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Interview Spotlight With Alece of Blaxicana

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Hey there, fashion enthusiasts and art aficionados!

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the vibrant world of wearable art and timeless fashion? Join us as we dive deep into the captivating story of Alece Plasencia, the visionary force behind Blaxicana Couture.

In this exclusive interview, Alece shares her inspiring journey as a fashion designer, CEO, and artist. From her childhood influences in the eclectic San Francisco scene to her passion for promoting diversity through wearable masterpieces, Alece’s story is as unique as her stunning creations.

Get ready to be inspired, as Alece takes us behind the scenes of her creative process, her love for vintage wear, and her dedication to crafting one-of-a-kind denim jackets that embody elegance and sophistication.

So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and prepare to be transported into the world of Blaxicana Couture. Alece’s story is a testament to the power of creativity, passion, and unwavering dedication, and it’s one you won’t want to miss!

Stay tuned as we unveil the magic of Blaxicana Couture and celebrate the boundless creativity of Alece Plasencia. Let’s dive in and discover the artistry that defines true fashion innovation!

Let the adventure begin!

What initially inspired you to pursue a career in fashion design, particularly focusing on wearable art pieces?

The concept and passion all began at a young age.
 My earliest memories were of my parents having parties in our home in the basement, where everyone was welcomed, and also watching my mom sew on her old school sewing machine.

Can you share a bit about your journey from being an educator to starting your own online boutique for custom denim jackets?

Growing up in San Francisco during a politically charged time of the feminist, civil rights, and gay rights movements gave my parents the opportunity to instill in me the fact that the world is a diverse place with people
 of various cultures and backgrounds and it’s a beautiful thing that should be embraced.
 These lessons of inclusivity and diversity have been woven, literally, into the fabric of my one-of-a-kind/custom denim pieces and into the overall event, Blaxicana Fest.

How do you infuse diversity and creativity into your designs, and why is this aspect important to you?

Although I had a love and passion for creative arts, I choose to pursue a career as an educator, working for over 32 years as a high school college counselor.

I loved helping young people tap into their passion of discovering their dream career, however I always felt an emptiness and sadness within that I was not working in a creative field.

After meeting with one of my students who had just started her own t-shirt line, she
actually encouraged ME ironically by saying “Miss if I can do this, so can you”!

She showed me how to create a Shopify store, and the rest is history as they say!

Could you describe your creative process when designing a new piece, from concept to finished product?

My one of a kind designs are hand-crafted, luxury couture denim jackets all include hand sewn appliques and elegant Chinese brocade lining, a process that takes many hours to complete.
 
The first step of my process involves having a design meeting with the client after they have reviewed my online portfolio to get a sense of which type of jacket they would like me to create.
 
 We discuss the color of the jacket, style, color, color of lining and the specific appliques they would like. I also review their social media and other content to get an idea of their personality.
 
After our design meeting and I feel I have enough information, the next part of the process is to source the materials. I mostly find what I need in unique places in the LA fashion district, but there have been times that I had to work with local artisans to create specialty pieces. Depending on the wants/needs of the client, I then use the denim fabric as a backdrop and it undergoes a treatment of stone-washing and distressing to give each jacket a unique and vintage look.
 
Once I have all of the materials and the denim has been treated, I begin the layout design process.
 
Finally, when I feel the piece speaks to me, I put it all together by hand-sewing everything (appliques, lining, logo) to create a true couture, one-of-a-kind and detailed quality jacket.
 
Although the client is involved in the initial process, my signature style always involves the infusion of music, art, travel, and reflects my childhood memories of growing up in San Francisco and visiting the Haight & Ashbury scene.
 
By doing so, this ensures that my jackets are signature and timeless pieces of couture wearable art. My goal is for the client to feel that my design is completely made for them and a part of who they are.

What challenges have you faced as a fashion designer, and how have you overcome them?

As a Black female in business, I have had many challenges from lack of funding to being the only BIPOC/female at the table. I keep a positive mindset and I’ve been extremely selective with building
my team of other talented creatives to build a network for support.

What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers who are just starting their journey in the industry?

Take your time. Before jumping all the way in, dip your toes until you find the right mix of “water”, so to speak. You need to take your time, do lots of research and testing.
When it feels right, you’ll just know.

How do you balance the creative aspects of your work with the business side of running a fashion brand?

It has been tough, but having a daily schedule is essential.

Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that you're particularly excited about?

Yes! As we speak, I just did a Collab with DJ STARRZA, who will be performing at Coachella, as well another DJ ROMMII who will be doing several upcoming music festivals. There are more collabs in the works as well.

What do you envision for the future of Blaxicana Couture, and how do you plan to continue evolving as a designer?

I would love to continue to collab with the music community and evolve into the go to artist for a couture denim jacket.

What does a typical day look like for you as a CEO, fashion designer, and artist?

I stick to a strict schedule of starting my day with personal care and health that involves meal prep, my daily walk, journal/prayer and meditation.
After that happens, the day just flows.

What message or legacy do you hope to leave through your work in the fashion industry?

I’d like to be known as an innovator and mostly that I care about my clients as individuals.

Finally, where can our readers find your work and stay updated on your latest projects and performances?

I’m planning on having an annual event in April called BLAXICANA FEST: Follow: @blaxicanafest and visit the website: www.blaxicanafest.com
Also, If you’d like to set up a design meeting throughout the year, contact me via email: blaxicanacouture@gmail.com , Follow on IG: @blaxicanacouture
and also check out the website: www.blaxicanacouture.com

If you’re an artist, model, makeup artist, photographer, or anyone with aspirations of making it big in Hollywood, we want to hear from you!

Click here to share your story, showcase your talents, and be featured in an exclusive interview with Hollywoodland Magazine.

Together, let’s ignite the spark of creativity and bring your dreams to life. The stage is yours—seize the opportunity and let your star shine bright!

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Four Foods to Avoid for a Long and Healthy Life

Four Foods to Avoid for a Long and Healthy Life

In our quest for longevity and health, the saying “you are what you eat” rings truer than ever. Many of us are now more conscious about the dietary choices we make every day, especially when it comes to avoiding foods that may hinder our chances of living long, healthy lives. In this article, we’ll explore four types of foods that could be doing more harm than good to our overall well-being. Discover the potential health risks they pose and learn about healthier alternatives that can contribute to a life of vitality and longevity.

1. Processed Meats

Processed meats have been a staple in many diets for decades, but growing research suggests they may have detrimental effects on our health.

Health Risks

Processed meats such as bacon, sausages, and deli meats often contain preservatives and additives that have been linked to various health issues. These additives can include nitrates and nitrites, which, when consumed in large quantities, may increase the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and high blood pressure. The high sodium content found in these meats also raises concerns regarding cardiovascular health.

Healthier Alternatives

Consider swapping processed meats for healthier protein options that haven’t been altered or loaded with unhealthy additives:

  • **Grilled chicken or turkey breast** – A lean source of protein that can be seasoned with herbs and spices for added flavor without unhealthy additives.
  • **Fish** – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits including supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
  • **Plant-based proteins** – Beans, lentils, and tofu are excellent sources of protein and fiber, offering health benefits without the risks associated with processed meats.

2. Sugary Beverages

While the sweet allure of sugary beverages is undeniable, their effects can be quite harmful.

Health Risks

Sugary drinks, including sodas, energy drinks, and even some fruit juices, are high in added sugars which can lead to a slew of health problems. Regular consumption is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of heart disease. These beverages contribute to unnecessary calorie intake and offer little to no nutritional benefits.

Healthier Alternatives

Opt for healthier drinks that refresh and hydrate without the adverse effects:

  • **Water** – The best hydrator, it quenches thirst and supports overall health without any calories or sugar.
  • **Herbal teas** – Naturally free of sugar and full of antioxidants, herbal teas offer a soothing way to stay hydrated.
  • **Infused water** – Add slices of fruits, vegetables, or herbs to water for a refreshing taste without excess sugar.

3. Refined Grains

While grains are an important dietary component, refined grains can be detrimental to long-term health.

Health Risks

Refined grains such as white bread, pasta, and rice have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber in the milling process. This can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels and reduced satiety, potentially causing overeating and weight gain. Over time, diets high in refined grains have been associated with increased risks for type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Healthier Alternatives

To enjoy nutritious and satisfying meals, choose whole grains over refined options:

  • **Whole grains** – Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, and oats retain their natural fiber and nutrients, contributing to digestive health and stability in blood sugar levels.
  • **Ancient grains** – Options such as farro, barley, and spelt are nutritious and offer diverse culinary applications.

4. Trans Fats

Although partially eliminated from many food products, trans fats are still prevalent in some dietary items and pose significant health risks.

Health Risks

Trans fats, commonly found in margarine, packaged baked goods, and fried foods, can increase bad cholesterol levels (LDL) while reducing good cholesterol (HDL). This imbalance significantly heightens the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and insulin resistance, an early sign of diabetes.

Healthier Alternatives

Choosing healthier fat sources is essential for maintaining good health:

  • **Healthy cooking oils** – Opt for oils such as olive, canola, or avocado oil, which contain healthy unsaturated fats.
  • **Homemade baked goods** – Prepare homemade versions of your favorite baked foods using healthier recipes that use unsaturated fats and natural sweeteners.
  • **Nuts and seeds** – Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds provide healthy fats and nutrients, making them an excellent choice for snacks.

Conclusion

Avoiding these four types of foods and opting for healthier alternatives can significantly contribute to a longer and healthier life. Making small dietary changes can lead to big health benefits, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and enhancing overall well-being. Remember, the key to longevity and vitality lies in consuming a balanced and varied diet, along with maintaining an active lifestyle. Prioritize whole, natural foods, and stay informed about what you’re putting into your body to ensure your journey towards health is sustainable and fulfilling.

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