THE SERIES: MADANI BA

New York based Personal Stylist & Music Producer, Madani sheds light on his roots in Harlem and how it shaped his style.

Madani wears our Knitted Mod Stripe Crewneck Sweater

How did you get into Styling & Music Production?

I got into styling my freshman year in high school, working for different seasoned stylists interning and assisting and being a reliable person in people's lives. I've been given a special opportunity that would never have presented itself to me unless I took a big risk.

Tell us about your style of music.

My style of music is mainly hip hop and pop. My favorite artist of all time is Michael Jackson. I get inspiration from a lot of his old music videos, and it is what inspired me to get into the music industry. I've been playing the violin since I was seven, also rapping and singing since I was thirteen, all of my talents tied under one umbrella.

What does the Styling world look like today? Any new trends we should be aware of?

The styling world is so big and filled with amazing creatives, and yet somehow everybody knows each other, which can be really good or really bad. Being loyal and consistent can take you far in the industry. I'm always looking for ways to incorporate my friends into the work I'm doing. It can be as simple as referring a friend to assist an amazing stylist. You never know what you might just manifest. Trends to be aware of are vibrant color patterns, leather looks, trench coats, and puffy sleeves.

Any exciting personal projects coming up this year we should know about?

I've been working so long that this eventually became my normal I was just styling a twelve-page fashion story for the relaunch of Esquire Italia, a fashion story for the SS20 issue of DAZED China and also helping out my friends that might need styling tips for a video their doing for their personal career or project. I'm always willing to lend a hand to a friend in need. In February alone, I helped style three covers, and I'm so excited for them to be published!

Madani wears one of our classic Polos

What are some other interests you have? Tell us a little about them.

I've been studying the ins and outs of real estate for the past two years, and every day I'm one step closer to investing and becoming financially free. I don't want to be a person who has to rely on an employer to write me a check. I'm always searching for new ways to start a business or acquire assets that will produce income. My biggest interest as of now is building my credit and finding out ways to receive passive income, I'm always such a geek when it comes to finance. In this industry, it's not all about clothes and parties overseas, a big part of it is accounting and making sure you're educated.

Who is your biggest influence (music or styling)?

My biggest influence in the Fashion industry is Celebrity stylist Fatima B; she's absolutely so talented at what she does. I've been following her stories for about eight years, and she was one person who I admire and aspire to be like. Being African and black in this industry, you face a lot of obstacles that you must overcome, and I know there were a ton of things that Fatima had to do to inspire the world. In the music industry, Sheck Wes is my biggest influence right now; he's a kid from my neighborhood in Harlem with big dreams. I've always loved his style and energy. 

Madani wears one of our classic Harrington Jackets

What is your favorite activity to do with your friends?

I do so much with my friends, from studying hard on real estate and planning future investments to designing clothes that will be in a college fashion show. My group of friends is so diverse. I could be out playing soccer in Harlem on Monday, and then on Tuesday, I'll be shooting a twelve-page spread that could literally change my life. Everything in my life is a blessing, but the best thing to do in all those situations is to just be in the moment with the people I love, doing what I love. I like to be active.

What does Ben Sherman mean to you?

Ben Sherman, to me, is anyone who loves to show how they are feeling on the inside. A lot of the pieces resonate with me and could be my entire wardrobe.

What is your favorite piece of Ben Sherman clothing and why?

My favorite Ben Sherman piece is the Tonic Camden Fit suit Jacket that's a look I probably would wear all week if I could. I love looking professional it doesn't matter where I go as long as I come looking right.

Madani wears our Knitted Mod Stripe Crewneck Sweater

How would you describe your personal style, what are key pieces you can't live without?

I never know what I want to wear when I first wake up, so depending on my mood and the tasks I have planned for the day, my outfit will show a reflection of what I'm doing or how I'm feeling. When I'm going to a casting, I might wear one of my favorite suits. When I'm styling a shoot, I might wear a custom piece that I made to illustrate just how diverse my skills are. I cannot live without my favourite looks, when I walked the runway shows in Milan each day I wore my favourite designer, and everybody loved my style. 

What is a good mantra or affirmation that you live by?

An affirmation that I live by is living every day as if it would be my last. Life is too short to be mad and angry all the time. I embrace love and try to inspire people all around me.