I met Latonya last year through work and we bonded over our love of fashion and fought about my disdain for Kanye (lol)! I decided to do a feature on Latonya after observing her amazing work style on a daily basis, but fashion sense aside, what I admire most about Latonya is her unwavering determination to remain true to herself. Being yourself and expressing yourself honestly seems like the simplest concept. However, in a world where snap judgements are made about the content of your character based on whether you wear your hoodie up or down, for instance, it can be very difficult to block out the noise of societal expectations and follow your unique inner voice. Have a look at the outtakes from Latonya's feature below:
One of my favorite quotes from Latonya: "[T]here are 'fully grown' adults who apparently can't fathom someone knowing what the 'rules' are and simply choosing to go another way. I'm well aware of the expectations that govern the spaces that I occupy, but I govern myself." I LOVE that. There is so much power in that statement.
D E T A I L S
Look 1: Coat by Bestow Elan via Nubian Hueman
Look 2: Skirt made by Latonya at Simply Cecily sip & sew, Sweater from GAP, F21 shoes/shirt/socks/bracelet, Belt by Saint Laurent, Purse from a market in Tunisia
I had so much fun shooting Latonya's looks. Her style really reflects her personality; attentive to detail, multifaceted, edgy & strong but completely feminine and beautiful at the same time. Here's how Latonya describes herself in her own words: "I am Latonya R. Bell and I am a native Washingtonian who is one part Nigerian and all parts fly. I am also a DC based Style Consultant. As such, I help people create looks and spaces that represent who they are and how they want to show up in the world. Soon, you will be able to see more of my personal style and work when my self-titled website goes live." For now you can follow Latonya on Instagram: @latonyarbell
Thanks for visiting!
Photography: Munje Foh