BESPOKE: MAYA GARGONI OF ROYAL JELLEY HARLEM

Fashion Week is just about to start in the big city and we will be taking a closer look at the growing design community uptown.  Our first interview is with Maya Gorgoni who is the creative founder behind Royal Jelly Harlem and a native New Yorker.  Royal Jelly Harlem has been featured often in major publications such as GQ and can be found at the monthly Sugar Hill Market or specialty designer boutiques in greater New York City.

HB: What is the inspiration behind your company? 
MG: Our inspiration for Royal Jelly Harlem came from many trips to various countries in Africa. I was so moved by the prints and colors in the textiles that I thought, "I want to capture this in a contemporary, Western silhouette". I began by designing a few pieces for myself that got a very positive feedback. Within a few months, RJH was formed.

HB: How long have you been in Harlem? 
MG: I'm born and raised in NYC but have lived in Harlem now for the past 5 beautiful years.

HB: Was it difficult to launch a designer label uptown? 
MG: It hasn't been particularly difficult launching a designer label at our price points in Harlem because our prices fairly reflect the quality and craftsmanship of our products, which are 100% made in NYC and USA as a whole. Additionally, our line has gotten great exposure and done extremely well through markets such as Sugar Hill Market which reach a broader demographic within Harlem.

HB: What are your favorite pieces in the collection? 
MG: There are too many to count! Although, I personally really enjoy wearing my Genevieve in Jackson & Watermelon print dresses, Serafina & Pencil skirts, Moto Jackets (shown above) and Blaze Blazers!

HB: As the season changes, how will the line transition?
MG:  We really only produce two seasons: Spring/Summer and Resort/Holiday. We work with 100% Cotton African Wax. Until we can find textile in Wool or Silk that's manufactured in Africa, I guess that's how it will be. I personally wear Cotton year round and layer with Cashmere and Wool in Winter. We do however, offer some of our silhouettes in suitable Autumn tones as well.

HB: Is there anything you find unique about living in Harlem? 
MG: I would say Harlem's uniqueness definitely shows most when compared to my growing up in Soho in the 80's as it has more of a supportive sense of community and respected neighborhood atmosphere. A simple neighborly wave from a perfect stranger or an acknowledged nod when passing by. Not to mention the organized Summer block parties that bring us all closer together. A feeling I now covet and want to protect.