survival in the cities of the beast

I can’t believe it’s July 1st! The other day at work I was lamenting how July means summer is half over… in an attempt to stay positive, I’m going to think of it as, “half begun” and take steps to ensure the later half is worth writing about… I have a feeling certain individuals will help along the way… Although isn’t there some sort of saying, “Life is not measured by the number of words we say, but by the moments that leave us speechless?” or is “life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away?” I suppose I could google it, but I’m feeling far to lazy this morning. Anyway, I’m sure you get the point.
Anyway, turning to fashion… today’s designer intrigued me in both concept and application. 21MC (21st Century Maroon Colony) is a NY/SF based conceptual streetwear and design collective representing the Afro-Triangle. From Groove Effect: “to be a maroon is to be constantly confronted with the reality of survival. The development of a reborn maroon identity is the first step of survival in the 21st century. 21MC is that first step.” 21MC’s purpose is to provide Tropical Wear garments to the urban Maroon Colonies of the 21st century. Designers Emeka Alams and Yego Moravia believe that, “the patterns, rhythms, textures, and colors of Africa and Her diaspora, passed on to us by our ancestors, inform the way we create our collections and the way we wear ourselves on the streets. Each collection 21MC creates, tells of our rebellions on the plantations, and our survival in the cities of the beast (the “1st” World). ”

Their site is a bit confusing at first (I tend to find comfort in simple site design, clearly) — however 21MC’s fresh designs and engaging concept are well worth the click.

21MC has a shout-out to NAS on the site and they’re clearly a fan. I used to love Nas… back in the day. I don’t know about his new stuff. Is it me or is he just trying too hard? He’s trying to be too many things at once and never seems like he’s being himself in his music… except for his amazing first CD. Any thoughts? Carla Girl is clearly not a fan…