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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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Whole Milk’s Health Benefits: Navigating the Ongoing Debate

Whole Milk’s Health Benefits: Navigating the Ongoing Debate

In the realm of nutrition, few topics stir as much debate as dairy, more specifically, whole milk. While some consider it a staple of a healthy diet, others question its nutritional value. In this blog post, we aim to shed light on both sides of the argument and help readers make informed decisions about incorporating whole milk into their diets.

The Nutritional Profile of Whole Milk

Whole milk, as the name suggests, remains unskimmed and retains its natural fat content. This traditional dairy product is packed with essential nutrients, making it a rich source of vitamins and minerals.

  • **Calcium**: Whole milk is an excellent source of calcium, a mineral vital for bone health and muscular function.
  • **Protein**: It provides a decent amount of protein, necessary for building and repairing body tissues.
  • **Vitamin D**: Often fortified with vitamin D, whole milk helps the body absorb calcium more effectively.
  • **Vitamin B12**: This vitamin is important for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.

While these nutrients are highlights in whole milk’s profile, the primary point of contention often circles back to its fat content, which leads us to the next section.

Whole Milk and Fat: A Double-Edged Sword?

Critics of whole milk are quick to point out its saturated fat content. With about 3.5% fat, whole milk indeed contains more fat than its reduced-fat or skim milk counterparts. However, the perspective on dietary fats has evolved over the years.

Understanding Saturated Fats

For decades, saturated fats were demonized, linked to heart disease and weight gain. This led many health organizations to recommend reduced-fat or skim dairy products. However, recent research is helping reshape our understanding:

  • **Cardiovascular Risks**: Contemporary studies suggest that not all saturated fats are created equal. While high intake of certain types might elevate cholesterol levels, whole milk, consumed in moderation, may not be as harmful as once believed.
  • **Weight Management**: Some research has indicated that full-fat dairy could play a role in weight management. The satiating nature of fats might reduce overall calorie consumption.

The key takeaway is balance and moderation. Whole milk, when integrated thoughtfully into a balanced diet, might not pose the health risks once assumed.

The Health Benefits of Whole Milk

Despite the debates, whole milk offers several potential health benefits:

Bone Health and Development

  • **Bone Density**: Regular consumption of calcium-rich foods like whole milk can support the maintenance of bone density, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis in later life.
  • **Growing Children**: Children, in particular, benefit from whole milk due to its combination of calcium, protein, and other vitamins that support growth and development.

Metabolic Health

  • **Energy Levels**: The fat content in whole milk provides a steady energy supply, making it a favorable option for breakfast or a midday snack.
  • **Blood Sugar Regulation**: Some studies have suggested that full-fat dairy may aid in better blood sugar regulation, though further research is needed in this area.

Natural Source of Nutrients

  • **No Additives**: Whole milk is often less processed than reduced-fat varieties, requiring fewer additives to maintain flavor and consistency.

Who Should Be Cautious?

While whole milk has many benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. Certain groups need to exercise caution:

  • **Individuals with Lactose Intolerance**: Whole milk contains lactose, a sugar that many people have difficulty digesting.
  • **Heart Disease Patients**: If prescribed a low-fat diet, individuals with cardiovascular concerns should consult healthcare providers before incorporating whole milk into their routine.

Conclusion: Finding the Middle Ground

When it comes to the choice of whole milk, the decision ultimately lies in understanding personal health needs and dietary goals. Here are some suggestions for those looking to make whole milk a consistent part of their diet:

  • **Listen to Your Body**: Monitor how your body responds to whole milk and adjust consumption accordingly.
  • **Stay Informed**: Keep abreast of the latest research and dietary guidelines that pertain to dairy and fats.
  • **Consult Healthcare Providers**: Seek advice from dietitians or doctors, especially if you have specific health conditions.

To conclude, the ongoing debate surrounding whole milk highlights the complexity of nutrition science. By balancing its consumption with other food groups and heeding professional advice, whole milk can comfortably fit into many diet plans, offering a host of nutritional benefits along the way.

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