Fashion
The Disco Daddy Is a Crystal-Obsessed Designer to the Stars
“Disco is the intersect of nightlife, queer culture, sexual liberation, and glamour—all things that were lacking this year.”…
As Braccia got older, he became even more fascinated with stage wear and in awe of the greats like Bob Mackie. Eventually he became inspired to create clothes, too. “In high school, I would rhinestone girls’s graduation caps for money, and I would do cheerleading uniforms,” he says. When he moved to L.A. to pursue dance, his crystal work picked up momentum—especially when he started working with drag queens. “The way the fashion world is now, it’s all about minimalism and who can wear the least amount of sparkle,” Braccia says. “But I’m really gunning for something completely different, and a lot of drag queens gravitate towards that style, too.”
One of the first drag superstars Braccia started working with is his friend, Violet Chachki, who he met on tour as a dancer. They now often collaborate on her vampy, Old Hollywood-style outfits. Another personal highlight of his was earlier this year, when The Disco Daddy made a custom Swarovski bodysuit for Lizzo’s Grammys performance. “I did her costume, her boots, and all the dancers’s [costumes],” Braccia says. “That was one of my biggest accomplishments.” He says his shimmering designs lend themselves to these types of big events. “It adds an element to a performance that is necessary,” he says. “I don’t know if I would call it performance wear, but it’s definitely for someone who’s not trying to be subtle.”
This fall, however, Braccia also branched out from his VIP work to do something for himself. He released a new campaign that showcases seven original designs, enlisting friends like Chachki to model the custom, one-off pieces for him. “I wanted to show what I can do, instead of what people want me to do,” he says. The capsule takes cues from disco music, of course—his favorite genre (he even has Donna Summer tattooed on his ribcage. “I wanted to do a modern take on Studio 54,” he says. “Disco is the intersection of nightlife, queer culture, sexual liberation, and glamour—all things that were lacking this year.” Braccia himself even stars in the campaign as his Disco Daddy alter-ego, who comes out to play when he’s going out or shooting imagery for the brand. “There’s such a separation between Vince and the Disco Daddy,” he says. “Everyday me, going to Trader Joe’s, I’m wearing black—but if I’m going to the club, it has to be extravagant.”
The designer says he released the new collection—including dresses, bodysuits, and more—to show that working with crystals doesn’t have to mean bedazzling something. It can be its own standalone textile. “I don’t really like the aspect of rhinestones to embellish or make something better,” he says. “I like creating something with the intention of it being fully rhinestones, like a glass piece of art on your body.” He estimates that there’s over half a million rhinestones on the pieces collectively, and he glued down each crystal by hand—a painstaking method he always practices. “Most people will just put a whole bunch of glue and rhinestones down, but it makes the fabric stiff,” he says. “It looks better when it moves. I want people to dance in it, have fun, and not be restricted.” As for his crystal of choice? “I try my hardest to use only Swarovski,” he says. “My biggest complaint is how expensive it is—but that’s what I love about it.”
Fashion
Raekwon Unveils “The Emperor’s New Clothes” With All-Star Lineup
Raekwon, a legendary rapper known for his role in the Wu-Tang Clan, has just announced his long-awaited eighth studio album, titled “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” set to be released through Mass Appeal. Although no singles have been shared yet, the album is already creating a buzz and is highly anticipated this summer. It’s been seven years since Raekwon last released a solo album, and this new project feels more like a grand return than just another release.
He’s teamed up with a mix of familiar faces from the Wu-Tang Clan and some fresh talent in hip-hop. Listeners can look forward to clever lyrics and captivating stories filled with raw emotion. Raekwon has invited his Wu-Tang brothers Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Inspectah Deck to feature on the album, ensuring a classic blend that fans love. He’s also brought in well-respected artists outside of the Wu-Tang family, like Nas and members of the Griselda collective, Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, who are known for their gritty style.
Adding to the variety, singers Stacy Barthe and Marsha Ambrosius will provide soulful vocals to complement Raekwon’s hard-hitting verses. The album’s production features talented names like Swizz Beatz, Nottz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Frank G, and Roadsart, promising a rich, cinematic sound that matches Raekwon’s lyrical skills. Even with such an impressive lineup, there’s still a sense of mystery around the album. There have been no early songs or previews released, just the announcement itself, which builds even more expectation.
But for Raekwon, this is part of his journey. He has always delivered powerful lyrics and relatable street stories without much introduction. The title, The Emperor’s New Clothes, suggests a fresh start and a daring vision that might challenge the current state of rap. With his experienced flow and storytelling still sharp, Raekwon seems prepared to reestablish his place among the top artists in hip-hop.
Fashion
Wendy Williams Makes Stylish Splash At Columbia Supporting Her Designer
In a delightful surprise for fans and fashion enthusiasts, Wendy Williams made a rare appearance at Columbia University on Tuesday, and everyone couldn’t help but notice her. The former talk show host was in high spirits as she showed up to support her longtime friend and fashion designer, Mel Maxi. Wendy looked fantastic in a stylish black-and-white outfit that included a Yankee hat and her trademark flair.
Designed by Maxi himself, her outfit was not just chic but also had a personal touch that highlighted her vibrant personality. In a heartwarming moment recorded on video, Wendy told Maxi, “This is amazing! This was specifically designed for me… this is really hand done.” Wendy came to cheer on Maxi, who was set to give a lecture about fashion design at the prestigious university. Her appearance was a meaningful moment between two creative friends who have supported each other for years. Wendy’s presence emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration in the creative world.
As she walked by, a nearby fan shouted their love for Wendy, and she instinctively responded with her signature warmth and enthusiasm: “Thank you!” she exclaimed with a big smile. After being away from the spotlight for months, Wendy’s visit was a refreshing change for fans who have missed her lively spirit. There were no fancy events or flashing cameras, just Wendy enjoying the moment, supporting a friend, and reminding us all of the significance of showing up for the people we care about.
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