07/09/2026
Several weeks ago, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Anttoni lopez , aka TONii RED, to creative direct and style a fashion editorial celebrating his upcoming release.
Before developing the visual language of the project, I spent time getting to know Tonii beyond the music. Understanding his journey, ambition, and artistic trajectory made it clear this couldn’t be just another fashion shoot—it needed to tell a story.
One of the things that resonated with me most was his pride in being a Barb, a confidently gay recording artist from the Bronx whose path reflects a true rags-to-riches journey. That became the foundation of the concept.
I wanted the imagery to reflect the many dimensions of who he is—writer, actor, author, performer, and recording artist—allowing each identity to exist as an equal part of the whole. His mixed heritage and unmistakable ginger features added another layer, reinforcing the idea that identity can’t be understood at a glance.
In paying homage to his modest upbringing in the 1980s and his evolution as an artist, I revisited Molly Ringwald’s iconic character in Pretty in Pink as a visual reference for transformation, individuality, and coming of age.
From there, I explored the Barb concept, drawing inspiration from Alan, Barbie’s companion doll introduced in the 1960s, as a symbol of individuality and singularity.
My research expanded to artists like Stromae and Jidenna, the Barbie Loves M·A·C campaign, vintage editorials, hairstyles, color stories, and fashion references until everything distilled into one idea:
Multiplicity.
The complete editorial features 15 distinct looks. What you’re seeing here is only a snippet of the larger narrative, featuring pieces from my own collection.
Creative Direction • Art Direction • Styling: Patrick Cupid
Model: TONii RED
Photography: Basement 📸 Studio
Makeup: Chris Lanston
Hair: Pandora Hill
Accessories: Malpha.
SUSAN | Artist. Author. Founder of AVILA. Made in NYC Made in NY: Fashion Garment District Alliance Garment District AllianceGModem OnlineaThe Fashion Group NYCLCreate-A-Marker
Not Just Lace Dye House
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* patrickcupid