It’s been a long time since I’ve written anything in this blog. I’ve been writing posts – frequently to occasionally – since 2008. But I took a break in November 2010. Life took over, things got busy, I didn’t want to share about my personal life, considering how open I already am on my Twitter page, or I just felt lazy. Which is why I was looking for the right opportunity to start writing again. Preferably with deadlines. Preferably with a required word count of around 1,000. And for something I truly believe in.
The Genteel is just that: “It is committed to delivering quality journalism, unearthing the forces shaping international fashion and design, through the lens of business, culture, society, best kept secrets and street style. As multi-dimensional and stimulating as its readers, The Genteel is the inspired destination where informed readers converge with in-depth fashion and design coverage.”
Moreover, it is a tremendous effort and a slick brainchild of Mona Chammas, my friend and colleague at Blast Radius. I remember the day she told us about starting a pet project, but wouldn’t tell us what it was. I remember the launch of her street style blog, Geeky Chic. I have watched her hard work and results over less than a year. I saw determination, planning and passion she’s invested in this project, the hours she’s put in, the struggles here and there. And today, my friends, she launched The Genteel! Mona discussed fantastic plans and vision for the publication, and I cannot wait to see her succeed.
I am thrilled about The Genteel because I always wanted to be part of something like this. I wanted to tell stories in a structured format, for a global intelligent audience, and on a well-designed website (packaging matters!). I have something to say, and I am proud that I am part of this fabulous team of international writers and dreamers. And that’s where you will be able to find me twice a month. I’ve written my first piece and am including a snippet here.
When Daniele Tamagni, a young Italian photographer, went to Congo in 2006 on an assignment, he encountered a surreal sight that he did not expect to see. Against the backdrop of a Brazzaville shantytown, in the country ravaged by civil wars, bombings and suffering, he saw groups of spectacularly dressed men (and few women) in the streets. As Daniele later found out – through meeting one, then another one, and another one, – they were members of a fascinating Congolese subculture, le Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes, or le Sape for short. At a first glance, one thinks it is the cult of the cloth, but further research reveals it to be a revolutionary movement of sorts, which once defied political leaders. For some, dressing up in such glamorous attire is a way to escape and forget poverty. Sapeur Michel comments: “a Congolese Sapeur is a happy man even if he does not eat, because wearing proper clothes feeds the soul and gives pleasure to the body.”
Dandies of the Congo in full is available here.
Karin, we couldn’t be more pleased to have you on board! TEAM GENTEEL!!
Thank you so much, this means a lot to me. To the future!