Wunmi Girl and Alexander Derrick, the masterminds behind Zulu Rose

WHEN FASHION REFLECTS YOUR LIFE

Beyond fly gear and fabulous looks, Zulu Rose is innovating the fashion industry with something for everyone. The clothing line, the brainchild of Alexander Derrick and Wunmi Girl, is creeping into global markets, has all types of men and women looking fresh to death, and has done it in less than four years. Square Rootz has a chat with Derrick to find out about the man behind the brand, the clothing and his mission.

How did Zulu Rose get its start?

Zulu Rose got started in 2004. I started by printing on reconstructed vintage clothes and tees for friends. It was really just for fun, the love of fashion and because I could not find the kind of clothes I liked. Some friends referred me to some trendy stores in Melrose, Beverly Hills, Venice and Malibu, and the line has been in stores ever since.

When did you decide you wanted to make clothing and why?

I made my first design for a shirt, because I just didn’t see anything that reflected my particular lifestyle, upbringing and interests: Africa, America, art, culture, environment, music, money, sex, and fun. The rest is history.

How has ZR been able to grow quickly and successfully?

I have reinvested money back into the company, and now I have new equipment, better materials, better industry contacts, and have spent a lot of time researching high brand production. Zulu Rose is now as good as any high brands. We are growing, and people are starting to take notice.

Spring/Summer 2008

Since you’re not just doing women’s fashion anymore, what can we look forward to? Are you creating dresses, tees, and eventually haute couture?

Who knows were the future will take us. Zulu Rose is a fashion label with a focus on casual lifestyle clothes, with hand made production, inspired by techniques in Africa and Europe. We are expanding into beautiful dresses with incredible fabrics, scarves, and some one-of-a-kind pieces for artists and friends- I still make custom stuff for friends. Right now, I am working on new samples such as blouses, sweats, jackets, beanie hats for fall, and collaborating with a shoe company for limited edition Zulu Rose unisex casual footwear, not sneakers though. They will all be out very soon!

What does ZR stand for?

I choose Zulu because it is an icon for the fraternity, confidence, and discipline of a warrior, Shaka Zulu, balanced with the rose. It’s the perfect symbol of the beauty, mystery and wonder of nature. These are all qualities I think people should posses and celebrate.

Our next line is called, 13 months of Sunshine. It is inspired by peace, love, bright colors, and the positive light of African optimism that shines always. I am referencing some traditional dye and embroidery techniques from West Africa, mixed with fun graphics and lyrics from American Rock and Roll records. It is very cool.

When did men’s fashion come into the line?

I originally started printing on button down shirts for myself. I wanted something fun and interesting to wear that nobody else had. So, you could say the men’s line started first. When I started selling my shirts to stores, I was presenting both men’s and women’s clothes. Now, I am spending more time studying different women’s fashion to help create the best line for women. I want to make the women’s line even more interesting and unique.

Was the beginning originally t-shirts?

Not exactly. The beginning was just screen printed t-shirts and vintage tops. I didn’t expect to be such a big success. So, now, Wunmi, my partner and an incredible singer and dancer, and I are making new pieces and experimenting in new directions.

Spring/Summer 2008

The vision for the line is to show the vibrancy of Africa and the Diaspora. When presented correctly it can be original, commercial, and fashion forward. It’s for trendy people all over the planet.

I have always wanted for my line to be admired for its own merits, not because I am doing some trend or fashion better than someone else. I know I have achieved my vision when I see people imitating Zulu Rose.

What does Zulu Rose represent?

Zulu Rose represents the natural and organic lifestyle that is so desperately needed at this time. My concept is inspired by 1950-70’s post-colonial Africa. This was a period when all people, not just Africans, were very optimistic and there was a beautiful fusion of modern and traditional influences. I surround myself with the art, music, fashion, literature, photography vibes from this period. This period still has relevancy and much to teach the modern world.

What is the price range for Zulu’s items?

Our price point ranges from $44 to $200 US dollars.

Have you been influenced by different countries that you’ve visited?

Traveling is very important to me. One of my graphics is based on a pattern on a manhole cover I saw in Al Garve, Portugal. It looked “African” too me. So, who knows where the next inspiration will come from. But, I try to shy away from the cliché. I really mix up everything and everywhere that I have been. Zulu Rose is how my mind sees the world, so I love to give out a lived life.

How has environment affected the clothing line? Whether you have personally moved, or within manufacturing?

The environment of Los Angeles was a heavy influence, even though I no longer live there. I started hunting for soft and bright jewel toned fabrics that are appropriate for warm climates like Los Angeles or Africa. I also like hand dyed fabrics. I learned this in Africa, but I also mixed my ideas with the surf culture in Venice and Santa Monica where I used to live. Beautiful people in LA like soft and cozy clothes. That is how I make Zulu Rose – so you want to wear it over and over and over again. What good advertising!

Where are the clothes made?

Spring/Summer 2008

Zulu Rose clothes are produced in our studio in New York. Our t-shirts are still sewn, dyed and garment washed in LA- the Mecca of t-shirt culture. It is important for me to try and make as much as I can in America. I’ve grown up here and want to keep as many jobs and skills in the community that I live in.

Are there any eco-conscious or sustainability inclusions within how Zulu Rose is made?

Zulu Rose is very eco-conscious. We use organic fabrics, drain safe chemicals, low impact dyes, recycled papers, and eco-friendly textile inks. I have to live with the chemicals, so I want to make them healthy!

What is the ultimate goal?

Our ultimate goal is for Zulu Rose to be known around the globe, but still remain an exclusive and relevant lifestyle and brand.

Who is wearing Zulu Rose and for whom did you design it? Has that changed with who wears ZR now?

Local New York artists such as Manchild Black. Keyshia Cole has worn a ZR dress- it was in the hit video “Should Have Let You Go”. The up-and-coming South African rock band BLK JKS, Keziah Jones, and Susan Taylor are some of the more notable people who are wearing Zulu Rose. But, people from all over are wearing the line. Our electronic boutique has shipped clothes to Russia, Australia, and even to Mumbai, India!

Where can people purchase ZR?

Our website has a complete list of stockists were people can purchase Zulu Rose. We are going to expand to France, Italy, England, Spain, Japan, Netherlands, and of course South Africa. The best place to see a complete list of our latest stock, is to check our website- www.zulurose.com

Spring/Summer 2008

My inspiration comes from so many different places: what I see on the streets, what I experience in my travels, what I read in books and the music I listen too. Music is my greatest inspiration. I listen to all kinds of music from all corners of the globe and all styles. Right now, I am listening to Dave Brubeck on vinyl, drinking a glass of red wine and smoking a clover cigarette. In an hour or so, everything will blend into some great ideas and I’ll come up with a hand full of new ideas and directions to explore.

Tell me about yourself?

I like to live the good life, and do the good things that it takes to have that lifestyle. I’m just a person who can’t sit still. I have to be creating something, or learning something, or talking about something, or thinking about something, or being about something. I don’t like to wear what everyone is wearing. I like to have some clothes that just magnify some exotic, extravagant, and expensive look that beautiful people are so attracted to. But, I also like to chill, meditate, exercise, lay on the beach, watch a good movie or try something new, like riding in a hot air balloon, riding on speed boats or downhill skiing. Let’s Go!!!

Get more of Zulu Rose on their website: www.zulurose.com