As a natural society we look upon idols or icons as beyond human beings, perhaps even superhuman. It has become a second nature in our human nature to view them as such. In my opinion we look up to these people, almost unconsciously, for their drive and skill in pursuing their dreams in life.
The ability that they have to chase dreams and successfully live the American dream is almost entrancing to us as a society. But what about the humans behind the glitz and the glam? In talking to Coco & Breezy I have exposed some of the inner human behind the red carpet treatment.
Though only 19 years old when they started to pursue their dreams of being fashion icons, these young twins were able to overcome multiple obstacles and live their dreams. Many have viewed their age as the largest obstacle in their pursuit of happiness.
However, in speaking with them and asking them what they viewed as their largest obstacle, They do not feel that age was the hardest thing. Having an optimistic outlook on life they stated: “We are thankful that we were looked down upon by our peers when we were younger. It didn’t stop us from chasing our dreams.”
Every so-called ‘obstacle’ in their lives they have had has been viewed as a stepping stone rather than a hurdle. Very grateful beings for every struggle that they have had. In speaking of the blessings that they have had in life they brought up their parents. “We have super supportive parents that told us anything is possible, and we can live any dream we wanted.”
In the pursuit of their own dreams these individuals have had many great experiences that we would all like to have the opportunity to experience. The ability to travel and to meet and do things that would normally be surreal.
What experiences did they each enjoy the most? I asked them individually which was the most significant to them. To which Coco’s reply was “The journey of starting our eyewear line. That has been the best thing ever. . . Moving from Minnesota to New York City and living the American dream.” She thoroughly enjoys the basics of her dreams, the things that got her to where she is the most. Breezy however, has had much more meaning in the experiences that have followed the attaining of her dreams. Her favorite experience,
“Going to Paris and getting to work with some of the most amazing people. . We shot for a car company in Renault “twizy” for their look book.” Also, “Hanging out with Jean Charles De Castlebajac.”
In coming to know the young, but highly motivated and successful twins, I began to notice the distinct differences in them that made their Gemini-like bond significant to what they did. Though the comment had been made by them that they “are one person in two different bodies”, there are significant differences between the two.
When brought to their attention at how these differences played into their work, I got the reply. “I can say we have similar aesthetics, and that is why we work amazing together. When it comes to the creative side we feed off each other’s energy.”
Breezy will start a design and Coco will finish it. “Coco has the final say in our designs because she is a perfectionist.” The order in which these young women collaborate is almost entrancing to see.
Coco & Breezy’s dreams have been in the works since they were young teenagers. They knew from the start. “We always felt like we had something different in our hands. We knew that since we always keep it organic, it would change the world. It’s all about creating a product that people can relate to and feel a special connection.
That is what changes the world.” And their product line has done just that, it has changed their world! Being young designers in the high pressure world of fashion, I was curious to see if they would change and conform to the ideas of the industry. So I asked them where they saw themselves in 5, 10, or 15 years and whether they would start conforming their look to society’s influence.
In response to this confrontation, they seemed to be quite defensive, saying “We will always remain authentic and organic. We will always keep our aesthetic, but as visionaries in 5,10 or 15 years our imagination would have evolved.”
“When we create collections, we create a story, which then turns into a piece. As our brand grows, we want to be known for our fashionable and functionable product that have great quality.”
Though the twin designers are young, they are determined and imaginative. The relationship between the two, with all of its complexities and asymmetrical personalities involved, will prove to bring a great complexity to the fashion industry.
With such drive and passion in what they do, Coco and Breezy will go far in the world, changing it as they go. Advice from the two: “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. Anything is possible, And always be true to yourself!”
