ADLI MONROE

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Liondi Henriquez 14 Issue 3 IG: _adli_monroe_

ADLI MONROE

By Liondi Henriquez

Photographer: Tracy-Ann Thorpr IG: Artcy_Ann Model: Liondi Henriquez IG: _adli_monroe_

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About the designer

Ihave been writing, painting, and expressing myself since I was a teen. However, I never quote on quote fit in. I was the fat girl or the ugly girl and had struggles with that for a long time.

When I got ahold of a sewing machine because my mother sewed and her sister-in-law was a designer/seamstress, I had asked them to teach me, and they did. So the first thing I made was a long tube top with slits on the side and a mini skirt.

My mother was so surprised at how fast I got it.

Being the unshapely one in my family and group of friends, I learned how to embrace my big breast and small booty. I knew I had to dress to my body and make it flattering. I couldn’t dress like them, and if I did, it had to be slightly different.

So when I shop, I would go alone to take my time and try on the clothes I could afford at that time. It wasn’t easy, but I made it work for me. I never try to show off too much skin or be half-naked. To show that I could dress. But I learned about clothes while shopping and trying them on.

My fundamental source of inspiration is the little girl I used to be. I would have told her; you can wear whatever you want respectfully. It doesn’t matter your shape; you can still stand out by just being yourself and not trying to normalize your look to fit in with family, friends, and the world.

I describe myself as sexy, fun, artsy, urban classy, and that’s what I tell my clothes.

Sexy doesn’t have to be tight! It can be loose and flirty. And don’t get me wrong, I love a great tight shirt, jeans, and a great simple dress, but who doesn’t.

I love how art, shapes, certain situations, movies, music, and love makes me feel when I start to create. So I tune out the world and try to stay out of the box and jump back out cause I know I have to please myself and the people 50/50. It wouldn’t be me if I didn’t.

My goal is to show the world that this woman who came from immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic, poor and unevenly shaped, has something to offer, and that’s my passion and my art.

And that all bodies and faces are beautiful.

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Brandon Jerrod IG: @brandonjerrod

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Roielle Eros

20 Issue 3 IG: @iamroielle007

Issue 3 21 William N. Porter

IG: @ gentlemanfinest4711

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William N. Porter IG: @ gentlemanfinest4711

Aina V

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Nyshé Ramirez IG: @nyshe0623

Kristy Perez IG: @tiink3r__le__bell

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Kamiesha Fairclough IG: @crazy6sexy9cool

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Mariana Makwaia IG: @marianasmirror

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Zeana Coote IG: @zbk.ny

Anastasia Galyon Issue 3 IG: @anastasiagalyon 35

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Aina V

IG: @Hail2theV_

The source of my inspiration in terms of fashion are eccentric Black folks like Willow Smith, Jaden Smith, Young Thug, Solange, Teyana Taylor, and Slick Woods. I also gain a lot of inspiration from my hairstylist Amesha Designs, who is also very stylish and modelesque. She is very creative and creates experiences purely out of her imagination. Diana Ross, Cardi B, Beyonce, and Michelle Obama are not my brand of “eccentric,” but they inspire me as creatives. I started my creative venture very early in life. I always sang and acted since I was around six years old. I was a vocal major in high school, and in college, I was supposed to be a musical theater major, but a turn of events stopped me from joining that particular program. Therefore, I have gotten sidetracked for a while from my creative side. I also write poetry and monologues and perform them. I started modeling as a hobby in college in about 2010 when I responded to a Craigslist ad looking to shoot models in exchange for pics. In the past three years, I have recently taken it more seriously, and I started my modeling page on IG under @hail2theV_ . My art is eccentric, freeing, and intimately me. if I had the power to share anything (I have access to) in the world, and what I choose to share LOVE. #spreadlove (I even have it tattooed.) 2021 has been interesting, as it has wholly existed in a pandemic. It has affected me in positive ways. I

have found solace in my personal space and intimate time with myself and my daughter. I have begun to enhance and rekindle my close relationship with my daughter. I have found so much admiration, pride, and grace for myself. I have created and enforced boundaries as well as escaped the grips of negative cycles in my life. I now know what I am unwilling to accept, and I have seen and imagined a new way of living far from toxic Capitalism. I am freer and happier and have found a greater sense of peace. On a scale of 1 to 10, my support system is at a 4.5, which is an improvement from what it was a few years ago (and I will celebrate that small win!). I have often thought about giving up. I experience chronic suicidality, and I plan to launch a website and an organization for others who are also chronically suicidal. I am a very “ gone with the wind,” “follow my heart,” flexible person. I am pretty sensible and tenacious, as well as ambitious. The short answer is, I don’t have a strict 5-year plan, but I have many goals, and I have two big goals in life. And I can accomplish them in 5 years, but I often take detours, and I am NOT ashamed of that. I am happy to give myself the space to explore my interests and talents, as well as the grace not to be perfect. I want to open an urban community school for nontraditional students and adults within the next five years. Thenonschool.com is the website I created for the school I want to open. If I won $1M, I would invest in a mini-community. Like I would buy a plot of land and build a few houses, a convenience store, and a school. Then, I would reap the money from my investment by renting and selling the houses and owning the store. I would also open a group home. I would pay off all my debt and put a large sum of money away in investments for my daughter for when she is 18 and 25 and 30. I would never “work” again. I would focus on what I want to do, like creating performance art, writing books, and community-centered activism. I would mentor and teach and give opportunities to Black urban youth around the country (because I would use that million to make enough to be abundantly generous). My sole guardian (my Grammah) died when I was 10, and I went on to have a trauma and neglect/abusefilled life, so I would tell my 10-year-old self that I am worthy. I am wonderful. I should never give up on myself and standing up for myself. I should put myself first. People can and will love me, but boundaries are the best form of self-love. I’m a visionary, so my ideas come fast and detailed. I write them down and break things down into steps. I research how to get things done. I create a finance plan to fund the project (if necessary). Then, I tap into my networks for support or to promote the project. I celebrate myself and my project. I can improve my process by having an accountability partner and also having a support team. I can enhance the process with a routine in my life, outside of my projects, and stick to my timelines more stringently. To me, fashion is about self-expression. I believe fashion is just about presenting oneself the way one wants to be seen in the world OR being creative and expressing creativity. Fashion is a form of art. It can be about identity or feelings, but it can also be about experimentation or making statements. “I am” (I don’t know who initially said it, but it’s a concept that is empowering because we get to be. We have nothing to prove. We belong. We matter.)

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Born and raised in New York City, I started modeling in early 2019 after moving from Florida. I wanted to try the modeling world since my friends and family told me I should. I love taking photos of everything and anything and the art of fashion altogether. Although I am starting this journey, some will say "late," I want to prove that I can make it.

Nyshé Ramirez IG: @nyshe0623

Kristy Perez

IG: @tiink3r__le__bell

1. What is Your source of inspiration?

My source of inspiration would be fashion and dance .as a little girl, dancing was my biggest inspiration; I would watch music videos for choreography and fashion.

2. If you had the power to share anything with the world, what would it be?

It would have to be peace and love to all !!! Because this world needs a lot of it.

3. How is your support Team on a scale of 1-10?

Overall is a Ten, and I thank god for them!

4. You Win a million. What would you do with it?

I have a few things I would do, but my first would be to Buy out a big establishment with a couple of floors and open a Salon to pamper yourself (ex. Nails, hair, spa, anything that has to do with selfcare. Plus, I would like to have a daycare where parents can come n leave their kids while getting pampered.

5. What would you say to your Ten-year-old old self about life as you know it?

Hmm, I would say, listen to your parents. They are not wrong about everyday things in life, lol. Also life will suck if you don't put your all into your dreams !!

6. what does fashion mean to you?

Fashion is A STATEMENT !! It's art, and it gives you many ways to express yourself!!

7. What is a quote you live by, and who said it?

I'm big on love, so a quote I live by is, "The truth is, Everyone is going to hurt you. You have to find the one worth suffering for"- BOB MARLEY.

"I will like to thanks the All in Access Glam squad and also Goodjinx For the Experience !!!"

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This past year was unlike any other. How did it affect you? Good or Bad?

I called 2020 the blessing and curse year, lol. I just found out I had breast cancer two weeks before the shutdown. I had to do everything by myself. I mean, I wasn’t alone. But I couldn’t have family or friends with me for appointments, chemo, even my double mastectomy surgery. I was alone, and It sucked. That was the curse. The blessings were getting closer to friends and family. The blessings are still coming, even though I still have my days. I’m learning to get back to me every day!

How is your support team on a scale of 1-10?

Listen, my support team is ten, lol. I tell people all the time I have 5 “faithful” friends, lol. Their names are Halisha (my Bff!); Tasha (my cousin, but we act like sisters); Joanna (my hippie); Kiamesha (the “silent” friend lol); and Kenia (the only person I still talk to since elementary) There my ride or dies lol. Each person I have a history. They know things about me and understand me as a person. My mom and aunt have been my rock as well, especially since this crazy past year.

Have you ever thought about giving up?

Many times! And many times, I did. But I remember how I grew up and watched my mom work two

Kamiesha Fairclough

IG: @crazy6sexy9cool

jobs. There were does I bet she wanted to give up but never did. I get my strength from my mother. She always pushed me to be and do better. So if she won’t give up on me, then why should I give up on myself?

Do you have a 5-year plan? If yes, what is it?

I used to. Before the pandemic and breast cancer, I planned to move to Maryland/DC area and apply for law school. Not saying this isn’t still the plan, but I’m not rushing it. No longer will I live on a timeline. I even told myself I would have a baby by 35. It’s been a year, and still no baby, lol. And it’s ok. I’m learning to no longer put pressure on myself and live!

What would you say to your 10-year-old self about life as you know it?

I’m talking to her now, lol. Learn your voice and use it! Never let those who hurt you have the power. You are worthy, beautiful, and loved!

What is a quote that you live by, and who said it?

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – a Chinese proverb.

Mariana Makwaia is a mixed-race vocalist, model, and born n raised New Yorker. She acts as one half of the sister dark folk duo ‘Sibling.’ As a featured vocalist, Mari has collaborated with artists across multiple genres. As a producer, she creates a neo-soul fusion weaving jazz vocals into alternative RnB.

Mariana Makwaia

IG: @marianasmirror

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The MUA

Queen Rodriguez IG: @mua.qb

My inspiration to become a makeup artist came from feeling like I never really fit in anywhere I went; I always felt different from everyone else. So when I finally found makeup, I found something that made me feel like it was okay to be different after all. Makeup isn't just about beauty; it's about finding your creative side and making your ideas become a reality.

I started my makeup journey when I was fourteen years old. I was never really good at anything others were good at, but then I started watching youtube; seeing makeup gurus such as Nikkietutorials & Jaclyn Hill; these women gave me the desire to learn. Since then, I have devoted myself to teaching myself how to create the perfect cut crease and sharpest wing liner; I watched youtube tutorials every other day then decided to take it to the next step, which was practicing on myself. Every time I attempted a look, I realized my imperfections, and the next time I did my makeup, I did my best to correct my previous mistakes. I would describe my art as beautiful, creative, and graceful.

This past year did have negative effects on my mind, but I put my feelings into my makeup; I had a goal to perfect my mistakes to the best of my ability, I kept pushing myself every day to step out of my comfort zone.

I have thought about giving up a few times only because I felt like my makeup wasn't getting the attention it deserved; I try to be consistent with my post so that people keep seeing "MuaQB" pop up on their feed, but that didn't change the fact that people still weren't liking or sharing my looks. I realize now everything takes time, and sooner or later, my time will come. I have to continue to be consistent and stay motivated.

Fashion, in my eyes, is about creativity and enhancing your inner beauty. Fashion is stepping out of your comfort zone and just going with the flow.

My name is Nigeria, and I am 32 from Brooklyn, NY. And It all started when I turned 12. I realized that I was into the beauty world. I couldn’t stay out my hair to save my life, lol. At 17, I tried to sign up for cosmetology school, but honestly, I wasn’t ready ( I took nothing seriously). It wasn’t until I lost my Dad in 2012. I was 23 that’s when I chose to take life and my career a bit seriously. I obtained my GED in 2015; I then graduated from cosmetology school (Empire Beauty school). It was a fantastic experience, tremendous fun! But never did I think I would become a nail technician; I found so much cre ativity in myself once I chose to take it, serious boy, would I practice on myself for hours, I wouldn’t stop until I was delighted.

I plan on growing and learning as much as I can in the beautiful beauty industry! I’m thankful for the opportunity even to do nails and have a fantastic support system behind me, pushing me to my fullest potential, even when I doubt myself, my co-workers, and my intimate family would believe in my craft.

I’m Grateful, Thankful, and humble. And I will never give up. Stick with your vision; only you know where it’s taking you.

The Nail Tech

Nigeria Gordon

IG: @thenaildripgoddess

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Tell me about yourself.

Hello, my name is Anastasia Galyon, and I am a Professional Fashion Model, Actress, and Founder of Curvy Donna. Based in NJ, and I am proud to represent curvy/plus size women through my management company, I'm Next Modeling @imnextmodeling. I am professional, friendly and love creating content for Instagram, Facebook, and my business website www.curvydonna.com.

What is a quote you live by, and who said it?

I love many quotes because they can ring true in so many areas of your life. My favorite quote is: “You are not your circumstances. You are your possibilities.” -Oprah Winfrey

Anastasia Galyon

IG: @anastasiagalyon

What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion means creativity. You can be whoever you want by creating whatever you want. You can create iconic looks by making your world, replicating timeless fashion, or using inspiration around you. Being the best version of myself is what I strive for every day.

How did you start your creative venture/journey?

I loved watching America's Next Top Model. This show showed me the inner workings of the fashion industry and how important it is to model head to toe. However, I didn't know how to break into the fashion industry until COVID came. When Covid hit, I decided to attend an online casting call with I'm Next Modeling, and I got chosen to be a part of their plus-size model team. I'm Next Modeling has set me up with countless photoshoots, runway shows, video shoots, and networks with designers like Adli Monroe.

Have you ever thought about giving up?

No, but I have plenty of excuses to give up. Having a child young, being broke, not knowing what I want to do with my life, and sometimes feeling uninspired are reasons I may have settled for an average life. However, once I learned from my mistakes and found solutions to improve my life, I accomplished much more things. I graduated college with a Bachelors's degree, became a plus-size model, am an amazing mom to my son, and started my business Curvy Donna for plus-size fashion and unique accessories and shoes.

If you can have the power to share anything with the world, what would that be?

Buy plus-size clothing and accessories from my brand Curvy Donna! I love supporting other designers and small businesses, so definitely shop from Adli Monroe and any local/small business in your area.

Brandon Jerrod

IG: @brandonjerrod

What is your source of inspiration?

My source of inspiration in all things fashion. All things NYC! I love this city’s international yet unmistakably American feel, and I embrace and am inspired by my surroundings every day!

How did you start your creative journey?

I started my creative journey as a kid, dancing and doing talent shows in grade and high school. My first passion has always been dance! Later I started writing and recording my songs; much later, I got into modeling.

What is your favorite quote?

My Hustle in a few words, “I will sleep when I’m dead.”

If you can share anything with the world, what would that be?

I would tell the world to DREAM BIG and WORK HARD and EXPECT nothing from anyone!

This past year was unlike any other; how did it affect your creativity?

This past year was good for me because I hustled harder than ever while others were sleeping.

How is your support team on a scale from 1-10?

My support team 8

Have you ever thought about giving up?

No, “I WILL NEVER GIVE UP.”

Do you have a 5-year plan? If yes, what is it?

My 5-year goal is to be rich and very well known internationally.

You win a million dollars, what will you do?

With a million bucks, I invest heavily into my career and brand! Because, unfortunately, no one will invest in you like yourself.

What would you say to your 10-year-old self about life as you know it?

I would tell my 10-year-old self not to stray from the path even it seems like it is taking a long time. Don’t give up the best is yet to come!

What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion means everything to me because there is fashion in everything. Fashion influences all industries, and recognizing that allows me to see the world in full color.

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