(Photo: Fab! chick of the month, Najwa Moses)
Q: How did you start styleaholics.com?
A: It all began when I started the concept for 'shopping parties' in 2001 when I was working for the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. This event allowed emerging designers to meet with press and industry professionals. Shopping parties opened up the door for many up and coming designers and gave them the platform they needed to market their brand. Before I knew it, I had styleholics.com, and discovered podcasting was a great means to promote. I hit the ground running and haven’t looked back since.
Q: Would you consider yourself a trendsetter and why?
A: People that are true trendsetters don’t say they're trendsetters…
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do in NYC?
A: I love to go out and take photos of stylish people! I am a true social butterfly, so getting dressed up and having a good time is enough for me. I also love to discover new restaurants, book stores and vintage spots. The best thing about New York is that your always 2 dollars or 2 feet away from where you need to be in life…it’s GREAT!
Q: Who are your favorite designers?
A: I love independent designers like Idyll Couture, Karen Brown, Harriets Alter Ego Boutique, Shane and Shawn Ward, just to name a few. I love shopping for great things; you have to be confident you know? A lot of stuff is in how you wear it; I might see something that others don’t see.
Q: What tips can you give to aspiring entrepreneurs out there?
A: It’s very important to be super strategic in everything that you do. Something else to remember is that it’s all about your relationships; you only have your name so try to do things to the best of your ability. Look at an opportunity closely; sometimes you have to take a step back to get to the next level. Most importantly you have to know your worth, and demand it. Please don’t ever let the light bill stop you from living your dreams, in the long run it’s worth it - just delayed gratification.
Q: Tell us about your accessories line, Salte…..
A: I’ve been designing my collection for six years. I work with leather, spandex, plastic-beads and much more. Salte gives you instant flavor as soon as you put it on. You can wear something simple and make it pop with Salte.
Q: Whose your biggest inspiration and why?
A: I want be a cross between Oprah, Martha Stewart, and Arsenio Hall. I’m not inspired by their personal style, but what they have done. Oprah has her own network, amazing. Arsenio had a show at night that was entertaining; that was big for a black man back in those days! Martha Stewart is everywhere you want to be. She’s a great person who understands that life is not about luxury but about utilizing stuff you need everyday. It’s all about creating everyday products and making it your brand.
Q: Lastly Najwa tell us what makes you fabulous?
A: My confidence….the fact that I don’t give a sh*t what people think. Also, I stay true to who I am. A lot of people don’t know themselves, but no one’s defining Najwa!
True dat boo! Stay fab!
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