Meet Lord Landon Michael

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lord Landon Michael and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lord Landon, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am born in Dallas and New York raised me, creatively. I say that because Dallas offered me a foundation to build my creativity, while New York unlocked an unwavering fire for my art of storytelling. One of my favorite stories to share is one my mom would tell others of me as a creative child. She says, during playtime, ‘I wasn’t ever the kid that would aimlessly bang toys together. I had well developed storylines, plots, and directions.’

Growing in the hood of Dallas, doing more with less, was the ultimate gift. It presented me with a limitless opportunity of evolving my creativity and dreams . I imagined a world beyond my block.

I have spent the last 40 years, using different avenues of gathering inspiration from the streets of Web Chapel (IYKYK) to the streets of Tokyo. There is so much beauty around us if we just look for it. All of which are woven into my artistry.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My Artistry has evolved through many mediums. I went to school for dance, which led to dancer theatre, which led to costuming then styling, then back to Costume Design. The one thing that has remained consistent, from my time as the boy with a plot to the Creative now, is the art of storytelling.

Through an over saturated market of chasing the latest trends, what remains rent free in our minds are the stories that touch us. I have always used the power of storytelling through my work. When we think of the runway shows of McQueen, the storytelling is what captured us first and fashion the ink on the pages. I too, love developing storylines with in my work.

But storytelling and all it took to get here. There are two black icons who quotes I carry throughout my journey in my professional life. One is Jenifer Lewis who said, “The world is starved for your voice!” Seat with that! The world is starving for my voice, my artistry, my art! I feel that ever time I have an inkling of doubt while entering a new role or project.

The other is Rupaul who said, ‘you will stop being shy when you realize it won’t get you anywhere in life.’ It is so true! In my career, there is no need for shyness, child don’t shrink to fit anywhere in your path as a creative. Some of my best projects and body of work has come from being bold and standing firm in my power.

And No it wasn’t easy at all! LOL I had to work from sun up to sundown, networking, carrying garment bags on the mta and much more. Writing this story comes at such pivotal moment in my career and life. Life has been lifing as the children would say. I recently had very heavy life experiences or lessons, which rerouted a course I chartered for myself: spirituality, mentally, physically and creatively. I had to realign with my purpose in my life and my career. Reminding myself of who I am and all the beauty I have created and will create. Knowing this is a god giving talent ,career, and story I am meant to offer the world.

What the world thinks it knows about my brand, buckle up because we are reaching new heights! Looking back at some amazing achievements , international publishings and covers, red carpets for Tribeca film festival. film work for RHONY on Bravo, the movie “Nanny” on prime, and in several music videos have been some of most excited projects. Fashion to Costume. Brand collaborations to Brand Creative Direction! My brand is the definition of a multifaceted fashion architecture! I am so proud of all my work. I am at a place of such openness to the journey ahead.

The secret for anyone in their career, find out what you love to do, then find a way to make money doing it. You’ll feel like you never worked a day in your life.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Rediscovering Dallas, I am in love with bishop arts for that small town feel. Where we can do some vintage shopping, at Hideaway, grab lunch at Tejas for a margarita or two or three.

Head back to the downtown highrise to nap, that’s key, twerk a little bit in the mirror and get dressed for dinner. I am obsessed with Palma in deep ellum for dinner. Food is so good married with good vibes.

Then off the gay bars for some uninterrupted twerking and fun!

And repeat but first coffee at either white rhino or Bernie Bean

Throwing in some museums , Kylde Warren Layouts, Sushi at the pearl, and good rooftop Cat and Bird moment. Oh and some BBQ at Heim BBQ.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I like to think I have curated a Tribal Council of people that have always exchanged support, guidance, and love. There are so many I value and that have been so impactful to me, to name, but if I have to drop some names, here we go!

Friday Layton, ( @fbfmetalatelier )my creative coach, offering tools to navigate new terrains as a creative and business owner.

Kim J Luv( @kimjluv ), Dallas makeup artist and high school friend, who is always cheering me along my journey.

Nicolas Harris ( @fatbellyyella ) the first photographer to work the me ever, and now brother!!

Charlene Antoinette ( @charleseantoinette ) an awesome Costume Designer, who ushered me in to the world of Costuming.

All of which I am so thankful for.

Website: https://Www.lordlandonMichael.com

Instagram: lordlandonmichael

Linkedin: Landon Simpson

Facebook: Landon Simpsn

Image Credits
Photography Credits

Paolo Hinestrosa ( @hinestrosapalo )

Lalo Torre ( @lalotorre )

Roger Gallegos ( @_rogergallegos )