Girls who understand it, understand it, and understand that LaQuan Smith is running the fashion game, one ensemble at a time. Known for creating looks for stars, the fashionist has been eclectic since 2013.
His recent Met Gala afterparty featured celebrities like Teyana Taylor and Saucy Santana, and guests were served Popeye’s chicken sandwiches and free merchandise all night long. Glamour or not, Smith knows how to set the mood.
As he makes his mark, the celebrated designer is one of the latest faces to partner with Cîroc to introduce the liquor brand’s newest flavor, Passion. LaQuan Smith caught up with REVOLT as they celebrated the launch of Cîroc Passion Vodka at an exclusive party to talk about exciting Black Business Month partnerships, fashion, music and more.
What made you want to collaborate with Cîroc?
Cîroc is definitely a big supporter of the brand and of me as a designer. At the recent Met Gala afterparty, the brand was one of the major liquor sponsors, so it started an organic relationship between us. At this point, Cîroc is family.More importantly, I am very inspired Didi Because he has always been a huge influence on me and my design aesthetic. His videos, his fashion — I am very impressed with him and the business he has built. It felt very organic for me to be a part of this initiative and the creative side of integrating art, culture, fashion and music. I am very honored to be part of it.
Speaking of fashion, what’s your favorite Diddy music video? Give the timeless classic.
Wow, he has a lot of classics, so it’s very difficult. Also, “All About the Benjamins”. Lil’ Kim was rocking Chanel suspenders, that’s the vibe. He’s had great hits with other artists like Total – I love what he’s created.
You are known for throwing the best after parties. At a recent event, guests enjoyed gifts and Popeye’s chicken sandwiches. How does it feel to know that not only have you reached fashion icon status, but your party is definitely not to be missed?
Well, I’m honored to say that I’m iconic. If anything, I think I live my life to the fullest by being myself. I do what I love and am very passionate about including moods, vibes and attitudes. Not only in fashion, but also in creating spaces and venue spaces where people step in and say, “I can’t forget this night.” For me, I like to have fun and make people feel sexy and attractive. That’s the attitude. I do my job, I live my life, I’m a native New Yorker. I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do.
The fusion of fashion and music, especially hip-hop, is very iconic. How do you see yourself continuing that trend with your collection?
I feel permeated by the women I dress in—female artists and rappers. Runway The music she plays at her shows and parties has an impact. Even during the creative process, I’m always listening to her Lil Kim and her Foxy Brown from the 90’s, emphasizing that attitude, especially for the fall/winter season. It’s all about the puffer coat and puffer boots. To be precise, those thighhighs. Music moves me in a way like no other. You can travel and sketch for inspiration, or watch a movie at night, but when it comes to creativity and design, music really inspires me.
Is there a hip-hop artist you would like to create a collaboration line with?
I can’t say specifically, but I’m so honored that everyone from Nicki Minaj to Lil’ Kim to new girls like Koi Leray and City Girls are wearing Laquan Smith and embracing the brand. That’s what celebrates the indefensibleness in female empowerment and I love that there’s a spectrum between different body types, ages and eras. You can get your life back.
How should you feel when you wear the original LaQuan Smith?
LaQuan Smith was often said to be a woman’s best kept secret. T.The hat means she walks around the room and gets a level of attention that men and women can’t seem to escape. A man is courting her and a woman says, “B**ch, you’re better.” Wearing a LaQuan Smith is a truly wonderful experience. She spent her whole life in that dress and it motivated and inspired her and I also feel my business is built in a very unorthodox way. A girl came up to me and asked if she had to be a celebrity to wear my pieces. When a woman wears her LaQuan Smith, she feels like she’s mega-her rock star.
In the words of Sheree Whitfield, September, spring and summer fashion weeks are about to begin this year. Please let us know what you have in everyone’s closets and what should be in them for the upcoming season.
definitely silk pajama set — A fabric that is silky smooth, minimal, fluid and sensual.
Also, congratulations on creating The Power List. How does it feel when your achievements are recognized?
It’s an honor and a humility. I have always dreamed of doing what I do.I don’t want to be the best at anything. I feel blessed to be able to see and hear —Hopefully we can continue that initiative to enhance and support black creativity.
I posted a recent trip to the Hamptons. Where else would you like to fly to for a trip?He names 3 celebrities he would love to fly with.
I’m always somewhere (laughs). I would definitely have to say Grace Jones, Halston and Tina Turner. I love those people and they are my girls that I would probably travel with.
