocking out meetings, sealing deals, creating, debating and cultivating a part of me that I didn't even know existed. For some strange reason this go round, things are different, in a great way tho.

Inspiration has never been so potent, so transparent. But it is! And I'm not mad at it. This collection is me, the part of me that everyone loves. Yea, it's possible, not everyone loves everything about me but it's one thing that you will respect and love about me...I promise you. It's like the money back guarantee, who doesn't have confidence in that policy? But guess what? Meet Jag Saint Joi, Jag Saint Joi meet quality the level of confidence that can only be express through fabric.

This collection is necessary! It’s the complex simplicity in life. The feeling that can't be expressed; only witnessed, so watch me work!

...But in the meantime, I have been creating pieces to keep the daily motivation cycling and healthy. Since the weather is taking no prisoners I needed a coat to weather this bitterly cold storm. So why not make a quilted denim, leather trim down coat. Sounds DOPE right? Because it is, Ha, check it!

That's not it...its more where that came from...Get Fresh Campaign just got fresher!

Jag Saint Joi - I'm Happy!

2010-12-09T22:32:00.003-05:00

Bundle up in a denim Jag Saint Joi bubble...coat that is - collar popped, hands in leather trimmed pockets *hey, I’m detailed, literally*, I walk the streets of New York with my samples. All of a sudden I felt something hit me. It wasn’t that something actually hit me, but an uncontrollable amount of passion surfaced that could only be described in three words...Jag Saint Joi! A smile covered my face in pure 'Joi'! How do I bottle this moment, these words, and this emotion? Liberated yet flabbergasted, I couldn’t grasp the basic principals of how to even formulate the letters of the alphabet to create a word.

I felt so good in my own skin that I was jealous of myself. Laughing at the fact that this collection is a lesson in fashion 1(0)1 is bananas. Why 1(0)1, because...

...Actually, let’s table that discussion for a more mature conversation. I want to make certain you’re ready. So let me prep you, but in the meantime, I am about to teach and transform the whole game believer by believer, don't worry, I have time. Trust me! I’m so in love with this fashion game and the participants, it’s inspirational and plus I'll be here for a while, a long while.

See, you can either conform or be formed, you pick your poison but Jag Saint Joi will form and re-create imagines through fabrics. It will be unfair if didn’t share this experience with you, but a word to the wise, if you’re going to do fashion...lol,"DO" fashion, be heard, bespoken!

Inspired Inspiration...

2010-12-06T22:59:00.004-05:00

They never told me when I was growing up that inspiration is conceived through anything and transpired from everything. Maybe I didn’t pay attention in life 101? I guess I could never understand that I was part of the “any and everything” that inspiration came from. Never knew that I could challenge myself...convince myself to be so inspired by the “me” within...no one told me ---- no one ever told me? Maybe it was meant for me to find out through the garments I create? Maybe that’s why each piece I design is a story in itself. Yea, you heard me right; each piece that I create is a story within itself. Jag Saint Joi is a story, an evolution and if you stick around, you will be able to evolve with the vision of a visionary and be inspired by your own inspiration.

This video is a quick video that was inspired by my own inspiration, I hope you enjoy, it’s a continuation of I Get it now!

I get it now...

2010-12-01T22:12:00.020-05:00

I wish I could document everything that is happening right now, because this is crazy and this needs to be captured! I want to go back and relive this very moment when I need motivation.

*Thinking to myself* Well document it! Write down everything, anything that comes to your mind, every image, every story and every idea...it’s only healthy! As I open my Mac, thoughts spew and the inspiration is now documented...

Where did I lose myself in this bliss? Have I gotten so far beyond myself that I forget to blog more? Say it ain’t so, nah, def not in my character to forget where the inspiration started?!?! So what is it? I don't know, but...

...Have you ever been so caught up in a moment that your thoughts lead you into arena where words could not conjugate an explanation to describe the feeling? A state where the most important things are neglected because the love for the "new" something becomes the most important thing? CRAZY!! So now you’re juggling a lot of important things. Ummm, yea, about that...I gotta do better!

I guess it’s time to reveal some things that I have been working on over the last few months, huh? I have been busy, lol. I know, I know...I say that at the beginning of every blog right? Lol, so what...it’s the true, now what? *Tilts head and puts the mean grill on*. No really, no lie, I have been putting together this collection and it’s been very interesting. Things are coming along very well! I’ve tackled the hardest pieces (in my opinion) of this collection. Now I'm working on finishing up the rest, working on the logistics of it all. I got a plan and it needs to be executed in the healthiest way!

Spending almost every night in the city at the manufacturers, in fabric stores, trimming stores, going to different events, networking and staying up many nights sketching and thinking just to get the right design. I am excited to show what I have been working on. Let’s just say Jag Saint Joi’s vision is probably clearer than a blind man's imagination...(you might want to think about that, pretty deep, lol).

-Be heard, Bespoken...Jag Saint Joi

Controlled chaotic thoughts...

2010-10-18T21:31:00.011-04:00

Hoody covers my head just enough that it falls at top of my eyelids as the light from the Mac illuminates my face. Oh and me, a little cold from the breeze of a cracked window. The wind blows the lit candle and triggers a movement in my shadow reflecting off the wall. Idle for about 5 minutes, Jag Saint Joi bounces off my screen saver, music plays in the background...snaps out of a daze and emotion rushes to my eyes but somehow the output of this emotion ended at my fingertips...

As I write this blog, thoughts are going about, ummm, a mile a minute, literally. Excuse these random thoughts, but the flow of my craft has now settled at my fingertips. This feeling is an emotion that seems to emulate a piece of fabric in-between my hand and my sewing machine: second nature! The thoughts that are transpiring have created a sensation internally that can only be felt by those who have been on this journey with me.

But through this journey, I realized I’m creating this vision and giving insight that no other designer has given. This is something phenomenal; respect my vision! This journey just got real, so real I began to understand the steps that I had already taken were already ordered. The people involved that I’m “meeting along the way” were already there like toll collectors awaiting my arrival: Prophecy! Divine intervention: an innate creativity afforded to me by someone bigger than you and I can imagine...

...but imagine this...getting an email from a very dear friend who believes in you more than you believe yourself. A friend that believes in your story and in your brand, more than you do. I sent a “project” to her for feedback for Jag Saint Joi, her relentless response:

“THIS IS ILL!!! Seriously, F’in ILL!! This is what I see for Jag Saint Joi. This is gritty, in the trenches with the brand. This makes you accessible to the public. We’re part of the movement. Living the Jag Saint Joi lifestyle. I AM DONE!!! This sh*t is SICK!”

...Talk about unprecedented hype and motivation (Thanks Kim)

I’m building up to a crucial story and it’s a reason for this blog...I got something for you but since I’ve release a beast that’s deeper than the crease in a tuxedo pant with leather side strips off a tweed fabric made by Jag Saint Joi, I’ll hold off on THAT story. I will expose the likes of my recent encounter in my next blog. I just served you a platter of Jag Saint Joi in the most vulnerable and innocent state that my angel just might be jealous because this post was so pure at heart.

-Be Heard, Bespoken...Jag Saint Joi

Wax on, Wax Off

2010-10-14T23:37:00.019-04:00

And he’s back, and got crazy stories to tell. It has been a world wind of pure bliss these last few weeks. Crazy _____ has been happening (fill in the blank for all you potty mouths, lol). So, I have been in this phase for a while now, you know...so much to say but no clue where to start?

So, a few of you may be following me on twitter @jagsaintjoi (shameless plug) so you’ve seen the twitpics of the long nights at “The Showroom” grinding away, conversing over bottles of 10 year old whiskey, even watching classic movies but most importantly...telling stories without saying a word, creating magic! But this time around it's a story within a story, that's telling a story about a story...naw I’m telling a story, but I do have a story to tell...check it.

So, I get a phone call...

Dave: Meet me at the Showroom tomorrow and bring some sketches, it'll probably be best to show the functionality of what you are trying to convey on this garment. You need to be more expressive.

Me: What do you mean? I am very detail in my approach. *Mind you, I do not sketch and I was NOT about to start (so I thought)*

Dave: Umm yea, meet me at the showroom and bring your sketches. (To know Dave is to love this guy, shoots from the hip, lol)

...Ok, it’s now 3 am the night before and I am still sketching and it looks horrible. *Travesty*

Next day, I get to “The Showroom” and show the sketches, he looks at them and says, “Ummm, here is a blank piece of paper, now sit back, chill and envision “that” look and sketch it.” Clearly my sketches were not up to par, *Travesty #2*, This is not looking good for the kid, I had been exposed and performance under pressure is now the new task.

Me: But I can’t draw,

Dave: You will if you want this collection to be ill.

Me: *Thinking to myself, who is this guy? Mr. Miyagi and am I the Karate kid, what the ____?*

It's probably 12 am now, he sprawls out on the floor, closes his eyes and within 20 seconds, he’s sleep, what the____? And here I am on my second pencil, lead was breaking and eraser marks had created an imagine of their own, I had been erasing so much. After 3-4 hours of sketching, it hit me...I really am karate kid, lol, and he’s really Mr. Miyagi. I had been so dependent on my sewing skills that I was skipping the essential parts of creating; my ideas are usually expressed through needle and thread not pencil and paper. Not that there's anything wrong with that but understanding the layout of the garment is vital and capturing that through sketching is very beneficial. Oh, and he made certain I understood that! An idea can only take you so far; if that idea cannot be translated effectively chances are they'll be a waste. A lot of ideas with no way of convey them: Pointless.

Jag Saint Joi...prepare yourselves.

Creative creator...

2010-09-22T06:40:00.015-04:00

"Is this really happening", I exclaimed while opening the door to leave the shop. She crossed my path, looked me in the eye, and as a complete stranger, she smiled and said, “Yes, it's happening.” With no idea as to what I was referring too, but she felt my energy and was compelled to supply the confirmation and tell me, "Yes, it's actually happening."

...and at the moment confirmation exemplified it's meaning so validly that it became an emotion. I was left with a smile on my face. It was one of the best and most genuine feelings that I have felt in a while.

The feeling rooted from a 3 hr meeting I had to discuss the merchandising plan for Jag Saint Joi. "Yo, this is a movement and Jag Saint Joi needs to move in the movement, we have the resources. You got it, so give it! The greatest gifts in life aren't the gifts you receive but the gifts you give. Sew seeds bro, literally." *When I heard this come out of his mouth, at this point I was lost for words*

Through the meeting and random conversations at one point he asked, "What's your inspiration?"

Ummm, my inspiration comes from everywhere. I think it's safe to say most of it comes from people, their personalities and way of life.

Well you mentioned your dad and the way he dresses. *In total confusion* I responded, "I think he dresses weird, because he is so structured but yet so unconventional...he is always dressed up but with no where to go, everyday!

He replied, "So you’re telling me he dresses identical to "your guy", the same guy whose lifestyle you want the Jag Saint Joi guy to represent, *but of course with somewhere to go*?" *Caught red handed*

Was my inspiration in front of me for the last 20+ yrs and I never embraced it? Did this guy just decipher the code I had been diligently seeking for years?

*Tilts head and looks up* I think the man that created the man that created me, just created a creative monster that will create creative creations just because the creator created me and allowed me to create this creative creation called Jag Saint Joi. So unconventional... read it again, and again...and again and I promise you'll process it. If not please inquire within *drops mic and walks away*. Watch me fly with no wings.

Humble Beginnings...

2010-09-13T11:21:00.027-04:00

Through the last few weeks I have been a zombie. It seems like the days have gotten shorter and the nights even shorter. No one ever told me success and fulfilling a dream took a great amount of sacrifice. I know this all sounds like a "duh" moment but living in that moment is a lot different from reading it. I'm learning despite the level of talent and passion you have for a dream, hard work pays off only when hard work is put in to pay off not working so hard. And with that said, when I asked this question, I laughed, sat up in my chair at full attention and said, "excuse me while I tell you a secret..."

Why does the world need another Fashion Designer?

The underlying question here is why doesn’t the world need another fashion designer? I believe you know how it feels when you have a burning desire for life that gives you a better reason to wake up than the sun.

Every day is a fortune given, where I am afforded the chance to explore the possibilities within fashion. Not too long ago I found the biggest possibility there is, and realized that I could distinctively inspire others through a world of fabrics, measurements and styles. The world needs another designer because I am on a mission of creative expression with hand-sewn garments that tailor a lifestyle.I don’t know how, but sewing and creating is an innate skill; finding this skill compromised doubt and solidified optimism in my future. That same optimism breathes character into every garment and energizes an inner resilience to stand against inhibition.

My clothing is designed for a unique purpose that allows participation in what I love to categorize as an “Evolution of Confidence;” incorporating a desire through a mixture of fabrics that creates an immaculate piece and tells a story.

I believe that passion needs no validation to be relevant, and for that very reason I am determined to create this brand, this confidence, this lifestyle; that will be a unique vessel, expressing persona through visual interpretation. This is why the world needs another me; a fashion designer of lifestyle.

Need I say more?

2010-08-26T23:38:00.006-04:00

Do I really need to blog on this? This has been a three day feat and quite frankly I feel like my job here is done. Pictures tells stories so with that...jag saint joi - making of a lifestyle

I'll take two of those...

2010-08-25T23:43:00.020-04:00

Ok, I'm done making you wait...Ok ok, just get off me, GET OFF Me. I'll show you...dang! Relax *lol*

Actually, I was done about a week ago, sorry it took so long to post the blog. Sometimes coming up with a blog can be difficult when your mind is everywhere...nonetheless, it's here! I took so long because I love being in control of anticipation. Shhh, but the truth is...I love you guys company, I really do, you should come more often.

But anyhow, you know how I always say that I never know what I want to create, but I always have a vision. I initially planned on using wooden buttons, *toggle buttons* for this jacket. I was looking to do something unethical, out of the ordinary maybe a long trench with a nautical feel, something high-end; jag saint joi'ish. Although that "vision" didn't necessarily happen the way I intended, something even better came of it. In the process of heading to the city to run some errands I walked pass this zipper store in the fashion district, so I went in to entertain the curiosity *curiousity killed the cat but I'm a beast so I had no worries*. I must say this is the part of creating that I love the most; being able to walk into a store unwarranted and picking up hardware and accessories that can change the entire dynamic of a garment: bliss! I appreciate the craft to the fullest to say the least.

Well, back to the story. I stopped into the store with no idea what to get *well I had an inkling* but not that much of an inkling. I was in here lost, but through it all I looked up and found myself focused on...zippers, huh, zippers? No, I want buttons...wooden buttons. Soooo, I grabbed a red zipper, a drawstring for the hoodie (oops, I think I just spoiled it)...and the rest is pretty much history.

So, what do you think? You like? Because I LOVE IT! Don't lie to yourself...this jacket is DOPE and I made sure of it.

Its jag saint joi...making of a lifestyle, it’s soo difficult to suppress this passion to create a style that is essential for breath. I guess I try to articulate a lifestyle for everybody but I am coming to realize that...It ain't for everybody!

OK....I will post the rest of the pics tomorrow. There's more details because the details are ALWAYS in the garment...did you think that was it? Silly kid, this is what I was destined to do.

Construction Zone...Men at Work

2010-08-23T00:05:00.008-04:00

Halfway there! Are you guys still with me? This is when the story really begins. This is when I began messing up and things start to get dicey. Blood is boiling and frustration is peaking. I don’t even think words on paper *or screen* can even explain how mad I am at this point. Why is this NOT coming out right? Why does this look like trash? I don’t even care anymore, lol *baby temper-tantrum, you know how you tell yourself you don’t care but in actuality you are maaaaadddd), well yea I was mad, lol!

This is day 2 and I needed to finish this! I must finish this. Well, nope, not happening! Clearly my sewing machine had it out for me, it was not cooperating nor was my idea coming to fruition. I had spent days and probably wasted a roll of thread on nothing. I had nothing to show but a pinned up garment, a garment that wasn’t even dope (at the time). It was so standard, lol, I give up; I need to just start over.

...WHAT!!!! Quit and start from scratch, umm no! Sometimes you have to make the “best” out of a bad situation. So I did just that! I made the “best” jacket I’ve probably ever made out of a poorly constructed garment. My motivation is sometimes stemmed from my will to be meticulous, prideful and a perfectionist. “I know I can do this, I had a vision and if I don’t complete it - it would have forever been a failed mission.” So, now I have to finish what I sought out to do.

The previous weekend I met a very dope guy by the name of Tafiq...dope guy! He said dude, “designing is problem solving and when you have solved the consumers problem you have design!” *screwed up face with confusion written all over it* that is just silly! Ok, this blog is done, that statement alone is something that should carry you through next week. Catch me tomorrow, I’m done, no really, I’m done. jag saint joi...making of a lifestyle. *drops mic and walks away*

Get Fresh Campaign - Pt. 1

2010-08-20T08:17:00.016-04:00

Random Person: Sir, I love your shirt it’s really nice
Me: *Frazzled and in a complete daze* Thank you, Thank you very much. I really appreciate it

...Yep, you guessed it, that’s it, that’s all that happened *confused face*. I said nothing in repsonse but thank you. Can you believe that? Me? Said NOTHING? Weird?

So many things could have stemmed from that compliment but since I was caught off guard and completely shocked, I missed the opportunity. Did I just allowed this moment to past me? I think I did *guess you can’t live in the moment forever...so I didn’t*. Don't get me wrong, it's not that it took that compliment to make me realized this jag saint joi is dope; it took my inability at that moment to sell facts to a complete stranger, a stranger that was obviously digging by my designs *drops head*Ok, that was random *it was a soft spot*, lol, but back to jag saint joi. Do you remember the floral shorts I posted in “Sniff sniff, Ahhh...I smell Fresh"? Well, after I finished those floral shorts, I started a new piece. I told myself I would take my time with this piece, no games! It has to dope...this has to be another classic peice!

Remember the second piece of fabric that I purchased from "For the love of Fabric" post? This fabric is the same crazy upholstery fabric, something not meant to be worn on a human’s body, lol. I laid the pattern out and unrolled the fabric...

A.O. (Lil Bro): Man, this is crazy how you’re creating something from this.

Me: From what?

A.O.: Nothing, a flat piece of fabric!

Me: *Laughs and continues to cut...can’t let spectators mess up the flow, lol*

I’m on a roll and the way this fabric is laid out I didn’t have enough fabric to finish off the top of my sleeve *blood is boiling*.

Me: Bro what should I do, i'm out of fabric

A.O.: I don’t know

Me: Oh, Oh...I’ll use the denim I copped from "Ring around my collar" post

A.O.: Yea, that’ll be dope (You have to remember he’s the King of Cool)

I continue to cut and the creative juices are flowing. I decided that I would make a jacket; despite the color combination I will wear it this fall and spring. The idea I had in my head was an ummmm, a mid-thigh length safari jacket, some sick hardware and collar, leather trimming with a waistband drawstring. Oh my goodnesss!!! This will be insane. *how do I could up with this stuff, I have NO clue but I do, lol*. I begin to cut out the fabric...ok, ok; scissors to fabric, there’s no turning back now.

For the love of Fabric...

2010-08-19T06:25:00.009-04:00

Please forgive me...crazy week and weekend. Traveling for work, lil bro was in-town and he was able to witness greatness from jag saint joi first-hand and I must say he came to my town and showed me around, lol. Thanks Bro! But, crazy things popped of this week (end), something that I could not even make up if I wanted to. Funny how word-of-mouth is still the greatest form of marketing.

Well, I’m convinced this is what I was cut out to do, you know...sewing, creating and designing. When I can go into a fabric store because I’m bored and leave with an unconventional fabric, a fabric that was woven for something totally different than the purpose I used it for...that’s when you become a designer: improvise. It baffles me to this day that this innate talent was suppressed for 20+ years, it’s all good because I’m a firm believer that nothing is given to you before your time or even before your mental capacity has the ability to accept and appreciate it. And with that said...

The same day I bought the fabric for my floral shorts, I kinda didn’t tell the whole story *shy’s away*. I bought more fabric! I purposely kept this a secret but I KNEW it was going to turn out to be something incredible*Safe to say...it is*. So I pulled my camera out to take a picture and mistakenly started to record. EUREKA!!!! *It’s time to switch the blog up. Try something new, step into 2010*

So over the next few days I will sporadically post pictures and videos of the piece I’m working on as a mini-series to display creation and concept of making a dope garment. I am going to let you sit on pins and needles for a day as I breakdown this epic season in a series of dopeness...trust, grab some popcorn *stand up kettle corn lovers* this right here is the making of

...jag saint joi...I’m so sincere about this I get cold chills in 100 degree weather.

Sniff sniff, ahhh...FRESH

2010-08-12T14:53:00.009-04:00

...Sometimes you gotta stop and smell the roses. I did, but this time I decided to wear them. Yep, I said it! I wore them. I challenged myself last week, time was my opponent. The challenge was to time myself on how fast I could finish a piece, a dope piece. I put so much time into my pieces that I’ve never timed myself. I had a 3-4 hour window to sew something to wear for a rooftop party I had to go to on Friday. *yea, I know I’m fancy huh, lol*

Well, I got caught up in the store; fabric store that is...to the point where I was looking for fabric in the upholstery section of the joint *who shops there but grandma’s looking to re-upholster their chairs*

I was lost like an American tourist in Brazil during carnival: travesty. But during my impromptu detour in the wrong section of the fabric store, my creative 6th sense kicked in...I immediately stepped back, dropped my head in deep thought, envisioned and BOOM, I grab a canvas piece of fabric; “Excuse me ma’am can I have 2 yards of this, thanks”.

She looks at me and asks “why are you so excited?”

I responded, “Give me 3 reasons not to be happy and I’ll buy all the fabric you have in this store.” She laughed and cut my 2 yards...

As I’m leaving the store she yells,” I want to see what you make out of it and she laughs!” And me being me, I laughed, looked back, pointed at her laptop and said goggle me and I’ll show you everyone else who’s wearing it...

I get home and the heat is on, I started cutting my fabric at 3pm and at 6:23pm I was ironing my floral print shorts with leather trim, took a pic, hopped in the shower on the 25th hour and made it to the rooftop party. Trekked all the way there just so the guy at the door could tell me...”sir at 9pm we have a strict dress code and I will have to ask you to leave at that time.” I said, "that’s fine!"

Safe to say, in NY dress codes don’t apply when dopeness is the standard, I left the party at my will at 12am.

Jag saint joi...join the movement or watch me move!

Parallel Universe...

2010-08-04T06:45:00.006-04:00

It’s too often that I hop the train to the city when I go on excursions and embark on different ventures; aimlessly walking through the city. I’m mostly trekking to fabric stores, an event or what I like to call “randomium”. But during the train ride it's like I immediately put myself in someone else’s shoes or even back in my own; sort of like an out-of-body experience: surreal. During these train rides I feel like I’m completely out of control of what happens between my pick up and drop off location. I start as a blank canvas, go through this tunnel, an underground world where nothing is seen but yet and still I look out the window...thinking, wondering, meditating about what...what could be or what WILL be. Am I the only one that does that...looks out the window and wonders? *Maybe so, but you’re not cooler than me. I take that back we’re all cool in our own way, I just think my cool is slightly cooler, lol*

This ride feels like a parallel universe! I LOVE and wish I could experience this daily because when I’m in this underground world, creativity re-invents itself and the left side of the brain kicks into gear like adrenaline before a foot race, big speech or what about when the girl/guy next door that everybody likes actually acknowledges your presence: optimism.

It’s actually soothing knowing that for once I don’t have to think for someone else, think if the driver next to me will hop lanes, I can blur out the background noise and close my eyes without repercussions. I enjoy the sounds of people, experiencing their fashion choices, like a conglomerate of ideas...overjoy at its finest.

By the time I’ve reach my stop, I’ve reached a capacity that requires a camera to envision and capture the essence of this underground world, this parallel universe I’ve created on this full canvas that was blank at the start: collage...the making of a lifestyle...jag saint joi. It ain't for everybody.

Oh, after the excursion...I went to the fabric store. One word: Suede!

Allow me to re-introduce myself...

2010-08-01T21:50:00.017-04:00

Hello, my name is jag saint joi and I’m addicted to FLY!

I guess all good things don’t have to come to an end. So, I thought it was time for me to start “fresh”...I guess I’ll go ahead and re-introduce myself *smiles hard*. Ok, I’m done! I think that’s more than enough fresh for the day *smiles and tilts head in innocence*.

Why re-introduce myself? Well, a lot has happened over the last few months and I’ve learned a lot and did more than I thought I could. Lived in the moment, stepped back watch the moment pass, jumped at the moment, got pushed back... I’ve done it all. Turned over a few leaves and met awesome people, got re-acquainted with my love for fashion and art. Found inspiration and it flowed through my body and shook my nerves; you know, like a cold chill on a 98-degree day: abnormality.

But often times for me, through this journey these types of things are needed. It assists in my creativity. Helps to be sad, mad, lonely and depressed – happy, blessed, favored and vehement in my daily disciplines of overachieving. It helps create the inner tenacity, the tenacity hidden deep down in the pits of my soul.

But what better way then to re-create jag saint joi...I’m here! I’ve “blurred out the background” and went through some “transgressions” but through it all my “happy place” is where I found the “ring around my collar”, threw on a neck tie for my big day, you know..the re-introduction ceremony. I can feel it like a blind man feels his way through life...touching and feeling the seams and hems of a garment to find that one "fresh" piece; that’s why I create “fresh” pieces because with both eyes close you’d still “feel” jag saint joi...CATCH UP YO, whew! I’m done.

Ring around my collar...

2010-07-26T23:48:00.019-04:00

Lol, yo the shirt is CRAZY! I can see the finish line and its leather *shocked face*. So, I told you that I love anticipation but only when I’m in control, of course, lol. I could not hold out any longer I had to show the shirt and I’m about 95% done. It’s classic and timeless definitely going in the jag saint joi archive. I will say out of all of my pieces that I’ve sewn I’m really proud of this one. Solely because it’s a milestone for me. Taking a hiatus from sewing and not even looking at my machine for months, then coming back to and sewing such a difficult piece. Sewing leather is confirmation that I am designed for this. I create, design and deliver promises son! Pieces that make me (and you) feel good about actually using my God-given talents...this is what I love to do and I will only to get better in time.
I was able to see further than the giant when I was standing on his “shoulder”. But please don’t get me wrong, it was very difficult but I pushed through it and I think I delivered. Well actually, I know I delivered; I’m not even going to sell myself short. I DIG IT!! When you see me out with it on, act like you don’t know me because I’m telling you now and on THIS day, today, lol...I WILL act like I don’t know you, lol, because the shirt is just that dope!

I say I’m 95% done because I initially had this vision for plastics buttons, you know something simple and classic, nothing to overt. As I’m rummaging through my button stash looking for a clear plastic button, a leather button oh so conveniently pops up *I almost went nuts at 2am in the morning when I saw that button, I was so geeked*. The button matched the trimming and accents so well, I stop production for this introduction into a world of freshness. It was an induction ceremony for that button, lol. I literally sat there for 10 mins beyond ecstatic but yet sooo mad because I only had one...the woooorst! I was livid but with a smile on my face *you know, like when it’s your surprise birthday party and your mom invited Jimmy, knowing good and well you HATE this kid and she got the side eye* yea, I was that kinda of livid but with a smile. And the results are in...

But, I really love detail, not too much but just enough to prove a point and to subtly request attention with NO words...I deliver? Maybe not? Nah, you’re lying, I know I did. *Don’t even know why I asked that question*. I'm so focused, blurring out the background, got tunnel vision right now, Ugh, it's nasty. I LOVE THIS!!!

My happy place...

2010-07-25T23:13:00.021-04:00

Please fabric store don’t hate me because I was the last to leave...

So, of course on my way to the fabric store my mind was racing since it had been a month or so since the last time I had actually sewn or created anything. With the adrenaline from the photoshoot, it didn’t help the anticipation; I was R-E-A-D-Y to give you guys what you've been waiting for. Fire! No actually, ‘Fiyah’. Typically when I go to a fabric store I go with no real intention except for letting my “juices” flow. I never know what to create nor do I go with a concept in mind...I just show up, champion style...in it to win it! Yep Yep! *I usually win. Hey, I’m not being arrogant it’s me feeding positivity into my universe...don’t judge me.*

When I get there I people watch, imagine what could be, find one dope piece of fabric and build off that. I’m usually in this crazy zone where I spend hours on in - in the store. So much that random people ALWAYS ask me questions because they think I work there. I know half the staff, so I think a discount is in order *please someone from the fabric store read this blog, I promise I will do right by your fabric*. I spend so much time there because I wish I could buy the entire role of fabric just for the jag saint joi archives. But if you know jag saint joi; it’s a classic line, aiming towards timeless pieces that your kids will be able to wear in 2056. That’s how classic I strive to be. I love this, I love classic items! I zone in on material, fabric, detail, cuts and patterns...because “NOW” last forever. Today will always envy tomorrow’s hope, so jag saint joi strives to be timeless...forever relevant!

But back to my fabric store excursion *I have got to get better at staying on task*, I spent an immense amount of time in the leather section at the fabric store. I have been dying to put leather to work but the bad thing is...I’ve never sewn leather before and I know it’s a monster to do. But there’s nothing that jag saint joi can’t do: nothing, I tell ya. They say a midget standing on the shoulder of a giant can see further than the giant. Well, I politely tapped the “apprehension of sewing leather” on the shoulder (“apprehension” is the shoulder of the giant for those of you that can’t keep up, lol), it turn around and looked me in the eye and I climbed up and stood on the “giants” shoulders. I can now say I have successfully sewn a leather piece…well not exactly; I’m sewing it as we speak. It’s a mix blend of *****? I actually can’t tell you. I think I can show you better than I can tell you. I told yall I love anticipation...especially when I’m the one in control, lol. I will say this is one of the doper pieces that jag saint joi has created...I pinky swear, stick a needle in my eye.

...I’ll stop teasing and show you the dopeness that ensued. Can’t wait til the fall to rock it, this WILL be part of the collection, definitely, so put in your bid and tell me your shirt size...Oh wait, what you say? “So, I’m fancy, huh”? *smiles* Yeaaa I am, so send me your dimensions, we make to order in these parts!

Trying to stay FOCUSED...

2010-07-25T09:59:00.013-04:00

...all while blurring out the “background”. Motivation my friend, is back, and it feels so good! This week has been a very historic week for a number of reasons. The number one reason was conceived when I was at a photoshoot, shooting one of my bestfriends pictures. I didn’t create any of the pieces, I know, silly me right?!?! But the next shoot...all me! And this is where the story began...

As Elton (the new homie) is shooting her and she’s changing into different pieces I’m thinking to myself, “there’s no reason why she shouldn’t be changing into jag saint joi for this shoot”. Like don’t get me wrong, sis was dope, but not jag saint joi dope, now that’s another level of dopeness, that only a few have witnessed firsthand. I know I can be a little stingy at first, but for some reason I'm addicted to exclusivity, ahh, go figure!

But then I experienced a “moment of clarity”...as Elton is shooting, Bria is styling, fixing hair and make-up, my lovely TP (she’s just dope) set up the wardrobe something sick, did the hair and styled as well. I’m just sitting there in a zone, measuring things up and BOOM in that moment, I heard nothing...no talking, no pictures being flicked, no direction from Elton, no cars, no background noise, no nothing...all I heard was success and the essence of silence for a focused mind to mosey and my friend, my mind did just that, I focused. The vision became so transparent and the motivation started churning like "The little Engine that could".

I got that feeling you get when you know that even in your worst, you’re still the best, the best that will EVER do it...a champion! And in that “moment of clarity” I was focused, so focused, that everything in the “background” was a blur. Do you understand that? Re-read that, matter of fact I’ll repeat it, “and that “moment of clarity” I was so focused that everything in the “background” was a blur”

Chew on that, because it’s so much deeper than you think...if you’re new to this blog, I’ll give you a hint. The background isn’t only noise; unwanted things and people can be the “background” in your everyday life. So despite the distortion, stay focused!

The day after the shoot...I went to the fabric store. Ahahahaha!! I laugh because when you see what I'm creating, you will become focused. On jagsaintjoi, it ain't for everybody!

Transgression...

2010-07-11T22:14:00.003-04:00

So I get a phone call today asking happen to me?...

My response: Huh? What happen to who? Me? Nothing, what are you talking about, I just ran 4 miles bro and I’m about clean my body why are you patronizing me with a million questions about absolutely nothing?

This guy had questioned my lifestyle, like literally...hold on hold on, please clear your mind of ANY silly thoughts. He questioned my motivation and my reason for not blogging lately. And with that said, my excuses started to flow, lol

{I began to think of all the reasons as to why I wasn’t blogging, why I hadn’t been faithfully sewing everyday like I use to and I think in that moment before I realized, my excuses where pretty lame and untruthful when the reality was...}

My response: Honestly, I let one person single-handedly strip away a huge chunk of my dream without even asking permission. It had happen so fast.

He Replied: What are you missing? What needs to be done to get you back to taking me on this journey. I use to wake up with anticipation of reading your blog but you been killing me lately *clearly gas’in me up and yes, I fell for it*

My response *Still gas’d up*: For real man, that touch my heart, naw I’m playing I didn’t say that but I did break down the dynamic of my inspiration lately and how it has shifted to another dimension.

Despite the contrary I have been thinking about this more than anything but when the unexpected happens, you need to be ready and unfortunately I wasn’t prepared for the “worst” (so I thought it was at the time). But, I bounce back like a spring loaded pogo stick...I’m just too dope to be left compressed and confined. I need to release and take that leap, so I’m here to reclaim the fame. Say something!?!? If you question my dopeness...I question you, as a person, lol. No really but I do tho *smirks, thinks about erasing that line but opts out*

I must admit that conversation between him and I (well me just talking) definitely inspired me to get back to pecking away at the keyboard and pressing the foot pedal on my sewing machine. So here I am, I’m back now, get hype, no really, get hype because I’m about to unleash on you youngin’s...jag saint joi

Blueprint...

2010-05-17T21:06:00.013-04:00

*Smiles* At this point I’m pretty sure you’re use to my “inconsistency”, but in reality it’s not inconsistency, it’s life...I’m seriously busy, no, like for real *laughing thee entire time as I type this message*. I really miss this (blogging), I miss you guys, I miss the love and that’s not a good feeling. Sometimes you get caught up with the wrong things and it skews your perspective, its like wasting energy focusing on so many things oppose to tuning in on the pertinent task or not being definite with the infinite.

Well, on a better note I have created some things that I will share in due time. I told yall that I bought a new sewing machine so I’ve put in work kid. I created a few items that are guaranteed to spark conversation. You know, like the small talk, like, “I really like your shirt” or a look from that person 3 people away who continues to stare but is too prideful to give a compliment. You know who you are and yes, 9 times out of 10...your actions speak louder than words, so thank you in advance for the compliment, because I know my shirt is dope...it’s jags saint joi...duh!

Lol!!! Yall thought because I was gone I changed, *sucks teeth* that’s probably a lie, I’m like the Sun in my own mind. Sometimes the clouds block me and my potential to change lives is taken for granted. But some days everyone loves and enjoys me but no matter the condition without my energy, a great percentage of life is non-existence. Bold statement right? Naw, not even, sometimes audacity is necessary!

Nothing left to say...but too much to show!

2010-04-12T22:04:00.004-04:00

I know, I know. You don't even have to ask the question because I ask them myself, daily.

Ok, here we go...
Where the {bleep} have you been?
So, you just gon up and leave and not say nothin'?
I HOPE you got something to show for the hiatus?

Yooooooo, I feel bad and there's really no excuse for the absence! I can make up a million reasons as to why I took the long pause but then I'd be claiming defeat and that's not the case by any means! The best and simplest way to describe the reason for the hiatus is the old saying...and then there was one. In the great words of one my fav artist, Fabo..."There's a parallel path 'tween friends and enemies/And whenever you cross it you make friend-emies/There's no remedies for these sick memories/My doctor said there's no cure for the..."

But word, I was in a serious funk on top of a plethora of other things, but thats no excuse and I will admit I was out for the count. A famous quote that helped me get back to 10… "Things like love, need no validation to be relevant." That’s serious and when you decipher and think about it, I promise you will forgive me for the absence and hop back on the journey with me.

But, please do know, I was still Dope with a capital "D" thee entire time, lol. The juices never stop flowing and as a matter of fact the juice is oh so sweet I'mma have ya' jaws clinching...you know that tingling feeling when your about to eat something hot or savory...yeah yeah yeah, like that! You know the feeling?!?  

I miss you as much as you miss me! You miss me right? Cooommme ooonn, make me feel good...it's hard out here for a pimp (not even). You can say you forgot about me but I never forgot about you. The truth is I gave you an overload and you needed a break, so I obliged. Ahahahaha!! I'm baaaaccckkk...EARLY!

I’ll leave you with that since I’m still on probation, don’t be mad for too long. jag saint joi was enjoying the joi’s of jag all while being a saint...follow me nah!

You know what....

2010-03-01T07:50:00.005-05:00

Just because my sewing machine is broken doesn’t mean I still can’t create. When the lights go out you still can see...TRUST, think about that! So, as I’m "creating" my itunes are going and in the midst of finishing the sketch this song came on. Everything about this production is dope, hands down one of my tops from N.E.R.D. But for some reason this time around it had much more meaning than I’m sure they intended for it to have. Do you understand this song and what it does when you’re in the middle of doing something you absolutely love doing? A great interpretation and common relation for most people is we often refer to the love for an inanimate object as our “significant other” so to speak. With that, I think it’s safe to say I have a girlfriend and I think I will marry her, world meet jag saint joi, jag saint joi meet the world! Isn't she lovely? Yea, that’s why I married her! You don’t have to like her or the journey she’s taking me on but you will respect her...

Losing my mind...

2010-02-25T22:20:00.011-05:00

Seriously, I must be losing my mind for making you wait this long. So much is going on to the point I had to bounce back and resuscitate my heart...jag saint joi, ahhhh and it feels so good! How are you? That’s good! Well, I’m great, thanks for asking!

Where do I start? The things I’ve seen through these past few weeks has been so reminiscent of what I’ve envisioned for my line and this journey that I wake up with aching cheeks from smiling from my dreams. But I must admit, it’s difficult when you’re doing things alone, but it’s the greatest joy. I say that because you’re able to step to your own beat, you know, do your own thing. And if you’ve been on this journey with me since day one you already know what it is, if not, I suggestion starting from day one and get familiar with this lifestyle *giggles*.

Ok, so this is where I am...like the old saying goes, "I'm just trying to keep my head above water". Well that’s exactly what I'm doing. My sewing machine broke so I've been out of commission for a while now, sick about it but that doesn’t stop my mental machine. Huh? Yes, I sew and create my ~~ish~~, I mean stuff...that’s why I’m dope, haha!! I’ve been looking for machines so when I cop new, oh boy...I’m apologizing in advance for the disrespect because I’m guaranteed to create some uncouth items that will blow your mind. I take hiatuses for a reason. I’ll leave you with that to think about!! And for you newcomers...welcome aboard, I deliver...constantly, trust me!

All for Love...

2010-02-16T09:07:00.004-05:00

Apologies in advance for my absence, did you miss me? Well, I missed you, no really I did *smiling entirely too hard*! Thought about you everyday, so much so that I felt obligated to conjure up the nerve and get back to what makes my heart smile...talking to you. I got hit with some surprising news earlier last week and lets just say what doesn’t kill me makes me stronger!! It’s almost like re-inviting you into this journey, but this time around I’m coming even harder and oh, I stopped by the store and coped some things. Huh? What did I get, wow, you guys are extremely too nosey, ok ok, I’ll tell you what I bought. I bought more courage, strength, ambition, motivation (it was on sale so I bought a lot of that), I bought some smiles (actually they were giving those away for free), ummmm, I got some humble juice (it’s so good fyi, you should try it) and a lot more stuff that you’ll see sooner than later! I had to remind myself that all I got is me and jag saint joi will exemplify that plain and simple, I do this "All for Love". This lifestyle is survival of the fittest and I LOVE staying in GREAT shape, can’t you tell? But stay with the kid and I promise you that we in here...TRUST! I got you, so tell your parents, loves one and significant others...you’ll be late for “that”!

Pardon me, have you seen "Fresh"...

2010-02-09T11:26:00.014-05:00

We have to, simply because we can (pardon us in advance)..."We're so bossy, snitch, get off us, kid, get off us, You can't get ish off us, We're so flossy, no jeans or tees, Laid back, jag saint joi, don't even talk to us". That’s enough for this post. Thank you and see you tomorrow!

...But since we like to inform and deliver we will enlighten you on the 'Pro'gress of the collection. Remember when we posted "Bong" 1/18/10, well we've been in major talks with our manufactures and we had a "heated" conversation...no silly, we weren't arguing we were purely spitting fire, talking about the Duffle coat that is. The coat will be bananas, we’re making some tweeks, since details are our "Guilty Pleasures" we had to go back to the drawing board and re-visit. But is it us because we personally love to be informed about dopeness! So today we suggest you start saving your pennies because you will need this in your collection. Me no lie *shrugs one shoulder, tilts head simultaneously*! Ever walk out the house and felt like you were out-shining the sun? What? You haven’t, only us? Nah, can’t be true...well we can make you feel that way, it’s easy, three words, jag...saint...joi. Don’t say we never informed you!

A million words spoken, without a sound...

2010-02-08T11:29:00.011-05:00

Sometimes less is more, but the more you give, less has to be said? So what do you do *shrugs shoulders*? These are some findings that help to perfect our imagery and creativity...we just love sharing photography with you guys. Helps set a tone!

Detail is in the eye of the beholder...look closely, ha! jag saint joi is still diligently working to bring you a tough collection soon. This is a journey for us too, not only you...don't be so selfish, it's enough jag saint joi dopeness for everybody! Perfection and it's attempts take time and quality is not too far behind. Our vision is sick and when we come, it will be in your best interest to tame yourselves because you will go NUTS!

Please help me intrepret...I'm in awe!

No words...classic imagery

Something to Behold...

2010-02-05T14:44:00.002-05:00

So Surreal...

2010-02-03T11:05:00.017-05:00

This post is very random, I know...and, so what, say something *standing in my b-boy stance*! But these types of settings and photos are photos that make us love what we do. We often have these "sessions" when we sit and converse and discuss the future of jag saint joi and what we KNOW will come to past. The pivotal moment that will make this journey much greater and Jerzi always says this, "Dude it’s going to blow our mind when we see a random person we don’t even know wearing jag saint joi", yikes, whew! The funny thing is, every time he says that (even as I post this) my reaction is the same, I pause...look up...smile...look down and shake my head...then I look at him and remain silent in pure bliss as he laughs hysterically at my reaction as if this is the first time I’ve heard him say it. I stare because words simply cannot describe the sentiment that goes along with that. To see somebody literally wearing our "heart" on their sleeve, the thought alone catches me at "hello", insanity I tell ya, AAAYYYEEE!! It purely can’t be expressed, maybe in a millions words, 80 different languages and words that we can’t even pronounce. But you get the gist...
But speaking about somebody I don’t even know wearing jag saint joi, are you that person? I dare you to blow our mind and wear our "heart" on your sleeve. And we'd like to say...Thank you thank you thank you, you’re far to kind!

Picture this...

2010-02-02T11:28:00.010-05:00

When duty and opportunity calls, you have to be prepared. Last week and this weekend both called, duty called and opportunity clicked in midway through conversation, craziness, so of course I had to conference in both! We were slightly upset at the fact, like wow, really, that’s how you feel life? Bit overwhelming but the good type, that good feeling when you have too many good options! Can you picture that? Well if not, strap on your seat belts, the journey is about to get better. After talking with duty and opportunity we jumped and walked on water, jag saint joi style right across the Hudson River and made our way to letterpresses, manufacturers, and web designers along with a few more spots. We embraced the insurmountable amount of energy that the city gave off, it was almost unfair, and we felt like the sun was shining only on us! Ever had that feeling, feels good right? So imagine that feeling being exuded though our lifestyle and designs. Imagine literally wearing that feeling...talk about inspiration, ahhh yess! Well, welcome to our week last week, this weekend and the upcoming weeks. Inspiration was received and creativity was tapped into on sooo many levels it was scary. So look out for some official “events”, plans and goals coming into fruition. We’re excited about it and you should be too...it’s a celebration! It’s coming and patience is of a virtue, although we keep a sweater on we never sweat.

Respiration

2010-01-29T08:25:00.002-05:00

Dose of Inspiration - Pt. 2

2010-01-28T00:00:00.009-05:00

We typically don't post on these "Dose of Inspiration" postings so we’ll keep it short.
Everyone needs to be able to interpret things, be it photo's, media, people and even music...interpretation is what carries us through life, it helps to develop understanding and stimulates our “vices”. It’s the one opinion people have to respect and it’s what's needed to build a lifestyle. This is why we do what we do, we aim to inspire, and to live a lifestyle that won’t cease to be tomorrow but remain relevant forever. Mock our word...because we are motivated and destined for greatness jag saint joi will infiltrate into your world of inspiration, like it or not! Are you inspired? We are, now more than ever and tomorrow...tomorrow will be crazier than today...TRUST! Our dopeness doesn't die...it reciprocates with great intent!

This ain't checkers...

2010-01-27T05:18:00.000-05:00

It’s now safe for us to say and respect the saying… ”This ain’t checkers. This is chess”. As we strategically and carefully put together this collection we see how difficult it is say, NO, especially to pieces we love, pieces we work so hard to create, but not everything can make the cut, right? So, we constantly remind ourselves that we are jag saint joi, a lifestyle, but with that there comes things that just can’t be controlled, the inevitable. We are eternal students of life and every parent’s worst nightmare...a child that does NOT listen. We’ve come to the realization that we are...well, insubordinate, we do what we want (but in the most respectful way *smiles*). We aim to create things that will be timeless and in order to meet that goal you have to break the rules, go against the odds and feed off the nay-sayers and remain positive at all times. And that’s exactly what we hope you get from this collection. Resentment towards the obvious, a breath of fresh air, pureness and hunger. Just stay committed to this journey and we will continue to take you on a ride that will be well worth it. I have to blame Jerzi for this pic (his thought process is wicked)...he thought it was a good idea to subliminally say, “walk a mile in our shoes” and you may just live the lifestyle of jag saint joi, it’s rough but exciting...I see you Jerzi!! We here!

The touch, The feel...

2010-01-25T11:01:00.013-05:00

Diligence is a zealous and careful nature in one's actions and work, exemplified by a decisive work ethic, budgeting of one's time, monitoring one's own activities to guard against laziness, and putting forth full concentration in one's work.

…and this is exactly what we do to make certain we deliver in every aspect through this journey. We spent a great deal of time this weekend, once again capturing what jag saint joi really is, and that’s style, fit and quality…amongst classic elements with a timeless feel and of course, dopeness! Working hard to create this collection we begin to pick out fabrics and patterns, you know, just making the things on our "Storyboard" come into full fruition. So know that we are putting in the time to produce what we’ve been speaking, we promise not to disappoint you. This spring/summer collection is serious and will exemplify a true lifestyle…jag saint joi!
Ha,we almost forgot...that shirt, yep...jag saint joi! Let's play a little game, "Where's Waldo" but this time we'll change the rules and find the details. Do you see the details?? I do...

I'll be Gone

2010-01-23T11:53:00.002-05:00

I'll be gone from KORB on Vimeo.

Storyboards...

2010-01-22T00:00:00.002-05:00

Do you want to hear a story? Never mind, guess we can show you better than we can tell you! The story of our lives right? Everybody has a story to tell? Every day is a story, every situation is a story…our lifestyle… it’s a story, trust me, we live it! So why not create a storyboard that displays who we are and who we strive to be…it’s only necessary to build and become better. Since we spend a lot of time brainstorming, creating designs, concepts, sampling, gathering swatches and studying, we wanted to document probably the most critical part of our day. This time allows us to show you things that inspires jag saint joi, what we encompass and the lifestyle we live & love. As any other lifestyle you need inspiration and jag saint joi receives inspiration from any and everything but more importantly from each other! This is real and we love it! And oh, that shoulder in the picture below, yep it’s another jag saint joi shirt...we love detail, it’s “Our Guilty Pleasure”!

Girls we do adore!

2010-01-21T00:00:00.003-05:00

As you continue to support and follow us on this journey it's important that you recognize that style goes beyond one gender (whispering *regardless of the infinite possibilities you ladies have*). Yeah, we said it, ladies you have a plethora of options when it comes to fashion, but it is what it is (in a perfect world I am always right *smiles*). But in all honesty, we personally believe that you simply cannot have a Lifestyle Brand like jag saint joi and cater to one gender. So we decided to give you a full frontal of the dope jacket we’re still patting ourselves on the back for we posted in the "Details are the Garment" post 2 days ago. What do you think? It’s insane right?!?! This past weekend, as we were designing, creating, and celebrating life, I caught another dear friend at “hello” with this jacket and she insisted trying this jacket on. Paying no attention to the dopeness that would ensue, she found a way to make it even doper and I will say she repped jag saint joi well!

But it’s more where that came from, you’ll be pleased to know that we’re diligently working on a collection for spring/summer ’10 that will indeed make non-believers into habitual supporters. These are just a couple of tanks along with the other tees that we will grace you with. Speak on it because…I’m still speechless!

Capsule...

2010-01-20T09:24:00.007-05:00

The great New York Capsule Show… not that "great" anymore. The goal of Capsule is to allow some of the dopest brands from all over the world to showcase seasonal collections for retail buyers…something similar to Magic but 2x better. Contrary to belief it has been watered down to corny trade shows with free drinks...Sucks!!! I remember when they first started Capsule the place used to be packed wall to wall with the “who's who” of the world of style, it was equal space for each brand and one location of pure style. Now, it's just a bunch of mix level brands from skate to luxury trying to open & hold accounts in New York.

So in effort to remain in positive spirits, we left Capsule to head to one of thee best boutiques in NY: Teddy Boy! Teddy Boy is one of those places you have to experience! They carry all original goods and some vintage finds for men and women, the fits and style of their stuff …CRAZY!!! Peep the vintage flight goggles with a leather base going around them from the 1930's, SO SICK, I had to pose for a photo...
Just before heading back to the lab we made one last stop to Von on Bleeker & Bowery where the Indy super star: Peter Hadar hosts an ill weekly gathering every Monday. Despite the disappointments, we got confirmation and we can quote this with confidence, "They say a midget standing on a giant's shoulders can see much further than the giant." And I will say our future is looking GREAT, but that about wraps it up in a nutshell...or maybe a Capsule??

Our Guilty Pleasure...Details!

2010-01-19T00:00:00.002-05:00

Have you ever heard that repetition forms habit? Well if you haven’t, I’ll be the first to tell you. When we create designs we habitually implement detail into each garment, repetitively…think about that? We told you repetition forms habit!

We cannot stress the importance of subtle detail, style and fit. As we continue to introduce you to who we are, it’s only fair to allow you to digest and emerge yourself in the craziness that we experience daily. This coat had Jerzi at “Hello” at his first intro, I personally tilted my hat to myself upon completion! We created this coat with our lifestyle in mind, duh, why wouldn’t we! The un-proportioned structure and elements are key in this instance, ensuring not to exaggerate everything but just enough to appreciate the detail. And they said retro couldn’t meet contemporary, ha, we beg to differ. We create the lifestyle we live & love, so we kinda do what we want.

BONG!!!

2010-01-18T03:40:00.000-05:00

Details are the Garment

2010-01-18T00:03:00.002-05:00

Now that we’ve made you move to a little Muhsinah, I think its only fair to make you stand up and give us a round of applause and possibly a standing ovation! We’ve been in the lab creating dopeness and guess for who? Yep, YOU! We do this for you and the lifestyle we live & love. We cannot stress the importance of a well-placed stitch, good hardware, be it on a bag or a quality fabric.

To lighten the load of anticipation we decided to give you a sneak peak of some of our outerwear and a glimpse of an everyday casual denim shirt by jag saint joi. Through this journey we want to express the importance of making each piece we create a statement, adding well thought-out detail and making sure each piece is as detailed as the next. Speak on it…that’s if you’re not speechless or being drowned out from the applause because we’re still clapping. Are you? – Making of a Lifestyle…jag saint joi

Construction of a Lifestyle

2010-01-17T00:00:00.005-05:00

More than a brand... bigger then garments...

You may not understand what we are doing, but you

have no other choice but to feel us!!! Now take

this vid to the head and vibe out with my girl

Muhsinah. Now if she don't get your blood pumping

it's proof your dead like mall shopping!!!

A Dose Of Inspiration

2010-01-16T17:39:00.000-05:00

Get in where you "FIT" in...

2010-01-15T09:53:00.002-05:00

After a long exhausting day of work, we headed to the city, me, to FIT (Fashion Institute) for a presentation on Urban Rejuvenation, dope presentation (big ups to Crystal Sai and Bethany Morton), job well done. The knowledge provided...priceless! There are so many ways that we are going to tap into the market and appeal to you guys on such an exclusive level that it’s going to be crazy, trust me!

While I was at FIT, Jerzi spent a great deal of time in the city tackling our "to do" list, going to letterpresses, meeting with leather manufacturers and capturing the essence of our "Lifestyle". Oh, and yes, I did say leather manufacturers...we have some things in the works and we are anxious to show you guys...dopeness! It’s coming, it’s coming...relax! To wrap up the night we headed back to the lab and brainstormed, unveiled our findings and started to go nuts with ideas, events, visions, branding, just everything to keep you guys part of this journey. Please stay tuned...– Making of a Lifestyle...jag saint joi!

Peep game...

2010-01-14T19:00:00.000-05:00

One of the few things my partner/brother and me talked about content for our blog was to show a step by step of the growth of the brand. From mock-up to fabric choices to production. So peep a few of jag saint joi design mock-up. Not to pop our pop but if you dig these mock up wait until you see the finished product!

"Back" to the Future...

2010-01-13T11:08:00.002-05:00

See, I respect the late 1800’s and early 1900's fashion. This photo is a classic image from the ’92 movie “Newsies”. This is timeless fashion that compliments today’s fashion and the “future” of fashion. The clean cut look (especially my friend to the far left and my man in the shorts), the fabric, detail and purity of originality trumped everything during these times. Fashion was simple and effortless. If I could go “Back” to what is now the future, I’d be riding horses with a 3 button cardigan, button down shirt, low rise trousers with no belt loops with a riding boot all by jag saint joi! If that were the case jag saint joi would be 100+ years old, how dope would that be…jag saint joi est. 1900, I can dig it, can you?!?!?-The Making of a Lifestyle...jai saint joi

History

2010-01-12T16:50:00.001-05:00

What's sup world!!! I think this is a good way to start our journey with some good music. History in the making!!! stick with us as we stomp our mark in this game.

Mos Def - "History" (ft. Talib Kweli) from Downtown Music on Vimeo.