Snapped and Caught: MACHO

THE MODEL WHO EMBODIES EVERY OUNCE OF HIS NAME

I have said it before, and I will say it again... I am always flattered when people ask me for advice.   As of lately, I have met numerous aspiring models all wanti ng to know my thoughts about their careers.  What makes these individuals differ from others I have met in the past is that they appear to have a bit more drive.  A couple of months ago, I was approached by a  young man interested in my thoughts on the images he was planning to use on his comp card.  I gave my input and he accepted with great appreciation.  Never trying to piss on anyones dreams, especially on with potential, I decided to get past the amazing  brawn with this piece, and learn more about this individual. 

   For starters, I had to ask the question that some of you may be asking as well.  Why the name Macho?   I mean how arrogant can a person be?  Well, I quickly learned that this wasnt a nick or stage name...In fact, its his birth name.  WOW!!!  

Now I know that when most of you stumbled across this segment on Macho, the first thing that you see, or notice is this mans amazing body.  But let me say this... Just because a person has an incredible body, doesn't mean that one can be a model. Hell, that is an obvious requirement that you have one.  Now I'm not suggesting that this was the reason he chose this field, but I AM curious to know how it all got started.    

  

During a movie night in Harlem, Macho (along with his girlfriend)surrounded himself around friends.  Things seemed to be going smoothly until he noticed he was receiving odd looks from a guy who was amongst the group.  Finally reaching his boiling point, Macho found the proper opportunity to ask him what his deal was without causing a scene.  Apologizing, the guy responding by saying, "you have a very good look.  Like you can be a model or something."  This world is full of cons... you never can tell ones intent.  

"There can be alot of lies and deceit that goes on in the industry, it can be really hard to find good natured people... especially those who would like to help you climb to the top faster, " Macho explains. 

   Suprisingly enough, the guy was legit.  In fact, he is a well known stylist.

  Going  home with the guys business card in hand, Macho marinated on the situation for two weeks before deciding to take him up on his offer for a test shoot.

Having possible potential in one persons eyes, doesn't mean that the rest of the world was quite ready for him, in fact after doing a few shoots, he was told that he is very stiff.  Recognizing that he is new to this field, and wanting to make himself better, Macho went out and bought a ditigital camera to take pictures of himself.  He also worked on his posing in front of the mirror. 

When it comes to any career, it is good to remain true to yourself, but at the same time, it doesn't hurt to have a role model or two, or even more.  Fashion Forward Men asked Macho who some of his idols in the business were, and he gave us some very impressive names.  Heavy hitters like Tyson Beckford, Chad White, Marcus Schenkenberg, Naomi Campbell(minus the attitude I hope), and Mathius Laurdensen  were named.  And lets not forget about Salieu Jalloh, who is ALWAYS working, and is also one of this sites favorites.  

Being a model and attempting to become a household name won't be easy to achieve, and to be honest, chances will be much more slim for Macho due to the fact that he is a man of color.  Currently, unsigned to an agency, Macho is optimistic that he will be picked up very soon.  Don't be to sad for the newbie though, Macho actually walked in 3 shows during Fashion Week this month.  As in any profession, knowone ever said it would be easy...  So what is it about this field that he enjoys, we ask. 

"I love the lifestyle of a model, but unfortunately, the biggest challenge right now is that models who are not the thinest, or are overly muscular aren't considered to be in style."

He may be young, but Macho has definitely done his research.  At one point, male models were much more muscular than they are now.  Just like fashion, even models themselves are like trends, right down to their physiques.  Though it may be tough for many finding representation, the goods almost always out weigh the bad.  First there's the travel, then the networking, and being exposed to so many things your average Joe wouldn't necessarily be exposed to.  And lastly there's the clothes.  The wonderful wonderful clothes that he will get to wear, and sometimes keep.

Speaking of clothes, how does this Fashion Forward -It Guy sees his own style?

"My personal style is very simplistic, but with a twist.  I dont't like wearing a bunch of layers, but I dont have a problem wearing color.  Due to the different types of jobs I do (he is a trainer as well), I'm usually in jeans and t-shirts, but I don't mind dressing up when its called for," he explains. 

(Though he may keep it simple when it comes to his own style, Macho confesses that he appreciates clothing from Giorgio Armani, Bsixtee6, and D Squared.)

  

Not just a human hanger, Macho, like so many other models have other interest unrelated to the fashion world.  SHOCKING!!!! But its true folks.  So many times they are are required to sit and look pretty/handsome, and because of this, they come off as being (not going to sugar coat this) DUMB.  And for that reason, Fashion Forward Men does its best to allow those often unheard voices be heard. 

 When not modeling, the Fashion Forward It-Guy enjoys working out, playing sports, dining out, and going to clubs and bars.   He also enjoys to watch fashion shows.  On a more more serious note, when Macho grows tired of fashion, he plans on moving into radio, and or hosting a show regarding sports.  So see people there is a back up plan to his ideals. 

We will keep up with this ambitious man and see what lies ahead for him.  No matter what you choose, Macho, Fashion Forward Men wishes you well.