You're up-and-coming and under the radar, so tell us about yourself! What do you want the world to know about you?
Well, my name is Benton! Like Cher or Madonna, I don't want to use my middle or last name. I am a designer, artist, comedian (actually working on doing a stand-up show), and some say an outspoken jerk. However, in a more formal sense, I am currently a student studying for a degree in Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising. My minors are in Photography and Costume Design. I basically spend most of my days doing something fashion-related. I work in the retail industry, and I am also a M.A.C. Cosmetics freelancer. It's safe to say most of my time goes into this industry. Basically, I just want the world to know I am here!
For those that aren't familiar with your design line Beyla, how would you describe it?
Beyla is a line that I work and co-design with my wonderful friend Kayla Henderson. She is the very hands-on tactile one, with wonderfully planned out ideas for the line. She is sadly not available for this interview because she is working on her art show at a university. Where as I am the more verbal, business-oriented one, we make the perfect balance. The line itself is very us--it's not really one thing because in essence, we are not really one-thing people. I myself have many interests, and they don't always go together. I want the line to be a reflection of that. I want it to change. Change is good. At this particular moment, I am focusing on a very chic, dark, and edgy look to the line, but with a certain sophistication.
Who/what inspires you while designing?
I am very inspired by things like mythology, movies, books, and music, of course. I can hear a line from a song that really sticks out to me, and it can influence my entire design process.
In the future, which celebrities do you want to wear your clothing and accessories?
I would love for the line to be seen on celebrities like Victoria Beckham, The Kardashians, Taylor Momsen, Jessica Simpson, The Olsen twins, Eva Longoria, Britney Spears, Nicki Minaj.. I mean this list could go on forever! Celebrities fascinate me, and anyone that knows me would tell you that I'm obsessed with that scene!
Do you plan to overlap your line into any other industries?
I would love to be able to do everything from home furnishings, to skin care/make-up, and really any aspect of beauty or everyday living. We are hoping our next introduction to the line will be a fragrance that we have had in the works for some time now. As for everything else I believe a good brand can fit into any aspect of a person's life, and if the product is good then there should be a demand for it to be available in more aspects than just clothing.
Being from Nashville, does the music scene influence you?
Nashville's music scene does play a role in how I look at the designs for Beyla. I want it to reflect Nashville in a way that a lot of people don't see Nashville. I mean, it really is an amazing city with much to offer. Nashville gives a good vibe to this line because, like the line, Nashville has variety. There are so many different types of music and people in this city, and it all seems to go together very well. I would love for that aspect of Nashville to mesh with the line.
Rumor has it that Beyla is going to be releasing a jewelry line called Elixir soon. What made you guys want to start a new jewelry line?
Rumor confirmed! Elixir will be our first installment of the Beyla line. We are very excited to get into the production of our fall line. I picked it because I feel like jewelry is the best way to make a outfit your own. Jewelry can turn a pair of jeans and a white shirt into an entire look that really reflects the wearer's personal style. So, I wanted to start the line with jewelry so that people could get a good sense of what this line stands for. To be honest, when I style people, I find that most people shy away from jewelry. They always seem somewhat scared of it. So, I wanted to try and use our designs to inspire people to warm up to it. It's definitely one of my favorite parts of fashion.
How important do you think it is to make a name for yourself in the world?
To me, it is very important. I truly believe that I was born to be something bigger than who I am now. I believe that, with hard work, the line will do great. Kayla is amazingly creative, and I have a take-no-prisoners policy, so I feel like we will do great. Aside from this line, I hope to be seen on the red carpet as a host and a guest. I hope to someday host a show like Fashion Police; I would love to host E! News someday, maybe even have a reality show. Haha, I have big dreams. I am not looking for anyone to approve of them, because if I don't believe in myself, then who will? If you would like to support the efforts, please follow me on Twitter, @hellobenton. Be sure to keep a look out for the Beyla Facebook page and, of course, more information of my upcoming comedy act. Also, look for the first announcement and preview of the Elixir logo and some previews of the line toward the end of February!
