MEET TAMIR BUCHANAN
We were lucky to catch up with one of Dallas’s Top Black Designer’s, Tamir Buchanan; creative director for Two Simple Clothing recently and have shared our conversation below.
Tamir, we appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most meaningful project to date, I would say is our most recent. Which would be Collection 4 ‘DEMISE’. An it means the most to me not because it’s the newest collection, but because it was the first collection were I was ale to honor my late brother DACODA GILMORE on a public platform. I’ve been the creative director for TWO SIMPLE since 2015. Our first Dallas fashion show was Nov. 26TH,2016. Well my brother was struggling with his battle against Lupus and he actually ended up passing away at age 30 on July 31st, 2016. So he never actually got a chance to see any of the vision behind the brand come to life. Therefore the title of collection 4, DEMISE means; A person’s death. For me, that person that I wanted to honor in demise was him. My brother Dacoda. I was also blessed to be able to share my take on society and other social issues that where going on in the year 2020 as a cultured individual. The reactions from the guest at the fashion show, stated that it really meant something to a lot of people and touched people in an inspirational way.
Tamir, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My name is Tamir Buchanan, and I am the creative director for TWO SIMPLE CLOTHING. I study graphic design and fashion design in Miami were my goal was originally to become a celebrity stylist. However, I learned very quickly that meeting celebrities and persuading them to let you pick out their clothes isn’t as easy as I thought. So I then chose the route of well how about I just design really good quality clothing in hopes that they will buy it. I then spent 4yrs just studying fashion, from brand’s storyline, to designers, to consumer buying habits, to color pallets, and anything fashion. I fell in love with the process of learning my craft before I ever began to craft. My first ever collection/capsule/fashion show was titled ‘Abandoned’ and it was in the heart of Miami, FL. on Ocean Dr. at a brand new venue called 9 Beach. Where the venue cost alone was $50k to booked. 50 Cent did the grand opening the week before as a special guest appearance. The show was sponsored and hosted by my dear friend Mario (We call him Highlight) and his company BDR (Below Da Radar). The SOLD OUT show was a major success. I only had 9 original pieces made that were showcased at the time. An we still did 30 pre-orders. But that’s enough about me for now. Let's discuss more about the brand and its’ story.
TWO SIMPLE was founded in 2015 by Tamir Buchanan. Tamir describes the brand as an “SIMPLE yet complex pieces at the highest point in taste” or “just some SIMPLE shit” at times. TWO SIMPLE CLOTHING aims to use its voice and platform to bring light to not only BLACK OWNED businesses but also shed light on designer streetwear. We’re committed to adding timeless garments to your wardrobe that answer the question of what people value most while shopping.
TWO SIMPLE CLOTHING collections are produced in Dallas,TX, Italy, and Portugal.
TWO SIMPLE continues to redefine itself every 2 years with collections and runways that combine storytelling, activism, debate, and social injustices within the urban realm; all while using collaboration to further the dialogue around the world.
TWO SIMPLE CLOTHING is sold limitedly online and at exclusive pop-up shops.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
BUY BLACK!!! PERIOD. It’s that simple. It’s TWO SIMPLE actually. Stop going to HM and Zara for a graphic tee and black ripped jeans when I sell graphic tees and black jeans. I try to wear 100% TWO SIMPLE as much as I possibly can and if not, I try to make sure I’m wearing something made by a black/brown designer. Weather that be Pyer Moss, Jerry Lorenzo, Virgil Abloh, Kanye West, Melody Ehsani, etc…I just try to tell people, shop the culture before you shop the culture vultures.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
NEVER STOP LEARNING. An I don’t mean stay in school, because that’s debt. I mean, question everything. An always follow your heart not the mind, because your heart was made by GOD and the mind can be manipulated. Trust in him and he will never lead you astray.
Contact Info:
Website: www.twosimpleclo.com
Instagram: TWOSIMPLECLOTHING
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twosimpleclothing
Youtube: TWOSIMPLECLOTHING
CanvasRebel is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know. You can read this original article here.
