Roop, There It Is! Local Newsman Debuts Fashion Line

The Anchor of Fashion.

The Creole-Tomato: Mr. Raj, thanks for sitting with us. We know you are a very busy man. You started off as a dashing young reporter for local New Orleans news channel WDSU. Two burning questions: Why fashion? And why now?

Roop Raj: Thanks for asking. Luminary newswoman Hoda Kotb mentioned to me that my fashion sense was different from most of the other newsmen in New Orleans. It was as if my fashion sense was speaking to the viewers in an even more sensual baritone voice than my usual exquisite delivery.

I knew at that point I had a responsibility to the young men of New Orleans and, one might say, even the world.

C-T: What is your inspiration?

RR: Oh, that’s easy. Dan Rather, Oleg Cassini, The Two Tommys: Brokaw and Hilfiger, Blain Kerne, Al Scurmuza.

C-T: You are about to premier your international fashion line at an upcoming local event. Tell us about it.

RR: Good question. Accessories should enhance the ensemble without overwhelming. Here are some tips:  hold microphones in front of the top button of the jacket to maximize tie exposure; nametags should be worn on the lapel, not the breast, to ensure they get caught on camera.

C-T: Right…What about the event?

RR: Think Man-on-the-go. Maybe there’s a hurricane approaching, but you’ve got a newscast to deliver. There’s a million people out there waiting to see you…Even if you’re in distress, even if you’re on the run, you gotta look good. An old wise man once said it’s better to look good than to feel good. I believe that.

C-T: Great…And the event?

RR: Intriguing Inquiry. “Simply Raj,” which is the name of the show as well as the line of clothes—and possibility a new aromatic body scent—will be held at the Lakeside Mall next Thursday at 3pm. Music will be provided by DJ Angelico. Modeling for “Simply Raj” will be the svelte Dennis Woltering, the debonaire Eric Paulsen, the suave Dan Milham, and finally that sartorial genius, Norman Robinson.

C-T: Sounds unmissable. Wrapping up…newsman, designer, what does Roop have planned for the world next?

RR: Picture this: Brian Williams wearing “Simply Raj.”