All Clothing by Selasi
Q+A: Selasi by Ronan McKenzie
/ interview / PEOPLE
photography and videography SHENELL WELLINGTON
words SIMONE KONU-RAE
Ronan McKenzie is a dynamic force. Photographer, film maker, curator, cultural programmer and multidisciplinary artist, she turns her focus to Selasi, a clothing brand started during lockdown.
“Are you feeling it” she asks? We certainly are.
Ronan continues to redefine what it means to create with care and intention through Selasi. Rooted in belonging and intimacy, Selasi is a space where Ronan creates without limits, and invites us to come and play. Drawing from her tight-knit creative community, she’s brought the brand to life through live draping sessions, intimate dinners, a signature fragrance, and Selasi Stories, her printed newsletter-meets-zine offering a glimpse into her world. With fans like Solange Knowles, Little Simz, and Lashana Lynch, Ronan’s universe of thoughtful creation keeps expanding. We caught up with her to get a glimpse inside.
SKR
Who are you and what do you do?
RM
I'm Ronan Mckenzie, and I do photography, design, curation, writing, creative direction.. and whatever else takes my fancy.
SKR
What is SELASI?
RM
My playground.
SKR
What can you see from your window?
RM
Trees and plants from the allotment opposite my house.
SKR
What are you wearing today?
RM
My SELASI Long Sleeve Heron Bay Turtleneck, beige Levi's and Prada loafers.
.
SKR
Where do you feel most at home?
RM
I started listing all of the places and situations I feel most at home in and there are too many. I feel at home whenever my soul feels warm and calm.
SKR
What does confidence look like?
RM
Being able to find a useful perspective for any situation (no matter how challenging).
SKR
What matters most?
RM
Health
SKR
What is femininity to you?
RM
Femininity is strength, sensitivity and sensuality.
SKR
What’s more powerful—revealing or concealing?
RM
Concealing.
SKR
How do you decide when something is done?
RM
When I'm ready to share it
SKR
If you had an extra hour in the day, how would you spend it?
RM
Stretching
SKR
What’s one thing fashion should move beyond?
RM
Trends. If something's good now, it should be good in 10 years.
