In this insightful Q&A session, we delve into the creative vision behind the captivating fashion story “Black be the Love.” Renowned creative director and stylist, Issaka Bance, shares his inspiration and experiences capturing the romantic narrative amid the picturesque settings of Bassam and Abidjan.
The editorial unfolds its narrative amid the landscapes of Bassam and Abidjan. Drawing inspiration from the film “Queen and Slim,” it captures a romantic perspective, portraying the journey of two lovers navigating diverse situations with style and grace.
Can you tell us more about your editorial titled “Black be the love” and how it was inspired by the movie “Queen and Slim” from a romantic perspective?
Issaka: Certainly! While in Ivory Coast, I created an editorial titled “Black be the love,” shifting from my previous focus on an ‘it girl’ in “LA GO” to include a male perspective. The inspiration struck during a re-watch of “Queen and Slim” on my flight—the aesthetic, fashion, and narrative deeply resonated with me. Personally inspired by working with black bodies, I adapted and elevated the storyline with a touch of glamour.
What was the significance of choosing black-owned, African, and local brands in your fashion story, and how did it highlight the talents you aimed to showcase?
Issaka: Highlighting the incredible talents in the Motherland, it’s my responsibility to showcase black-owned and local brands. Supporting these designers is a deliberate choice, and seamlessly incorporating their pieces into the fashion story became a natural part of the process.
Could you share some of the specific designers or brands you collaborated with in Abidjan and Bassam?
Issaka: I teamed up with talented designers and brands, like Omôl, Gueras Fatim & Mine so fine (black-owned businesses in France), as well as local Ivorian brands such as Olooh concept, Gallery.Mvrgo, Studio Madoch, Djainin, Omanoir & Bees Accessoires, for this fashion story in Abidjan and Bassam.
How did the different locations, Bassam and Abidjan, contribute to the overall visual narrative of your fashion story?
Issaka: Initially focused on Bassam, unexpected rain prompted us to improvise. We selected simple and visually pleasing locations to complement the theme, elevating the appearance of both the models and the fashion, resulting in a unified visual story.
What were some of the challenges and rewarding experiences you encountered while working on this editorial in Abidjan, and how did they shape the final outcome of the project?
Issaka: The unexpected rain posed a challenge, changing our intended locations for the Abidjan editorial. However, we adapted, discovering new spots. The rewarding part was overcoming these challenges, and I’m satisfied with the final outcome we’re showcasing on your platform.
Male model : Jacket @oloohconcept Pants @studiomadoch pants @studiomadoch Shoes @omannoir__ Jewelry Vintage store
Female model : Dress @weareomol Earrings @beesaccesoires
Male model wearing : Pink top @oloohconcept T-shirt @Sandroparis Shorts @studiomadoch Jewlerys Vintage store Shoes Stylist owned Female model wearing : Dress @minesofine Shoes Vintage store Earrings @roussey3d
Set (top + pants) @djainin Jewlerys Vintage store Shoes Stylist owned
Skirt @guerasfatim Pants @guerasfatim Earrings, Bags & Bracelet @beesaccessoires
Top & Pants @gallery.mvrgo Shoes @nike x @sacai Jewlerys Vintage store
Creative Team
Creative director & Stylist @iam.issaka
Set Assistant Karl & Chris @karlguehia & @guehia_
Photographer: Marie-Jeanne @akobs_
Edit / Retouch @yavorsky_retouch
Fashion consultant @liamcdjg
Make up artist @rhamysa.off
Model @stephen_camara
Model @distrxv_