Adornment 2007 - Visitor Feedback

I found out about Adornment through M. D., who had volunteered to take part in the fashion show. I attended Adornment on Monday 9 April. Majority of my time was sat down watching and enjoying the show as I did not want to miss any of the fabulous clothes, hair styles and dance routines.

I felt the designers had such style, flair and a real passion for vibrant colours which was a pleasure to watch as it was nice to get away from the usual dull colours. I thought the drummers at the end of show were fantastic and really lifted the energy of the place!

All the best with the newsletter!

Many thanks

Emma

Adornment 2007 was the first time I visited the show, and I attended on Monday. I did not find out about it through advertisements - which was quite surprising, as my personal opinion is advertising draw crowds. I found out via word of mouth, as in the past as well.

I found the event particularly refreshing! Unfortunately I did not get to view all the stalls, as I found myself hooked to the fashions shows. It was good to see that the models used were not stereotypical, if that had of been the case that would have been very disappointing. The array of vibrant colours and designs were stunning, and it's good to know that black people have the potential to break into the designer world.

Davina

"I found out about Adornment through a friend of mine, M. D., who was going to be one of the models in the show. I must admit I had never heard of Adornment before, so this was the first time I had attended such an event in the UK. I bought a ticket for the Monday event, and arrived about 12 o'clock. I was very impressed by all the different designers, and businesses that were exhibiting at the show, many of whom were extremely talented, but yet I had never before heard of some of them.

The fashion shows were amazing as were the clothes and the models who showed them. It was a very warm and uplifting event, and it was so nice to see all the beautiful black people in there, all ages, all sizes, all 59 different shades of black, but together in a common cause, and embracing what we have to offer. Wow!! It just showed what amazing things we can achieve, as a people, when we set our minds to it and strive for a good cause. Loved it, loved it, loved!! Bring on Adornment 2008, I am there already!!"

Take care, stay blessed.

One Love

Antoinette X

Adornment 2007 - Model Feedback

This is what other models had to say.

I initially came to Adornment in a supportive role, and to generally see what goes on behind the scenes. I had no real intention of getting involved, although I had been asked to take part as they only had a few male models.

I was quite hesitant as I was the only guy present at that time. However, as the evening drew on, more guys turned up and I felt that perhaps this would be fun and signed up.

I was picked to do a couple of dance routines and to model tee shirts and jewellery.

I found the rehearsals quite confusing and chaotic at times. This was mainly due to the sheer volume of people milling around. Some models in one corner rehearsing the catwalk, others trying to learn dance steps. It certainly was a hive of activity.

The days were long and after participating in 4 rehearsals, I still could not see how it would all come together over the 2 days. However, I felt proud to be a part of the individuals taking part in this unique show.

When the first day finally arrived, I was overwhelmed with excitement. At the same time, I was quite anxious at the thought of having to partake in front of live audience.

Then it happened. Time to go, adrenalin flowing through my body propelling me onto that stage. I was one of the opening dancers, I remembered all my routines, it went well and I really enjoyed it. Once over, I felt eager to get back out on stage to perform.

Two things I have gained from this experience. One is some great new friend-ships. The other is experiencing that when "black" people work together as a team they can achieve such greatness. We need to continue to show this harmony, not only in a weekend exhibition but also within our society.

Francis

I found out about Adornment through an email from a friend stating they were looking for natural hair models.

At rehearsals some of us were a bit reserved at first, but everyone soon came out of their shell under the guidance of Janee (a professional model) and we were soon sashaying and posing away.

The event itself was extremely tiring with early morning starts, but I had an excellent time. As a hair model for TarBaby, the style was based on a rock theme and I think I got really into character. As soon as I got on stage, I became such a different person that people were commenting on my change of character!

On the second day, I was enthralled by the Dutch drumming group who reminded me of being in Barbados. A few of the models were certainly moving their waistline!
It was unfortunate I could not see all the performances and did not have enough time to wander around the exhibition area. However, I met some really wonderful people and hope we keep in contact throughout the coming years.

As stressful and tiring as it was, I would do it all again.

Blessings, Michelle Doyle

Homegrown talent at Adornment

Some UK talent visiting Adornment. Sisterlocked and Brotherlocked!

The Adornment Ambassador

Ms Erykah Badu

Adornment 2007 coming to an end!

Day 2 was just as awe inspiring and exciting as day one. Only difference was, I was so very tired. The life of a model is certainly not as glamorous as I had once imagined. I now know what Tyra's girls have got to go through!

Adornment Ambassador 2007 was Ms Erykah Badu. I was disappointed I did not get to meet her personally. I did however, manage to get a few photos, although some are a little blurred.

Sit back and enjoy the rest of the show. The three ladies by the Ashanti Hair Studio are all sisterlocks wearers, two of whom are consultants and were exhibiting as Ashanti Hair Studio.

Adornment 2007 continued........

Lets not forget the men that also modelled at Adornment. They certainly had to work hard. The jewellery desinger, Ehwunah's show, consisted of the men carrying Queen Nzinga on their shoulders. They did very well. Check them out.

Adornment 2007 continued........

It was a long day with lots going on. There were plenty of exhibitors, all with their wares carefully displayed. You could have your hair locked, buy african inspired jewellery, clothes, books, buy hair products, the list is endless.

There were also some workshops being held, but I was unable to attend any.

Lisa Price of Carol's Daughter was the featured entrepreneur, facilitating a workshop. I purchased her book "Success Never Smelled So Sweet", which she dutifully signed for me.

Sit back and enjoy some of my photos of the models.

Adornment 2007 - my experience

The day has arrived. All models rearing to go and do their stuff. I arrive at Battersea Park early in the morning, final rehearsals are taking place. The show is due to start at 2pm on Easter Sunday.

Wow, the adrenalin is now really pumping through my body, this is real. The perspex stage looks impressive. Wow, I really have to do this. Well I hope that I can, and that my nerves do not get the better of me.

Exhibitors are setting up in the main arena, lots going on around us. It is amazing how time really passes quickly when faced with a situation like this. One moment it was morning and then it was 2pm.

I was modelling for a designer called Emebet. Her clothes are all hand made, knitted. check out the photos. Emebet is in the top right hand corner. It was her first fashion show, so she was just as excited and nervous as we were.

I must say that when the moment came to go out on stage and do my thing, I quite enjoyed it.

Sadly my modelling debut was only to last about 5 minutes as the routine was quite short.

However, once back in the safety of "back stage", I was eager to do it all again!

Dance routine, designers, hair appointments

As the weeks went by, the models confidence kept growing and growing. Dance routines were coming together. The choreographers worked extremley hard, and it showed.

The designers picked their models for their catwalk shows. Most days the Artspace in Brixton was a hive of activity. Some models in one corner practising the catwalk, others in another perfecting their dance moves.

The days were long, especially after a long week at work, and the pace was fast, there was a lot to accomplish in such a short time.

The month of rehearsals was over in a flash and it was now time for the models to have their locks styled. Appointments at salons were booked for Good Friday, the show was a day away.

Busy March........

Towards the end of February I was sent an email flyer, which asked for natural hair wearers to model for Adornment, an African Inspired Exhibition, to be held over 2 days during the Easter Bank Holiday.

Being an avid America's Next Top Model viewer, I took up the opportunity to strut my stuff on the catwalk.

I had to audition and really did not know what I was getting myself into!

I attended the audition and I nervously struttedmy stuff on a makeshift catwalk. I was told I would hear in due course. Well move over Miss Jay, I got through and was excited to see where this was heading.

Rehearsals were to be held approximately every Friday for a month, in Brixton! a 45 minute tube train journey from my side of London, but hey, models have to travel far and wide, I guess.

There were a lot of people at the rehearsals, more women than men, as always.

We were shown how to catwalk. Shoulders back, hips forward, right leg forward and ready to set off. Very uncomfortable posture, but apparently very necessary! So we set off, waddling like ducklings round and round the dance studio. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 and pose, and pose and pose. Well arms flaying in every direction, legs giving way, some really un lady like poses!

Although people had volunteered to model, about 50% were extremely shy. We had to do our walk individually and some went so fast, you could barely see them move!

I must admit, I was probably in that 50% who were extremely shy. Was not sure how I was going to manage to model to a crowd over 2 days! However, I persevered and felt that I had now taken on this challenge and although I was way outside of my comfort zone, I was determined to see it through.

Surprisingly as the weeks went by, so the confidence of the models grew. Friendships were being carved out and a small village was being created. So many different people, so many different personalities.

Locks were everywhere. However, I was the only sisterlocked sister in the house, until, I spotted her a newbie! 3 day old sisterlocks! It took me back to the time when my locks were first installed. She had so many questions and I felt privileged to answer them.

Sorry, no photos of the rehearsals, as it is difficult to get them when you are supposed to be walking and posing!

In Celebration of My Sisters Concert

Well some of you may well have recognised Eric Jerome Dickey - "one of the hottest African American writers" on the front of my emag.

Well I had the pleasure of meeting with him when I worked at the In Celebration of My Sisters concert in March. I bought one of his books, which he signed for me and obliged me in a photograph. Check out his locks!

The concert is held during International Women's Month in London and is a collection of music, comedy and inspirational acts.

I was working with the Pampering Club and as always had a thoroughly enjoyable time. Followed by an after party, where I mingled until the early hours.

Hair Affairs eMag

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Where have I been, what have I been up to?

Well I have been really busy since my last post.

I guess I need to start at the beginning with my updates.

After completing my Sisterlocks training in Miami in November 2006, I knew that I would need to be advertising my services. After attending a Pampering Club gathering in December and finding out about One Million Inspired Women through our guest speaker, I pledged my action and proceeded to highlight my new business venture.

In January 2007 I decided to embark on a PR exercise. I came across an email campaign company and my Newsletter, Hair Story was born.

The Newsletters main aim is to provide information regarding sisterlocks and other happenings in London.

I had about 50 email contacts and had some good feedback following my first edition. So, armed with this new found talent, I embarked on my Newsletter in earnest. I have definately become a freelance, self-made journalist!!!

I am now on my 4th Edition and still going strong. I have changed the name to Hair Affairs - eNews from a Sister "Locked" in London.

I also now have nearly 200 contacts. It is taking up so much of my time, but I am enjoying it. If anyone out there would like to join my mailing list, please use the sign up box at the top of this post. There is no cost for this eMag.