VSGAL:  How do you grade fashion? 

EVM:  I must admit I am curious as often fashion is like beauty - in the eye of the beholder. And I am the beholder!  But really, my classes are performance based. I am very observant, strict and critical.  I am like an inspector and nothing passes my hands onto the runway that doesn't meet UrbanCouture's high standard of quality.

VSGAL:  Have any of your students advanced into a fashion career in later life? 

EVM:  I have recent grads in fashion programs nation-wide.

VSGAL:  What is the most satisfying part of your job?

EVM:  The joy it brings my kids and the strong sense of self they develop.  Watching them grow professionally and taking pride in this program is heartwarming and amazing.

VSGAL:  If you had the budget to do anything with your class that you could imagine, what would it be?

EVM:  We would have an endless supply of fabric and materials and we would travel to NY and Paris fashion weeks.


VSGAL:  I read somewhere that your class (or premise) might be made into a reality show on MTV, is this true? what can you tell us about that?

EVM:  There has been some interest.


Fashion questions & tips:

VSGAL:  What is the most horrid fashion faux-pas in your book?

EVM:  Matchy-matchy...it tells that you really don't know what you're doing.

VSGAL:  What is your favorite recommendation for accessories? shoes? jackets? bags? hats?  Tell us a few of your favorite materials/items that you prefer to work with.

EVM:  For women, shoes and bags are everything! For men, shoes are a big deal, they can dictate your style. I have a weakness for vintage cufflinks. Jackets can also further develop your style and hats, well, be careful with hats...you  better know how to wear one.

VSGAL:  Is there anything else you'd like to tell our readers?

EVM:  Be yourself and your personal style will show through. Be careful of fashion "rules" and break them with confidence.

VSGAL:  Vincent, thank you so much for your time.  We are truly inspired by you and your talented students!  See you at the May show!

 

The annual show was on May 27, 2009 at Studio 1*five*0.


Further Links on this topic:

http://srt5.atlantapublicschools.us/grady/site/default.asp

http://projects.ajc.com/gallery/view/living/urbancouture0507/

http://www.11alive.com/news/education/story.aspx?storyid=128337