Girls who get it, get it, and realize that LaQuan Smith is leading the fashion game one ensemble at a time. Known for creating looks for many of entertainment’s biggest superstars—Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and more—this fashionista has been in the range since 2013. Oh, and let’s not forget the after parties of its iconic.
His Met Gala after party featured celebs like Teyana Taylor and Saucy Santana as guests were treated to Popeyes chicken sandwiches and free merchandise throughout the evening. One thing’s for sure, whether we’re talking about events or glamour, Smith knows how to create an atmosphere.
As he continues to make his presence known, the renowned designer has become one of the latest faces to partner with Cîroc to introduce the drinks brand’s newest flavor ‘Passion’. As we celebrated the launch of Cîroc Passion Vodka during an exclusive party, LaQuan Smith sat down with REVOLT to chat about the exciting alliance, fashion, music and more for Black Business Month. Read above!
What made you want to collaborate with Cîroc?
Cîroc has definitely been a big supporter of the brand and myself as a designer. For my last Met Gala party, the brand was one of the main beverage sponsors, so an organic relationship between us began. Cîroc is a family at this point. Most importantly, I’m super inspired by Diddy because he has always been such an influence on me and my design aesthetic. His videos, his fashion — I have such great admiration for him and obviously the business he’s built. It felt very organic for me to be a part of this initiative and the creative aspect, where it’s about unifying art, culture, fashion and music, because that’s what I love the most. I am very honored to be a part of it.
Speaking of fashion, what’s one of your favorite Diddy music videos? Give us an all-time classic.
Oh, wow, it’s very difficult because he has so many classics. But I would say the one with Lil Kim, Diddy and Mase. Also, “All About the Benjamins.” Lil Kim was rocking Chanel slippers, it’s a vibe. He has other great hits with other artists like Total – I love what he created.
You’re known for the best after-party celebrations—guests enjoyed giveaways and Popeyes chicken sandwiches at your most recent event. How does it feel to not only have achieved fashion icon status, but also to know that your parties are never missed?
Well, it’s an honor for you to say that I’m an icon, because I don’t really see myself that way (laughs). I think if anything, I’m living up to my full potential by being unapologetically me. I am doing things that I like and am very passionate about, which include moods, emotions and attitudes. Even when it’s not just about fashion, but also about creating a space and a place where people come in and say, “I can’t forget this night.” For me, I like to have fun and make people feel a sense of sexiness and glamour, which is an attitude. I’m doing my thing, living life and being a native New Yorker. I’m doing the things I’ve always dreamed of doing.
The fusion between fashion and music, especially hip hop, is so iconic. How do you see yourself continuing this trend with your collections?
I feel that flows with the women I dress – female artists and rappers. It has an influence with the music I play at my runway shows and at my parties. Even during my creative process, I’m constantly listening to Lil Kim and some Foxy Brown from the 90s to really emphasize this attitude, especially for the Fall/Winter season. It’s all about a puffy coat and a puffer boot—high-top ones, to be exact. Music touches me in a way like nothing else. I might go on a trip and sketch for inspiration or I might watch a movie at night, but there’s something about music that really turns me on when it comes to creativity and design.
Is there a hip hop artist you would like to do a collab line with?
I can’t say in particular, but I’m so in awe of everyone from Nicki Minaj to Lil Kim to younger girls like Coi Leray and City Girls, who all wear LaQuan Smith and embrace the brand. That’s what it’s all about – celebrating unapologetic female empowerment and I love that there’s a spectrum between different body types, ages and eras. We can all still join a part of LaQuan Smith and give her life back.
How should one feel when wearing an original LaQuan Smith?
I used to say that LaQuan Smith is a woman’s best kept secret. Tthe hat means she’s walking into the room and commanding a level of attention that men and women can’t seem to escape. She is versatile. Guys are meeting her and girls are like, “B**ch, you better work.” It’s that kind of thrill factor — wearing LaQuan Smith is truly an experience. She took her whole life in that dress and it gave her a sense of motivation and inspiration. I also feel that my business is built in a very unorthodox way, and girls would come up to me and ask if they had to be a celebrity to wear one of my pieces – no, that’s the feeling she has. When a woman wears LaQuan Smith, she feels like she’s a mega rock star, so that’s a must.
According to Sheree Whitfield, this year will be September-Spring-Summer fashion week. Let us know what’s and should be in everyone’s closet for the upcoming season.
Definitely a silk pajama set – silky, sleek, minimal and fabric that has fluidity and sensuality in it.
Also, congratulations on making the Power List. How does it feel to be recognized for your achievements?
It’s an honor and it’s humbling. I’ve always dreamed of doing what I do, and I’m not trying to be the best at anything – I want to be the best that I can be. For people to unapologetically embrace me and the way I choose to live my life and build my career, I feel blessed. I feel blessed to be seen and heard — We hope we can continue that initiative in uplifting and supporting black creators.
You’ve posted your recent trips to the Hamptons. Where is another place you want to fly to for a trip? And name three celebrities you’d take along for the ride.
I’m always somewhere (laughs). I would definitely have to say Grace Jones, Halston and Tina Turner. I love those people and they are my girls that I would probably travel with.
