Welcoming Holly Ringsell Owner of Dark Side Comics UK

I'm sure most of you by now are aware of my geeky side, I'm a reader of comic books, a watcher of superhero films and I will be attending my first comic convention this weekend. 

Holly helps me with my comic obsessions as she owns Dark Side Comics UK which is based in Essex  http://www.darksidecomics.co.uk/

Luckily Holly agreed to have a little chat with me to share our passion for everything geeky. 

What gave you the idea to open your own comic book shop?
It has been a lifelong passion, for me to be able to do something I really love!

What attracts you to comic books?
I've been reading them since I was little, partly due to my dad introducing them to me. I've always loved reading anyway, so the combination of that with the wonderful artwork and amazing characters is a no-brainer.

Do you have any recommendations of the best comics and novels to read at the moment?
Comic-wise, Lady Killer, Bitch Planet, Feathers, Goners, Operation SIN, Thor, Secret Six, The Unbeatable & Squirrel Girl.
Graphic-wise, Deadly Class, Chew, Saga, Sex Criminals, Legendary Star Lord, All-New Ghost Rider, The Legend of Luther Strode, Black Widow, Ms Marvel, Rat Queens, Captain America, Winter Soldier & The Wild's End which should be due out in graphic novel soon too. I could probably list billion.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I don't get much spare time! But if I do find any, it's usually spent playing video games, drawing, reading, watching movies or at the Zoo.

As a cosplayer what has been your favourite costume so far?
Hmm that favourite costumes that I've done, probably Batwoman or my custom Sith.

Do you have an idea of what other characters you would like to cosplay in the future?
I have plenty of ideas but never enough time! Star Lord, Winter Solider, Captain America, Silk or Spider-Woman, Josie from Lady Killer, Peggy Carter...There's probably a new character I want to cosplay every week! 

Is there anything you can suggest to my readers which will help them with starting up their own business?
Research, research, research! 

The above images were not taken by myself, these have been sourced from Holly.

Justine-Louise photography

My friend Justine-Louise is a very talented photographer based in Essex and has been working professionally since 2010, photographing some of her favourite artists and making some amazing friends through her passion.

Justine has worked on all types of photography from alternative fashion and live music too weddings and portraits. I have Justine here to talk to us more about what started her passion for photography and what other loves she has. http://www.justine-louise.co.uk/

When did you realise you had a passion for photography?
I have always loved taking photos, even as a kid with a small instant camera. I started to become seriously interested in photography when I was 13 and started attending gigs. I would never go without a camera, and I would literally queue for hours outside the venue so I could be right at the front to take photos of all my favourite bands!

What is it that attracts you to the art?
I love how you can really push boundaries with it. I really enjoy experimenting with lighting, colour, textures and creating something out of almost nothing. I like how I can see my idea come to life and develop over time.

Is there a certain part to photography you enjoy the most?
To be honest I really like it all! I started out doing music photography and eventually moved into photographing models, and I tend to dabble in most areas as I like to keep my work fresh, and keep myself inspired.


How has your journey been in the profession since 2010?
It has been great, I have met and worked with some amazing people. At the start I had the awesome opportunity of assisting one of my favourite photographers. It has been great to see how my work has progressed since then. I have grown a lot more confident and I'm not afraid to try new things.

Has there been a stand out point that you are most proud of within your photography career?
I would say 2014 as whole stood out to me, as this was a year where I discovered new areas, worked with new people, and probably got published the most :) 
Recently Justine has been published in; Gorgeous Freaks, Sour magazine, Twisted Edge magazine, Freque magazine and Elite magazine.



What is it that you enjoy doing in your spare time?
In my spare time I can be found doing other creative things, such as drawing, making jewellery or creating props for shoots. When I am having some downtime though I can be found on my PlayStation either playing video games, or watching Netflix. I also love reading fiction and graphic novels.

What are looking to get out of 2015?
I am looking to produce more high end fashion images, and also creative beauty work. It would be great to also do more weddings as well as work with more families. I would also like to delve further into the cosplay scene.

Please visit Justine's website for pricing on weddings and portraits as well as all of her fabulous experience http://www.justine-louise.co.uk/  
If you would like to contact Justine-Louise regarding prices and packages please email her;
contact@justine-louise.co.uk
Also make sure you like Justine-Louise Photography Facebook page. 

Introducing.....Rasha Swais Interview

Welcoming Rasha Swais to the world of Mini Skirts & Mini Morals....

Specialising in  60's bespoke and off the peg men and women's clothing.
You can get your self some lovely made to order dresses, skirts and shirts. The clothing range is also available from The Modfather Clothing Company which is based in Camden.

This is a great British clothing company, it's unusual now days to find a company that makes the clothing in Britain as well as selling it over here. I know a lot of my readers are very keen on bespoke clothing and this is a great place to start, if you can't find the colours you are after why not contact them and get something tailor made!! http://www.rashaswais.com/

 

 

What made you start up Rasha Swais?
I started up the company after i graduated from university. I love the whole 60s fashion and music culture but found it difficult to find the right clothes. I started with menswear then went on to womenswear and it's been going really well ever since. I now sell online as well as in three shops, two in London (one being Modfather Clothing Company) and one Switzerland.

How long have you been designing and making clothes for?

I have been designing and making clothes now for about 8 years, but i grew up loving arts and crafts, which helped me to pursue my clothes making passion.

 

 

How do you come up with your design ideas?

I love talking to people about designs and also I do a lot of research, the internet is a great place to find old 60's images and work off of them kind of styles. I've got a nice collection of skinhead/mod books too which really helps for inspiration.

What do you enjoy most about having Rasha Swais?

I enjoy hearing how great the garments make my customers feel and how happy they are with their purchases. It's great getting positive feedback from all my customers and seeing them in their new clothes. I like to encourage people to upload photo's onto social media so I can see them their new garments, that makes me happy.

 

Are you more into the Skinhead or Mod scene?

I love reggae, so I'm probably more suited to the skinhead scene but i do enjoy listening to soul but cant dance to northern soul very well!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?My favourite things to do in my spare time are going to gigs, all nighters and scooter rallies.

 

Under the spot light - Calle Modista

Under the spot light, Cálle Modista who specialises in quality British handmade and limited edition mod and 1960's Inspired Clothes and Accessories for both men and women. Make sure you check out their website and keep your eyes open for any limited edition products, so that way there are only a few of you wearing a fantasticly smart product.

http://www.callemodista.com/

What made you start up Calle Modista?

Calle Modista started after I had made some 60s clothing for family and friends and they had been really pleased with them and it was family really that persuaded me to give it a go. It was something I had thought about for a while but had never really got past the thought stage.

How long have you been making your own clothes for?

I started dressmaking when I was a teenager mainly because I did not want to wear the same as everyone else. Dressmaking and design is a family tradition so I had a lot of inspiration!

What do you enjoy most about having Calle Modista?

I really enjoy all the aspects of having Calle Modista. I obviously really love 60s clothes and I love fabrics, all the matching of cottons, buttons etc. As well as that I love working through different style and design ideas and then the process of sewing as everything comes together.

How did you get into the mod scene?

I got into the Mod scene mainly because I love the music and the clothes from the 60s and it progressed from there. One of the things I love the most about the mod scene is although it celebrates individual style I also feel it is very inclusive and I have met some really lovely people through the mod scene.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

In my spare time...(not that I get that much between working!) I love music, seeing bands, socialising with my friends.. and a good book.



 Some of the above images belong to Mark Prethero.

Interview - Emma Rosa Dias 'Afro Mic Productions'

I'm excited for you all to read this interview, sorry it's been so long since I've done one it took me a while to find someone who I really wanted to interview and as soon as Emma agreed to do so it was perfect! The creator of 'Faces In The Crowd' a documentary about Mods of today and the sole trader of Afro Mic Productions, the perfect person to admire and aspire to be Emma Rosa Dias.

Emma, would you class your self as a Mod or would you say your a lover of the Mod scene?

No, I am not a Mod and yes I am a lover of the Mod scene. I've been lucky with this journey as it has touched my life in a very endearing and positive way that it is here to stay.

I noticed your a producer at Afro Mic Productions, is this your own company?

Yes, I'm a sole trader under the name Afro-Mic Productions. I use different talented freelance film crew.

How did Afro Mic Productions come about?

I've worked in TV production for over 13 years now. Both in front of the camera and behind. For the last 6 years I was mostly producing TV ads. It was time to go out on my own and do the things I'm most passionate about. It's daunting and very hard work but I've made the right decision. The name came about because I have Afro hair and I'm often carrying a microphone, simple really!

I've previously interviewed Scarlett Baylis who I understand is in your Mod documentary Faces In The Crowd, What was the inspiration behind doing a film like this?

I witnessed different subcultures from childhood at the record shop my mum managed. Music and fashion was always a major influence growing up. I experienced my first Mod night (Afterglow) last year when I was asked to interview Eddie Piller for a Belfast City campaign. I was simply blown away by the atmosphere and camaraderie. It was that night I decided I was going to look further into the scene. First at home at the Bangor Weekender then Glasgow and London. This London film is a tad bit different because it's not all based at one event. It was shot over a longer period at many different locations.

 

What was your favourite thing about doing this film?

Meeting everyone, hearing their different stories and of course the music, dancing and fashion. It's a way of life.

Would you say Quadrophenia has massively influenced the scene?

Yes it has for some and equally not for others.

 

Do you have anything else in the pipe line film wise?

Yes if I sell enough DVDs, downloads and get some sponsorship! I hope to make 2/3 more 30 minute documentaries on the worldwide Mod scene. Europe or Japan could possibly be next.

What would be your advice to people who are looking to get into film production?

Just do it and be prepared to work very hard! If you are passionate enough about it, it will work. Make mistakes and learn from them. Listen to people with experience and sometimes that is not always the older ones. Young fresh creative talent are not scared of big ideas, I'm always learning!

I would just like to say a big thanks to Emma Rosa Dias for taking time to answer my questions for this interview. Hope you all enjoyed it!!

 

 

Northern Soul Gal Levanna Mclean: Interview

Internet sensation and great friend of mine Levanna Mclean has agreed to do an interview, which I am very excited to share with you all. Levanna is a beautifully talented dancer gliding across the floor like an ice dancer, she's one of the nicest people I've met. As well as a great dancer she has a wide knowledge of the Northern Soul scene, going to all the popular and well known Nighters, Dayers and Weekenders. I'm sure you'll get the chance to meet Levanna at an event at some point in the year but for now you'll just have to read about her.

 

How did you get into the Northern Soul scene?
As a young teenager, I listened to artists such as Amy Winehouse, The heavy and The specials who were pretty much in the mainstream and never really knew or understood what the strange music that my mum listened to. She called it Northern Soul and that was about it. It wasn’t until after hearing Amy Winehouse’s release of ‘our day will come’ that my mum, who had been onto Northern Soul most of her life, showed me the original song by Ruby and The Romantics. Hearing the original really made me think what else have I been missing out on all this time? So I went through all my mum’s records and soon enough I was asking to go to my first all-nighter. I knew as soon as I walked into that room, I had found where my heart needed to be. 

Would you say you think it’s something everyone should consider looking into?
Soul is a very special thing and isn’t for everyone, I understand that. It is a state of mind and a way of life, once you’ve experienced the scene; it’s hard to stay away. When you realise that every one person on the scene is so different yet so similar, that is when you realise just how special Northern Soul is. At first, Northern Soul is really hard to get your head around but it is an alternative for those who are bored of today’s music and want something more. The music has heart and it gets in touch with your emotion, that’s why I love it, however it’s more than just a love of music, its appreciation.

How long have you been dancing for and how did you learn you moves?
You may find it hard to believe, you might not. My first night out dancing was somewhat embarrassing and I most certainly was not elegant on the dance floor, but you know what? I didn’t have a care in the world, the music took over and I just did what I feel. That is the best way to be on the dance floor. Of course having all the fancy footwork and floor work looks amazing but in my opinion, if you’re having a good time and you’re feeling the music, that is when you know someone has soul! 

What is your favourite Northern Soul night?
That is such a hard question! I would have to say the 100 club because you can just feel the history of all the people that have been there every month for 34 years and quite simply, the music is phenomenal.

What is your favourite song?
My favourite song changes every week one day it’s Roy Merrell – Tears of Joy and the next it’s Betty Lloyd – I’m catching on. I still have so much more to discover! 

What inspired you to start making YouTube videos?
The first video was just a spare of the minute sort of thing, I had just come back from the 100 club and it was off to Moscow so didn’t really have time to come down from that amazing night, so I still had my dancing feet on! We came across the slippy floor of the statue and find myself dancing away whilst singing along in my head. My mum thought it would be funny to film me and after looking back at the footage, decided to put it on YouTube with some music over it. I didn’t anticipate such a big, positive reaction. 
if someone was trying to get into the Northern Soul scene what would be the best way of going about it? are there any websites/forums you can suggest?
Just listen to the music and if you like it, you like it. If you don’t, that is fair enough! It’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Looking to try out some moves on the dance floor? Soul Source is a good way and finding some of the big events that might be close to you.

A massive thank you to the lovely Levanna for doing this interview for my blog, as I know she's been busy since her YouTube video has reached half a million views!! To view all of her Northern Soul Girl Dancing videos check out her YouTube page 'IfThisIsLev'.

Subculture's Mod: Alysha Stirling

After Scarlett's interview being such a hit I thought I would interview another Mod girl who I think influences a lot of young girls with her style and grace. As I follow Alysha on social media sites I always see her dressed smart and looking good, wither she's going to work or college. So luckily for me she agreed to do a short interview for this blog, lets get started!

 

How did you get into the mod scene Alysha?

I first got into the mod scene around about a year ago. I've always loved the sixties. I looked at pictures and saw how mod girls would dress. I had a few style disasters at first but I got there in the end!

 

What's your favourite thing about being a Mod?
I love being a mod because I feel different, smart and confident. I don't feel as though I blend in. My boyfriend is also a mod, I'm lucky to have him! It's lovely to have a relationship with someone who loves exactly the same things as you.

Who are your biggest influences for your style?
I mainly get outfit ideas and inspirations from old photographs from the 60s. I think they're the biggest influences!

Are you a vintage shopper or a high street shopper?
I'm a bit of both, I like to rummage around vintage & charity shops to see what I can find. I love the idea of wearing something that no one else has. Most of my skirts are vintage but I love Fred Perry and H&M too.

What's your favourite type of music to listen to?
I love Britpop, Northern Soul, Rhythm and Blues and old 60s rock n roll such as The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, The Kinks and I love the small faces!

Who are your most adored bands/artists?
I would probably say Oasis are one of my favourite bands, I grew up listening to them. The Who, Small Faces and Northern Soul is high up on the list!

Where would you say the best place to find other mods to talk to?
I haven't had much experience at Northern soul dos, but when I've been I've always met lovely mods! Twitter and Instagram is full of both young and old mods too.

If you could take one item of clothing and one record with you to a party, what would it be? My one item of clothing would be my vintage fur coat and my record would be 'Whatcha Gonna Do About It?' by the Small Faces.

Alysha down the Quadrophenia alley

What are your favourite events to attend?
I love going to gigs and also Northern Soul nights, although I haven't had much experience of them but I've loved it whenever I've gone! I also love going shopping in Brighton, I'd love to go to the Mod Weekender one year

What are your top 5 wardrobe essentials?
A pencil skirt, a roll neck or polo, loafers, tights and my trusty Art Gallery Clothing bag

Your bee hive is pretty legendary!! how long does it take you to do & how did you learn to do it?
It only takes me about 10-15 minutes to do my beehive, my hair is quite long but thin so back combing alone doesn't hold. I back comb the top and grip a hair donut to the back of my head, then I smooth my hair over, grip and hairspray! I know it's cheating a bit, but it ends up wonky otherwise.

Thank you to Alysha Stirling for doing the interview and I hope you all enjoyed it!

Alysha & her close friend Stacie Stewart

 

Subculture's Mod: Interview with young Mod Scarlett

I did say that the next interview was going to be Northern Soul Dancer but I just got a reply for my Mod interview, so we shall start with this one first. This interview comes from 15 year old Mod Scarlett, she has recently featured in a documentary about Mods called 'Faces in the Crowd' directed by Emma-Rosa Dias due out in the new year so keep your eyes open for it!

Scarlett chilling on her dads scooter

How did you get into the Mod scene?
Through my Dad, he is a mod and I grew up with the music and gradually began to like it.

What is your favourite thing about being a Mod?
It's cool, you're always looking sharp, and you get noticed a LOT more when you don't blend in with the crowd.

Who are your biggest influences for your style?
Mainly old 60s- 80s photographs, they inspire me to pair certain items together. Seeing what they wore and how they wore it originally is how I interpret the scene best. Twiggy was my first hair influence and I eventually adapted it to my own.

Are you a vintage shopper or a high street shopper?
I'm Both! Love proper vintage but then items from the high street can look great depending on how you wear it.

What's your favourite type of music to listen to?
Sixties Rhythm and blues, soul, and at the moment I'm beginning to like the mod revivalist bands, such as Beggar and Small Hours

Who are your most adored bands/artists?
First band I got into were The Small Faces, some of their early unknown songs are absolute crackers! (favourite is 'Baby don't you do it' -the best ever!)

Do you own a scooter?
Unfortunately no, I'm too young, but my dad has a gorgeous 1961 Lambretta Li

Would you say everyone should try the Mod scene?
I think if everyone tried it, it wouldn't be as special, but if they want to then it's the best subculture to choose.

How would people go about looking into becoming a Mod? Are there websites/forums you can suggest?
I found forums such as The Mod Generation didn't really help me being a young mod, but books like A-Z of Mod, and Mods! really educated me properly into doing it the right way.

Scarlett and the Faces in the Crowd's film crew
 

If you could choose one item of clothing and one record to take to a party with you, what would it be?
My black mac and my 45 of 'Come on now' by the Kinks. the mac is essential and the record is such a tune!

How did you get to be in the documentary 'Faces in the Crowd'?
This producer, Emma- rosa Dias contacted me after Stacie Stewart told her about me, because I'm so young they did a feature on me and I got meet Eddie Piller.

Scarlett with Emma Rosa Dias and Eddie Piller

Thanks to Scarlett for agreeing to do this interview, hopefully she will inspire some younger people to join the Mod scene. I look forward to seeing her in the documentary as well as a lot of other people you may recognise from the scene, a big thanks to Emma Rosa Dias for doing a Mod documentary its long over due!

Subculture's Skinhead: Interview with female skinhead Ebony

I thought it would be a great idea to start interviewing influential females from different subcultures, Ebony was my choice for the Skinhead edition. A very pretty and confident Skinhead with a great eye for fashion, luckily for me she agreed to do the interview via facebook and sent me some great pictures to go along with it. So lets get started!

Ebony, what influenced you to become a Skinhead?
My parents were a big influence, I've always taken an interest in the type of music that's linked with the scene and the style of clothing that's worn.

Would you say you that being a Skinhead should be something everyone should consider trying?
Nope, the scene isn't for everyone.

What is your favourite Skinhead social events to attend?
scooter rallies.

What are your favourite bands/artists?
Desmond Dekker / The Maytals.

What's your main choice of music to listen to?
I'd say Ska, reggae and a bit of 2 tone are my favourites.

What do you love most about being a skinhead?
Style, attitude, and pride.

Ebony Djing

How did you get into Djing?
A good friend of my mum's is a well known dj based in London, and at one rally this year he told me he wanted to teach and train up a young skinhead girl to go double act with him.. I've always wanted to learn, and it was just coincidence that i fitted what he was looking for.

What would your advice be to girls who want to get into the scene and also cut their hair, as some girls get nervous about that part..?
You've got to have a "not a care in the world" attitude to want to shave your hair... If you have doubts about doing it, it's pointless :-)

If people were looking to become a Skinhead how would they go about it? Is there like a website or forum people can check out?
You'd basically have to know people... or have the balls to go out to gigs and meet people. Once you've earnt your respect, you'll then be added to pages on the internet to meet other skinheads etc.

I have been given permission for all photos used
 

Thank you very much for Ebony for agreeing to be interviewed as part as my subcultures Skinhead edition. Its been great to talk to people from other subcultures other than Mod, next interview will be with a Northern Soul dancer.