Alloyius McIlwaine. It’s a name that catches the eyes and ears immediately, much like the man himself. Find out about this Philadelphia based designer before the October 15th fashion show right here at Pitt!
Inspired by the beauty and diversity in cultures across the world (and the need for some extra cash during his college years), Alloyius started his clothing line Cultures Clothing in 2000. His passion for art, music, hip-hop, design, photography, and clothing captivated everyone he crossed paths with and the line quickly grew.
Quick Quotes from Alloyius:
~ I’ve been doing artwork since I was two years old. I work in acrylic, oil paint, spray paint, charcoal, pencil, ink, watercolor, photography and I also do sculpture.
~I graduated from Neumann University with a degree in Business Administration. I’m also certified in videography by Comcast Cable Communications.
~I started the line in college just making T-shirts as a way to make a little bit of extra money…but I gradually began to expand the line as I found that I loved to create clothing…It’s like another form of artwork.
~Born and raised in Philly!
~I am (of course) a huge Hip-Hop nerd lol. I’m also a big sports fan…and I played football, soccer, baseball and basketball while in school.
~I derive my inspiration from the various cultures in society…and I study all forms of art…from Graffiti to fine art to comic book art.
A strong advocate for hip-hop, Alloyius often writes about the stereotypes that plague the hip-hop culture thanks to most mainsteam hip-hop and r&b songs, which often talk about nothing more than club hopping, sex, and women, using derogatory words. Alloyius challenges his readers to go beyond the radio, music videos on television, and the mainsteam media before judging hip-hop as a whole form of music and expression. He cites prime examples of hip-hop artists who use their music to create positive change or promote new ways of thinking. The thought provoking lyrics he highlights often focus on social issues, politics, and ways of thinking that need to be challenged and corrected. Alloyius often lists his favorite new songs for his readers to check out and they always guarantee a refreshing sound, worlds apart from the auto-tuned, standardized pop songs we rock out to at Peter’s.
Aside from his clothing line, Cultures Clothing publishes a monthly online magazine which keeps the general public updated on the latest in world news, politics, fashion, art, sports and hip-hop. It also features heavy social commentary articles meant to stimulate thought and to promote learning, acceptance, and understanding: http://www.openzine.com/culturesclothing
Make sure not to miss out when Alloyius comes into town to showcase his newest, never before seen designs! RSVP here on Facebook: Cultures Clothing Fashion Show & Night of Cultural Performances