Alpha Omega Magazine Issue 2: Opulence

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Halter Tribal Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Chandelier Earrings Shop Sara+Linh, Crystal Necklace Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Bracelets Stylist’s Own

ISSUE 2

Opulence

co-founder//editor-in-chief

co-founder//creative director

AMANDA NGUYEN @feastfashionfaves

ANDREW PHILIP NGUYEN @lil_saigon

art director

HIEN PHAN @he.en

featured story tellers

beauty editors

Talia Arevalo @jungle_sloth

Alexander Armand @alexander_armand

Genesis Ilada @ilada.genesis

Bong Buan @bong2buan

Hagop Kalaidjian @hagopphoto

Xuan Bui @nailbandit

Ren Lara @ren_lara_photo

Julie Chau @juliethehairartist

Mariel Lohninger @mmlo

Olivia Fischa @oliviafischa

Amanda Nguyen @feastfashionfaves

Crystal Golden @crystal.golden

Phillip D. Nguyen @pdngu

Kevin Lim @kevinlimkevinlim

Joelle T. Nguyen @grungegypsee

Maya Nozaki @mayanozaki

Chris Santiago @jchrissantiago

Jennifer Pham @phamousbeauty

special thanks

Amy Richardson @amyrichardsonmakeup

Jennifer Mitzy Roman @mitzyroman

Quinn and Laura Bui @accessgroupmediainc

Crystal Watana @crystalwmakeup

Thuyen and Visan Pham of Treasure Decor

Jinjutha Vasinsukon @jinjuthamakeup

Crystal Wei @muahcrystal

issue 2

OPULENCe The Alpha Omega Magazine team dove right into shooting Issue 2 prior to the release of Issue 1:AWAKENING. The overwhelming desire to create, fueled the drive to keep the momentum moving into this issue, titled Opulence. The word opulence evokes a sense of lavishness, wealth and grandeur; but through this issue, we convey opulence in another light.

Opulence in diversity; through the lush array of skin tones, body sizes and physical variances that make up our world.

We start the issue with FEVER, two strong women are captured in a cloud of various light floods and yet their powerful stances and expressions push through the haze that wraps around them. They are fearsome, yet feminine creatures. The next story, DECAY IN DECADENCE gives a glimpse into the life of a young lady, tormented by the disarray and shambles that surrounds her as she attempts to hold on to her materialistic pleasures. She exudes an air of regality, however, she battles the physical and mental decay that eats away at her psyche. The third story, STARFALL follows two enchanting and almost extraterrestrial beings that have fallen from the starry skies. Like mystical creatures trying to catch your interest then evade your presence, we are constantly chasing them, wanting to capture a piece of the cosmos. The fourth story, PRISM is an avant-garde feature showcasing strong colorful figures positioned in elaborate patterns. Like a glass prism that refracts light and creates a rainbow, this story shows beings together then separated by each unique look. NATIVE CALLING, depicts youth in the form of a teen girl surrounded by nature. Her dress and stature are inspired by the Native American heritage. She's innocent and has an awe-striking beauty, yet she is strong and ready to come of age as a young woman. Our Issue comes to a close with, ADORNED, featuring a smoldering and sassy fullfigured woman. She's simple, but strikingly dressed in all-black and adorned with jewels.

Although her embellishments are a statement within itself, the images strive to push the boundaries of beauty, and past the body shape and size stereotypes that have been accepted in mainstream media. Our model is a fierce and ferocious creature ready to be seen and heard, and we hope you're ready for what she has to say.

T A B L E of C O N T E N T S

Fever

p. 9

Decay in Decadence

p. 25

Opulence in Diversity

p. 35

Starfall

p. 37

Native Calling

p. 47

Prism

p. 59

Adorned

p. 77

L E T T E R S from the E D I T O R S

Here we are, at the doorstep of our second issue of Alpha Omega Magazine. With this issue releasing on the second most important month in the publishing world, only coming in after the September issue, I feel as if it is kismet that we wrapped just in time to show the world what we brought to the table. Once again I am in total awe of the talent we were able to feature in this issue. Every collaborator that's come on board has left me speechless with their talent, and that is the true testament to them believing in Alpha Omega's vision. I want to thank each and everyone that was involved in making this next issue come to life on each turn of the page. With the second issue's theme being Opulence, we took considerable action to make sure each editorial engulfed you in it's own world and left you feeling rich and exuberant. But under all that glamour and excess, the driving force behind this issue is actually diversity. Seen throughout is a vast array of models from skin color, body type and size. With our fingers on the pulse of fashion, we realized that what's been shown is phasing it's way out. A new era of beauty is ushering it's way in and here at Alpha Omega Magazine we intend to ride that wave. My team and I have been blessed with the talent we've been able to work with during this issue and we hope you enjoy what was creatively produced. If there's a message you take away from this second issue, I hope it's that beauty comes in all different shapes and sizes and we've opened your eyes to what is the norm now. With the hard work of my co-editor Amanda, art director Hien, every single photographer, makeup artist, hairstylist and model, we are proud to present to you Alpha Omega Magazine Issue 2: Opulence. xx, Andrew Philip Nguyen Co-Founder // Creative Director

L E T T E R S from the E D I T O R S

With 2016 in full swing and the year quickly approaching Spring, I'm excited for Alpha Omega Magazine to release its second issue. In this issue, Opulence, the team explored working in unique and different spaces and locations, as well as collaborate with creatives that we hadn't gotten to before whether it was a past missed connection or new relationship. This issue strives to show opulence not by dressing the models magnificently, or showcasing sumptuous sets; but instead, portray opulence through ethnic diversity and the many characteristics that sets each human apart, making everyone unique. The ideals of beauty and the faces that grace magazine covers, national campaigns, and such are vastly changing in the fashion and entertainment industry; greatly transforming our pop culture and social standards. It's an exciting movement and I'm thrilled for you to experience Alpha Omega's interpretation of beauty through diversity. Thank you to my co-editor Andrew and art director Hien for putting in countless hours and dedication to bring the second issue to fruition. Also thank you to all of the remarkably talented creatives that brought each concept to life and made each shoot such a pleasure to work on.

Amanda T. Nguyen Co-Founder // Editor-In-Chief

On Dounia - Nude Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections On Jasmine - Blush Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections

C O NT R I B UT O R S‘

N OT E

February 29, 2016. I’m currently sitting next to Andrew, the Creative Director, as we put finishing touches in the magazine before launching it today. As I look back at all of our hard work, I can’t believe we’re actually on Issue 2 already! I’m extremely proud of every one that has been involved in the making this magazine possible. Alpha Omega continues to grow with the help from such amazing talents who believe in our vision and purpose. Because of them, Issue 2 consisted of:

6 13

editorials

amazing models

Over

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talented creatives including photographers, videographers, beauty artists, and extra hands

92

pages

From myself and the Alpha Omega Team, I thank all of you Hien Phan Art Director

C O NT R I B UT O R S‘ "Working with Alpha Omega Magazine is an honor.

When Andrew contacted me to do an editorial, I got excited as we've already worked together before and the shoots we have done before have all been wonderful. From the conception, production and execution of the editorial, everyone has been hands on and have all given their input. This truly is a collaborative effort and it wouldn't happen without the team. What the whole team created is amazing.

This has been a great experience for everyone." - Chris Santiago, Photographer (Adorned)

"Working with Andrew is always inspiring for me as a makeup artist because of the range of colors, textures and styles that he brings together to create a look. His spirit of collaboration and his genuine passion for the world of fashion always bring such a great energy to the project. It is wonderful to collaborate with a stylist who has a dedication to creating a unique image throughout, and sees the hair, makeup and wardrobe all as elements to achieve that overall finished look. The day of the shoot, I remember the Santa Ana winds were out of control and we were shooting outdoors. This actually served the theme of the shoot perfectly, since our model was a modern, outdoorsy girl in the elements and we wanted the skin and makeup to reflect that theme. The wardrobe for this shoot was a beautiful range of bright colors and textures that really stood out against the natural elements and created an interesting contrast. It was a pleasure working with Andrew and photographer Joelle Nguyen, and I’m very flattered to be a part of such a wonderful creative publication dedicated to new artists and new talent. Thank you Alpha/Omega Magazine." - Amy Richardson, Makeup Artist (Native Calling)

N OT E S

"It was truly a pleasure working with Andrew Nguyen and the amazing team of Alpha Omega Magazine. Having our very own Sabel and Ren from Slay Model Management on their cover is a testament of their Inclusionary stance in Fashion!" - Cecillio Asuncion, Slay Model Management Director (Starfall)

"Andrew is such a creative soul. He's the type of person who sees things through rose colored glasses. Working under Andrew's direction is always fun, inspiring, and full of energy. I've learned a lot just being around him and his team and I love working with him. He's a true leader and realizes people's strengths so that their best work is put forward. Andrew really knows how to strategize for a team of individuals to come together so that we may attain optimal and cohesive results. Andrew truly is a Master of Direction and Fashion Innovation which can easily be seen through the images he and his team orchestrates." - Jennifer Roman, Hair Stylist (Prism)

Working with the whole team over at Alpha Omega Magazine was such a blast! They all produced amazing ideas, and content. Andrew pulled some amazing clothes that encompassed everything about the shoot, and found the perfect place for us to have the photoshoot at. Everyone on the team is so personable, and enjoyable to be around that it made the whole day and photoshoot go by like a breeze and not seem like work one bit! Enjoyed every minute of working with the Alpha Omega team and would of course do it again! - Crystal Golden, Makeup Artist (Decay in Decadence)

"I was so happy and grateful to be able to be a part of the Prism shoot. Andrew and his staff were such a passionate, hard working and friendly crew. Everyone definitely came prepared, brought their A game and rocked this shoot. I look forward to working together again with such a great range of fellow professionals. Thank you for this wonderful experience." - Maya Nozaki, Makeup Artist (Prism)

"Working with Andrew and the team was a smooth sailing experience for myself and everyone involved. Having been the videographer for his magazine’s photo shoot, I was able to see the attention, motivation, and energy that everyone brought to the table for the projects and the magazine as a whole." - Phillip D. Nguyen, Cinematographer (Prism)

"Shooting the cover of Alpha Omega was special for me for many different reasons, other than having models Ren and Sabel from Slay Model Management, the world's first All-Trans agency, it was also my first shoot with Andrew and his crew. There was magic that was lent to the final image since we shot a few days prior to the demolition of the 6th Street Bridge. As they say, the good thing about endings are new beginnings." - Genesis Ilada, Photographer (Starfall)

"My experience in working with the AO Mag team was very rewarding and enriching. Everyone was so kind, relaxed and patient. Everyone's skill level was absolutely professional!! I loved that you guys had specific poses in mind and I appreciated the detailed direction that Chris gave me as well as how attentive, nail, makeup, and hair was through the whole process. That was an excellent way to spend my Sunday, and would do it all over again in a heartbeat!" - Tinder Badhesha, Model (Adorned)

Cateye Sunglasses Lex & Mila, Gold Zipper Dress Braulia Avina, Cuffs Thai Nguyen Collections

FEVER Turn up the temperature in sumptuous second-skin gowns, embellished with accents of sparkle and shine. Gold accessories and separates always do the trick to make you feel the heat. They'll give you fever, all night long.

Photographer: Hagop Kalaidjian Photographer’s Asst: Patrick Worthington Producer: David-Anthony Nelson Models: Dounia Aleksic (NEXT) & Jasmine Rutledge (NEXT) Hair: Alexander Armand Makeup: Olivia Fischa Stylist’s Assistant: Hien Phan Location: Quixote Studios

Cateye Sunglasses Lex & Mila, Gold Skirt Braulio Avina, Cuffs Thai Nguyen Collections

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Nude Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections, Gold Hoops Stylist’s Own

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Gold Blazer Colton Dane, Amulet Necklace Thai Nguyen Collections

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On Jasmine – Gold Embossed Blazer and Short Colton Dane, Amulet Necklace Thai Nguyen Collections On Dounia – Gold Embossed Crop Top and Pant Colton Dane, Gold Chain Thai Nguyen Collections

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V-Neck Crop Top & Gold Pant Combo - Colton Dane, Gold Chain Stylist’s Own, Cateye Sunglasses Lex & Mila

Decay in Decadence The Alpha Omega interpretation of Grey Gardens, the ultimate riches to rags story. Overgrown and desolate, our heroine is seen wearing the finest couture surrounded in a world that's quickly crumbling

Photographer: Mariel Lohninger Model: Becca Lane (VISION/NEWMARK) Hair&MUA: Crystal Golden Stylist’s Assistant: Hien Phan Special Thanks: Thuyen & Visan Pham in Association with Treasure Decor

Royal Brocade Dress - Daisy Gonzalez, Swarovski Crystal Choker Senhoa

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Leather Bomber L.M.D.F., Rose Body Suit L.M.D.F., Cateye Sunglasses Lex & Mila, Emerald Swarovski Tear Drop Earring Senhoa, Silk Head Wrap Vintage Cacharel - Stylist’s Own

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Off-White Hi-Low Couture Gown Emil Sulaiman

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Fox Fur Coat Vintage, Silk Head Wrap Vintage Cacharel - Stylist’s Own

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Rose Body Suit L.M.D.F., Shear Powder Blue Ao Dai - JNG Collection, Drop Chandelier Earring Senhoa, Silk Head Wrap Stylist’s Own

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Blush Pink Dress Emil Sulaiman, Black Swarovski Choker Senhoa, Black Crystal Necklace Senhoa

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Royal Brocade Dress - Daisy Gonzalez, Swarovski Crystal Choker Senhoa

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Black Off-the-Shoulder Gown Avnah

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by: Amanda Nguyen

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It is no mystery that a longstanding stereotype of extremely tall, slender models (often times criticized for being underweight) of fair skin tones have dominated the fashion industry runways, campaigns, and magazine pages. The image portrayed by these models or created by magazines and publications themselves with intense image re-touching or editing, have set the precedent for negative body image and self-esteem in the female youth and adults of America. 'Real' women have not been at the forefront of fashion or mainstream media until just recently, shattering the social ideals of what it means to be and look like as a woman, as well as feel beautiful. More vivacious and full-figured women as well as women actors of color and different racial backgrounds are being casted more on tv shows and for the silver screen; and not only being casted, but playing lead roles. The beloved toy doll, Barbie, who since the beginning of her creation was known for being tall, slender, blonde and Caucasian with most doll friends of similar shape and look; made a huge, revolutionary step with Mattel launching a 2016 collection of dolls in 4 body types, 7 skin tones, 22 eye colors, 24 hairstyles, and an array of trends and styles, which more accurately represents today's female population and exposes little girls to diversity and the characteristics that make everyone different. The evolution of Barbie has sparked overwhelming interest and hype in the media and created conversations with the hashtag #TheDollEvolves.

Although actresses and models of darker skin tones have graced the covers of prominent fashion magazines (with the exception of African-American oriented magazines like ESSENCE), some publications have been slammed with accusations of lightening dark skin or editing facial and body features. For the year of 2014, approximately 14% of major fashion magazine covers featured women of color; however for Fall 2015 alone, seven black women were published on the September issue of notable magazines such as Vogue, New York, i-D and Dazed. In retrospect, for the entire year of 2015, there wasn't much improvement in the amount of women in color featured, but it's a step in a better direction.

Although there has been an increase in women of color on popular fashion and beauty magazine covers, these are just small steps and there are still strides to be made. 2016 has been off to a great start with the first plus-size model splashed on the cover of Sports Illustrated as a part of a three-cover special; and Elle Magazine made waves by showcasing three women in their February 2016 Women in TV issue. Hopefully the industry continues the women in color streak, celebrating all of the rich, ethnic diversity that is such as pivotal part of our culture and continuing catalyst for social change.

Photographer: Genesis Ilada Models: Ren Spriggs & Sabel Gonzalez (SLAY) Hair&MUAs: Jinjutha Vasinsukon & Kevin Lim Special Thanks: Cecilio Asuncion Stylist’s Asst: Hien Phan

Star

Blush Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections

Follow these extraterrestrial beauties as they've fallen from the skies and landed in the heart of DTLA. Will you dare to chase them as they sparkle in the night with all their sequin glory?

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Nude Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections

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Fuchsia Peplum Midi Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier

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Pearl Embroidered Mini Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier

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On Ren - Blush Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections, On Sabel - Nude Lace and Mesh Embroidered Gown Thai Nguyen Collections

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Sequin Ikat Print Top & Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier

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Shear Panel Mini Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier

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Sequin Asymmetrical Backless Ao Dai Thai Nguyen Collections

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Fringe Black Dress Thai Nguyen Collections

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On Sabel - Sequin Asymmetrical Backless Ao Dai Thai Nguyen Collections, On Ren - Sequin Asymmetrical Backless Ao Dai Thai Nguyen Collections / 4 mini - Sequin Ikat Print Top & Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier

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Fringe Suede Shrug Lex & Mila, Yellow Floral Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Crystal Bib Necklace Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Bangles Stylist’s Own

A young girl thrusted into womanhood, bright-eyed and innocent, adorned with all her finest trinkets. She stands tall and is ready to be taken notice.

Photographer: Joelle Nguyen Model: Impy (NEXT) Hair&MUA: Amy Richardson

alling

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Native Print Poncho 16th Colony, Sequin Shear Mini Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier, Tribal Necklace Lex & Mila, Assorted Bangles Stylist’s Own

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Fringe Suede Shrug Lex & Mila, Yellow Floral Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Crystal Bib Necklace Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Bangles Stylist’s Own

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Native Print Poncho 16th Colony, Sequin Shear Mini Dress Thai Nguyen Atelier, Tribal Necklace Lex & Mila, Assorted Bangles Stylist’s Own

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Fur Cropped Coat Lex & Mila, Velvet Dress Lex & Mila, Tribal Necklace Lex & Mila, Chandelier Earrings Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Rings Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Bangles Stylist’s Own

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Black Poncho 16th Colony, Halter Tribal Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Chandelier Earrings Shop Sara+Linh, Crystal Necklace Shop Sara+Linh

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Halter Tribal Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Chandelier Earrings Shop Sara+Linh, Crystal Necklace Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Bracelets Stylist’s Own

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Green Halter Gold Chain Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Drop Earrings Shop Sara+Linh, Assorted Bangles Stylist’s Own

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Don't sleep on the Asian supermodel, they're on the rise. Ready to take the scene with their enthusiasm, bright colors and prints, along with animated movements and loud expressions. These are just a few different facets of Asian beauty and we are here to push it to the forefront of fashion.

Photographer: Ren Lara Graphics Editor: Talia Arevalo Cinematographer: Phillip Nguyen Models: Thu Nguyen, Khanh Vuong, Han Nguyen, Tina Chia, Xuan Bui, Van Nguyen Hair: Jennifer Mitzy Roman, Julie Chau MUA: Maya Nozaki, Crystal Wei, Jennifer Pham Assistants: Hien Phan & Jacqueline Tieu Special Thanks: Quinn & Lorna Bui, Access Group Media, & xPose PR

Saucer Visor Camelia Skikos, Blue Shift Dress Camelia Skikos

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Swarovski Crystal Choker Senhoa, Fuchsia Strapless Dress Camelia Skikos

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Mesh Body Suit L.M.D.F., Drop Earrings Senhoa

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Black Shear Silk Gold Embellished Dress Thai Nguyen Collections

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Black Jersey Printed Dress Mike Vensel

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Sequin Animal Print Body Suit L.M.D.F.

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All Clothes Models’ Own

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Halter Silk Printed Dress Thai Nguyen Collections, Swarovski Cuff Senhoa

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Sculptured Ivory Coat AVNAH, Spike Skirt L.M.D.F., Gold Crown Lex & Mila

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Gold Print Shift Dress Camelia Skikos

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Fur Coat Unif Black Body Con Dress Lex & Mila

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Black Jersey Dress (worn under) Mike Vensel, Pleated printed skirt Thai Nguyen Collections

Croc Skin Mini Dress L.M.D.F., Assorted Rings Senhoa

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(FROM L-R) XUAN Body Con Two Piece Cutout Set Lex & Mila, Round Sunglasses Lex & Mila, Crystal Bib Necklace Senhoa, KHANH Two Piece Nude Mesh Set Lex & MIla, Kitten Ears Lex & Mila, Crystal Necklace Senhoa, THU Wideleg Black Mesh Set Lex & Mila, Round Sunglasses Lex & Mila, Crystal Drop Necklace Senhoa, TINA Faux Biker Leather Set Lex & Mila, Pearl Cat Ears Stylist’s Own, HAN Black Embellished Dress Emily Daccarett, Gold Crown Lex & Mila, VAN Monochromatic Shift Dress Camelia Skikos, Long Pearl Necklace Senhoa, Black Saucer Visor Camelia Skikos

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Adorned Bold and unabashed, these accessories are not for the faint of heart. Bright Swarovski crystals paired with wicked curves make for an unstoppable force of full figured beauty.

Photographer: Chris Santiago Model: Tinder Badhesha (IPM) Hair: Bong Buan Makeup: Crystal Watana Nail Stylist: Xuan Lin Bui Stylist’s Assistant: Hien Phan

Assorted Candy Colored Rings Senhoa, Swarovski Bib Necklace Senhoa (layered over), Crystal Beaded Necklace Senhoa (layered under), Black Body Suit & Motorcycle Jacket Model’s Own

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Assorted Rings, Crystal Necklace, Drop Earrings, Crystal Bracelet ALL Shop Sara+Linh, Sweater Model’s Own

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Drop Chandelier Earrings Senhoa, Calvin Klein Underwear Set Model’s Own, Fur Trim Wool Coat Stylist’s Own

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Crystal Bib Necklace Shop Sara+Linh, Black Turtle Neck Dress Model’s Own

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Drop Chandelier Earrings Senhoa, Calvin Klein Underwear Set Model’s Own, Fur Trim Wool Coat Stylist’s Own

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Black Body Suit & Motorcycle Jacket Model’s Own

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Assorted Candy Colored Rings Senhoa, Swarovski Bib Necklace Senhoa (layered over), Crystal Beaded Necklace Senhoa (layered under), Crystal Beaded Drop Earrings Senhoa, Black Body Suit Model’s Own

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Assorted Candy Colored Rings Senhoa, Swarovski Bib Necklace Senhoa (layered over), Crystal Beaded Necklace Senhoa (layered under), Crystal Beaded Drop Earrings Senhoa, Black Body Suit & Motorcycle Jacket Model’s Own

Rose Body Suit L.M.D.F., Shear Powder Blue Ao Dai - JNG Collection, Drop Chandelier Earring Senhoa, Silk Head Wrap Stylist’s Own

T HA N K

YOU

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