Eight Magazine - Issue 1 - January 2012 by Louise Hunt

1 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

(advertisment)

6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

march 2012

www.williamcontrol.com 7 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

e Am ie Hu nt Sim mr

Louis

EDITOR IN CHIEF:

fac

INF

.c o m ebook

/8ma

guk

C RE D I T S

e Al

613

oo d

nkl in

8 HQ :

l he

IB ONTR

UTOR

Joey Simmrin, Sima Ajdari, Wi

Ange

Desig

Issue 1 January 2012

hel

an, V eroni qu

n, A

tin H

oto

ldon x She n: Ale

gra

er:

Lis

ohn

son

, Li

e .c o m

ldo

rin@m

ADVERTISING:

joeys imm

Ale

la Ste elm

un t,

Jo hns on, Sa

rah Ell is

8 E i g ht Maga zin e January 2012

e Vic

INDEX

Chapter 1 T h e I n fo r m e r

16 19 20 22 24 26

News At Eight The latest happenings Steal This Style with Lexus Amanda Rock’s newest princess shares the secrets behind her style Punk’s not Dead A look into jewelry designers that are keeping the punk ethic alive The Future's Bright. The Future's... Cyberdog The evolution of gothic fashion Get The Look Pretty In Black Shakedown 1979 The success story of Jewelry by Veronique and 1979 Couture

lliam Francis,

cari

Chapter 2 T h e M u s i c Lo v e r

30 33 35 38 40

Architects Blue Prints for their Future. Blitz Kids Small town boys set to hit the big time Lower Than Atlantis Mike Duce discusses his love/hate relationship with his band Attack Attack! Creating their own genre Matriarch A voice you haven’t heard

Chapter 3 T h e Fa s h i o n Lo v e r

44 48 52

Lollipops and Cigarettes Rock star turned designer, Craig Mabbit talks fashion SinStar Clothing The boys your mothers warned you about Beards Are Epic Laurent ‘Lags’ Barnard talks fashion, music and facial hair 9 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

INDEX

CONT'D

56 58 70

Doll Parts Grunge fashion is back California Dreaming Fashion from Hollywoodland A Week In The Wardrobe of... Veronique Vicari takes us through her working week Almost Famous Rock Chic

Chapter 4 F e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

88 92 96 98

Are You Up? The New Breed of Groupie Sex, Tattoo’s & Rock ‘n’ Roll The move of tattoos into the popular cultural realm London’s Calling California girl in foggy London Fashion, Ugliness and Other Intolerable Vestiges of the Human Experience A seasonal rant with William Control

Chapter 5 E x t r a Lo v e

104 106

Tight-en Up Wrap up your legs in style Places To Go A look into some unique and quirky places to go on both sides of the Atlantic Top 8 with Alexia of Eyes Set To Kill Albums that changed my life

109

1 0 E i g ht Maga zin e January 2012

11 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

1 2 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

Editor's Letter

rock goddess model Hanna Beth

elcome to the first edition of 8 magazine. We invite you to take an adventure into the depths of the dreamy, mystical world that lies beyond the horizon of mainstream fashion. Embracing the tattooed arms of everything alternative; 8 offers you a one way ticket into the dark channels of rock star vixens, quirky and beautiful fashion tips and inspirational music. You seek more than the offerings of mainstream fashion, yet do not wish to dwell upon hideous ideals just to gain originality. Alas,

look no further. We provide you with a middle ground your individuality and edginess in a beautiful way. We offer the exact juxtaposition of the beautiful goth and glamorous grunge. This issue boasts a plethora of different styles and fashion tips to get those creative juices flowing with fashion shoots featuring former Miss England Georgia Horsely and the beautiful rock goddess model Hanna Beth. These blood thirsty vixens are adorned in beautiful clothing and accessories and are ready to blast the mindless brains of mainstream and spit on the endless productions of the capitalist fashion industry. From quirky jewelry designers such as Veronique Vicari and up and coming fashion lines such as SinStar Clothing; there is plenty in this issue to help feed your hunger for style inspiration. Alongside this, there is enough music to excite your ears and you will find interviews with incredible rock bands on each side of the pond, including American bands such as Attack Attack! and Matriarch and English bands such as Architects and Lower Than Atlantis. Also, we spoke to rockstar turned designer Craig from Escape the Fate who is now expanding from music into creating his own fashion line â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lollipops & Cigarettes.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Finally, but by no means least, lose yourself in some of our thought provoking features that will keep your brain ticking over. These articles discuss a range of different topics from internet groupies to tattooed rock stars from writers from L.A. and London. So, hold onto the feathers in your hat and enjoy the journey treacles! There is a lot to be said for your originality, so embrace it and enjoy! - Louise Amie 13 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

merging in L.A. in 2007 with its quirky t-shirt designs and dreamy California girl look-book; Wildfox Couture has progressively built up an adoring fan base including the likes of Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Alessandra Ambrosio and Ellie Goulding. Founded by Emily Faulstich and Kimberley Gordon, the girls transformed the brand beyond simply having t-shirts into designing leggings, dresses and denim and now the girls are moving into the realm of shoes thanks to the

Wildfox Couture to launch a new shoe collection with Jeffrey Campbell

Pierre Balmain goes Grunge for Spring 2012

help of edgy shoe designer Jeffrey Campbell. The shoe collection will launch this February at select retailers and includes creative and beautiful styles such as the ballerina ‘flatform’, sky-high strappy heels, 90’s inspired military boots and denim platforms.

ierre Balmain introduced the world to a diffusion line during Paris Fashion Week in September 2011, featuring some of the luxury basics we so adore but at a much more accessible price than the main line. The prices range from around $172 for tops to $1,500

1 6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 1 for eveningwear and features zipper clad black skinny jeans alongside printed blouses and blazers. To accompany the line was a video directed by Inez Van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin which displayed this grunge vision by following Abbey Lee Kershaw and her band ‘Our Mountain’ as they run around Manhattan. This look will definitely inspire you to smear on your eyeliner, slap on some red lipstick and party hard at your nearest rock venue.

Punk Rockers Lower Than Atlantis sign a major label deal

T h e I n fo r m e r

their first headlining tour to date in the UK.

etal band ‘Architects’ are back in the studio recording with John Mitchell, with whom they recorded their critically acclaimed “Hollow Crown.” The record should be finished by the end of February and released

The UK’s most beloved metal band ARCHITCTS set to release a new album in May

atford four piece, Lower Than Atlantis have recently announced that they have been signed to Island Records, by none other than Darcus Beese who discovered Amy Winehouse. Coming from a very DIY punk rock background, it will be interesting to see where the band goes from here. We just heard the first single off of the new record here at 8 Mag and it is an absolute banger! It will premiere on the Breakfast Show on Radio One in January, where Zane Lowe will spin it. Make sure you check it out. Also, look out for Lower Than Atlantis this year as they will announce

for the world to hear in May. The band recently dropped the single “Devils Island” which was accompanied by an intense and chilling video. And if this song is an indicator for where the Architects guys are heading soundwise, it seems the record will have fans and music lovers obsessed.

17 Eight M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 1

T h e I n fo r m e r

1 Fox tail

 necromance.com

2 Striped feather earings  necromance.com

3 Black tank top

 forever21.com

Lexus Amanda

of Blacklisted Me

4 Pleather shorts  forever21.com

5 Rosaries

 forever21.com

6 Cop Hat

 Hottopic.com

599

699

999

2290

380

7 Sheer Black leggings $

 forever21.com

8 Studded Heels

1000 999

 Aldoshoes.com

3999

photo BY Michelle Star

exus Amanda is the founder and member of Blacklisted Me, the latest goth/electro alternative band to hit the alternative music soundwaves. With their first single Reprobate Romance featuring Nicholas Matthews of Get Scared; the girls have caused a positive hype within the music scene and are set to release their first album this year. With the band drawing influences from

bands such as Marilyn Manson, The Used and 30 Seconds to Mars; this is not only reflected in their music but in their much loved style. Lexus Amanda is idolised for her gothic inspired look, in which she is known for mixing feathers and statement jewelry with military elements and dramatic make-up; so enjoy as she shares some of her style secrets behind two of her favourite look.

1 9 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

PUNK'S NOT DEAD A

key and important aspect of the punk subculture was the ‘bricolage’ style with its D-I-Y approach to fashion. The ‘anti-fashion’ trend witnessed outfits put together with unexpected items, those of which were deemed as worthless and undesirable such as a safety pin or a toilet seat. Whilst this look is not necessarily prevalent today, it appears that there are various aspects of the punk fashion that can be found within today’s contemporary jewelry designers. Below are some key designers who have taken this notion of combining everyday things to make incredibly stunning jewelry designs. However, far from the notion of taking items to demonstrate poverty and ugliness, these designs are incredibly beautiful and come with a hefty price tag.  Cast of Vices was founded with a desire to create beautiful designs out of our vices with a key focus on pop culture and our obsession with self medication and ad diction. Hand crafted in the USA, the designs are dipped in .925 silver, semi precious stones and 14k gold using a lost wax process. Who would have thought wearing a baggie, vicodin pill or cigarette around your neck could be so fashionable? Find these unusual designs at castofvices.com.

C HAPTER 1

 Toby Jones is an Australian designer, who focuses on making the normal and everyday into something beautiful. The designers ‘Wrapped in Plastic’ collection ranges from a band aid ring or film strip cuff to a soy sauce necklace. Go totobyjones.com/au to purchase these delights.

T h e I n fo r m e r

 UnEarthen Jewelry Whilst a bullet isn’t necessarily your everyday item, it is still not something one would usually assume to be made into such beautiful accessories. Unearthen intuitively selects crystals that help focus on the goals you struggle to achieve, center your thoughts on what you need, provide com fort in times of strain, or simply remind you of why you are here. The crystal is held in a hollowed out bullet casing to balance out and harmonize the crystal it holds to create incredibly stunning and original jewelry. Prices range from around $300 to $500 and can be found at seeunearthen.com.

2 1 Eight Maga zin e January 2012

C HAPTER 1

T h e I n fo r m e r

The Future's Bright. The Future's...

CYBERDOG It appears that the future for gothic fashion is moving beyond the realms of black and dull and transforming itself with futuristic bright neon colours...all in the name of Cyber Fashion.

yberfashion is an emerging alternative fashion that is increasingly popular amongst those in goth, punk, industrial and rave scenes. This fashion focuses on futuristic bright and neon colours with UV reflective clothing and space accessories, visors, goggles, hair extensions and mechanoid and cyborg jewellery. At the forefront of this fashion trend lies one incredibly important futuristic dog, ChiChi. Chi-Chi is the logo of the most popular ‘cyber’ fashion brand, Cyberdog and is the pet Chihuahua of the founder. This dog has become so popular today that he even has his own facebook page! With an interesting logo comes an even more interesting clothing range and this ‘Cyberdog’ offers an incredibly

unique and alternative style. Think futuristic neon meets alternative goth. The designs are creative, with new ranges released very frequently for men and women. From UFO and orbit dresses, mini cyber kilts and tops covered in circuity designs – this clothing line is out of this world. The best sellers in the shop however are the glow sticks and crazy t-shirts. The ‘Cyberdog’ brand has many different store locations such as Manchester, Brighton, Ibiza and Tokyo. However, their most important store is located in the famous Camden Lock in London. This store is easily identifiable having two enormous silver coloured statues at the entrance. It is fair to say that the interior of the shop more than matches up to the alternative and wacky clothing line. Upon entering the shop one will not be disappointed and it is definitely an interesting experience. Trance music, disco lighting and podium dancers all add to the surreal experience. There are also black lights in the store to allow the customer to gain an idea of what their outfits will look like when they hit the club later. The Cyberdog experience is unmatched by any other and the potential customer will be ensured an incredibly unique and satisfying shopping experience. This fashion is definitely one for the brave and alternative and it seems that the dark and mysterious world of gothic fashion is embracing a splash of colour thanks to one very important dog. - Louise Amie

2 2 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

2 3 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 1

T h e I n fo r m e r

Pretty In Black

Gareth Pugh

1 Wildfox Skinny Cross Tee  wildfoxcouture.com

2 UNIF Hellraiser Shoes

5400

 unifclothing.com

3 Unearthern Hollowed Bullet with Black Tourine Necklace  seeunearthen.com

16500

4 Pamela Love Eagle Claw Earring  pamelalovenyc.com

41000

5 Pamela Love Bird Skull Ring  pamelalovenyc.com

25000

6 Topshop Floppy Black Fedora

87500

 topshop.com

7 Feather Fake Eyelashes

5000

 debenhams.com

Star by Julian MacDonald

8 Betsey Johnson Double The Love Satchel

 betseyjohnson.com

850

9 House of Holland Mock Hold Up Fishnet Tights

23800

 asos.com

10 House of Holland Printed Short  houseofholland.co.uk

2195

15500

othic fashion has become a very predominant trend within the fashion world over the years. It has moved from being seen simply as its own subcultural fashion to being translated onto the runways, with the help of designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, Alexander MacQueen, Gareth Pugh and Yohji Yamamoto. Explore the beauty of this style thanks to some of these amazing pieces.

2 5 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

Shakedown 1979 Jewelry and fashion of a dreamy California Girl

by Louise Amie

Jewelry by Veronique

ewelry by Veronique was created by California girl Veronique Vicari fuelled by her love for fashion, particularly all things vintage. ‘Jewelry by Veronique is a fun collection of everything I love,’ explained the young designer. This ‘whimsical’ inspired collection includes mermaids, butterflies, elephants, crystals and anything sparkly and is ‘made to bring out the youth in people, reminding them to always stay young at heart.’ Alongside each collection Veronique likes to create one off pieces which tie in for the designers love for all things vintage. Key pieces in the latest Jewelry By Veronique collection include gold plated starfish earrings, dreamcatcher necklaces, silver and gold 

JEWELRY BY VERONIQUE

26 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

mermaid necklaces and french coin necklaces. However, Veronique is best known for her mermaid ring that was featured in InSTYLE magazine in Rachel Bilson’s ‘Ask Rachel’ column alongside her dreamcatcher necklace worn by Miley Cyrus. Katy Perry also seems to be a big fan of the jewelry as Veronique was recently hired to design jewelry for her California Dream tour. The animal cookie cuff that Veronique designed for Perry was reproduced and sold at the merch table at her shows. Jewelry By Veronique' is available at: Dari Boutique in Studio City, the Kardashian Boutique DASH in L.A and New York; and on the website jewelrybyveronique.com .

C HAPTER 1

T h e I n fo r m e r

1979  couture

1979 Couture

longside her jewelry line Veronique Vicari teamed up with friends Erica Wallengren and Kari Feinstein to create a clothing line called 1979. These children of the 70's have come together to share a collection of clothing inspired by things that they themselves love to wear both casually and for a night out on the town. Their youthful and feminine pieces are those that can be mixed and matched to create all kinds of looks, from casual to sexy to beachey to sultry and this line will make you ‘shine like stars’. A particular favourite of the 1979 collection is the form fitting maxi high waisted skirt and fans of the line include Rachel Bilson, Miley Cyrus and Kaley Cuoco. 1979 clothing is available at: 1979couture.com  or at Dari Boutique in Studio City, L.A. .

C HAPTER 2

T h e m u s i c lo v e r

PHOTO Tom Barnes

ARCHITECTS Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just a bunch of dudes having a good time! by Louise Amie

With four full-length albums, sold out tours in the USA and Europe and opening main stage of Reading and Leeds Festival; these five lads from Brighton, England are set to become a household name in 2012 with their ever evolving sound and talent.

he sun is setting in downtown LA, leaving a beautiful golden glow to stream through the window of the top floor dressing room at the LA venue, The Wiltern. These cheeky English "lads" are in seemingly high spirits as they prepare to open the show for Bring Me The Horizon to approximately 2,000 excitable American fans. This enthusiastic attitude is well understood when one is to look at the development of this band within the

“

past year. Incredible success from their last album The Here and Now including the mesmerizing single Heartburn combined with the fulfillment of the dream of opening the main stage of Reading and Leeds festival; it seems the boys have everything to smile about. Whilst the rest of the boys rustle through a new package of merchandise, I sit with singer Sam Carter and

particular earned their place up there on stage amongst the greats. “We’re good at what we do,” Tom reasoned as to why the boys have received such respect. “Very few bands on the music scene take any pride in their song writing and we’re an exception to that!” This is evident to see whilst watching the boys perform live and witnessing the skill and pride each member takes in their musical role. Sam

I think its import bands don’t look to other artists within their genre for inspiration because it stops the evolution of music. ” - dan searle

drummer Dan Searle to chat about the bands success so far. “2011 was a huge year for us” Sam starts as the two boys begin telling me about their year, chiefly discussing the pride of opening up the main stage of Reading and Leeds festival. “We all grew up going to Reading Festival as punters, so toz be up there on main stage was a milestone in our career and to be able to share the stage with bands such as Deftones and Rise Against was incredible.” There are evident reasons as to why this band in

interrupts, “alongside this, we’re just a bunch of dudes having a good time! We’re not in it for the money or any other bullshit." As Sam explains this it is clear the genuine tone to his voice, as the boys all seem to get along so well and are constantly joking around with one another. Alongside being exceptional musicians, another reason as to why they are much loved it due to their unique sound within the hardcore genre. Whilst Sam lists bands such as Coldplay, 

31 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 2

T h e m u s i c lo v e r

 Pink Floyd, Underoath and Thrice as some of the bands favourites, the band insist on focusing on finding their own original sound. Dan then goes on to explain, “I think its import bands don’t look to other artists within their genre for inspiration because it stops the evolution of music. An awful lot of bands, particularly in this genre, are guilty of this.” Architects received an exceptional response from their last album The Here and Now and it seems that their sound has evolved over the years with songs such as Heartburn released in 2011 conveying a move away from the hardcore style displayed in many of their songs and the guys suggest that they are not afraid to “explore the softer side of music.” Dan continues that this theme may extend onto their next album, in which considering the band are capable of writing “really good” ballads then these songs will be added to the next record if it “makes sense” however they won’t just add them for the “sake of it.” Whilst the boys are unable to give away too much detail about their next album Sam states, “All I know is that it

will have a shit tonne of energy and you can be sure it will be the best we’ve done as a band!” Not only has the bands music style changed over the years, it is evident to see that their clothing style has developed since they first began. “Fashion is an odd thing,” starts Dan, “I think anyone would freely admit that they tend to go with current trends to a certain extent.” Sam agrees with this adding the importance of changing ones style adding that, “nobody wants a fifty year old in a fifteen year olds threads.” We are definitely glad to see the development of their clothing style here at 8 magazine in which Dan describes the embarrassing fashion mistakes that the boys made in the past, which are unfortunately unavoidable due to the “internet.” However, these fashion faux pas can easily be ignored if one is to focus on the mature and handsome look the boys displayed last year, particularly in the video for Heartburn which saw the boys in stylish attire. "We like to dress a bit smarter and cleaner than we used to. I’d wear a suit most days if I wouldn’t be mocked for it!" Dan laughs. Thus, with many positive changes in their music and style, alongside an impressive last album, sold out tours in the UK and USA and playing festivals in 2011; this leaves 2012 to be highly anticipated from Architects. "We’ll be dropping our next record and doing some great tours. I can’t wait," Sam finishes as he jumps up to go get ready to go on stage. And we are definitely as excited as the guys to see what 2012 has in store. Be sure to go check the boys out this year and pick up a copy of The Here and Now if you don’t own it already!

3 2 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

PHOTO Tom Barnes

Blitz Kids Small town boys set to hit the big time by Louise Amie

From a small quiet town in South Cheshire, Blitz Kids are an anthemic indie band that are set to explode in 2012. Members of the band include front man Joe James, guitarist Jono Yates, bass player Nic Montgomery, guitarist Billy Evanson and drummer Eddie Hawx. After relentlessly touring around the UK, being nominated for a Kerrang award last year and

producing a successful first album; the fan base for this band is slowly increasing. However, nothing can prepare fans for what is yet to come from the guys. After fusing their talents with legendary American producer John Feldmann in 2011, they have begun creating songs that are set to become the anthems of the year...

33 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 2

T h e m u s i c lo v e r

rontman Joe JAMES took time out from recording to have a chat so that we could get to know about this up and coming band in more depth.

Lets start by introducing yourself and tell me a bit about Blitz Kids Hi, I’m Joey, I’m a Blitz Kid and our band is a virus; Get infected. When did you start writing music and how did the band come together? We all started very young and music has always been a huge part of all our lives. The band came together when Eddie our drummer decided he was sick of playing in bands that only had one goal, to sound like another band. He didn’t see the point, he found like-minded guys in the rest of us and we started a band together. Do you feel like your where you grew up and your surrounding shaped your personal style and music? I come from a floral market town way out in the countryside of the north west of England called Nantwich. It’s the UK’s equivalent to

The Shire. I definitely think it shaped our personalities, and in theory our personalities shape our music. So yes.Growing up in a small town is actually quite tough for creative kids. Nobody has any ambition, Nobody wants to escape. Everyone around you is just going through the motions of life, waiting to die. We’ve always wanted something more and we have a strong group of friends around us that feel the same. A lot of them are with us on the road, working for nothing but perhaps a couple of beers and a slice of pizza, the same as us. For us its not about the money, it’s about doing what you love doing and living life! And we’re doing it everyday! What are your major influences when it comes to your music and clothing style? Our musical influences would span the rest of these pages and I think that shines through when you listen to us. We obviously have a lot of popular music influences but that comes mainly from me and my vocal melodies. When it comes to clothing styles, I think I’d be safe in saying that if we could all dress like Rufio from the movie Hook for the rest of our lives. We’d be content. Where did the name Blitz Kids come from? We don’t take it from the 80's fashion culture like a lot of people would assume. It’s based on newspaper stories from World War II. Kids used to go out and play in the rubble after the Blitzkrieg bombings across London and the UK. It was probably the most innocent “fuck you” that the children at the time could give to the situation that they were in.

photo Nathan White

Lower Than Atlantis Self-taught, rebellious, and determined; Mike Duce brings back the 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grunge attitude that is lacking in the current music scene by Louise Amie

Lower Than Atlantis are a four piece band from sunny Watford, England. Formed in 2007, the band have released two full length albums, FarQ in 2010 and World Record in 2011, which fused together î&#x160;&#x2DC;

35 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 2

T h e m u s i c lo v e r

 melodic hardcore sounds with emotional lyrics focused on the real as opposed to abstract. As the band continues to progress and build a strong fan base of miserable grunge kids in the UK, in which they played festivals such as Download during summer aswel as fulfilling their Reckless and Relentless tour with fellow Brits Asking Alexandria; it seems that it’s time that American music lovers open up their ears to a new sound from across the pond. We caught up with Mike Duce to discuss his love/hate relationship with his band... Lets start by introducing yourself and tell me a bit about what you do in Lower Than Atlantis. My name is Michael David Duce and I play guitar and sing in a rock band called Lower Than Atlantis. When did you start writing music and how did the band come together? I started writing really shitty punk rock songs when I was about 14 or 15. I used to bunk off school and walk to my friend James Major’s

house because he had room to rehearse with a drum kit and his dad was always at work. My first band consisted of whoever hadn’t done their homework that day (always me) and we’d jam stuff out until everyone else finished school. I was probably the most skilled at my trade and I could barely strum a chord so needless to say, we sounded terrible. I met Ben at college where we were both studying music practice. We decided to start a band and have regretted it ever since... Only joking. What was your first instrument and when did you realize that you could write your own music? I found my first guitar in a skip when I was out skateboarding at the age of about 12. It only had a couple of strings on it so it was broken as far as I was concerned. It was my birthday a few weeks after the find and I had £50 so decided to take the guitar to Queens Road Music Shop to be ‘fixed’. There the owner Stan took my birthday money (the whole 50) and restrung the guitar. It wasn’t until I was a little older

3 6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

that I realised I’d been ripped off! I started writing my own music right away then on my own. What are your major influences when it comes to your music and clothing style? My musical influences come from bands I listened to growing up. I’m not influenced by much new music at all. The The majority of the clothing I wear is from charity shops. Being a musician, I’m usually poor as fuck so have learned how to make second and third hand clothes look cool. Do you feel like the music you play influences your personal style? Well, even though the normal music fan would probably decipher my band as a rock band, we definitely have a very punk rock ethos. A sort of ‘do it yourself’ vibe. I’d say that’s translated in the way we dress. You have a clothing line, Growing Up Gets Me Down. Where did the name come from? What is the aim of the line? I’m not sure! That’s on the list of things I regret along with starting this band! The name

is pretty self explanatory really - it bloody does! I haven’t had the money to even begin thinking about what I want to do with it but I’ve recently borrowed sober money from my family so we’ll see what happens. What influences Growing Up Gets Me Down? 90’s/punk rock/grunge/ nostalgia What current bands are you listening to? Current? That’s a tough one! The Xcerts are probably the only current band I listen to. I’ve been listening to them for over a year now. They’re one of my favourites. What do you have planned for 2012 So far just a UK headline tour! It’s our first ever headliner so we’re pretty excited. that and probably recording album If you could go bring back one fashion trend in history - what would it be? Flock of seagulls.

37 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

Attack Attack!

photo Steven Taylor

We fire like guns and like being loud by Elizabeth Jenson

Attack Attack! are an energetic and vibrant four piece band hailing from the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. Ranging from the ages of 18-22, the band consists of Caleb Shomo (vocals) Andrew Wetzel (drums) Andrew Whiting (guitar) and John Holgado (bass). Since their formation in 2007, the band have released one EP

3 8 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

If Guns are Outlawed, Can we Use Swords and two full length albums Someday Came Suddenly and Attack Attack!. We spoke with Andrew Wetzel about the success of the band so far and their exciting new plans for 2012.

ttack Attack have received great recognition since their formation for

C HAPTER 2

T h e m u s i c lo v e r

having an impressive and extensively since they formed; original sound. The band touring with bands such as have been praised for their Escape The Fate, William re-invention within the rock Control, Black Tide, Burn music genre in which they Halo. Alongside this they have are said to blend elements of featured on the Vans Warped metalcore and post-hardcore Tour two years in a row, in genres with electronic musical which they headlined in 2011. influences. This fusion of “We had a blast headlining music has earned the band Warped Tour” explained the title of creating their own Wetzel, “We really got to genre known as ‘crabcore.’ meet lots of fantastic people However, instead of embracing during our signings, which was specific genre titles, the boys awesome.” simply suggest that they just Alongside playing have fun with their sound in music, bands today are which they “fire like guns and often reliant upon the like being loud.” Wetzel added sales of their merchandise that the reason for their sound and Attack Attack! are no being so eclectic is due to each exception. The band have a of the band members having range of vibrant and different their “own distinct style and clothing merchandise which taste in music.” Their sound is is influenced by their own then created by each member personal styles. The clothing writing “whatever we want and demonstrates their simple then piecing it altogether.” yet distinctive style in which This original style of it mainly consists of “t-shirts music is only set to expand and basketball shorts” which and develop in the new album the boys are seen sporting Attack Attack! will be releasing most of the time. Wetzel this year in which Wetzel also stressed the important suggested the boys planned to influence that music played go on a “different route” with upon this style in which he this next record with the aim suggested, “If I was not a of writing the “heaviest record musician I would probably be possible... just because it’s fun.” wearing plaid pants and work Alongside releasing on a golf course.” albums, the band have toured After an exciting year in

2011, Wetzel hints that the band have big plans for 2012 describing it as the “year we take over.” Thus, with original and energetic ideas in the making for their next album and plans to “tour all around the world” it seems that Attack Attack! will definitely be ones to watch this year.

39 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 2

T h e m u s i c lo v e r

PHOTO Nicole Zeno

Matriarch A voice you haven't heard

How you describe Matriarch as a musical project depends on how you define “dark”; it depends on how you define beauty and intelligence; and how you define compelling lyrics and a powerful performance. One element of Matriarch that is undeniable, however, is the authenticity of the project. You could say that “Matriarch” is a fresh electro, progressive artist set to release the first EP for the project. Formerly the lead singer of industrial band KillMatriarch, she marches on to a new beat. The project includes elements of industrial sounds as well as heavy synth layering and monster low-end drum. If NIN is considered metal and Shiny Toy Guns alternative, Matriarch lacks a definitive home genre. You imagine songs like Anticlimactic and Murderer being played at an underground club in say the Netherlands (in the vein of the underground party from the film The Matrix) where it’s not uncommon to hear several different languages spoken, frequenters bobbing their heads to the heavy dance pulse.

4 0 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

robably what most accurately explains Matriarch as an artist is the dichotomy of her unadulterated innocence and her opposing appreciation and comfort with heavy topics such as death and dysfunction. Her all-black-allthe-time uniform Random facts: ironically given name: Landon attire: Johnny Cash inspired black attire strikes you as refined, lifestyle: vegetarian in training rather than tendencies: always on time gothic. Her preference: Jameson Whisky voice has a unique tremor in it that is evident on songs where the vocals are rising on top of the heavy music beds. When she belts out heavier melodic lines it is full of gusto but her dynamic range makes her special in that just singing above a whisper is just as captivating. As an homage to her disinterest in the traditional record release, you can find demos of her new music streaming on her website, imatriarch.com. There is also a more profound account of Matriarch's journey in the song Cancer Girl (which can also be found on her site).

Wouldn’t want to spoil it for you but yes, the graphic footage is real. She is currently working on a collaboration with William Francis (of Aiden and William Control) and recording her debut EP release due in January. You can find demos streaming on imatriarch.com (and while you’re at it, you should pay a visit to killmatriarch. com for the final video for Prodigal Daughter which director Robby Starbuck shot on a hot but productive day in her garage). She can also be heard on guest vocals on the highly anticipated upcoming Used record. "It took a while to find the sounds I wanted and then tweak them to make them original. the best part is tracking vocals once I get inspired by a track that is 50-75% done. This time, i'm focusing more on the music beds, taking my time with lyrics and having fun with vocals." What's ahead for Matriarch in 2012? Touring of course. Stay tuned to the website and follow her bipolar musings on twitter.com/imatriarch.

by Sima Ajdari

41 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

LOLLIPOPS & CIGARETTES

Photo Jeremy Saffer

Rockstar Turned Designer... by James Clarke

Escape The Fate vocalist Craig Mabbit takes on the fashion world with his new clothing line Lollipops & Cigarettes. Can you begin by introducing yourself and telling us a bit about Lollipops and Cigarettes? My name is Craig Mabbitt and I am the vocalist for a band called Escape the Fate. Alongside my band, I am working on a new clothing line called Lollipops & Cigarettes which includes many different t-shirts with designs that I like. Where did the name Lollipops and Cigarettes come from? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quite a random story really. One night I was at a bar and overheard a girl saying that all she ever had in her purse were lollipops and cigarettes. The sound of this caught my attention and so î&#x160;&#x2DC;

4 4 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

(advertisment)

AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION - AVAILABLE NOW AT BECOMEANTIQUE.COM

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

 when I went home I typed it into google which led me to discover it was an unknown quote. The quote began “when lollipops turn to cigarettes” and basically told a tale of how as we grow older we become exposed to the evils of the world. This lead me to having a name for the clothing line which I liked alongside a quote behind it that I loved. As a successful musician; what made you decide to create your own clothing line? I realised that there were many other musicians around me who were creating successful clothing lines and so I figured that I should give it a go and start my own line. I have always been inspired by many different things around me which I felt I could develop into designs. What would you say influences the designs? Would you say the music scene has played an important role? There are many different things that have influenced the designs, and music is definitely

one of the major influences. However, there is no specific “look” for any of the designs as they are mostly just random thoughts, sayings or images that I have seen in and out of my mind. I hope that one day I will be able to progress from just designing t-shirts to creating and designing my own unique styles of clothing. What is the aim of Lollipops and Cigarettes? The ultimate aim of Lollipops and Cigarettes is to become an affordable cut and sew company that has really unique items. For example, Forgotten Saints on melrose in L.A. or Trash and Vaudville in NYC. However, for now im making shirts that I like.

4 6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

Do you think traveling around the world has played a role in influencing your style and designs? I definately think it has as it has exposed me to many different styles. However, I think this will be reflected much more in the future when I develop this company beyond just t-shirts and can afford to do much cooler things. With many other musicians having clothing lines too, what do you think gives Lollipops and Cigarettes an edge and makes it different? I think the fact that there is a clear

message that goes along with Lollipops and Cigarettes as it is based around the quote about growing up makes it really stand out. I think many other musicians lack any sort of message or story behind their clothing lines. What has the reaction been to Lollipops and Cigarettes so far? So far its been great! Lots of people have been ordering online and I even sold some of the t-shirts on the Uproar Tour we did last September. The fans have really seemed to enjoy the items. What are your plans for 2012? To hopefully keep expanding the company and to be recognised as a designer alongside being a ‘band guy.’ Where can people get hold of Lollipops and Cigarettes clothing right now? merchmethod.com/ lollipopsandcigarettes What do you think would be a good slogan for the brand? “The smoking lollipop guild” Haha.

SinStar Clothing The boys your mothers warned you about. by Louise Amie

SinStar clothing was founded in 2010 when Essex based designers Samuel Bell and Ryan Stripe decided to collaborate their skills and put this energy into creating their own clothing brand. The story behind this brand is one of ups and downs, taking many risks combined with strong talents and friendship that makes their brand stand out significantly amongst so many others within this style genre. Samuel Bell took the time to speak with 8 Magazine in more 4 8 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3 detail about the journey and process behind the scenes of SinStar including the strong influence of music, working with his best friend and what’s in store for the future.

“

Touring, drinking and living with no money” was the beginning of Ryan and Sam’s careers together. As two young members of a band, their main ethos was for enjoying life and not having to face reality and responsibility. “We became the people our mothers had warned us about,” jokes Sam, “we did everything we wanted to and everything we were told not to do.” However, after returning from tour in 2010 with holes in their boots and trashed clothes; Sam and Ryan began working on an idea that would change everything. This idea was to combine their skills and create SinStar. Suddenly the two of them had a direction and a meaning and took a gamble to create the brand. However, whilst Sam and Ryan were excited and determined they faced many difficulties along the way. The first was the decision to cut ties with the band that they were

T h e Fa s h i o n lo v e r

in. “As the band grew, we noticed resentment from certain members of the group towards our growing success outside the group,” Sam describes the events leading to the decision to leave the band. “We always thought good friends should help and support you.” Yet, as this was not the case the boys decided to instead focus on their new clothing line, SinStar. Leaving the band was not to be the only problem that Ryan and Sam would face with their new career venture and they soon realised that they were not going to have the “smoothest journey.” The guys took many risks and gambles which often lead to them losing everything, yet they fought for their dream and learnt from the mistakes. The two kept a positive mentality in which Sam suggests they believe that it was “better to have tried and failed than to never have tried at all.” And with this persistent attitude, 

49 Eight Maga zin e January 2012

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

designs onto clothing.  their hard work and efforts eventually paid off. “I think part of the reason we work so The achievements of well together is because we understand each SinStar have definitely not just other. We know the direction we want to go been due to hard work and in, whether it’s for Sin Star or musically.” Sam luck, however. Whilst discusses the challenges many musicians of working alongside his go on to try and best friend. “For us, it’s create clothing always all about that end lines, the factor that result and everything in really makes this between doesn't really brand different and matter so we tend not to let respected in the the little things get in the fashion world is their way. When we do argue, talent combined it's only because one of with their hard work. us has a strong vision for With Sam being a something, you’ve just got graphic designer and to step back sometimes animator and Ryan and remember that we being a professional aren't clones and although photographer and we usually agree on most artistic director; things, everyone's opinions the two already are different.” This attitude have a winning is obviously an important combination of factor in working with a creative talent. close friend, and it appears Each collection that Sam and Ryan’s begins with the boys focus on their goal for the ” working together clothing is met with the on new designs, right outlook. - Samuel bell thinking of “slogans With both Sam and and tag-lines to Ryan coming from a go with these ideas to give musical background, this is greatly reflected them a greater reason to fit in within their designs. “We try and bring a bit of with the brand identity.” The our rock lifestyle into what we design. I think if lengthly process that goes into we did anything else we wouldn’t be able to put each collection begins with as much passion into it because at the end of the boys working together the day, this is who we are.” Since the pair try to on designs and then heading use their “musical inspiration” in their over to Portugal to go through designs, they feel it “makes sense” to use the motions of putting their things such as “skulls and hot girls” to cater

“

We try and bring a bit of our rock lifestyle into what we design. I think if we did anything else we wouldn’t be able to put as much passion into it because at the end of the day, this is who we are.

to this rock star ideal. However, they do try to achieve a “happy medium” in their designs and ensure that they cater to a “wider audience” ranging from “really dark to quite bright, sexy prints.” These design tactics have obviously worked and captured a strong market in which they sell a very large amount of clothing from their online store and in 2011 were even picked up and sold at London department store Selfridges. However, amongst these achievements Sam suggests that his proudest moment so far was probably when their “PR guy” sent a picture to the guys of Rupert Grint from Harry Potter wearing one of their designs to the premier of “The Deathly Hallows.” Alongside Grint, the clothing is often worn by other celebrities including Chelsea football players, suggesting that SinStar has really captured a variety in its clients. Despite the success that SinStar has achieved so far, Sam and Ryan still feel they have a long way to go and that they are only just beginning with the brand. “SinStar is our baby and it is slowly growing. We still have a lot to learn about the industry, so as it grows, we grow.” Thus, the boys still have great things planned for

the future including hopefully in the “not so distant future” opening “flagship stores in both London and New York.” However, as of right now the guys are busy focusing on their plans for 2012 in which they are currently designing new prints and garments for the Summer 2012 range. The band have much in store for 2012 in which they aim to tour with the brand alongside their new band “Avalanche.” “I have confidence in us achieving our goals and ideals. We couldn’t have imagined being in this situation last year and here we are today. Crazy!” Sam finishes the interview with a sense of pride and determination for the future which has evidently lead the two founders through to success so far. Watch out for the new SinStar collection coming soon and if you have not checked them out already then visit: sinstarclothing.com

51 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

Photo Laurent Barnard

BEARDS ARE EPIC Laurent ‘Lags’ Barnard talks fashion, music and facial hair...

Laurent Barnard formed Hardcore punk band Gallows in 2005 following the disbandment of his previous band, My Dad Joe. Gallows stormed into the alternative music scene with an aim of reviving the true punk ideal with brute force, passion and menace which was greatly reflected in their sound as well as their notoriously controversial behaviour on and off stage.

aving been highly recognised on the music scene for his guitar playing and musical abilities just as well as his quirky style and personality; I spoke with Laurent to discuss in more detail all things fashion and music.

Could you begin by telling me a bit about your own personal style? I like to adopt my look for certain occasions. Autumn and Winter for me is a good time of year to dress like a real gentleman. Smart attire finished off with a fedora hat complete with feather really finishes the look perfectly. I think it’s a fact too that the smarter you dress the more people respect you. Swedish hardcore band Refused lost the baggy jeans 5 2 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

“

and XL T-shirts to adopt a more Beatles-esque image and instantly more people paid attention to their message. I’m not saying I crave respect in the colder months but it’s just something I’ve noticed on the way. In the Summer I quite like slicked back hair, plain white tee plus denim jacket. White socks also seem to play a big part in my style, they help offset the black jeans and black shoes!

Rather than follow current trends I like to look at more classic, timeless styles of fashion, especially the 50's and 60's where young people dressed very bold. ”-

Where do you find inspiration in terms of how you dress? Have there been any people in particular who have been iconic and Laurent Barnard influential? Rather than follow current trends I like to look at more classic, timeless styles of fashion, especially the 50's and 60's where young people dressed very bold. I also love the different styles of various sub-cultures. For example the mods and rockers. All their looks deeply fascinate

me and I like to incorporate examples of these different factions of fashion in how I present myself. I have Gavin Watson’s photo book “Skins” and often flick through it admiring everything from the placing of badges on Ben Sherman gingham shirts to how they tie up the laces on their Doc Martens. Do you think music has played an important role upon your style? How? Being in a band that has achieved a fair bit has actually given me more confidence and allowed me to be more experimental with the clothes I wear or how I do my hair. To people in the suburbs I appear quite eccentric but when you see some of the styles present ed in Dalston hipster bars I look relatively normal. I guess to some I do look quite interesting and when I tell them what I do it seems to compliment my look. I guess if I said I was a bin man then the connection might be lost. Having spent a lot of time traveling around on tour; do you feel that experiencing of a wide variety of different cultures has had an impact upon your dress sense? Being in Japan had a profound 

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

into different makes. It’s not  impact on me. Fashion over there is so important. People strange for a sports company spend hours getting ready to produce elegant footwear just to walk round the streets for example. I like Vivienne of Shibuya window shopping. Westwood a lot. The history However that goes with I feel that that particular today with fashion label the aid of resonates the internet, with what I cinema, do. music that the varying Tell me a bit degrees of about your fashion isn’t obsession as noticeable with facial as it would’ve hair and been years the general go. You al procedure ways get the that goes ” same looking into creating people at those - Laurent Barnard every gig no beautiful matter where mostaches. you are in the world. Ever since I could grow facial hair I’ve experimented with it. Where do you tend to shop? Most of the time I just have a Are there any specific beard but when the beard gets designers that you are too long I shave but leave the particularly fond of? mustache. I’ve actually been I’m in the fortunate position doing that since 2005. With of getting a fair bit of clothing time you learn the tricks but for free unless I’m really after I’m still not quite where I want something special. Brands that to be. Waxing the mustache I wear the most are Fred Perry, also adds about 15 minutes Levis, Vans and Nike. Sounds to your “getting ready” time. like a strange combination Recently it has become quite a but the one thing I’ve noticed “cool” thing to do. When I went is how similar trends cross to the tattoo convention this

“

I like Vivienne Westwood a lot. The history that goes with that particular fashion label resonates with what I do.

year I saw quite a few similar bits of facial hair. But then at the end of the day I owe a lot of how I look to the tattooing culture. I really appreciate the people I see who dress quite dap per. In many ways it turns the archaic public perception of tattoos being rough and unstylish on it’s head. Can you tell me a bit about your tattoos and the decisions behind them? Why do you think there is such a great relationship between the rock music industry and body modification such as tattoos and piercings? For ages I had no tattoos because I was deep in the mindset that my dream of becoming a professional musician would never happen and if I got tattooed it would close too many doors in the workplace. When Gallows started making a name that pressure of getting a real job quickly became replaced with illusions of fast cars and mansions. That’s an exaggeration but I did find myself surrounded by people with tattoos and it made me realise it wasn’t really the be all and end all of any career. I got my first tattoo on tour and it just went from there. My

tattoos all have connections to moments in life, places I’ve been to, friends and family. All body modifications are ways of expressing yourself and the music industry is such a free environment where you can potentially act 18 all your life under the pretence that you play in a band. You can now turn your body into a piece of art and today it seems that everyone is doing it. Maybe this will have an adverse effect and the next generation of kids won’t get any tattoos because their parents have them (and that’s not cool). You attended London Fashion Week this September...What shows did you see? I don’t even remember the shows. I think I even threw away the invites. I know I didn’t see Vivienne Westwood unfortunately. I’m more the kind of person who forgets the shows and take advantage of what’s on offer at the afterparties. That’s wrong of me to admit but it’s the truth! What do you like and dislike about the fashion industry? My like is also my dislike. The fact that if you wear anything with confidence you can get away with it. . - Louise Amie

55 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

Doll Parts Grunge Fashion is back and as loved as ever. Don’t pull out your flannel shirt just yet, the evolution of this trend brings with it a much more glamorous twist. McQ  by Alexander McQueen

he return in popularity of the grunge fashion was far from unexpected. This is a trend that never truly goes out of fashion, instead simply reinvents itself. Emerging from the streets of Seattle in the early 1990's, this was a look that transformed the fashion world. When bands such as Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Soundgarden and Pearle Jam appeared on the music scene, their look caused quite a stir, perhaps just as much as their music. Their melancholy sound was met with long sleeves, unwashed hair, thrift store jeans and checkered shirts. It was a look all about attitude and an expression of teenage angst and the rebellious mood.

A key element of the grunge fashion was that it was an anti- fashion statement. The ‘grunge’ bands were simply about their music and had little care for fame and fortune and it is evidently reflected through their clothing which echoes their uncaring attitude. Their clothes were assembled in an irregular fashion with items juxtaposing each other. For example, pretty floral dresses would be teamed up with Doc Marten boots and leather. At the heart of this imagery is grunge queen Courtney Love and it is seemingly impossible to deny the valuable input she had on this trend. Her bleached blonde locks, bright red lips, pretty dresses, stompy boots and fierce attitude influenced a generation, least of all Marc Jacobs. Whilst bands such as Nirvana bought the fashion trend to light, it was really thanks to Marc Jacobs that it was translated into the realms of mainstream fashion and onto catwalks. However, it began as quite a struggle and he was initially dismissed and sacked from Perry Ellis for his

5 6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3 introduction of lumberjack shirts and distressed denim. However, before one begins delving too far into this past fashion and heads straight back to 1992, it is important to identify that this trend has greatly advanced from its previous grunge form. Whilst you can still draw upon many items from your existing wardrobe, it is essential to combine these with the grunge style of today. Luxe-Grunge Whilst this trend was so popular in the 90’s, it has transformed itself today into an almost ‘posh’ and luxurious grunge. It is a more refined look allowing women to follow this trend with a feminine allure and the key elements of grunge are far more subtle. For example, Pierre Balmain maintained a true grunge rock-star aesthetic in the diffusion line for Spring 2012, mixing black skinny jeans with oversized printed blouses and blazers. Whilst Charlotte Ronson wowed the runways during New York Fashion Week with her bohemian grunge which saw a 70's Victorian line with a grunge factor that was demonstrated by button downs and pajama pants and patchwork denim and crop tops. The grunge fashion trend can also be witnessed through the high street with

T h e Fa s h i o n lo v e r

the increasing popularity of brands such as All Saints. All Saints have been of key importance with the re-emergence of the grunge trend with their stompy boots and layers. They capture this theme perfectly through their parachute dresses and cardigans full of layers frills and unfinished looking designs. And these pieces are perfect teamed up with a battered leather jacket. The dull colours offered by the brand fit perfectly with contrasting coloured accessories such as beanies and scarves to give it an edge. Try black, electric blue, yellow, grey, gold, Grunge Icons: purple, burgundy red to Courtney Love and give it a twist. Kurt Cobain However, when  Marc Jacobs and attempting this look it is Courtney Love important to think back to where it all began. It is a trend that emerged from the working man of Seattle, who paid little attention to fashion. Thus, it is essential to maintain the right attitude and ensure you don’t go over board on the ‘new’ items but paying more attention to thvve combination of items you are putting together. To finalise the look add some red lipstick, go overboard on mascara and finally follow the example of Alexander Wangs models from the catwalk this year and don’t wash your hair for a few weeks. . - Louise Amie 57 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

a i n r o f i l Ca

n n a Be t h M o d el Ha Jo h n so n ap h e r Li sa P h oto g r r a h E ll is St y li st Sa rter m a n da C a St y li st A t n r ta is ewe A ss y Br a r t is t Kell Ma k e -up

g n i m a e Dr 59 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

Hanna Beth wears Custom made took skirt, black lace cut-off and miniature black sequin hat by Sarah Ellis Vintage black lace corsette and earrings The Rush Shoe in Silver Gliiter $ 00 by Senso 61

6 0 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s h i o n lo v e r

Hanna Beth wears The Joey Tee by Ellie Lavelle

8800

Black Ribcage strappy vest by Fredericks of Hollywood

63 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

H a n n a B e t h wears

Spiked Leather Jacket $ 00 By Ellie Lavelle 1,200 Lace Bra By H&M

1600

6 4 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s h i o n lo v e r

H a n n a B e t h wears GoldiE Blazer $ 00 By Ellie Lavelle 750 EARRINGS VINTAGE BLACK Lace CORSETTE By H&M

65 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

H a n n a B e t h wears Vintage Black Leather Jacket Black Lambskin Rocker Pants by Ellie Lavelle

75000

ÂŁ

6 6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n l o v e r

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

H a n n a B e t h we ars Skynard Top with studded $ 00 collar by Ellie Lavelle 150 Lace-Top Thigh Hights by Fredericks of Hollywood

6 8 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

1400

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

Veronique Vicari L.A. based jewelry & clothing designer Veronique Vicari takes us through her working week with her colourful and flirty style PHOTOS BY Veronique vicari

Veronique does not have your typical 9-5 office job. As a designer for her own jewelry line Jewelry By Veronique, and as part of a team for clothing line 1979 alongside being an actress; her days are spent juggling meetings, castings as well as taking time to be creative in her art studio. Each of these days are met with an inspired outfit choice to fit the occasion which display a style which is funky with a flair of designer and vintage with lots of bright colours and girly finishes.

70 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s h i o n lo v e r

M o n day I have acting class on Mondays so I always want to be comfortable but still dress cute. I love vintage high waisted Levi's, because they are loose fitted but still flattering. Cropped tees are best with high-waisted jeans, so I like to rock my 1979 T-shirt with them. I got this furry leopard hoodie from Forever 21, which is one of my favorites places to shop. Lately I’ve been wearing my purple Rag and Bone Newbury Booties to complete a look as they are so comfortable and my absolute favorite.

T U E SD A Y When I am working in my art studio I always want to be comfortable. I visit Maui a lot as my best friend has a home on the North Shore, so I love to wear island printed tees and blouses. These are matched with jeans by Siwy, which is one of my favorite denim lines as the cut fits so well and Michelle Siwy is a friend so I'm a huge fan. I always wear flats or flat boots when I work also and above are my See by Chloe studded boots. The boots are from a few seasons ago but I love them and feel like the studded straps are timeless. I am also wearing my mermaid rings from my own line. All of my jewelry is inspired by all things whimsical, such as unicorns, fairies, but I am particularly obsessed with mermaids. I think i am really a mermaid.

W E DN E S DA Y I think its important when auditioning to dress the part, however I think it is really really important to show your personality and who you are as a person with your clothing so I always stay true to what i love. Here I'm wearing purple silk blouse by Alexander Wang, a dream catcher necklace that I make for Jewelry By Veronique and the 1979 high-waisted ‘galaxy skirt’. Purple is my favorite color and I love to wear bright colors. Also, I’m rocking my See by Chloe Black leather purse...which I love to wear season after season. 

7 1 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3 î&#x160;&#x2DC;

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

T H U R SD AY For meetings with store buyers and stylists I like to dress flirty. Shorts are good to wear because you can still dress up and look sexy but its not as dressy as wearing a skirt. Here Im wearing a 1979 button down cropped blouse (again cropped anything with high waisted is great) and some high-waisted jean shorts. I like to carry a clutch sometimes when I'm bringing my line into stores because i have so much to carry already. All I really need in my purse is my lipstick, wallet and phone and I'm set to go, so today my louis Vuitton clutch works. I also wear my jewelry to most store appointments and here I'm wearing my sea star studded earrings. Finally, this outfit is matched with Rag and Bone High heel ankle boots in black, which are the best.

FRI DAY As I have to

juggle the two different lines and castings, I sometimes have to wear what I'm gonna wear out on friday night my whole day! I love Betsy Johnson. She is one of my favorite designers. Any of her dresses allow me to feel cute all day long. Here I'm wearing her tie dye

7 2 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

cotton dress with my Theory leather jacket and a pair of Dolce Vita boots. Dolce Vita makes amazing boots that are so reasonable in price. I have my matching Betsy Johnson clutch to go with this outfit. I have two French Bulldogs so I love this bag...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my bulldog bag grrrr.

Almost

Famous P h oto g

r ap h y b y To m L e is h m a n S t y l in g by A m a n Lo cat io da Ta n g n Wemb le y A r e n a , Lo n don

75 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

They don't even know what it is to be a fan. Y'know? To truly love some silly little piece of music, or some band, so much that it hurts. â&#x20AC;? - saphire

76 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

G e o rg i a we a r s Jacket - Vintage Vest - TopShop

1800

Leggings - American Apparel Shoes from Office

8500

2800

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The only true currency in this bankrupt world is what we share with someone else when we're uncool .â&#x20AC;? - Lester Bangs

7 9 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

G e o rg i a we a r s T-Shirt - H&M

1500

Leggings - American Apparell Shoes - Kurt Geiger

12500

3200

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s h i o n lo v e r

81 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I always tell the girls, never take it seriously. If ya never take it seriously, ya never get hurt. Ya never get hurt, ya always have fun. And if you ever get lonely, just go to the record store and visit your friends. â&#x20AC;?-

PENNY LANE

83 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 3

T h e Fa s Hi o n lo v e r

G e o rg i a we a r s Sleeveless leather jacket

8000 £ 00 Shoes - Topshop - 85 Leggings - Reiss -

85 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 4

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

ARe You Up? #TheNewBreedOfGroupie Photos sourced by David Gulvin

ecently I was sitting in an Irish pub on Hollywood and Vine when a particular conversation caught my attention. Whilst casually sipping on a Blue Moon and wondering what the football score was, my thoughts were interrupted by one of the girls at our table that was shrieking in excitement. Through the squeals she began explaining that she had received a direct message on Twitter saying, “Congratulations, you have been picked to be featured as a Certified Official Band Slut on isanyoneup.com!” This amazing news was met by high fives from her friend who was congratulating her on the number of band guys she had fucked and offering to buy her drinks. This got me thinking… Do girls just want to be famous these days by any means necessary? What is the modern day groupie? So, how do you become famous? There are a few

8 8 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

ways to go about this. Firsly, you are simply talented and the public wants to pay attention to you, i.e. you are an actor, musician, designer, author, athlete etc. Secondly, you are a public figure head and actually help the world out, i.e. The President, The Queen, Mother Theresa. And now recently in the last 10 years we have another category: Famous for nothing. The invention of reality TV, the Internet and text messaging have spawned an obsession with being famous. In previous years it was only when people were doing something that people actually cared about that they would be written about in newspapers and magazines and asked to appear as guests on talk shows. However, now since the invention of Myspace, Twitter, Jersey Shore and BBM we have a new breed of humans that try to get famous for doing absolutely nothing at all. Marry the obsession

of being famous with the alternative music scene and the modern day way of consuming media and voila: you have the modern day groupie. And what is their bible? Isanyoneup. com. Have you heard of it? If you are under 25, have some sense of the current alternative music scene and are on Facebook, this site will have come across your news feed. For those of you that haven’t heard of it – it’s basically Gossip Girl meets Porn for the twitter generation. The owner of the site, Hunter Moore has described himself as a “professional life ruiner” and states that he created the site for two reasons: to leak “n00dz” of band guys and to exploit the groupies that are attached to this particular scene. Exgirlfriends or flings from the past generally submit band member photos, but

C HAPTER 4

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

other posts (mostly of young, tattooed girls) are generally self-submitted. Moore puts a “submit here” button on his site and gets flooded with submissions. Thus, we are left wondering, who are these girls and why do they want this recognition? Since the invention of Myspace it appears that this recognition is all too familiar. Trashy girls posing in annoying positions, trying to get attention so that they can get another comment on their profile picture. Okay, I understand the porn industry. I understand Playboy and Hustler magazine. But, anonymously submitting your “n00dz” to some idiot for the entire world to see and that last forever just to get a few more hits to your Facebook? This has to be groupie behavior. I think this goes back to the point that these girls want to be famous for doing absolutely nothing and therefore seek out this groupie name tag. They can achieve this by submitting naked pictures to Isanyoneup. com or hooking up with a “band dude” and tweeting them everyday so that

everyone thinks that they are “friends”. This all allows these girls to feel they have achieved some level of fame, whilst they are really in fact sat on the internet in a miserable trailer park in Peoria, Illinois. It allows a lonely emo girl in her apartment in Slough to send pictures of her A Nightmare Before Christmas tattoo and feel like she is somebody. These girls can brag on twitter for the whole world to know that Pete Wentz from Fall Out Boy sent them a picture of his dick. Or, that hopefully when Paramore roll into their hometown of Glasgow, she can give one of them a blow job and post the news on twitter the next day. Therefore, these girls are using these band members so they can become more “famous”. The band members are using these girls for sex. Whilst the idea of groupies is not exactly new, as throughout history there have always been adoring girls following around Motley Crue or the Sex Pistols; it would only be the main girls or girlfriends, such as topless model and actress Pamela Anderson, who would gain recognition from the public for their rock star conquests. Therefore, although it is the same type of groupies that “hook up” with bands at shows, (instead of Depeche Mode and Guns ‘N’ Roses it’s Escape The Fate and All Time Low) today these girls have an outlet to gain recognition for their sexual favours. Thus, it appears that there has been an evolution of the term “groupie” and today anyone is capable of achieving this label and in turn achieving a certain low level of fame within the scene. Penny Lane once said, ”We are not groupies. Groupies sleep with rock stars because they want to be near someone famous.” No Penny. You are a groupie. . - xoxo Gossip Guy

9 0 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 4

F e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

91 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 4

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

Sex, Tattoos & Rock ‘n’ Roll F

Images sourced by Sarah Lees

or centuries people have had tattoos which have been used for many different reasons, ranging from pain relief and magical protection to declaration of victory over an enemy. Today tattoos are vastly different from the scars on primitive man and have become relatively commonplace in Western society. However, despite the fact that tattoos have moved into the mainstream realm; it appears that tattoos are still incredibly prevalent amongst particular groups in society, including the porn and rock music industries. Tattoos are now part of everyday society with over 60% of all North Americans aged 18 to 30 years old having at least one tattoo. However, despite this move into the popular cultural realm, tattoos and extreme body modification do indeed remain for many marks of difference: cultural

indicators of social deviance for some, a membership in a cultural group or collective for others, a rejection of mainstream Western consumer culture for others still. And very much coinciding with this notion lies the fact that tattoos are synonymous with rock stars and porn stars, acting as an expression of their alternative lifestyles. If we begin looking at the history of legendary rock gods we are presented with endless skin artwork and the relationship between the two seem intangible. If we look back to the 80's, music lovers witnessed Ozzy Osborne with his terrible yet colourful tattoos, singing and biting the heads off bats. Following on from Ozzy, there were Motley Crue who really took the award for tattoos in the 80's. And alongside Motley Crue were Guns ‘N’ Roses with Axl Rose presenting audiences, once again, with a whole host of really awful tattoos. However, none of that really seems to matter when you’re in a band that’s selling out arenas and adorned by loving fans and girls. Progressing on to the

1990’s the momentum of tattoos within the rock music industry began building even more. Travis Barker from Blink 182 stands out as being particularly iconic for covering his entire body in colourful artwork. Prominent imagery springs to mind of the ghetto blaster on his stomach and flags on his neck. Whether one chooses

and they also have the sense of freedom of getting as many tattoos as they want. And that brings us to today, in which they appear more common than ever. It would be incredibly uncommon to witness a rock band that did not display any tattoos, and a vast amount adorn themselves with sleeves and copious amount of tattoos all over their bodies. Hell, even if you look at the Backstreet Boys we are presented with an incredible amount of tattoos! Today with such incredible popularity of shows such as L.A. Ink its almost as though tattoos have become main stream normality. However, if we take the main attraction of this show, tattoo artist and owner of L.A. Ink, Kat Von D, it is impossible to break up the tie that lies with the notion of rock n roll. This beautiful tattoo clad vixen began her roots with her beloved tattoos following her introduction by her sister to punk rock, heavy metal, Metallica, The Ramones, AC/DC and she is well-known for her passionate relationship with Motley Crue member Nikki Sixx and more controversially with Jesse James. She herself is covered in incredible artwork including stars above her left eye (for “Starry Eyes,” a fave Crue song), grey and black roses across her throat, “Mi Vida Loca” in elaborate script across her back, “Hollywood” as redlipstick graffiti across her stomach, her dad’s face on her forearm, four tattoos of Beethoven, various pin-up queens, skulls, obscenities and Los Angeles symbols. Kat Von D has become a widely loved 

The Vanishing Tattoo website conducted research and found that over 50% of the women listed as the sexiest in the world by publications like Maxim and Playboy have tattoos. to admire these images or not seems besides the point when faced with someone who is, once again, selling out arenas and worshipped for his musical talent. Thus, a seemingly important aspect of the relationship that stands between tattoos and rock bands is a case of that they simply ‘can.’ They do not have to worry about getting a regular job where tattoos are not accepted. They are making a statement

93 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 4

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

 celebrity even having her own line at make up counter Sephora and she is known for tattooing the rich and the famous, ranging from Motorhead vocalist Lemmy Kilmister, to porn legend Jenna Jameson. Thus, once again there appears to be this undeniable relationship between the porn industry, rock music and tattoos. If one is to go to a tattoo convention, one would be greeted by glamorous or not so glamorous, (depending on ones taste!) porn stars and rock musicians. It very much seems the case however, that wherever there are rock bands and tattoos, there also follows...girls, girls, girls. And don’t these tattoo clad rock stars love their porn star chicks, especially in maintaining their ego’s. With tattoos acting as an important way to symbolize one’s lifestyle and identifying with a certain imagery, the porn industry stands as being particularly an area where they are highly visible. Recently The Vanishing Tattoo website conducted research and found that over 50% of the women listed as the sexiest in the world by publications like Maxim and Playboy have tattoos. In demonstrating the ever increasingly value of tattoos within this area one could also look at the increasing popularity of websites such as the ‘Suicide Girls.’ Suicide Girls in an online community which focuses on alternative beauty and culture. It contains soft-core pin up photographs of punk, goth and indie girls known as the Suicide Girls. These young women are pale skinned, dark haired and covered in tattoos. They have captured

9 4 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 4

F e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

the hearts and hands of fans all over the world and redefined conventional beauty norms and popularized the modern tattoo trend. These pale faced, tattoo covered beauties never fail to demonstrate their affiliation with rock bands and act as a seemingly important imagery associated with the more ‘metal’ bands, increasingly viewed in music videos and on music tours. Thus, it appears that today, whilst there has been an incredible shift in values and opinions towards tattoos, with an incredible proportion of Western society beholding tattoos, it seems that it is perhaps the extent of the tattoos is that which varies. For example, whilst it may be becoming more common for people to have a tattoo, that is not to say that you’re accountant or your lawyer is going to greet you with a neck tattoo with his mothers name on display or shake your hand whilst displaying a full sleeve of hellish imagery. Whilst we are indeed living in a much more liberal society than in previous years when it comes to tattoos, there are still certain limitations. And thus, there lies the valuable reason as to why tattoos are so highly visible in these various sectors. Tattoos can be displayed in large amounts by rock stars, by porn stars and those with alternative lifestyles as they simply just ‘can’. They can have as many tattoos and not fear any consequences in the work place or for how they are viewed, because they are simply expressing through their body exactly how they want to be perceived whilst at work and outside of work.

95 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 4

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

Londons I Calling

 Angela Steelman PHOTO BY David Cowen

hate leaving London. I always hate leaving. I much prefer the fluttery feeling i get when my plane is circling the Thames, or touching down on the tarmac under the cold lights of Heathrow airport. It always looks wet, and though there is always a chill in the air I feel myself heating up with anticipation as the tired passengers and I de-plane. I like it here, I feel at home on this ground, and I always hate leaving. Today, I watch from my window for that last bit of rolling green coastline to slip away 30,000 feet below our wings. I feel a little shudder and switch on a movie, open a new book, take out some paper and a pen or take a tylenol and pass out. "Occupy the mind, and you wont think about what your missing.... what you’re leaving behind," I say to myself. But I cannot help but to think about it. The people I will miss and the things I wont see. The fashion and the music and the quiet, sexy, effortless way the city runs itself. It's a fascinating place to find yourself on this little island and it is a great place to learn about my two favorite subjects... Love and Clothes. English fashion just excites me. The weather may be gloomy, yet the clothes are anything but. They are interesting, layered, and usually look expensive. They brighten their surroundings and the people they hang from in a unique and lovely way. There are always going to people in any society that have difficulty dressing themselves suitably enough to be seen in public, but I don’t even seem to

notice them in London perhaps, as I am too overwhelmed starring at those who are blessed with this knowledge. Alongside their clothing, these London trendsters all seem to have cool hair, even at the grocery store. The architecture, the fashion, the culture all fascinate and inspire the tired Los Angeles mind. I yearn to posses that easy effortless sense of style that most of the English youth cant help but own. And why wouldnt they? Great style has been passed down for generations through the streets of London, and it is the birthplace of some of the worlds most interesting and lovely couture. In l.a. we strut the streets in every shade of sequin, tossing our beach-blown hair and advertising an easy, exciting and mysterious lifestyle thats as real as the entertainment we produce. In L.A., BoHo chic will always be in fashion, much like long hair and cocaine... But not london. In London, the girls clack down Putney streets in tanned cockney herds. The boys button their shirts all the way to the top in Shoreditch, and shine their expensive pointy fabulous shoes to watch football at the local pub. The absence of boardshorts and flip-flops thrills me to my core. And in london, No-one ever calls me “bro”. There I am quiet. I don’t panic. In London, we keep calm and carry on. Now don’t get me wrong, the coast I was born into holds its own allure and beauty. The pacific ocean has always splashed over my doorstep, and I will always be a California girl in my mini dress and oversized mens denim shirt. I’m a product of my sun-kissed surroundings, and I never pass up an opportunity to lather on suntan oil and tan instead of tone. How could the millions of people who flock here

searching for a dream not find it on our golden shores? From Los Angeles, you can see the beach, the desert, snowy mountains and city lights in every direction. Hollywood promises power, beauty and success, However, despite all it’s beauty and glorious sunshine, it has never held the glory or richness for me that London has. For as many people that stay on the west coast forever, there are sure to be two that can’t leave fast enough. It can be a cold place in spite of the weather, and everyone is from somewhere else. It's hard to trust people that you don’t really know, and the lack of trust makes for a tedious soap opera lifestyle for those who don’t know how to avoid it. It's a place that can bewitch you, love you, and spit you out faster than any place on earth. It is heaven and it's hell. It's L.A. baby. I breathe a sad little sigh as the captain switches on the fasten seat belt sign and announces our descent into LAX... sunny and clear, perky and fast paced. I’m home, but London holds me and calls me back even though I have only just left... I hate leaving. . - Angela Steelman

97 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

Fashion: Ugliness, and other intolerable I vestiges of the human experience A Seasonal Rant with William Control

9 8 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

must admit to you, my dears, I have toiled with this sentiment for quite some time. The letters have rattled around and been rearranged in my head for so long that I feel at this point, I must attempt to get straight to the crooked edge of the bottom line, and hope to find a poignant thesis somewhere along the way. When I think about fashion in all its arrogance and dimwitted delight, I cannot help but think about a quote from one my most cherished and beloved authors, Oscar Wilde: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months.â&#x20AC;? Written in the late 19th century, and coming from the mind of a man who died almost a decade before Henry Ford invented the

C HAPTER 4

F e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

 William Control photo by Lisa Johnson

model T, Mr. Wilde could not have more accurately foreshadowed every seasonal collection to debut since his departure. The irony in his bold statement, is of course that, Mr. Wilde sat on the very same carved ebony and velvet sofa as fashionable society, wearing the finest of threads and smoking expensive cigarettes imported from Egypt. I believe he was right in saying that fashion is intolerable. The question begging an answer then, is: Why do we continue to financially and emotionally invest in a capitalist empire that endeavors to create a sense that you are not beautiful enough to be included amongst their ranks, unless you are willing to spend massive loads of cash on their concept of

“self” expression? Every fashion magazine you look in is filled with advertisements for shit you do not need, really want, and probably cannot afford to begin with. The pictures of the models make you feel fat, ugly and ashamed so that you will go out and spend hard earned money on thirty dollar cover up, fifty quid lip gloss, dresses, shoes and jewelry that cost a thousand pieces of gold and will likely only get worn once. Not to mention the racket of creams and potions that are recommended for casual injection into your face just so you can look like the gal in the ad with the airbrushed complexion and digitally enhanced bone structure. But if they have done their jobs right, you will demand what they supply, and they

C HAPTER 4

“

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

will congratulate themselves for convincing you that you needed any of it to express your “self.” I come back to that because I do believe that at its purest, fashion is part self-expression, and that it is the industry of fashion, the trend-machine-focus-groupdesigners, that pervert and exploit that concept beyond recognition. Would I like to see the day when middle aged men in leather trousers, walking along Melrose Blvd, finally realize how fucking stupid they look in their shiny Ed Hardy shirts, promptly remove and hurl them onto a glorious bonfire whilst Wilde singing “A pirates life for me” ? I absolutely would. Would I love to see the day when women do not have to be subjected to a constant downpour of self degradation because every advertisement they see reminds them that

Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months .” - Oscar

1 0 0 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

no, they are not as thin as Kate “I-am-about-asinteresting-as-a-cardboardbox” Moss? With all that I am, yes! I would also like to see a day when we stop caring so much about the special occasions, and accompanying attire, of some talent-less, rich brat who is only famous for fucking some other rich person on tape. PLEASE…I beg you. Stop this visual chicanery. There are bigger issues at hand! Most people call this sick industry “fashion,” but from the outside where I rest, it looks more like desperate imitation. Why do we idolize the lamest of characters, feigning glory for wearing clothes that a highly-paid stylist picked out and still suck? Mr. Wilde, you stand correct, with the exception that now, instead of every six months, this hypercommunicated and digitallyconnected planet re-declares its defining trends every fucking week. If you take the time to close your eyes and blink, it will surely move on without you, and as I put the needle on this Sinatra record, I say good fucking riddance. . -w

C HAPTER 4

F e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

101 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 5

E x t r a Lo v e

Tight-EN UP W Wrap Your Legs In Style

hat do you think of when the word tights comes to mind? Boring office meetings or formal events that require legs to be covered? Stop right there. Tights can be sexy and stylish and act as a great leg-warmer for the colder months. Check out four of our top brands to give your legs an edge...

 Bebaroque was established in 2007 by Mhairi McNicol and Chloe Patience in Scotland. This brand is the latest in superior trendy hosiery and features a gorgeous selection hand printed and embroidered patterned tights and hold ups. For added sparkle try some of the embellished tights. Find more from this collection at bebaroque.com , but beware the prices for these tights are not cheap as the average around £ 29 99 to £395 00!

 House of Holland has collaborated with hosiery line Pretty Polly and come up with some crazy tights at a great price. From crazy colours to stars and polka dots and even print and bedazzled, these tights are anything but basic black. They have been spotted on Alexa Chung and singer Little Boots. Check out more of these quirky designs £ 00 £ 00 ranging from 12 to 15 at houseofholland.co.uk .

1 0 4 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

 Emilio Cavallini is an Italian family owned company which specialises in extremely high quality hosiery. Emilio Cavallini offers an assortment of tights and leggings, which come in a range of different colours and funky prints. Check out emiliocavallini.com for more of these designs such as the super edgy ‘lightening tights’ pictured above.

 Wolford is the ultimate in luxury hosiery with exceptional quality, durability, beauty and fit. Tights range from elegant everyday essentials to creative on-trend fashion pieces. The Wolford Bondage tights which consist of interwoven ribbons of colour to create a stripey effect, gained the brand great recognition when worn by Cheryl Cole on the X Factor a year ago. More creative tights from Wolford can be found at wolford.com.

105 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

LOS ANGELES 1 Bourgeois Pig Location: Franklin Village, Hollywood

Enter the Bourgeois Pig and step into a coffee experience you could not possibly match elsewhere. This hidden gem offers an enchanting hub for the artistic to get specially designed teas, coffees, pastries and smoothies in an inspiring atmosphere. The ‘Pig’ offers a wonderfully weird environment with eclectic decor with splashing blue walls, dim lighting and antique furniture alongside a pool table and free wi-fi. However, the most appealing feature within this quirky coffee spot is the Forest Room located at the back which takes you into a surreal fantasy world filled with stars, trees, owls, lanterns and comfortable couches. The Bourgeois Pig is definitely more appealing if you’re bored of Starbucks! 2 Resurrection Vintage Location: Melrose, Los Angeles

This fashion treasure trove was founded in 1996 by Mark Haddaway and Katy Rodriguez and prides itself on being one of the worlds premier international venues for collectible and historic clothing. The store boasts a beautiful collection of evening wear, jackets and bags from the 1960's-1980's with a designer list straight from Vogue. This is precisely the place to go if you wish to find a bold vintage outfit that no one else is wearing!

1 0 6 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 5

E x t r a Lo v e

3 El Carmen Location: West 3rd Street, Los Angeles El Carmen is a cosy Mexican themed bar and restaurant. Whilst the outside is incredibly unassuming with a simple plain door and small awning, the inside is nothing of the sorts with bold colours, Mexican wrestler decor and dim red lighting. Alongside interesting decoration, there is also a great atmosphere with friendly well trained bar staff and unique music. The most important factor about this bar however, is the unusual drinks list; particularly the insane margaritas. If you love margaritas, you will never leave El Carmen as nowhere else compares. Some of the best include the jalapeno margarita and ginger-cilantro margarita, other popular ones include the pomegranate margarita and the blood orange margarita. The unmatched taste of these drinks will excite your taste buds and bring you back over and over again.

LONDON 1 The Barfly Location: Camden

The Barfly is a small music venue and club situated above a pub in the midst of glorious Camden. Whilst it may be cramped however, this does not seem to stop the punters turning up and getting rowdy, creating a mosh-pit of the whole room. Many a great band have played here over the years including legends such as Oasis, Blur and Coldplay, yet the venue is most widely known for hosting up and coming bands. This venue provides a great opportunity to get close and personal to a band in a true pub environment. 107 Eigh t M ag a z i ne Ja n ua r y 201 2

C HAPTER 5

E x t r a Lo v e

COnt'd

2 CroBar Location: Soho, London If you’re looking to have a quiet pint down at your local, this is definitely not the place for you. Whilst CroBar does greet you with a friendly bunch of bartenders (especially if you buy them a shot of whisky) and familiar faces each time you go; it is more of the metal version of ‘Cheers.’ It is dingy, dark and dirty, but ever so rock ‘n’ roll darling - in which it acts as a pit stop for all rockers in London. So, if you’re seeking a good dirty night of hard rock combined with limited head-banging and jaeger bombs - this is your haven! 3 DropDead Clothing Location: Kingly Street, Carnaby Village DropDead clothing was launched by death core band Bring Me The Horizon’s frontman Oliver Sykes in 2005. The clothing line is well known for its quirky, morbid artwork displayed on it’s tees and is one of the most popular alternative clothing lines worldwide. Following the success of online sales (both in the UK and internationally) and the first shop in Sheffield; the team decided to bring the store down south to London. The shop itself offers a very unique experience and when you step inside you will find a fantastic concept store filled with funky colours and lighting which matches the brands style. Whilst you’re there, be sure to check out the transparent coffin filled with glowing cats in the middle of the shop! . 1 08 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2

Albums that changed my life

With Alexia Rodriguez of Eyes Set to Kill

1 Cursive the ugly organ

5 Darkest hour undoing ruin

2 Thrice illusion of safety

6 Nirvana bleach

3 The Bled pass the flask

7 Eisley room noises

4 Sufjan Stevens illinois

8 Hole live through this

C HAPTER 4

f e at u r e s to I n s p i r e

1 1 0 E i g h t M ag a z i n e Ja n ua r y 201 2