Alumni Spotlight: Kadeem Lamorell
Q&A with FSF AlumnUS, Kadeem Lamorell, Director, Press & Studio at Telfar
1. How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Eclectic, Ever-changing, Bold
2. What is the biggest lesson you have learned, through your experience with FSF?
The importance of making connections with people; your relationships truly carry you throughout your career and life.
3. The future of fashion is _____.
Less is more
4. Who or what has had the biggest influence on your fashion journey so far?
There are ton’s of people who’s been instrumental in my journey. One of those people is my senior director Kat who’s been a major inspiration for me. We both come from similar backgrounds in the Caribbean, went to Parson’s a couple years apart and focused in Knitwear. She’s an incredibly talented designer–her work was a big inspiration for my own thesis collection. She’s been hugely instrumental in mentoring me professionally and providing me opportunities to grow in this space. I’m super grateful for her.
I’d also like to cite my friend & co-worker Yetunde. We met through working together and developed a friendship outside of it. She’s a styling icon! She has such an amazing vision, drive, and passion for fashion that’s so inspiring. Through her, I’ve been able to connect with so many amazing people and learn more about the world of styling and what it takes to make it in a role like that.
5. Can you tell us about a project you've worked on recently that you're particularly proud of?
I was apart of the team organizing the opening of Telfar’s first flagship store. I had my hands in a couple things, but I was mainly helping operationally. It was a new and daunting experience. I never thought so deeply into everything it takes to open up a store; From the actual spatial layout itself and how it relates to customer flow, developing and streamlining an inventory management system, and the importance of visual merchandising to influencing sales. I came out of the experience with a new appreciation for retail and knowledge of all the pieces that have to come together in this process.
6. What role do you see mentorship playing in the fashion industry's future, and how has it impacted your career?
Mentorship has always and will always be super important to opening doors for younger people, like myself, to all the possibilities of the fashion industry. Without it, I wouldn’t have known all the various roles that play apart in the industry and how they all connect. It’s not lost on me how hard it can be to get your foot in the door in this industry, and I’ve experienced my fair share of unwelcoming people and environments. Despite this, I’m so grateful for all the people that have given me opportunities and helped me grow to where I am now. My hope is that there continues to be authentic and caring people to help guide the next generation of creatives into this space, especially black & POC individuals.
7. Any upcoming projects you'd like to plug?
I’m continuing to work on building a foundation for my own brand, while further exploring my interests in knitwear, music production, and 3D design.