Although it is Black History Month, Industry Rules Magazine celebrates diversity all year long. We support all communities of color. It has been encouraging to see and discover more Black fashion designers and having more people of color working within the fashion industry to help change the narrative.
A fashion designer on our radar is Lamar Clack, the brand owner and creative designer of the Lamar Lewis Collection. From celebrity styling R&B singer/songwriter Musiq Soulchild, to showcasing at BET’s Black Women’s Expo, the Lamar Lewis Collection brand provides fun and futuristic fashion styles with high quality that is built to last through the daily wear and tear.
We spoke with the owner of the Lamar Lewis Collection about his fashion journey, how he has been managing his brand throughout the pandemic, and his upcoming projects.
Q: How did you get your start in the fashion industry?
I got started in the fashion industry in January 2015. I have done many fashion shows in Atlanta, GA which allowed me to network with models, hairstylists, makeup artists, and other fashion designers. The connections expanded my brand into various photoshoots, television and film.
Q: How have you been managing your brand during the pandemic?
I’m managing my brand by using social media outlets such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. I’m looking for brand ambassadors as well. I also wear my clothing when going out.
Q: Which fashion designers do you admire, past or current?
The fashion designers that I admire are Reco Chapple, Mychael Knight, Anthony Williams, and Ruth Carter. It is great to see individuals that look like me and doing exceptional things in the world of fashion.
Q: Have you experienced any setbacks as a Black fashion designer?
I’ve had some setbacks in my fashion career. At one point in my career, I was put in a box as an “urban” fashion designer. I believe my work can be shown in variety of styles. It also took me some time to find my market. The social media outlets and fashion shows allowed me to figure out my target markets.
Q: Can you share some of your career highlights?
My work can be viewed in R&B singer/songwriter Musiq Soulchild’s music video “Start Over” (2018). I showcased my designs at BET’s Black Women’s Expo at the Georgia International Convention Center (2019). I also worked on another music video with music artist Lil Skies “Riot” as a lead Wardrobe Stylist (2020).
Q: What advice would you give someone who is looking to become a fashion designer?
The advice I would give is to figure out what style of design you would be interested in. Once you find this part out, you can navigate to find your target market. It is important to understand and learn about a variety of fabrics. Some fabrics do not work together. The business side of fashion is very important. You will need to factor the cost of materials, time for labor, and transportation to calculate your cost. The last thing is to continue to network and learn from other fashion industry professionals.
Q: The world will never be the same after Covid-19. How do you envision your brand during a post-pandemic world?
I believe my brand will elevate during a post pandemic world because I’m being consistent to perfect my craft. I’m watching videos on YouTube and doing research on sewing techniques. I see myself doing more fashion shows and TV/film projects in the near future.
Q: Do you have any upcoming projects you’d like to share with our readers?
I have some upcoming photoshoots and some fashion shows in the works. I’m currently working on my Spring 2021 line.
Q: How can people connect with you for business opportunities?
My work can be viewed at http://www.lamarlewiscollection.com, Instagram, and on YouTube (Lamar Lewis Collection).
