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Line: Akire Pierre
Designer: Marquis Smith
Site: akirepierre.com

Changing the word, one crochet at a time

Fashion is all about change. Every woman wants to have that fresh new look or have the latest style for the new season. There is no denying that styles sometimes repeat themselves; leaving little to the imagination. In the case of clothing line Akire Pierre by Marquis Smith, breaking all the rules has encouraged a completely new trend. By taking the art of crocheting to a whole new world, Smith has proven that the only thing constant in fashion is form.

Helium Magazine: What does fashion mean to you?

Marquis Smith: Fashion means life. Its not just physical it’s mentally too. It means not being afraid to be different from anyone else, and not wearing the same thing.

HM: How did Akire Pierre get started? How long has it been establish?

MS: It was established in 2005. I’m originally from the east coast, and I used to make scarves and blankets. A client of mine came to me and asked me if I could make her a crochet dress, and I said yes even though I had no experience making dresses. She ended up getting great reviews and people wanted to know where she bought her dress, so I gave her my business cards and almost immediately people started to call me to design for them.

HM: Who do you imagine wearing Akire Pierre?

MS: I want all ethnicities to wear my clothing no mater their background or culture. I’m not byist against everyone.

HM: What was your inspiration for this line?

MS: My inspiration was being color driven. I love color and mismatching things; like Picasso and his abstract colors. When people see it all together people will think “Wow that’s a great outfit!”

HM: Where can people purchase your clothing?

MS: They can purchase it online at marquissmith@akirepierre.com

HM: What is your ultimate goal for Akire Pierre?

MS: I want internationally successful celebrities such as Mya to have one of my designs.

HM: What’s your ultimate dream for this clothing line?

MS: It would be a dream to see my dress worn at an event like the Oscars or any awards show.

HM: What’s next for your clothing line?

MS: I want to hit the west coast hard! I would love to open a store on Rodeo Drive.

Helium welcomes Akire Pierre and the future of crocheting to the west coast. Whether we knew it or not, we’ve been waiting for you.

Staff

Tim Walker – Photographer
Vanessa Houle – model
Esther Au – Makeup & Hair Styling
Jennifer Elias – Fashion Director
Matthew Mountford – production manager
Andrea Hennemen – Photography Aide
Amy Krauser – Photography Aide
Chris Faulkner – Photography Aide