Fashion, Family, and Creative Evolution: The Artistry of Aaron Potts

Early Influences and Parsons Days  Aaron shares his roots in Detroit, emphasizing the significant influence the city had on his work.  Reflecting on his time at Parsons, Aaron talks about being one of the few people of color and the impact of industry shifts in the '90s.    Mentors and Personal Loss  Aaron discusses the early loss of his parents and how it shaped his resilience.  Brandice and Aaron explore the pivotal role of mentors, highlighting a special teacher who became a surrogate mother.    Fashion, Independence, and Cotton  Aaron's father's influence on his independence and practicality.  The impact of a blue-collar upbringing on Aaron's design perspective, especially his affinity for practical fabrics like cotton.    Career in Fashion and Industry Challenges  Aaron's extensive career working with Emmanuel and Garrow and the challenges faced by black designers in the industry.   The impact of the "one black model" rule and the European pedigree requirement in design rooms, casting offices, and editorial staff.    Illustrations as Art and Entrepreneurship  The evolution of Aaron's fashion illustrations, touching on his previous venture into greeting cards.  Brandice expresses admiration for Aaron's illustrations and suggests they could be a unique revenue stream.    From Brands to Own Line  Aaron's diverse experience working for various brands, including Sabbath Avenue.  The decision to launch his own line in 2019, driven by a desire to break free from a challenging job and a crossroads moment in his career.    The Crossroads Moment  Aaron reflects on a challenging job that led him to question if he wanted to continue working for others or embark on his creative journey.    Fashion Beginnings  Brandice discovers Aaron's Parsons graduate background and his experience working with renowned designers like Badgley Mischka and Donna Karan.  Aaron shares his early introduction to fashion, starting with illustrations of jewelry for Donna Karan collection, highlighting the impact of his artistic expression.    Independence, and Inspiration  The discussion moves into Aaron's early experiences of independence, learning to drive at 11, and the impact of his blue-collar background on his design perspective.  Aaron emphasizes the significance of practicality and usefulness in his designs, drawing inspiration from the blue-collar workwear he grew up with.   The conversation touches on Aaron's use of cotton in his collections and his approach to elevating simple, practical items on a grand scale.    Industry Challenges  The conversation sheds light on the scarcity of black talent in design rooms and the industry's preference for European pedigree.  Aaron shares his personal experience of breaking into the industry, working with Emmanuel and Garrow's American diffusion line, and the subsequent shift in the fashion landscape.    Launching A Potts and Creative Vision  The discussion transitions to Aaron's decision to launch his own line, A Potts, in 2019, and the pivotal role of meditation, self-reflection, and personal fashion creations in the process.  Brandice recounts her positive experience wearing an A Potts dress to the White House and the enthusiastic response from security guards.   Aaron talks about his intentional vision for A Potts as the go-to brand for creative professionals, emphasizing the importance of community, collaboration, and the energy infused into the creative process.  The conversation concludes with Aaron's aspirations for A Potts, his desire to feed the lives of creators, and the impact of culture in today's interconnected world.    Website: APOTTScollection Visit us at https://www.harlemsfashionrow.com/ Follow HFR! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlemsfashionrow/?hl=en  Twitter: https://twitter.com/hfrmovement?lang=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HFRMovement/ ABOUT HFR: Harlem's Fashion Row is the epicenter of fashion for the multicultural audience committed to curating one designer, one story, and one collection at a time.