TGFF: Thank God For FridayNYC !

TGIF means so much more when you were physically brought into this world on one. The nickname Friday stuck with Annicia through childhood. Although she wasn’t particularly fond of the name starting out, her mom always reassured her that her name was going to take her places. When it came time to put a name on her budding accessories line, her search for creative names kept coming up short of capturing her brand’s truest meaning. The Ancient Egyptian Civilizations stood for being true to yourself and your inner purpose. FridayNYC couldn’t have been a better fit for her line.

A fashion show project turned a lifelong passion for design into a line that recreates Ancient Egyptian headwear into stylish headpieces and accessories. This line is not for the fashionistas looking to pile it all on. FridayNYC is perfect for the seasoned style setter looking for that statement piece to pull their look together. This line offers pieces reflective of the timeless style and royalty of Queens and Pharaohs. She’s a laid back spirit with the aura of a Queen. Did I mention her pieces are stunning? Guided by the past civilizations FridayNYC is restoring life to ancient accessories.

HH: What are the roots of the brand? What drove you to launch FridayNYC?
AL: In 2011, LIM had a fashion show that I was asked to design headpieces for. In previous years I contributed dresses and other little pieces. After thinking about a headpiece for the show, I had an idea in mind for what I wanted them to look like. I went out, found all the materials, and used my mom for a head model until I was able to get a display head to design on. After the show, the demand for my pieces was bananas. I decided it was a good time to launch FridayNYC, with an eye on the market for headwear.

Friday captures the concept of royalty and timeless fashion the Queens and Pharaohs wore in Ancient Egypt. My interest in ancient civilizations started in high school where I studied artifacts, hieroglyphics, cultures, and fashions. I have friends interested in ancient cultures as well who also exposed me to that part of history. I was ready to launch Friday once I had settled into taking classes at LIM College in New York. Studying fashion merchandising showed me the business side of the industry and what I needed to do to launch my own line.

HH: What do you see the men's collection progressing into over the next few seasons?
AL:Him for Friday is a for a man who just wants to add a little extra to his style. I was inspired by men and their effortless styling. Men can throw on a shirt and jeans and just look so cool. The pieces for men are meant to be reflections of their personal styles: hipster, upscale, the partier, etc. Signature pieces for every guy include bracelets, cufflinks, rings, to compliment not compromise their style. The new year will bring about Him For Friday part 2, which will release a few new styles of bracelets and chains. All Him for Friday pieces are timeless and neutral so they can be associated with many styles.

HH: Who is the Friday client? Can your pieces be incorporated into a range of styles?
AL:The Friday client falls into a few categories. First are male and female. For the female demographic we appeal to the 16-25 year old crowd who are all around lovers of fashion and trends. They understand the importance of and how to implement statement pieces into their looks.

Him for Friday pieces are meant to be simple accessories. This collection is not about bling or extraness. The pieces are simple and authentic and can work with a range of male styles. City guys with a high interest level in fashion will appreciate Friday for Him .

Lastly, Body by Friday captures the elegant classy and trendy female. The pieces in this collection pair great with funky standout looks, like a body suit or bodycon dress. Embrace your body, adorn it according to Body by Friday.

HH: You are of Caribbean heritage. Would you say that plays a role in your creativity?
AL:I am South American Guyanan. Residents of Guyana are simple people; they may have little, but they are so content. Just as much as my heritage, Brooklyn also plays a role in my creativity. The BK culture is simple but everyone adds their own kind of extra to make them stand out. My Caribbean heritage keeps me humble, while Brooklyn keeps me inspired.

HH: What is your favorite part of Egyptian fashion? Any style icons from the era of Kings and Queens?

AL:I love the headwear worn by the Kings and Queens. Their style of dress was so elegant and regal. I am very mindful to keep the classic component of the style era present in my designs. King Tut and Nefertiti are major inspirations for the line. Staples for royalty such as the headdresses, arm jewelry, and neck pieces all have been influences on designs offered.