Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Alfred Julius: Advice

“...despite how painful and boring it may be, before starting down a path make sure you make a map of where you want the company to go...” - Woodson D. Walker




May the day bring you joy,


Chike Atu, founder and head designer

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Alfred Julius: Collaboration


col·lab·o·rate:

[kuh-lab-uh-reyt]
verb (used without object), -rat·ed, -rat·ing.
to work, one with another

Alfred Julius: Priorities

   I received today, what will be one of the most important purchases for the Alfred Julius brand. That is the custom Die shape for my bowtie design. It might look like just some metal, wood, and screws, but for me its the beginning of my dreams coming into fruition. The distinct shape and size of an Alfred Julius Bowtie is something we pride ourselves on. We continue to push the limits of design and fabric selection everyday.  I’m thankful to have this part of the manufacturing portion of my brand complete. Next month... we begin the process of getting e-commerce website! Times are exciting and moving, come with us on the journey.


Hope the day brings you joy,

Chike, founder and head designer



DIE  (d)
n. pl. dies or dice (ds)
1. pl. dies A device used for cutting out, forming, or stamping material, especially.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Alfred Julius: Aloe Blacc (update)

Hello Family,

      Well that was quick! Late last week I got a great email from Aloe Blacc, letting me know that he had the opportunity to perform on the German talk show, Harald Schmidt, and he wore his special made Alfred Julius Red Perforated Leather Bowtie. He has been a great support of the brand, Alfred Julius, and will always have our support in return. Thank you, Aloe Blacc for your generosity.



May the day bring you joy,

Chike Atu, founder and head designer

p.s. Click the link to see the Man and the bowtie in action.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Alfred Julius: Aloe Blacc 2nd Edition

     First off let me say, I’m not stalking Aloe Blacc!... but it does seem I post about him often. The brother is incredibly talented and he serves as a huge inspiration to the Alfred Julius brand.  I had the great opportunity to speak with him after his latest show, he spoke highly of the last gifting (Blacc Leather with Camo Band). He said the was able to put some good milage on his last European Tour. It was only right to bless him with another piece, this time inspired by his “Good Things” album cover. It is the S/S ’12 Red Perforated Leather Bowtie, with button snap closure. It truly a beautiful and unique piece. The moment of exchange was captured we great skill by Walter Pinkney.




May the day bring you joy,

Chike Atu, founder and head designer

Alfred Julius: Official Logo (patent pending)

This will be the official logo of the Alfred Julius Brand (patent pending). I’m pleased with the very minor tweaks we made and ready for the next step of the Journey...



(patent pending)




May the day bring you joy,

Chike Atu, founder and head designer

Alfred Julius: The Journey

Hello my family,


    It’s been far too long, but I’ve been busy... really busy actually. I made a very smart move and finally have a very creative graphic artist, who has the same vision I have for the brand. One can’t do it ALL by themselves and I have learned that. So my “main man”, Jeremy Paten is welcomed whole heartedly. Also a tighter logo will be posted... like next post! LOL.  I have also continued to work on being comfortable during the networking moments. These are things as a business man and designer that you will be faced on “The Journey”.
   I have also become stronger in business. There are many levels that I’m facing in just trying to get something as simple, yet classic as a bowtie. Taking quotas and finding the best bet for your money is smart thing to do. I took a lead on a manufacture of Dye’s (cut pattern, typically made of metal) in NYC and doing this actually saved me $350. That’s not millions of dollars, but when working independent, its a bundle.
    These little things are what making my journey a little more enjoyable. Keeping the humble spirit alive and asking for help when needed and listening to advice when given. I feel as a team, Alfred Julius is only getting smarter and stronger. The vision is clear. Alfred Julius, for the masculine gentlemen.


May the day bring you joy,

Chike Atu, founder and head designer