Fashion Line, St. Frimpong, creates "distinctive yet diverse garments"

Budding Chicago-based fashion line—St.Frimpong—blurs the line between African and Western fashions. The label's Ghana-born design-duo;Eugene Frimpong and Kamal Ibrahim,aims to blend elements of style from both cultures into a singular expression of "everlasting glam". Day had the opportunity to chop it up with one half of the line's design team (Eugene Frimpong) and ask him a few questions.

Eugene Frimpong

Q&A

A.E.:How would you describe the concept behind St. Frimpong?

E.F.:The concept [is] to build and create a fashion empire that is inspired by past and present fashion apparel. Fashionable garments from earlier years starting from the 1920s to the present unique style of 2009 are all taken into perspective to design distinctive yet diverse garments.

A.E.: What's one major misconception people outside the fashion world might have about your line?

E.F.: That it only exists for the African community—when in actuality, I am promoting diversity. My clothes are not only inspired by the African culture but by many other different cultures and styles.

A.E.:What's your philosophy on the art of fashion?

E.F.:The art of fashion, from my perspective, is simplicity shown through creativity. Fashion is the evolution or the evolving of designs, colors, material, influences from the past, all to be recreated [but with] the ability to conceive new ideas.

A.E.:Tell me about your partner Kamal Ibrahim. How did you two link up and what does he bring to the line?

E.F.: Kamal is loyal and honest to me and I wouldn’t work with any person other than him . [We] met in Chicago at a party. We became friends, then we came out with St.Frimpong. He is the one who come out with all the designs for the menswear. He also models. [Kamal] is a very creative person and always comes out with something new. I respect him a lot and I know he's got my back no matter what, and in this fashion industry you need that.

Kamal Ibrahim

A.E.: What are some characteristics or attributes that you look for when selecting models?

E.F.: I look for an exotic look. To me, models do not have to be beautiful but they must have a strong presence in pictures. Their attitude must be professional, for example; they must speak well, present themselves well and know how to interact with the public. Communication skills are key.

A.E.: Define fashion sense. Give me your definition.

E.F.: Fashion sense is the ability to take simple concepts and combine them in order to come up with an extraordinary and high end look.

A.E.: What are your interests outside of fashion design?

E.F.: My interest revolves around art. Anything related to the art field holds my interest. For example, I love to sketch and visit museums. Art is not only my hobby but also my love. Constant reminders of design and art are what make me as talented as I will continue to be.

Visit www.stfrimpong.com for more information about the St. Frimpong line and contact information from the designers.