Shooting for By Dopest Dom

Dopest Dom (IG @dopestdom) is a self-taught designer bringing to life collections of high fashion and vintage pieces. Dom started designing clothing after his love for vintage clothing and style couldn't be found in stores. He also hated the task of mall shopping and buying clothing that was so accessible by others. With By Dopest Dom, he strives to create timeless pieces much like his fashion inspiration, Ralph Lauren. By Dopest Dom launched January 2020 and has been gaining traction ever since.

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On September 12, 2020, I had the pleasure of shooting the content for his latest drop, Collection 001. This collection was born from an idea in his head with inspiration coming from the color orange and the seasons changing to fall.

Becoming a part of this project came out of nowhere. Dom posted online that he was looking for a male model to shoot his collection, so I decided to go out on a limb and message him. "Hey, I know you're looking for a male model but if you're ever looking for a female... I'm your girl." Next thing you know he hit me back saying that they could use me too. See, y'all, closed mouths don't get fed. Go for something even if you don't think you'll get it because you never know where you're supposed to be.

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Prior to the shoot we had a fitting and I got to finally meet Dom in person and sneak a peek at his insane sneaker collection. Seriously, the guy doesn't play!

Fast forward a few days and it's shoot day!! I woke up early to get my makeup done by Tones by Tonae (IG @tonesbytonae). She gave me a natural beat that would work well with my look. Shooting in streetwear never gives me a girly vibe so I always want minimal makeup that will highlight my beauty while not looking too over the top. She definitely did her thing so huge shout out to her!

When I showed up on set, I was nervous because I knew this would be a full out production and I would be working with people I had never met but nonetheless was super excited. We shot at the Russell Industrial Center in Detroit which provided a gloomy and grungy vibe that really set the tone for what we set out to capture. I got into my look, met the other model and photographers, and then it was time to get to it.

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Once I shook my nerves and focused in on what needed to get done, I had a ball. It was crazy how well the day went despite being so hot I was literally melting and navigating through some sketchy terrain. We shot for about 3-4 hours and laughed so much it was hard to keep my face straight to shoot.

When I asked Dom how he pulled off such a great production, he told me that at first, he didn't know how it would truly go. He had a vision in his head but there are always nerves until you see it fully come together. That's the thing about visions, if you can see it, you can achieve it. If we followed more of our ideas to fruition, we would understand there isn't a thing we can't accomplish.

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I couldn't wait to get the images back after the shoot. I knew we made magic and I wanted to see it live! Collection 001 dropped September 13, 2020 and the response was great. It consisted of a hoodie, made to order jacket, a snap back hat, pants, and two leather bags. Dom sold so many pieces and our shoot caught the attention of the masses! I will forever be grateful for being a part of this project and look forward to teaming up again in the future.

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I want to give a shout out to Amber (IG @amblex) for the creative direction, our photographers Tommy (IG @tommy_strawn) and Tar (IG @tvr.m), and our videographer Brandon (IG @dxnkelly) for bringing our looks to life. In addition, my partner in crime Evan (IG @evankmahone) for being so dope to work with. Thanks for making me look good! They are all talented individuals. Be on the lookout to see what they get into next!

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If you are interested in copping some pieces you aren't too late. Unfortunately, the hoodies are sold out but there are hats and bags left. The jackets are made to order! Shop it all on www.bydopestdom.com.

Check out more from the shoot below and in my Look Book!

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