Conversation with Russell Simmons: Argyleculture at Miami Fashion Week

Entrepreneur Russell Simmons appeared at Eden Rock Hotel on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, during Miami Fashion Week to showcase his new line — the Spring 2010 Collection of Argyleculture . A crowd of more than 700 people waited in anticipation for what was being called Mr. Simmons' greatest collection to date.

The fashion show took place over a long pool outside the hotel, with models gliding on and off adorned in clean, simple clothes with fabrics rich in color and electric color schemes. The show was then interrupted by a torrential downpour, and the crowd was directed inside the grand room of the hotel. With music reverberating through the walls, the show went on — the clothes that had initially been clean and simple suddenly became more elaborate.

Russell's men's collection was one of the most definitive ever presented in a fashion show. The women who glided on the runway were adorned in full spring wardrobes — soft colors coupled with bold argyle print tops. The public was left in awe. Russell Simmons had done it again: a line that was not only versatile but also conveniently affordable. Premier Guide Miami's Marie-Junie Pierre had a chance to conduct a short interview with the entrepreneur at the end of the show.

PGM: First off, I must say that the show was amazing. The versatility and affordability of your collection is unlike any other I've seen. What inspired this new collection?

RS: This new collection was inspired by the lack of mentors in the urban graduates. The urban community needs more mentors that could focus on this new America. Some current mentors who are doing accordingly are Obama, Adam Sandler, and Jay Z. Many people in our community are not able to afford Ralph Lauren and I realized the need for the creation of a collection which could be something sexy of their own. Many of them grew up on Sean John and Rocawear. I wanted to create something which could be passed down to the next generation.

PGM: Of all the places to come out with this collection, why did you choose Miami?

RS: I chose Miami because of the mix of different languages, the versatility, and the fun and vibrant lifestyle with which it is associated. I really like Miami Fashion Week so I thought Miami was the best place to come out with my collection.

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