The Design for Brad Smith Competition - An Exclusive Interview

Friday December 20, 2013- Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Brad Smith announced to the public the "Design for Brad Smith" Competition.  An opportunity for emerging designers to create a Red Carpet look for the super-star footballer. The winning design will be chosen by Brad, along with a star studded ensemble of judges. The "Look" will be showcased by Brad during New York Fashion Week 2014. The winning contestant will receive a prize package valued at $2500, an all expenses paid trip to New York, and an invitation to attend Fashion Week with Brad. They will also have an opportunity to attend an exclusive VIP cocktail event hosted by him with notable guests from sports, fashion, and entertainment. This is truly a chance of a lifetime to launch the career of a new designer. We can't wait to see who wins.

Raine Magazine recently caught up with Brad Smith and was granted access to an exclusive interview. Brad talks about his competition, interning at Men's Health, and being voted as one of the "best dressed" athletes by Complex Magazine.Raine: You were voted as one of the top dressed athletes by Complex Magazine. In your opinion, what characterizes a man as "Best dressed?"Brad: It was nice to be recognized by Complex Magazine as one of the top 25 best dressed athletes. For me, “Best dressed” means making sure what you’re wearing is carefully planned and that the completed look accomplishes the goal of the individual who is wearing it.Raine: Tell us about interning at Men's Health Magazine. What was it like to go from superstar football player to enduring the paces of a fashion intern?Brad: It was a tremendous honor to learn from a great publication like Men's Health. They were very accommodating and encouraging through the whole learning process. The transition from the football field to behind the scenes of the fashion industry has been a challenging and rewarding experience. From the outside, I don’t think people realize how much work goes into a shoot or production.Raine: What sparked your interest in fashion and how do your peers view your new direction into the fashion industry?Brad: My interest in fashion started at an early age. My mother always made sure my sister, brother and I were properly groomed and dressed, especially for church.I’m very fortunate to have been blessed with a supportive community of individuals so they are excited for my new endeavors into fashion.Raine: What challenges did you have to overcome as a professional athlete breaking into the creative world?Brad: I’m surrounded by a team of individuals who are constantly guiding and educating me on the ins and outs of the industry. I’m preparing for several exciting opportunities in the future and I look forward to any and all the challenges. Raine: What motivated you to launch a fashion competition to help emerging designers? Brad: One of the reasons why I like interning for Men's Health and writing my column is I’m able to  discover and learn more about emerging designers.I wanted to create a platform for the emerging design community that would help raise awareness and  introduce their talent to as many people as I could. Raine: What are three top reasons why a young designer should participate in your fashion challenge? Brad: Exposure, Experience, Competition Raine: Along with yourself, who are the other celebrity judges that will help pick the winning design? Brad: As of right now, all I can divulge is that Rita Kahn, CEO of FashionTV is leading the panel. Raine: As a judge, what qualities are you looking for in the winning design? Brad: Originality, creativity, structure, and wear-abilityRaine: Do you have a fashion mentor and if so, what are the best ways of finding a mentor in such a competitive industry?Brian: Brian Boye at Men's Health has been extremely instrumental in my transition into fashion. The best advice I can give to new designers is to seek out internship opportunities. Experience is worth its weight in gold.Raine: What words of wisdom do you want to share with creative entrepreneurs that want to break into fashion?Brad: Believe in yourself and be willing to learn from everyone and every experience.