PUMA: You were recently vacationing in Jamaica. As you are aware, Jamaica is one of the brand’s favorite cities! How was your trip? Did you pick up any style inspirations?
Solange: I’m in love with Jamaica and actually take a trip there a few times a year, mainly Treasure Beach and Port Antonio. I can totally see why PUMA is just as in love as I am, and love seeing the parallel love between the brand and the county when I’m there. When I was 13, I took my first trip there and for about four years if it wasn’t yellow, green and black it wasn’t on my body. Just Google Solo Star (my first album) or the “Feeling You” (my first ever video), I mean I literally staged a Jamaican street festival in my video. Jamaica will always hold a special place in my heart and when I’m there I really go all out with my clothes. Jamaicans are extremely expressive with their fashion, so I always blend in just fine.
PUMA: What three personal style tips are you able to share with your followers who consider you a fashion icon?
Solange: First off, I’m very careful at owning that title. I really am just as influenced by the everyday girls on the street as much as I am the glamazons, or singers, artists, and performers…I simply am a fan of anyone who really identifies with themselves in that moment and own it! So, with that said – Feel it. Own it. Work it.
PUMA: Of the many hats you wear – singer, songwriter, dancer, model, actor, fashion arbiter, what title do you want to be best remembered for?
Solange: I think “artist” is really the one I identify with the most. I really try to bring a certain level of artistry to everything I do, and I really believe everything mentioned here is a form of artistry and falls under the umbrella of creation. Whether it be a video clip, or choreographing something for my band and my live show, or working with the PUMA creative team – I’m really always looking for the most artful form of expressing that intent.
PUMA: Your music and style has caught on a huge following outside of the States, especially in Asia-Pacific. What would you like to tell your fans in Asia? Would you mind giving them a shout-out, please?
Solange: I’m always so humbled by the idea that my creations can reach someone all the way across the world! I’ve always been really influenced by the bravery and boldness of Japanese fashion culture so we are truly inspiring each other.
PUMA: You recently spent quite some time in Australia for shows in December and January. It is summer season ‘down under’ – what do you plan to do on your down time?
Solange: I enjoyed Australia so much! Some of the highlights of my trips were hanging out in Perth on the beautiful beaches, shopping in Fitzroy, and the botanical garden in Melbourne. Also the concerts were pretty magical; the enthusiasm from the crowd was so electrifying. The jetlag on the other hand…help me please!
PUMA: What is next in store for Solange?
Solange: I’m wrapping up the writing on my album which is my heart and soul right now, as well as focusing on Saint Records, my label and first release respectively while building saintheron.com in the process. Also continuing my role at PUMA which I am truly enjoying! It’s really a dream job for me, I am loving it. 2014 is an exciting year ahead.
