JKISSI : February-recognized as the shortest month of the year. It is also recognized as Black History Month, which embodies the progression of African American culture in various ways. Some people may find grief in recognizing the month as its own separate entity, yet to others the month provides a spotlight that shines on many African American notables from the past and present, who’s waves of accomplishment have sounded throughout the world. African American history is a single patch of the multi-patterned metaphorical quilt we call America which has seen contributions by many other ethnic groups.  To pay homage to these great African American individuals is an honor and to re-echo the great contributions of these individuals in our own special way is a quite remarkable feeling.

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Sewn From the Soul is an online editorial project brought to light by seven friends who have all collaborated together in order to see a bigger picture; ultimately meshing and intertwining Style and History.  History is important as it gives us the ability to trace back what has occurred previously to help us better direct ourselves to the future. Style contributes to one’s overall character and truly dictates our persona in everything that surrounds us. We all contributed our individual style to this editorial and used a primarily monochromatic palette to assist the Black History Month theme.

The video below is a behind-the-scenes look of what occurred at the photo studio, starting off with an amazing poem by Brooklyn resident and Street Etiquette friend Joekenneth Museau . There is no way to emulate the magic of that exact date, but to know that something tangible resulted from this gathering allows us, at long last, to begin to write our own scripture in history.

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Sewn from the Soul from Alejandro on Vimeo.

This video is meant to honor individuals from Miles Davis to Dr.Cornel West with a splash of our own Street Etiquette style. We hope you enjoy the editorial just as much as we did. I would like to thank everyone who took part in this , it will definitely form into a bigger project in the future.

“In essence, this is the time of the year when all blacks, be they African- Americans, Haitians, Liberians, Nigerians and all people of color need to reflect on their African heritage, culture and how far they have come in understanding the struggles and sacrifices others have made during the days of yesteryears in America.”

- Edmund Zar-Zar Bargblor

JKISSI : About every man has one in his closet.  It can be found mixed in with other clothing items or neatly hanging adjacent to other accessories. From remote memories of wearing tacky clip on ties when I was younger; to present day where I carry a slight obsession of purchasing neckties in the most intriguing of colors; the necktie has always been a part of my life and the overall male identity. But one of its more recent, essential uses is to compliment a dandified suit. Originally, the necktie never thought of as a fashion accessory could state ones’ status, occupation and identity. The military is a perfect example of this where Terra Cotta Army would loop silk cloths around their necks. The history of the necktie is just as vivid as the tie itself as researchers state the origin descends from 17th century Croatia.  After the first installment of the series post  “Accessories Are a Necessity,” covering the pocket square, we were well aware that we would have to do another post and the necktie was the perfect choice.

TM Design – J.Crew oxford – 3 sixteen Black Magic Wool Flannel Tie – Black/White braided belt – TM Trousers – Clarks Desert boot

Fit Description : As you all know, I like to play with different patterns. I’m no stranger to them so the purchase of this black and white speckled topcoat isn’t a surprise to many. Details such as the enclosed buttons when buttoned up give this jacket a clean profile. Unfortunately, that detail isn’t visible in this post. One of my favorite ties from the great people at 3sixteen is the wool tie made out of stout material. It’s my preferred width measuring in at 2.5 inches wide. In regards to another accessory, braided belts have once again gained my favor. This came after rediscovering my very own collection locked in an old box in my basement. The functionality of braided belts speaks for itself as adjusting to the correct waist size is just another braid stitch away.

The characteristics of neckties have also changed just as much as the time revolving around the accessory. From silk white-lace bow neck scarves to the simple universal shape we see today. The necktie can become a complex problem only if you allow it to be. I safely assume that every male of age has encountered their own scuffles with the necktie – whether it was selecting your perfect tie width – or having issues tying that much needed knot. The ‘Four in Hand’ knot was the first tying method I learned. It was taught to me by my Dad after my numerous failed attempts

One of my favorite photograph portraits on the Internet depicting a exquisitely dressed family from New York City. First thing I took notice to was the gentleman’s collars and ties.  -  from Scott Schuman’s blog

Below is my collection of ties. The brands vary from Gant, Hill-Side, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and vintage ties which still need to be shaved down to desirable dimensions. That is one of the great advantages of purchasing vintage ties, because they provide you with the opportunity to wear it present day and incorporate your own style into it at the same time.