K.R.T. Cares: GenerationNext: Uncovered
“How do you feel pop culture influences peoples perception of sex?” -DJ Damage (GenerationNext: Uncovered)
Recently Kings Rule Together had the opportunity to be part of a great production titled “GenerationNext: Uncovered” which was produced, directed, and written by Shenille Latrice, CEO & Founder of iChoose2live.
This documentary features over 20 Philadelphia Teens discussing REAL life issues about SEX. Majority of the kids were styled in K.R.T. queens and kings apparel.
Some of the topics that were mentioned were:
1. Why is Philly burning? (Philly’s in the top 10 cities for most STD’s!)
2. Why are teens not strapping up?
3. YOLO!!!
4. Getting naked for social media
5. Is it Beyonce or Lil Waynes fault?
6. Who’s fault is it that you got burnt?
7. Do you need to get tested?
The documentary features DJ Damage (Radio Personality for Hot 107.9/BET On-Air Personality 106th & Park), GoGo Morrow (Singer, Songwriter Dancer – Toured w/Lady Gaga), Melissa Hopely –(International Speaker) and Lafayette Kanard (Philly Stylist & Designer).
PRODUCED, DIRECTED, & WRITTEN BY: Shenille Latrice
DP: Patryk Depa High DEPinition
ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS & WRITERS: Tobi Gadison and Ayla Tolosa
MUSIC BY: DJ Travelling Miles and Shawn from CaliPlease share the video! Thank you for watching!
K.R.T. 2012 Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale!
“The 2012 Kings Rule Together Black Friday sale is now upon us!”
Take advantage of the MIND-BLOWING deals that we have in store for you during our first annual Black Friday/ Cyber Monday sale event from Midnight November 23- Midnight November 26, 2012.
Don’t miss your chance to purchase $15 t-shirts and $10 tanks while the sale lasts. In addition to those great deals you will also receive 25% off your total purchase at checkout when you enter KRTBLACKFRIDAY at our online SHOP!
If you are signed up to our mailing list you already know about this. If not, make sure you sign up to enjoy future offers and updates from your number one lifestyle brand. - K.R.T.
K.R.T. Press | Vivian Green New Video – Anything Out There
“Killing two birds with one stone”
I recently had the opportunity to style the leading man Kevin Moore in R&B singer Vivian Green’s come back video “Anybody Out There” directed by
Patryk Depa. I styled Moore in all three outfits provided by Kembrel and Culture Couture Vintage. Of course one of his looks would be the signature K.R.T. “Kings Inspire Kings” T-shirt. (white with baby blue inspire) available Here. Check out the video below. – K.R.T.
Blazer and v-neck provide by Kembrel
Blazer and v-neck provide by Kembrel. Pocket square provided by Armstrong & Wilson
A King’s Event | K.R.T. “Vision” & Summer “Inspire” Collection Release 6.28.12
“A few summer releases for the people”
Over the past few weeks, I have posted a few pictures of the new clothing for K.R.T. on my Instagram. With growing excitement the wait is finally over. I would like to invite all of K.R.T.’s current and future supporters to join K.R.T. as we release the “Vision” collection and Summer “Inspire” series on June 28th from 5pm-9pm at Kembrel on 1822 Chestnut St. Philadelphia, Pa.
Started by UPenn students, Kembrel is an exclusive shopping village for fashion adventurers who desire quality clothing and apparel as well as accessories.
In order to show our appreciation, each guest in attendance will receive 25% off of all Kembrel merchandise. I hope to see you there. – K.R.T.
Music by Dj Mike Lowry
Photography by Ricky Codio and Dominique Nichole.
Videography by Forever Dope Society(FDS)
Refreshments by Orange Line Phila, Victoria Kitchen and Abu The Juiceman.
RSVP HERE:
K.R.T. Cares | Career Days Recap
“A small visit can have a huge impact”
When we were younger, most schools had what was known as a “Career Day.” This day would consist of professionals coming in to discuss what their occupation was, what went on throughout their day, and the steps that it would take to get there. Of course it was great that they came to speak with the students, but there was a running pattern in regards to their occupations. These people were normally police officers, fire fighters, doctors, teachers and lawyers, which was perfectly fine.
Kings Inspire Kings Video | DJ Aktive
“Consistency, consistency, consistency” – Dj Aktive
The young King recently interviewed Philadelphia-based DJ, DJ Aktive. Dj Aktive is currently the tour DJ for Kanye West. Throughout, the years he has worked with Philadelphia R & B artist, Musiq Soulchild, R & B recording artist, Marsha Ambrosius, and others.
DJing is not just about playing everyone’s favorite music, because if that was the case we all could be a DJ. Just like any other craft, there is an artistry behind DJing. This day and age many of the up and coming DJ’s do not stay true to the original art form of DJing, because of technology progressing and everything becoming more simplified. DJ Aktive on the other hand is a well-rounded DJ who has taken the time to perfect his craft, knowing both how to mix and scratch.
“I taught myself how to mix,” DJ Aktive explains in the video. “As far as scratching I learned that from Jazzy Jeff, Cash Money, and DJ Demo.”
DJ Aktive in the video is sporting one of Kings Rule Together’s “Young King” shirts, and speaks of how he likes the KRT line as a whole, because of its overall message- “Unity.” He explains in the video his style when performing as a DJ, as well as offering advice to up and coming DJ’s.
His closing statement was that with anything that you do, consistency will always remain the key to success and I couldn’t have said that any better myself.
Kings Inspire Kings Video | Dj Aktive from Kings Rule Together on Vimeo.
K.R.T. x NBHB Heart Brker Pin Collab
“putting your heart into your art and breaking limitations”
Kings Rule Together second time collaborating on a product is with the Philadelphia based brand Natrl Born Heart Brkers. Natrl Born Heart Brkers is all about putting your heart into your art and breaking limitations, which is what Kings Rule Together is all about. I decide to incorporate the popular ”Kings INSPIRE Kings,” and “Queens INSPIRE Kings” Designs into the pins because I believe in these motto’s wholeheartedly. In an effort to continue sharing these beliefs, Natrl Born Heart Brkers and I decided that another collaboration was the best option.
As you can see from the video, the pins are hand painted and crafted with precision and care. The finished product is a reflection of the heart of both brands, and can be chosen in 4 different styles for Kings and Queens alike. – K.R.T.
Custom Lifestyle Recap
“Rule of Three”
When I hear the words “custom lifestyle” I think of creating your own destiny and making your own rules. Putting things together that don’t necessarily belong but make them work for you is a great way to describe the event that took place by the good brothers over at ButchershopReab, Search and Rescue, and Co-laborative lab. You might have heard of Search and Rescue before as they created my installation at the “K.R.T. New Online Launch” event. With each of these brands being skilled in their own craft collaborating in the installation of this space in Harlem 218 E. 125th st. Ny, Ny they were able to create an event showcasing a custom lifestyle through art, furniture, and fashion.
Search and Rescue provided unique antique props as the backdrop for showcasing custom furniture by ButchershopRehab, and original Colaborative lab paintings and wearable art. The experience was very gallery meets Trunk Show and all items on the floor were for sale. By way of many people being in attendance, tweeting and instagraming, it made the experience much greater by having those in tune with social networking wondering what was happening at the event as they took pictures of the unique display. All and all this was a great way of Kings Ruling Together. - K.R.T.
Check out some of pictures I captured at this event HERE.
Ricky Codio | “Evolution” Exhibition Recap Video
” young photographer with big dreams”
Recently, photographer Ricky Codio presented his journey as a photographer at his “Evolution” exhibition at the beautiful Gallery Exquisite. By showcasing both older pieces and through unveiling new works of visual art, this event presented the range of techniques and styles employed by this virtuoso photographer. In just a short period of time after launching himself as a professional photographer, Codio was regularly shooting for various clothing lines including Kings Rule Together, musical artists, and taste-makers, as well as many other clients.
The young photographer has positioned himself as the go-to photographer in the area for high-end, creative photo shoots. He has worked on campaigns that can be seen in such places as Essence.com, and XXL Magazine (to name a few). Various people and spectators came to the gallery to marvel at his works. He also showcased a painting done by the artist Ivben Taqiy, which was head-on in the likeness of one of Codio’s photographs, as well as showcasing one of Iris Bonner’s personal paintings for him.
The event was a success and not too long after that he sold his first print piece.- K.R.T.
Video By Derrick Woodyard.
Behind The King: i am OTHER behind the scenes video
“He’s (Pharrell) a King and I’m inspired by him… Kings inspire Kings.” – Curran J
Back in December I had the opportunity to be apart of a video for Pharrell Williams for an innovative movement called i am OTHER. As explained by Pharrell “i am OTHER is a cultural movement dedicated to Thinkers, Innovators and Outcasts.” Here is a behind the scenes look at the i am OTHER video. Director, Justin Francis, explained the videos concept, which was a loose parody of the extraterrestrial and science fiction films of the 20th century (more than likely “Close Encounters of the Third Kind”).
The overall message was that it was time for those who are creative, different, and socially outside of what is considered to be normal to step outside of their comfort zones and just be who they are. Pharrell as well as his artists Buddy, Maxine Ashley, and Leah LaBelle gave cameos and spoke of the project.
Check out the video below. You can see the young King at the 34 second mark and even speaking of my experience during the filming of the project at 2:10. mark. – K.R.T.
K.R.T. Cares | Curran J Visits His Old High School Video
“I want to be a successful designer and own my own clothing store” – Young King 2005
The words above is a quote from my old high school’s yearbook that I said. I didn’t realize that I said these words until I came back to Germantown High for the first time since 2005 for “I’m A Boss Day.” A former classmate of mine, who was there, reminded me of this. This inspired me, due to the fact that along my road to success, my thoughts along the way when exiting high school was to tell myself and others that I never really knew what I wanted to do. The thing was that I really did know what I wanted to do, I just didn’t have any direction while doing it.
That was my main speech this day. Sometimes you may not have a clue or even be qualified for many opportunities, but hard work, dedication and consistency are the few keys to success whether you have experienced a great education or not. I told the students at Germantown High my many ups and downs as well as the benefit and roles that school, teachers, and parenting played upon their arrival to the big leagues. My story was a perfect example of not being a product of your environment and overcoming the many stereotypes of today’s world. Though I have so much more to accomplish, I felt that I was a great representation of how you can ” Turn Your Dreams To A Reality.”- K.R.T.
Check out the video below by Forever Dope Society.
Events: Men In Pr & Communications 5.22.12
”you don’t want to miss this event”
On Tuesday, May 22nd, I will be a featured panelist at the Philadelphia Black Public Relation Society’s, Men in Communication & PR event. This year’s theme for the event is “Men in the mirror: the Role of Personal Image & Style in Media”. The event will be taking place at the NBC 10 building at 10 Monument Road in Bala Cynwyd, just off of the City Line Avenue exit via I-76. To attend this panel, tickets are being sold via http://meninprandcommunications.eventbrite.com for $15 for non-PBPRS members. Proceeds for ticket purchases will benefit MenzFit. MenzFit is a non-profit organization, that provides low-income gentlemen with professional interview attire and career development skills in Philadelphia and its surrounding areas.
Here is a list of the other panelists for the event:
Moderator: Mr. Kevin Parker - Owner of FBH Agency & Founder of Philly Fashion Week
German Cuadrado - CEO & Founder of PRPS Management LLC
Reuben Harley -“Street Gazing” - Philadelphia Daily News (Photojournalist)
Jared Michael Lowe – “Lowe Factor” – Blogger
Sabir M. Peele - “Men’s Style Pro“ - Founder & Creative Director. Men’s Style Consultant
Myself- Curran J. Swint - “Kings Rule Together“ – Stylist, Blogger & Event Planner
The event will run from 5:30pm to 7:30pm and will be a great opportunity to help students and men a-like to see the importance of image in today’s media. Get your tickets by clicking Here and for more information about the PBPRS click Here. It is an honor for me to be selected as a panelist and hope to see you all out there.
Be Your Own Boss Campaign Video
“When your working for yourself you must work ten times harder” – Curran J
I recently had the opportunity to be apart of the “Be Your Own Boss” campaign organized by The Imperial Media Group. Imperial Media group is a media agency with services in PR, Marketing & Event Planning. They also specialize in lifestyle. entertainment, fashion, non-profit & company branding. The “Be Your Own Boss” campaign features entrepreneurs that have experienced obstacles, struggles and criticisms but despite facing all of the odds that were pit against them they continue to strive and set themselves apart from the status quo.
“BE YOUR OWN BOSS” PARTICIPANTS:
Aaron Reid | Rockstar AR
Lawrence E. Nurse | Triple L Society
Swain & Ace | Ma’at Fashion
David | L’Creme Clothing
Curran J | Kings Rule Together
Franceleslia Millien
Jeff | Liveband Magazine
Akeem | BarrelHouseBKLYN
Samantha | L&L Online Media Co.
Nyne| NyneLyves
Luella | Freedom Fighters
Ryan | ShesRYAN
Sir TheLonious
Andrew Fennell
Quinn Aston | Aston Mozie‘
Kareem | DJkTunes
Shot by Scene Media
K.R.T. New Online Store Launch Recap & Videos
“Kings Rule Together New Online Store Launch”
Clothing lines, photographers, hipsters, the fashion foes brands alike gathered to show support to one movement two weeks ago, Kings Rule Together. On April 27, 2012 held the much anticipated launch of my new online store. During the K.R.T Online Store Launch, people quickly trickled in and taking in the scenery at The Gallery Exquisite ( 1040 N. American St, Northern Liberties) .
Upon one’s arrival it was hard to ignore the K.R.T. inspired paintings hanging on the walls by the artists Ivben Taqiy, Ibn Anderson, Bariq Cobbs and Ozlo. There was even a painting made in the likeness of myself. K.R.T released 4 new products – all now available on the new online store, which were displayed on an installation piece created by Search and Rescue.
People shared laughs over hor d’oeuvres and cupcakes designed in the likeness of K.R.T’s signature crowns. by the mights end multiple prizes had been raffled off including two designer watches from BlumLux and few new item from the clothing line. K.RT. ‘s first twenty-five guests who arrived that evening, received discounts on all apparel on the new online store. Custom INSPIRE t-shirts were available on site, where guests got to choose the colors of their shirt from OKG designs.
Dj Mike Lowry was on the 1s and 2s for the night, whereas photography was provided by Ricky Codio and Dominique Nichole. Videography was in full effect by Derrick Woodyard & Forever Dope Society(FDS).
The night ended on the best possible note with every guest leaving satisfied, emulating the king or queen they truly are. – K.R.T.
Video below is shot and directed by videographer Derrick Woodyard.
This video below by Forever Dope Society(FDS) captures the event from beginning to the end.
Check out the photos form the event HERE
K.R.T. Press | Jaden Smith Loves K.R.T.
“For all the jadenators”
Recently I had the pleasure of meeting the young superstar Jaden Smith. Jaden and his father Will Smith are currently filming a movie in Philadelphia called “After Earth” and it’s scheduled to be released in May 2012.
Since his arrival he has grown very fond of KRT, this will be the 3rd time he’s sported our apparel. Be sure to check out “After Earth” when it hits theaters we all know his talent doesn’t fall far from the tree. - K.R.T.
Jaden takes a picture wearing the signature K.R.T. design “Kings Inspire Kings” in his trailor on set at “After Earth” and posted it on his instagram.
Jaden has a sock line called Stance and he happily gave me a two pairs for myself.
Duke Inspire Kings T-shirt Release & Video
“K.R.T. first collaboration”
Only in Philadelphia can a Duke inspire a King. Recently, Kings Rule Together (K.R.T.) completed our first collaboration t-shirt with noted hipster brand Duke & Winston. This collabo itself was inspired by D & W’s owner Seun Olubosum and myself after our first partnered event at the Philadelphia Apple store in mid March. The event “Kings Inspire Dukes,” sponsored by Hylo Boutiques focused on the beneficial roles that technology and social media play in brand-building in today’s fast-paced retail market.
This exclusive edition tee is now available for a limited time on the K.R.T. online store, get yours before its gone! HERE
Check out the video Below.
Dukes Inspire Kings T-shirt Release Video from Kings Rule Together on Vimeo.
Photography by Ricky Codio
Videography by Derrick Woodyard
ABE Best Dressed Spotlight | Dougie Newton
“Its not a competition, just apart of the everyday lifestyle”
Arts, Beats and Eats is an event that is designed to bring out the best in its attendees from choices of music, conversation and even style. Promoting uniqueness and individuality, every first Sunday I scope the room looking for the guy that deserves the Arts, Beats and Eats Best Dressed Spotlight.
Kings Inspire Kings Video | Interview with Kwasi Kessie
“Kings Inspire Kings first video”
On my recent trip to New York city I had the pleasure of interviewing the man behind all of my B.E.T. 106 and Park success, stylist Kwasi Kessie. This is my first Kings Inspire Kings video which videographer Derrick Woodyard captured this short but insightful interview from one male stylist to another. Check out the video as it displays our brief discussion about his success, styling and his thoughts about my Kings Rule Together line. - K.R.T.
Kings Inspire Kings | Marcus Troy
“Blogging ain’t easy, but somebody’s got to do it” – Marcus Troy
I’m sitting here thinking about how I first found out about the Montreal native Marcus Troy. I’m not sure whether it was from hearing about him, or seeing his face in many different publications. What I do know is that he has found a way to turn his hobby into a business, which is Blogging! As Marcus says in the interview “it’s nothing wrong with blogging for a hobby, but its always a plus to get paid for the work you would do for free.” That’s the way I see it… If I never got photographed, honored, or even noticed, I still would dress the way that I do and have the same vision no matter what.
One of his latest ventures was “The Bloggers Project” that he curated at the Project Global trade show. He gathered some of his favorite bloggers to document the inside of the marketplace for menswear, buyers, and vendors.
I can relate to Marcus in more ways than one. One being that he is someone I believe to have similar values as myself, he doesn’t shy away from helping others or exposing people to what’s new. Like they say: “Ideas multiply when you share them.” Secondly, he is easy going and effective in a way that he attracts the right clients in an effortless manner. Its pretty amazing to be recognized and work with companies such as Nike, Project, and DC Life, all for just being yourself. Marcus Troy is one of a few Kings that I would not hesitate to Rule with. - K.R.T.
Read the interview after the break
A King’s Event: Dukes Inspire Kings Recap
“A key to success is consistent quality branding. Personal & professional.”
Anyone that knows me personally knows I am not a fan of public speaking. Even though you may find me with a mic in my hand occasionally, its usually never by preference. I feel that once you’re in a position to lead, you must step up to the plate and do so. That was my thought process on March 8, 2012, when I was nervously waiting to present at the Apple Store for “Dukes Inspire Kings.”
Once I saw the amount of people that came out to support Seun Olubosum and myself for our collaboration event with HyloBoutiques, the excitement presented was unmatched compared to what I was actually feeling. We ended up having a full house, packed with people from all over to come watch us as we discussed our companies and brands. We focused mainly on the beneficial roles that technology and social media has played with brand-building in today’s market. - K.R.T.
Kings Inspire Kings | Donwan Harrell of PRPS
“Find your angle, find your voice and exploit that. Dont just come out with the same stuff, because then your just one of many.” – Donwan Harrell
I was fortunate to have an intimate conversation with a Denim Icon. His famous brands need no introduction, if you’ve been on the urban fashion scene. But as a refresher, Donwan Herrell is the founder of legendary clothing lines such as Akademiks and is currently the founder and designer of PRPS. I chose to interview Mr. Herrell because he is a true inspiration and fits the definition of a King.
His story was intriguing to me because of his independent existence in the market place. He is one who is at the forefront of his ideas and dosen’t lag behind the trends or connects himself to a particular movement. He is just himself. – K.R.T.
Check out my Q & A with Donwan Herrell of PRPS
Dukes Inspire Kings | A Visual Branding Journey at the Apple Store 3.8.12
“For one night only the king will be taking over the big Apple”
I will be hosting a panel entitled “Dukes Inspire Kings” presented by HyLo Boutiques on March 8th, from 8 to 10pm at the Apple Store on Walnut Street Philadelphia, Pa. Along with Sean Olubodun, founder of Duke & Winston we will be discussing how technology has played a significant role in the building of our brands within today’s ever evolving fashion industry. Both moguls will chat on our rise, struggle, and leads into successful branding opportunities. This is one fashion forward event you won’t want to forgo!
Follow us on twitter @Hyloboutiques , @Godsavetheduke and @Curran_J
Using the hashtag on twitter #DukesInspireKings tell @hyloboutiques and @Curran_J what you would like to know about Kings Rule Together and myself.
RSVP HERE
Kings Inspire Kings: Illustrator Ivan Kasaj
“Positive feedback from the online community is really motivating for me” – Ivan Kasaj
I recently had the opportunity to be apart of a project composed of digital illustrations, created by up and coming illustrator/artist by the name of Ivan Kasaj. This was my first time working with someone who lives outside of the United States so I wanted to know a little bit more about him and his journey. The Trnava, Slovakia native Ivan Kasaj, is a freelance illustrator who likes to focus on men’s fashion, and ultimately turned his passion into a job.
K.R.T. Press | B.E.T. 106 & Park
“Great way to end 2011″
Terrence J wearing the Limited Edition “KING” hoody ($60) with the South Beach LeBron James sneakers ($160)
Kings Rule Together hit national television for the second time on December 20th 2011, as Terrence J rocked the Limited edition “KING” Hoodie on B.E.T. 106 & Park. This was a great way to end off 2011. Thanks to stylist Kwasi Kessi for the opportunity. 106 and park, a B.E.T. hit series and home of the top ten countdown can be viewed on air between 6:00pm to 8:00pm eastern time. Each and every show viewers can find hosts, Rocsi and Terence J dressed in the best of the best.– K.R.T.
Pre-order this Limited edition “King” Hoody HERE
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