Men's Suit Fashion 2021 - Black Menswear Seattle Flash Mob

"I am America. I am the part you won't recognize. But get used to me. Black, confident, cocky; my name, not yours; my religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me." – Muhammad Ali

Tell me, America, what do you see when you look at these pictures?

Shot by Jermaine Gibbs (J_uiqueeye)

Do you see pride? Is it defiance you're spotting? Does it make you feel uncomfortable? Tell me, America, what do you feel?

What I see is excellence. I see fashion. I see a powerful group of gentlemen who refuse to be stopped and can't be ignored. I see us: and I feel represented.

Black Menswear tells the untold story of Black men.

Since 2017 the mission has been clear: change the narrative, create empowering content, and provide a safe space for conversation and community.

The path forward is ever-winding, and some frontiers have yet to be paved, but we getting there. NeAndre Broussard, Evan Marshall, and the rest of the Black Menswear squad work to improve the perception of Black men in this society - holding fast to our strong roots - while reinforcing positivity in our communities. Representation matters; I'll say it again: Representation matters. Black Menswear is changing the old dusty negative narrative while reflecting our culture and uncanny style in ways that inspire.

Black Menswear has Three community-building pillars to make this engine go: FlashMob photoshoots, culture content creation, and social media influence/engagement. I was privileged to be a part of the most recent FlashMob photoshoot here in Seattle and was encouraged by the turnout: 

Coming together as a collective was prideful and hopeful (two concepts we need more of in our communities, two things we need more of in Seattle). 

Soon, I aim to be part of additional events and look forward to partnering with Black Menswear in the future. Because the revolution is coming, it's fashionable, and it ain't waitin on nobody.

So tell me again, America, what do you see when you look at these pictures?

ABOUT

Black Menswear works to improve the perception of the Black Man and encourages positivity within our community. Representation matters, so our focus is on changing the negative narrative used by the media reflecting our culture to inspire the next generation of their true potential.

Black Menswear focuses on three community building pillars: FlashMob photo shoots, culture content creation and social media influence/engagement.

Photos By: ILL WILL MEDIA

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Botox Injections: What To Expect

“Find your own way, have an open spirit, and believe in your own beauty.” - Francois Nars

Father Time is undefeated, but he can be inconvenienced. Join Amas and Dr. Fombo of La Belle Vie Med Spa for this informative tell-all on all things Botox.

About La Belle Vie Medspa

The chief aim of our services is to enhance and maintain a youthful appearance while preventing or delaying signs of further aging.

Dr. Tony Mangubat, a world-renowned cosmetic surgeon, whose experience involves not only performing most complicated and sophisticated procedures but also teaching cosmetic surgery internationally, knows how to achieve the best results suited to each client individually.

La Belle Vie Medspa aims to offer uniquely curated experiences for people seeking non-invasive treatments.

We provide the highest level of services, identify the unique needs of each patient and participate in their journey to enhance the beauty.

Food & Travel: The PNW Culinary Experience

"There is a pleasure in the pathless woods,
There is a rapture on the lonely shore,
There is society, where none intrudes,
By the deep sea, and music in its roar:
I love not man the less, but Nature more" - Lord Byron

Change—a neutral word, but often a significant one. Over the past year and a half, I've taken in the sights and sounds of the "great indoors" and needed to switch up my ho-hum routine. I'm tired of spinning the same wheels in the same spaces, and so I'm done. No more couch sitting, web surfing and Uber eats. I need something...Evergreen.

Lucky for me, I had some PTO stashed away and was able to make a trip out to Alderbrook Resort and Spa. Me at a resort? Yes, yes, I know what you're thinking, but hear me out. The fine people at Alderbrook gave me precisely what I was looking for: a comfortable escape nestled in the boundless woods of Washington State.

Echoing the beauty of Washington State's Hood Canal, The Spa at Alderbrook Resort surrounds you with the tranquility of Nature, with the aroma of cedar and evergreen, and the gentle sound of water cascading over rocks. It is the ideal place to bring body, mind, and soul into balance.

Culinary Adventures

Have A Uniquely Pacific Northwest Experience

As much as I enjoy hitting the reset button, learning a new skill or two is a must when on a vacay. With that in mind, I thoroughly enjoyed partaking in the Gathering Grove Culinary Adventure. The concept is pretty straightforward:

Walk on private, old-growth forested trails.
Learn about local foraging and mushroom picking with a knowledgeable guide until you reach the Gathering Grove.
Find inspiration from the natural beauty and your senses.
Enjoy an immersive culinary experience led by Chef Sara.

**Major Key: this experience is best for groups with 10-24 guests, adding an interactive layer: Talking with people. Something also lost to the past year and a half...**

The Gather Grove experience had it all! Nothing beats a guided nature walk within an edible landscape, good times with good people, and a multi-course meal in the open air. Shout out to Chef Sara who's talent is only eclipsed by her dope personality.

I'm always happy to leave the crib and feel revitalized being out in Nature! I recommend that you - the reader - do the same. Get out, go out and wander a bit - but never be lost.

"All that is gold does not glitter,
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king."
J.R.R. Tolkein

So check out the Alderbrook Resort and Spa, say hello to the great people there, and please let'em know Amas sent ya.

Sponsored by: Alderbrook Resort

Photos & Video By: Erin Wakeman

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Ultimate Guide to Perfect Paint Splatter | Diy Paint Splatter

up·cy·cle
/ˈəpˌsīkəl/
verb

Reuse (discarded objects or material) in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original.

In this contemporary approach to paint splatter upcycling, Amas presents a color and creativity collaboration with NuevoVintage.


Live Well, Dress Better - The African Excellist Podcast

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all." - Oscar Wilde

Living well, doing well, dressing well. Join AMAS as he jumps from reel to real in this introspective podcast you don't want to miss. This episode covers his humble beginnings, being adopted, finding his passions, dating, and how he navigates society, living functionally and fashionably.

The African Excellist Podcast.

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Welcome to Seattle’s African # 1 top comedy podcast hosted by the Fresh Prince Of Africa , Comedian General Mutombo. The former Uncut podcast , now The Excellist - is An African Pilau Rumble that takes both humorous and serious slants on a bevy of topics. With the continual global experiences by many diaspora Africans, the podcast is a good base to get different outtakes into the global African experience After listening, please rate, share, follow and subscribe , if you haven’t already . Now on all available platforms 🤙🏽. Podcast Support https://anchor.fm/general : Support: https://anchor.fm/generalmutombo/support

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8000 Kicks Review - The 1st Waterproof Hemp Shoes

Can you smoke weed shoes? Let's find out. Join me as I review the world's first waterproof hemp shoe.

Who makes 8000 kicks?

Straight outta the lore of the cult classic, How High, Co-founder Bernardo recently moved back to Portugal. After a few brews and spliffs with the homies, the guys chanced upon a timeless idea: a shoe made for smoking.

Unlike most under the influence ideas, Bernardo followed through! He started by asking Otilia - his grandmother, with over 50 years of textiles experience - if it were possible.

The answer was a resounding yes and the rest, of course, is history. These amazing hemp shoes exist, and the world is better for it.

Let's talk about the Explorer V2

The Explorer V2 is minimalist yet versatile enough for the indoors or great outdoors. It is comfortable, looks great, and is eco-friendly. Here's an interesting fact: hemp is a temperature regulating material (which makes it perfect for footwear) and has anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties. Clean, comfy, and made from the best things, the EV2 can't miss!

Care:
I don't suggest machine washing these bad boys as it might compromise the waterproofing and damage the shoe's ability to repel liquids and dust. Instead, hand wash them with warm water and soap. Take care of your shoes and they'll take care of you.

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Tips:
They only are sold in whole sizes, so if you are unsure of your measurements, size up. The shoes observe the international sizing standards followed by Nike and Adidas.

Pros:
These kicks are light, fashionable, and environmentally safe. They will enhance your style instead of cramping it.

Cons:
These shoes aren't that versatile as far as dressing them up. They work well with your casual outfits but aren't all in on your black-tie ensemble.
Secondly, 8000 kicks tend to sell out fast and are exclusive to pop-ups or online.

Cop A Pair: 20% OFF

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Seven Fun Things To Do At The Airport | Airport Hacks

This post is sponsored by Port of Seattle

“There is truly no other place bearing so much love as airports.”
― Ioana Cristina Casapu

Almost ready to navigate the friendly skies? Grab that carry-on and get your passport ready as Amas and Portia (of @girlfriendgetawayguide) present seven quality tips to make your airport stay a breeze.

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Top Things To Look For When Deciding On A Resort | Alderbrook Resort

"You're off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So... get on your way!" ― Dr. Seuss Oh, the places you'll go! AMAS is on the road again! Learn the do's and don'ts of retreat livin' as we check out the beautiful Alderbrook Resort.

0:00 - Intro

0:10 - Location

1:13 - Quality Of Rooms

1:41 - Chat Up The Locals

2:24 - Explore

3:12 - Avoid All-inclusive

4:08 - A Good Spa

5:00 - Outro

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ABOUT ALDERBROOK

An unforgettable, Pacific Northwest experience awaits you on the shores of Hood Canal. At Alderbrook Resort & Spa, our packages, seasonal offers, weekend getaways, and romantic escapes allow you to make the very best of your visit to Washington State, whether you’re staying with us to relax, reconnect with someone special or rediscover how special family time can be.

Crusin' with MB Seattle: The Best Or Nothing

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“Fashion anticipates … elegance is a state of mind." – Oleg Cassini

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Beauty, sophistication, elegance. Three concepts we relish, admire and invest bandwidth toward. For your consideration, I'd love to throw one more into the mix: satisfaction. When we add delight to the recipe, life seems a bit lighter; days seem a bit brighter, and harmony feels attainable. 

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During this chill photoshoot - led by my boy ILL WILL MEDIA - the good people at Mercedes-Benz of Seattle had us work with two excellent vehicles: the GLC43 AMG and the A220. 

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While bold looks and advanced tech on the whips are captivating, excellent customer service from these folks is the proverbial "cherry on top." The dealership made me feel appreciated, attended to, and fulfilled. Like attracts like is a great saying, and as I never cut corners with my style, they took the same approach. 

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A sunny day in Seattle is a rarifying and marvelous thing. Spending this time handling luxurious vehicles while cruising around my neighborhood laughing with Portia (from girlfriendgetaway) made me think of happier times and had me feeling grateful.

Portia (who is downright hilarious) also shared her gladness with the candor and professionalism Mercedes-Benz of Seattle provided. It was a win-win-win, and I'd love to work with them again in the near future (fingers crossed).


Simply put, the right people, in the right situations with the right vehicles, can produce amazing results. Mercedes Monday was dope, Benz Wednesday was fantastic, and I wish you the MB experience soon (no matter what day of the week). So if you're ever around the Greater Seattle area, head over to Mercedes-Benz of Seattle for their award-winning customer service, and let 'em know AMAS sent ya.

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HOW TO DRESS WELL - THE PERSONAL BRANDING PLAYBOOK

Fashion-forward men are vital in this ever-changing world. In this episode of the Personal Branding Playbook, AMAS recalls his passion for fashion, why he jumped into the game, some dos and don'ts for budding entrepreneurs, how to keep your style crisp during a lockdown, on-brand vs. off-brand fashion, and what new phases of men's fashion excite him the most. Be sure to check more drops from The Coach Chris Personal Branding Playbook, and please let'em know AMAS sent ya.

PS. Enjoy the 50+ outfit ideas.

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Everyone has a personal brand. The only difference is some people understand how to leverage their abilities and skills better than others. This podcast focuses on strategies and methods for entrepreneurs to use their personal brand to bring value to the world. The goal of this show is to teach you how to reach that next level of impact using your podcast. Enjoy interviews from top experts in business and Action Episodes from Coach Chris every single week!

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10 things To Know About Being An LGBTQ Ally

“It is absolutely imperative that every human being’s freedom and human rights are respected, all over the world.”– Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir

Respect, love, understanding, and a couple of laughs between bros. AMAS and @Kauffman06 dive into a world of fun and insightful questions (including pro do's and don'ts) from a queer perspective.

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0:00 - Intro
0:32 - Does size matter?
0:53 - What should men stop wearing?
1:36 - What are good hygiene practices more men should implement?
2:14 - What are some annoying questions that straight people ask you?
2:30 - Is it offensive to ask about your "coming-out" story?
2:49 - As cisgender heterosexual males, what should we never ask?
3:09 - What's something women say that straight men should do more?
3:27 -What's your advice for guys on dating apps?
3:54 - What does "Gay and Proud" mean to you?
4:34 - Outro

Casual Summer Style | Instagram Spots In DC

"Washington is a city of Southern efficiency and Northern charm." - John F. Kennedy

Traveling in Style

From one Washington to another, Amas takes a quick trip to the Nation's Capitol where he and up-and-coming photographer ShotsbyJ_ get shootin'.

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Fashion Stylists React To NBA Fashion | League Fits

"I'm never satisfied. I'm always trying to get better and learn from my mistakes." - Russell Westbrook Just in time for the NBA Conference Finals, a new crop of trendsetters battle it out on the "runway parquet to capture" AMAS gold. In this video, AMAS and Curator Of Cool ( @CuratorfCool )are back with more fashionable takes as they grade Kuz, Mr. Clutch, and the Cp3 on their postseason looks.

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The Empress Gin Cocktail You’re Missing Out On - Kansas City Ice Water Cocktail Recipe

Sponsored By Empress Gin


“I love water, especially when it's frozen and surrounded by gin.”

Join AMAS resident bartender - Fabrizzio - as he prepares this refreshing Empress Gin cocktail for those hot summer days: Kansas City Ice Water.

"When life gives you lemons, add Gin." - Anon

As summertime gets in full swing, please take a moment to enjoy all the beautiful sights and smells of the season. The distinct colors of summer -and the fantastic aromas associated with it - always pair well with remarkable memories and fresh beginnings. With this in mind, it only made sense for me to blend some Empress 1908 Gin, a few fixins and mixers, with a dash of creativity to my AMAS craft cocktail. Why Empress 1908? Micro-distilled in small batch copper-pot stills, Empress 1908 is handcrafted using eight carefully selected botanicals. This Gin is delicious, perfect for cocktails, and easily recognizable by its iconic indigo hue. The deep indigo color changes to bright lavender, soft pink, or fuchsia depending on the mixer, adding to the rich sensory experience of enjoying your cocktail. So live life to the fullest, take in the sights, sounds, and smells of summer, and make the most of it.

When life gives you lemons? Add Empress 1908.


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The Best Way To Make Beef Kebabs | How To Cook Beef Tips

Sponsored by: Fuse Sauces

“The are two types of vegetarians: (1) those who have beef with chicken; and (2) those who are too chicken to have beef.” ― Mokokoma Mokhonoana

Want all the beef with none of the problems? Join AMAS and Christina from FuseSauces as they prepare some mouth-watering lemongrass beef skewers.

Lemongrass Beef Skewers:
Thinly slice beef.
Marinate beef (approx. 1 TB per ½ LB - use as per personal preference).
Marinate for at least 30 minutes/overnight if desired.
BBQ on broiler (30 to 90 seconds on each side – 30 seconds for medium-rare). If no BBQ present, heat a frying pan on high. Spray pan with oil and sear on both sides – same as above.
Optional: Add a tsp of chili oil or sambal for some heat

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About Fuse Sauces

In 2007, Fuse started its first restaurant location in Yaletown (Vancouver, Canada) and slowly expanded to several satellite locations. Fuse Pan Asian Express offered delicious hand-made tapas and custom stir-fries.

Fuse Pan Asian Cafe followed soon after to offer innovative Asian fusion beverages – from honey Chrysanthemum ginger ale to fresh black currant ice teas.

In 2009, our customers started asking us for extra sauces with their food orders. When customers started bringing their own containers in, we knew it was time to bottle and sell our sauces.

By 2010, our sauces were available at local farmers markets, high-end retailers and our restaurants/cafes in Vancouver.

In 2014, Fuse TemptAsian Sauces was born in Seattle, and we are excited to offer our retail bottles (12 oz.) and food-service jugs (128 oz.) to customers in the Pacific Northwest.

SPECIAL THANKS

Fuse Sauces

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Fashion Experts Breaks Down NBA Fashion | Fashion In The NBA | League Fits

"Fashion is more than just how many colors and patterns you can put on at once. Being a great dresser is not necessarily about the colors you put on. It's about putting things together in the right way and then trying different things." - Dwyane Wade

Smooth trends and wavy trendsetters run the court, but few Euro-step like the NBA Elite, where the visiting tunnel doubles as their personal runway. In this video, AMAS and Curator Of Cool @CuratorfCool run point and grade three NBA guards and their stylish threads.

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NEW Spring 2021 Try-On Fashion Haul | How Do You Dress For Spring | Streetwear Men

Pack up your winter ensemble and prepare your summer threads! Join AMAS and Stylist Monica Tan B as they go through a clothing haul you won't want to miss. Also, stay locked in for a fresh AMAS giveaway! More news to come.

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How To Cook Homemade Pad Thai | Pro Chef Tips

Sponsored by: Fuse Sauces

"This country isn't a melting pot. Think of this country as a stir fry. That's what this country should be. A place where people are appreciated for who they are." - Jane Elliott


WARNING: Please try this at home. Fun to make, easy to eat, and a staple for millennial movers and shakers, join AMAS and Christina from Fuse Sauces as they prepare some delicious stir fry.

Thai Peanut Stir Fry:

  1. Soak noodles for 3o minutes to remove starch. Cook in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain.

  2. Heat pain. Add aromatics (suggest garlic and shallots) and protein choice (suggest prawns or chicken).

  3. Add egg to make crepe.

  4. Push aside.

  5. Add Fuse Thai Peanut sauce (note at bottom). Add cooked noodles and coat.

  6. Serve with fresh sprouts, cilantro, red pepper, scallions and crushed peanuts.

Sauce: If using only Thai Peanut sauce, use 4 oz of sauce. For more complexity, options include adding fish sauce, soya sauce, sambal and tamarind.

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About Fuse Sauces

In 2007, Fuse started its first restaurant location in Yaletown (Vancouver, Canada) and slowly expanded to several satellite locations. Fuse Pan Asian Express offered delicious hand-made tapas and custom stir-fries.

Fuse Pan Asian Cafe followed soon after to offer innovative Asian fusion beverages – from honey Chrysanthemum ginger ale to fresh black currant ice teas.

In 2009, our customers started asking us for extra sauces with their food orders. When customers started bringing their own containers in, we knew it was time to bottle and sell our sauces.

By 2010, our sauces were available at local farmers markets, high-end retailers and our restaurants/cafes in Vancouver.

In 2014, Fuse TemptAsian Sauces was born in Seattle, and we are excited to offer our retail bottles (12 oz.) and food-service jugs (128 oz.) to customers in the Pacific Northwest.

SPECIAL THANKS

Fuse Sauces

FOR MORE BLOGS

10 Black Owned Brands You Should Know

PSA: SBB! SBB! Support Black Brands! Support Black Businesses!

It's a great concept, a great ideal, and great for the culture, but where do we start? AMAS steps in with a few fresh finds and Iconic Black Brands - top to bottom - that you'll need to cop in 2021.

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