Diane by Annex Magazine

CIARA

ONE WOMAN ARMY -----------------------------The Blonds Jeffree Star Kazaky Amanda Lepore V. Bozeman William Belli Courtney Act Raja Gemini Jackie Boys Rob Holladay

features: BREAKFAST @ Y-3 FALL 2013:

London/New York/Milan/Paris

SPRING COUTURE

Uptown/Downtown

THEN+NOW PARIS IS BURNING

diane '13

#WALK THE LINE

BREAKFAST AT Y-3

“I exist here, now. I’m not much interested in the future. Or, more precisely put, I do not believe in the future. To exaggerate a little, I have no faith that I will still exist tomorrow or the day after. What is more, I absolutely detest retrospection. That dislike is balances only by my desire to make my way back home as quickly as possible.” –Yohji Yamamoto, My Dear Bomb

With decades in the business, Yohji Yamamoto’s innovation and fresh designs consistently stray far from the current trends in fashion. Acclaimed for his signature androgynous black looks and avant-garde silhouettes, Yohji Yamamoto is always a buzz, sought out by trendsetters like Kanye West and Gwen Stefani. Yohji Yamamoto is a Japanese fashion designer based in Paris and Tokyo. After attaining a law degree from Keio University, Yamamoto entered the prestigious Bunka Fashion College in Tokyo. He graduated with fashion awards and the Endo fashion scholarship that set him off to Paris. After marking his Paris debut in 1981, he rose to global fame with his take on combining the traditional Japanese garment inﬂuences with contemporary Western styles. Today, the Yohji Yamamoto brand branches out into several ventures with various different lines and collaborations. One of it’s biggest and most successful collaboration, Y-3, includes his partnership with athletic brand Adidas. Yohji Yamamoto’s collaboration with Adidas celebrated its tenth anniversary last fall. Once again with Yamamoto’s principles, Y-3 brought edge to the traditional athletic wear. For over four decades, the Yohji Yamamoto brand has marked its spot in the fashion industry as well as earned acknowledgement by fans and industry elites alike from all over the world. One thing is certain; Yamamoto doesn’t have to follow the rules, he’s earned that right.

fig fo mascu

Lensed by: J JoshWilliamsPho Creative Directo Editor Assistants: Amanda Marie Joh Nicholson, Jacqu Photo Assitan Hair: Nialan for Key H Makeup: Bry for BMK

Max Wears: Top / STYLIST OWN Underwear / G STAR / g-star.com Socks / ARTHUR GEORGE / neimanmarcus.com Nick Wears: Top / STYLIST OWN Underwear/ BASKIT / baskitwear.com

ght or ulinity

Josh Williams otography.com ors: Allan + Ashley Pikka Turangan, hnson, Shelbie Rae ueline Dilanchyan nt: Dean Bais ni Anthony Hair Stylist yana Kimura K Faces

Joel, Morthyn & Max Wear: Underwear / G STAR / g-star.com Shoulder pads / STYLIST OWN Tony Wears: Underwear/ BASKIT / baskitwear.com Shoulder pads / STYLIST OWN

Morthyn Wears: Jacket / JOYRICH / joyrich.com Underwear / G STAR / g-star.com Hat / STYLIST OWN

Joel Wears: Jacket / G STAR / g-star.com Underwear / G STAR / g-star.com Socks / ARTHUR GEORGE / neimanmarcus.com Misha Wears: Jacket / G STAR / g-star.com Underwear / BASKIT / baskitwear.com

Max Wears: Pants / JOYRICH / joyrich.com Hat / STYLIST OWN Misha Wears: Crop Top / JOYRICH / joyrich.com Underwear / BASKIT / baskitwear.com

Clinton Wears: Tank / JUNKFOOD CLOTHING / junkfoodclothing.com Underwear / BASKIT / baskitwear.com Nick Wears: Sweater / JUNKFOOD CLOTHING / junkfoodclothing.com Underwear / BASKIT / baskitwear.com

Max Wears: Shorts / G STAR / g-star.com Helmet / DOUGLAS VANLANINGHAM Shoes / STYLIST OWN

Joel,& Max Wear: Underwear / G STAR / g-star.com Jersey / STYLIST OWN Shoes / STYLIST OWN Tony Wears: Underwear/ BASKIT / baskitwear.com

editors-in-chief/ creative directors Allan Troy Watson Ashley Rae Garcia

Design director Anthony James

Design associate Jordan Cuellar

copy editor

Hannah Harris

contributing writers K. Escobar

Candice Lee Shelbie Rae Nicholson

Michelle Convey John Alexander Tapia

the editors voice

contributors

Azmarie

Candice Lee

Erika Alcaron

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” -- Lao Tzu

“Eleanor Roosevelt inspires me so much, she was bold, and controversial, never afraid to push the limits and as outspoken as ever, and a quintessential feminist.”

“My grandma knows what she wants and deserves, and works hard to get it. No apologies. She inspires the giant standard that I continue to strive towards everyday. Her and Beyonce.”

Shelbie Rae Nicholson

Josh Williams

Tatiana gerusova

“Don’t know what it is. Something about Lana makes me love being a woman. She makes me feel in charge. She makes me feel Free. I might have a crush... “

“Growing up as a Southern man, my mother always taught me never to judge on color, gender, or sexual orientation. She told me, ‘you love who you love and what you do in the bedroom - well child, that’s your business. If you wanna be freaky, or just ﬂat out boring, that’s your call.”

“Her feminine work truly brings sensuality in me as a woman, Ellen von Unwerth is such an inspiration, not just for my art but for my life. “

making moves in fashion

uptown/downtown couture

get the look

fashion roundup

the gender line

paris is burning

jeffree star

ciara: one woman army

obsessed

118

who's who

n te n

fashion

art

music

E N I Z A G A M

cu lture

who's

ERIKA LINDER

I N F A S TONNE GOODMAN

Not only is she known for having staggering similarities with a young Leonoardo DiCaprio, Erika Linder is a unique model who can play around with gender roles to her advantage. Although still quite new, she gained hundreds of swooned followers after featuring in a viral photo spread with beau, Andrej Pejic gender reversed and all. In spite of the fact that Erika shines brighter in front of the camera as an androgynous model, she says that modeling is not her only purest passion. She says, “Modeling is just a part of what I’m doing. It’s not what I breathe. I love acting. I love music. I love reading and watching movies. I write and play music as well. But right now it’s basically modeling that I can express myself through since it’s what people see me doing, so I’m just trying to express a lot of things and just be myself through it all.”

JENNY SHIMIZU

The former model turned fashion director Tonne Goodman, landed herself a career at the prestigious fashion hierarchy of Vogue Magazine. She is now the steady voice of the fashion bible as she lends her talent for the styling and concepts, and has so, for over 100 Vogue covers. She is oftentimes photographed and noted in androgynous looks and au natural makeup. Her face became familiar after she appeared in the September Issue, which documented the production of the magazine’s biggest and most successful issue of all time.

Jenny Shimizu has broken all the rules of modeling. The Japanese model turned actress says, “I’m Japanese, 5’7�, a dyke, tattooed, have little hair, and I don’t wear feminine clothes… No one like me had paved the way.” Shimizu was approached to start her modeling career with Calvin Klein while working as a mechanic. From then on, she has worked with many designers such as Yojie Yamamoto, Versace, Donna Karen, and Anna Sui. Not only was Shimizu known for her controversial eastern androgynous looks, she was also notorious for having dated her Foxfire co-star, Angelina Jolie and having an intimate relationship pop star Madonna. On their relationship, Angelina Jolie stated “I would probably have married Jenny if I hadn’t married my husband. I fell in love with her the first second I saw her.” 22

ANNEX: DIANE

s who

JONT’ MOANING

S H I O N LEA T

Whether he’s striking a pose for Marco Ovando and Trophy Pony or teaching model hopefuls how to strut their stuff on America’s Next Top Model, Jont’ Moaning is a swift moving force. After getting his start as a dancer for Janet Jackson and eventually choreographing videos for Beyoncé, Moaning has officially made his way. Recently walking in Ashton Michael’s Fall 2013 show, Jont’ is officially a fashion insider.

Born as Leandro Cerezo in Brazil as the son of popular soccer star Toninho Cerezo, Brazilian supermodel Lea T always knew she was different. She said, “When papa came home he would look at me and say there was something wrong with me. In the years to come, everyone started to pray that I was gay. It would have been the lesser evil for a religious family used to rules and type of colonial, rigid way of life.” In 2011, she was officially declared fully female as she went through sexual reassessment surgery. Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy first discovered Lea T when he hired her as his personal assistant. She later became one of his most memorable muses. She’s been featured in major fashion features like Vogue Paris (remember her kiss with Kate Moss on Love Magazine!) and walked for several Givenchy fashion shows. On happiness, she has commented, “Mine is a happy story – there are others that are much worse.”

EMMANUELLE ALT

The still quite fresh editor-in-chief of Vogue Paris, Emmanuelle Alt assumed office in 2011 after the reign of Carine Roitfeld. “It is such an honour for me but also a great pleasure to land at the helm of Vogue Paris, a magazine which I know very well,” she told the Telegraph. Emmanuelle Alt has been with Vogue as a fashion director for over 10 years directly from Mixte magazine. Alt is relatable, describing herself as a modern, busy working mom. Her style is classic. She pairs form fitting black blazers with pleated skinny-legged pants. Her hair is, at times, unfailingly undone and her makeup is almost always nonexistent. Her casual nonchalance is what creates her own confident aura. ANNEX: DIANE

making moves I N

F A S H I O N

ANNEX:Everyone swears the fashion industry is cut throat! Do you agree? Can you highlight the fabulous part about working in the industry and the ugly truth about fashion? CT: People in this industry are trying to make a dream come true or make money, most often both. Of course it’s tough out there; everyone is trying to make it work, whatever their goals may be. Being around creative people makes every day compelling here at Scott X Scott. The most unknown thing about living a life of fashion: It’s 95% work and 5% glamour. But I’m OK with that.

NAME: Chelsea Thoms AGE: 20 HOMETOWN: Billings, MT SCHOOL: FIDM LA COMPANY: SCOTTXSCOTT JOB TITLE: Assistant Designer and Operations Manager

Have you had any notable mentors that have guided you through the industry? I was a seamstress at a bridal shop back home, and was taught by two elderly Japanese women the art of tailoring, beadwork, and hand sewing. Being self-taught for 10 years prior has nothing against all I learned from them. Why FIDM, did they play any part in you joining the B:SCOTT team? People generally don’t leave Montana, as in for careers or college. So the concept of me moving to New York for Parsons or FIT was out of the question, but I was able to finesse my way to Los Angeles. The Career Center gave me a list of 15 or so internship opportunities, and I sent out emails to a few that looked interesting. I started at Scott X Scott two days later. What initially drew you to B:SCOTT? Timing. Sarah (one of my two bosses, designer for Sarah Scott, Director of Operations for Scott X Scott) replied to my email about the internship, and I interviewed that same day. I googled them to get a better idea of their branding and I fell in love. I live in Downtown Los Angeles, and their brands completely mesh with that urban type of lifestyle. When I saw their showroom and office space on Spring Street, I fell even more in love. I geek out all the time at work.

What do you think made you stand apart from the other interns to receive a job offer from B:SCOTT after the internship period was over? I’m a Virgo so my natural sense of neuroticism helped a lot. Being meticulous, efficient, and never half-assing is a code I was raised on and live by. Most of all I just love what I do for this company. People can sense energy like that and they want you around. How have your responsibilities changed after being promoted? Finding my niche of what needs to get done was key. My bosses trust me to do the work that I specialize in, and the responsibilities go from there. What was the most surprising thing you have learned during your time at B:SCOTT? Downtown Los Angeles is truly a hub for American apparel production, whether it is trim shops or patternmakers. It’s nice to see that. Dress for success- with B:SCOTT’s street chic aesthetic what do you normally where to the ofﬁce? Bum or G.I. Jane looks are what I usually end up with. Combat boots are a must. Being comfortable is what I aim for. Brandon wears clothes from his collections every day. What is your next step in the industry? I’m interested in following a path that keeps me creatively fulfilled. A venture into the corporate world of fashion out on the East Coast might be interesting for a bit. I believe in impertinence as a general rule so grandiose plans are not my strong suit. Any advice for fashionistas trying to break into the industry? Be honest with yourself. Are you skilled enough to be of value to the industry? Second, a sense of self needs to be established before the creativity begins. If you are all over the place, your work will be, too.

Steve Wears: Sweater / PAUL BLACK / paul-black.ca Pants / THOMAS WYLDE / thomaswylde.com Shoes / HUGO BOSS / hugoboss.com

walking the line Lensed by: Erika Flor Alcoran ErikaFlorAlcoran.com Creative Directors: Allan + Ashley Editor Assistant: Shelbie Rae Nicholson Hair: Desirae Cherie for Rubarlena Makeup: Kymberlee Curti for MAC

Azmarie Wears: Jacket / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Pants / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Boots / TSUBO / tsubo.com Steve Wears: Jacket / ELLIOT EVAN / indrea.ms Pants / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Boots / G STAR / g-star.com

Azmarie Wears: Jacket / ELLIOT EVAN / indrea.ms Pants / ELLIOT EVAN / indrea.ms Shoes / GREYCITY / greycity.net Steve Wears: Jacket / ELLIOT EVAN / indrea.ms Boots / G STAR / g-star.com

Miranda Wears: Shirt / G STAR / g-star.com Pants / ROXANNE NIKKI / roxannenikki.com Shoes / HUGO BOSS / hugoboss.com

Steve Wears: Pants / ELLIOT EVAN / indrea.ms Shoes / HUGO BOSS / hugoboss.com Azmarie Wears: Vest / G STAR / g-star.com Pants / THOMAS WYLDE / thomaswylde.com Shoes / GREYCITY / greycity.net

Azmarie Wears: Top / BACKSTAGE / backstagepresents.com Pants / THOMAS WYLDE / thomaswylde.com Miranda Wears: Dress / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Shoes / HUGO BOSS / hugoboss.com

Azmarie Wears: Pants / THOMAS WYLDE / thomaswylde.com Mask / MARIANNA HARUTUNIAN / ilovemariannas.com

Miranda Wears: Bodysuit / MIKE VENSEL / mikevensel.com Cape / MIKE VENSEL / mikevensel.com Azmarie Wears: Bodysuit / VALENTINA SHAH / valentinashah. net Cape / MIKE VENSEL / mikevensel.com Steve Wears: Cape / MIKE VENSEL / mikevensel.com Pants / MIKE VENSEL / mikevensel.com

Miranda Wears: Onepiece / G STAR / g-star.com Shoes / G STAR / g-star.com Azmarie Wears: Vest / G STAR / g-star.com Pants / G STAR / g-star.com Shoes / VANS / vans.com Steve Wears: Vest / G STAR / g-star.com Pants / G STAR / g-star.com Shoes / CONVERSE / converse.com

Steve Wears: Vest / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Pants / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Shoes / CONVERSE / converse.com Sunglasses / CONVERSE / converse.com Azmarie Wears: Jacket / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Pants / READY TO FISH / readytofish.nl Shoes / TSUBO / tsubo.com Sunglasses / CONVERSE / converse.com

f r e s h f a c e s andreas

ENVY Model Management

annette rosario Q Management

andreas

Q Management

ariel

Whitehouse Models

heather burton Q Management

phoebe Whitehouse Models

dylan

ENVY Model Management

stefano Bleu Model Management

tiza

ENVY Model Management

NEWYORK LOUISE GOLDIN

Checking in at her second go around as one of our top selects from New York fashion week, Louise Goldin’s Fall 2013 collection, hit home. With her always intricate detailing and innovation, not to mention her silhouette distortion, Goldin’s showing felt familiar and referential but still new and exciting. Always designing for what she would wear – which is the mark a of a truly great designer- Goldin’s presentation is another must have for the books. While not as showstopping as last season’s spring collection, never one to let down, Louise is one of the most notable among English talents and continues to show growth and progression.

JEREMY LAING

With “mothers and daughters” stated as his inspiration this season, Jeremy Laing presented an unequivocally chic and modern collection that truly tapped both generations of the artsy woman. From the entertaining prints to the ease in tailoring and fit, the collection effortlessly feels like a progression from day to night. With too-many-to-count stand out moments, Laing’s collection was fun yet serious; yet never seeming to take it to serious, as it stayed light and fresh without becoming too young. With many of this season’s it-items, like the oversized sweater/ metallic gold trouser moment, the presentation is sure to be a retail hit.

JONATHAN SIMKHAI

Knowing his sporty downtown girl better than anyone, young designer Jonathan Simkhai has caught his niche and shows no signs of letting go. Tugging on the retro chic vibe of the eighties tomboy - which can sometimes be hard to accomplish - Jonathan’s collection was accessible and achievable, while still preserving its ultra fashionable ﬂare. The collaborations, featuring Grey Ant eyewear and Shoes of Prey on the creeper style kicks, all seemed singular and on track which will soon make him a street style star for those on the cusp.

LO N DO N JOSEPH

Showing that staples can be just as stand out as â&#x20AC;&#x153;of the momentâ&#x20AC;? pieces Joseph designer Louise Trotter presented a much more tame collection this season, which greatly worked in their favor. Trotterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Joseph girl feels sophisticated and fresh, while having that edge and mystery that makes event the most covered and conservative looks seem oh so sexy and daring. The Joseph shopper come fall will find a bevvy of staple pieces in the outerwear and trouser department which will stand for some star sartorial moments on the street, the pants skirt combo is so unbelievably must-have this season our eyes are watering just thinking about the looks we can pair with them, Brava to Ms. Trotter.

giles

If there was any collection this season other than Riccardo Tisci’s Givenchy that deserved a standing ovation it was definitely Giles Deacon’s, Giles, from the eerie feeling of grandeur and glamour Deacon’s woman felt half dead yet fully alive – the most alive she’s ever been. From the intricate detailing of the pieces to the overall theatrics of the show, Deacon has set himself apart from the crowd and is following in footsteps of some of the greatest designers of our time –uhhm John Galliano. If Deacon continues to present collections of this magnitude there will be not town big enough to hold the opulence and drama of a Giles show – something seemingly missing from the fashion industry at times.

j.w. anderson

With the ultimate willingness to be mysterious, J.W. Anderson is rapidly rising as one of London’s most interesting and promising designers. Showing an utterly captivating collection Anderson seemed to strip away the very construct of some of his previous collections. Feeling loose and undone in a sort of lunatic way Anderson captured a true moment with this presentation. A collection that while straying from any and all trends and fads is still more than viable as an “off the moment” aesthetic that while not for everyone will make for the most standout style moments come fall. Now becoming the it U.K. indie golden boy –with Richard Nicoll hot on his trails, after Christopher Kane’s PPR production deal all eyes are on Anderson and his ability to be ultra cool while far from trying, there’s a true sense that he cares to please no one but himself.

MILAN PORTS 1961

As if Sporty Spice and Jackie O - or better yet her younger sister Lee Radziwill who Ports’ creative director, Fiona Cibani, states was the actual inspiration for the collection - had a baby you’d have Ports 1969 collection. The exquisitely executed collection of clean and chic lines with the additional sporty edge felt fresh and oh so new – something many designers have attempted to accomplish yet have failed in recent seasons. The collection, which was drowned in elegance and tinged upon greatness, with dashes of Dior’s New Era skirting with fun modern day athleticism and oversized knits cascading over under-the-knee skirting with the “it” styling of high socks and heels.

ANTONIO MARRAS

From the hoard of Bloomsbury group writers and poets that heavily inﬂuenced the early UK twentieth century cultural life: the sources of Marras’ inspiration which elevate his simple silhouetting with rich collaged textures and prints echoing the deep and entrenched aesthetic of the Bloomsbury men and women. Marras heavy hand for detail felt light, having just the right weight for fall, helping to not feel too overwhelmed with the fabric and the busy prints. Marras had numerous stand out looks throughout the collection from the oversized jacquard knit sweater with a gold sheath skirt to the masculine suiting. The collection felt modern which can sometimes be very hard to accomplish when pulling reference from such an historic period; however, Marras succeeded far and beyond, breathing new life into the Bloomsbury Virginia Wolf reference.

GENNY

Don’t call it a comeback, because Genny has been here for years. With Gabriele Colangelo seeming to have found his footing in the cult-like arena of minimalism in which Phoebe Philo of Céline and Francisco Costa of Calvin Klein have amassed major success. However Colangelo sets himself apart from the crowd with his added hint of decadence and glamour, something minimalists shy away from. This season, Genny sprinted out in front of the rest of the Milan presentations with its modern beauty of a collection that burgeoned upon newness. Coangelo’s viewpoint was clear and concise,-no blur or fuzziness; it was straight and to the point. With the hopeful success of Genny’s selling season, minimalism will finally be brought to Milan.

PA R I S GIVENCHY

As a young boy, Riccardo Tisci was surrounded by women, from his 8 sisters to his mother, so his pungent for powerful heroines with masculine esteem yet feminine embrace felt all to natural. Stating that throughout his 8 years at the Parisian house of Givenchy “I was like a gyspy- you know, gypsies are always recycling old clothes” and that’s just what he did and what we felt. Taking nods from his archives and reworking them in a way that felt very now and current, his gypsy inspiration was all to apparent with long ﬂowing sheer skirts embroidered with delicate blossoming ﬂowers, which echoed throughout his prints on some of his more tough jacket moments. Modeling the gyspy and the edgy downtown girl has never been done so effortlessly with his “off the moment” printed sweaters – a trend that he and Juun.J have handled boosted worldwide. Tisci collection was a true shinning star of the season.

JOHN GALLIANO

Finally distancing himself from his namesake Bill Gaytten presented a 100% in control collection. From the monochromatic militarist like suiting, to the lack of frills and bows Gaytten’s Galliano girl is no longer a sex kitten and is now a woman who as the designer states doesn’t “depend on men for their sense of identity”. While we can’t say we don’t miss Galliano’s theatrics and sense of showmanship – we truly hope he finds his way back, we can honestly say that Gaytten has truly defined himself as a designer with this collection and is taking Galliano forward with no hopes of looking back. However don’t think he threw away all of the old Galliano, with his ease in bias cut pieces and the echoing kimono sleeve there is still a sense of heritage, so he didn’t completely say F U to his legacy.

DION LEE

Checking in as one of the foremost emerging design talents Dion Lee has once again touted with design and risen the bar. While this season Lee shied away from his normally more sexually appealing numbers, but what he lost in sexuality he gained in innovation. Lee’s collection felt intellectual while still being accessible, and still having a sense of attractiveness about it. His true shinning beacon came with his felting textile manipulation of the wool used throughout the collection, a technique we hope he doesn’t woo quickly discard of. Hailing from the land down under Lee is quickly capitalizing on his talent and ability to navigate the industry and keep fresh and feel oh so now. It won’t be long before he’s proving toe toe to with young designers such as the like of Alexander Wang, Christopher Kane, Anthony Voccarello, and Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte all of whom’s talent quickly catapulted them to the fashion prince and princesses they are.

inside the atelier:

Annex: Starting from the beginning how did you guys meet, and how did you professional relationship begin? David: We met ten years ago, out one night and immediately hit it off. We didn’t start working together until a few years later but we were always creating something together, clothes, and accessories for ourselves and for friends... A line of our own was always in the back of our minds and we officially launched the line in 2008. Annex: So being a design duo what is your creative process and how do you balance one’s viewpoint between another? Phillipe: Much of our aesthetic and inspirations come from the same places, like Art, Animation, Film, Music, Travel.... Of course anything that sparkles and dreams especially. Annex: Speaking of viewpoints and inspirations, what was the biggest inspiration and driving force behind your most recent Fall 2013 collection? David: This season our “Blond Girls” play the role of a lifetime in a world of fantasy and glamorous insanity. Our collection is firmly based on the suspenseful thrillers we love to watch by Kubrick, Hitchcock, even slashers like the Hellraiser series by Clive Barker. We were also inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s photo essay of New York City in the 1940’s. His photographs depict New York as a dark, strange and beautiful place with an incredibly unusual cast of characters. Annex: In first starting your line did you find it difficult honing in on your aesthetic.? Phillipe: It was very clear from the start, we have a deep-rooted obsession with the hourglass silhouette and the high heel. This is our framework for every collection and the corset is our signature. Everything we create moves toward enhancing this sort of extreme glamour. It will be interesting to see how it evolves as we mature and develop our brand while giving glamour to the masses! Annex: The Blonds have over the years become synonymous with glamour and edge, what part of you guys as designers do we see in your work? Are you as glamorous as your collections portray you to be? 68

David: We bring some of our fantasies to life with each collection and each one represents a different facet of our personalities. Our work also plays a huge role in our life and a lot of what we create is based on our lives, only an exaggerated version. However we’re more down to earth than you’d expect... Annex: Through the years The Blonds have acquired numerous afﬂuent clients such as Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, and many more. Out of this laundry list of clients who has been your favorite and what garment was it that you created? Phillipe: Like our collections, each client is different and we couldn’t choose a favorite. Every client famous or otherwise brings something new to the table and that’s what makes what we do exciting. It’s a collaboration and the garments only come to life when they are worn by the individual they’re made for. Annex: From very early on in your careers your collections have always tinged more upon the line of couture rather than ready-to-wear. Is ready-to-wear an adventure you are looking into moving towards or do you wish to keep the current level of exclusivity you now hold? David: Absolutely! We work with each client individually and every thing we currently create is made to order and customized to fit the needs of the client. Ready to wear is the next step, including special occasion, fragrances and accessories to complete the look. We’re currently in talks with various partners to make that happen and the ready to wear component will be an extension of the pieces created. Annex: At the end of every show you guys always have a very exclusive closing model, which just so happens to be you Phillipe wearing a piece from your women’s collection in full hair and make-up. Have you always been entertained with the thought of cross-dressing? Phillipe: We don’t see this as “cross-dressing”, It’s part of who I am. This is nothing new, since the beginning of time there has been many periods when dressing in a colorful way was not only accepted, but also encouraged for all sexes. I wear what I like, period, with no classification necessary.

ANNEX: DIANE

Annex: Looking at the state of the fashion industry, with designers like Rick Owens and Comme De Garcons and models like Andrej Pejic and Agyness Deyn blurring the line of gender identity where do you think all this is heading? Do you believe it has the staying power and can possibly inﬂuence a movement within the mass market? David: Historically the masses have been governed by trends, but the consumer of today is much more savvy with their fashion choices and demands. Unlike any other time, the choices are endless and this makes for the most exciting time in fashion because there are no limits. (Not that WE ever had any!) This is the future of dressing and there will come a time very soon when self-expression is no longer unusual and becomes the norm. Annex: Being that you are a homosexual couple do you make it a point to stay active within the LGBTQIA community and do you guys plan to take advantage of the marriage equality of New York anytime soon? Phillipe: We’re apart of LGBTQIA community in New York, but we haven’t set a date yet!!! We’ll keep you posted! Annex: Seeing as your image is something new within the fashion community did you find it hard finding people who would take you seriously as designers and artist’s, did you face much adversity? David: Never look to others to validate what we do. If you love it DO IT! Annex: With the brand having come as far as it has where do you wish to be within the next 5 years? David: We will have a hefty ready to wear business including accessories and will launch the first in a series of fragrances. Phillipe: Still making MAGIC!

ANNEX: DIANE

the gender line

Curtis was a pioneer with no frontier. Curtis made his debut at the tender age of 17 quickly honing in on the impact of his gender fucking performance, also paving the way for glam rock. Likewise, in the 1960’s San Francisco gave birth to the legendary Cockettes a drag troupe. They were paid theatre performers that gained an underground cult following for their social and sexual revolution that changed America. Capturing the attention of greats like Andy Warhol, John Lennon, etc.. Their performances have been credited as inspiring everything and everyone from Vogue photographer Steven Meisel to The Rocky Horror Picture Show, as well as several generations of club kids. At the height of their popularity Celebrities and Icons have captured their audience while countering and tearing down preponderant gender stigmas of their time.The Hollywood legend Katharine Hepburn inﬂuenced women’s ready-towear in the United States in the 1930’s. At a time when gender roles were black and white, women wore girdles, stockings, and tight dresses; the strong-willed actress opted for high waisted trousers and button down shirts. On one occasion the costume department stole her slacks because they found them to be uncouth and boyish she rebelled by walking around the studio in her underwear until she was given her pants back. This was the beginning of her fashion icon toll as well as a turn for gender separatism. The wheels must turn with Grace Jones. Carrying the nickname of ‘Grapes’ Jamaican model-singer-actress

Sex, defined as the sum of structural, functional, and behavioral characteristics of organisms that are involved in reproduction marked by the union of gametes and that distinguish males and females. Upon birth one’s behavioral, cultural, and psychological traits are contingent on the physical mapping of their reproductive gametes. Gender is a way of life- a role that one can play as one desires, whether or not that role fits the mold of predestined gender separatism fabricated into daily social routines, thus we are presented with coercive alternatives to the gender stigma. Through the trans people, gender benders, drag queens, and androgynous pioneers making their way to the main stage the gender status quo is being turned on it’s head in madcap act. Often times distinguished male and female bodies do not coincide with the sharply segregated gender role it’s been assigned to play, challenging prevailing standards of style and behavior specific to one or the other gender. As gender is a role it is no wonder these roles are spotlighted in a theatrical fashion onstage. In the late 1920’s a group of ‘pansies’ often performed in drag at select gay clubs throughout Manhattan in New York City, Karyl Norman was one of the performers in this underground scene assuming the role as a drag queen while also performing in popular theatres and venues he had to hide his drag work. At the nexus of sexual revolution there was the celebrated writer, a superstar in under ground and experimental theatre, he was not a boy, she was not a girl, Jackie Curtis was simply Jackie, a legend. In the eyes of Andy Warhol Jackie

ANNEX: DIANE

shows. Capturing the recognition of media, celebrities, and admires world wide alike. Rick Owens curates designs and shows around the idea that clothing should not have a gender assignment relieving him self from crutches presented by gender roles. Sending men down the runway in skirts and full dress, challenging gender roles that have hounded humanity from the beginning. A time when everything happened in the cracks no longer stands among us. As tremendous advances in civil rights keep marching on in the charming pell-mell of life we are experiencing this movement of a new lifestyle that began being paved since the birth of man but until now is in full throttle, the lifestyle of increased acknowledgment in gender bending identities.

served as a muse for some of the greatest artist like Andy Warhol and worked with talents such as Keith Haring. Her fierce features and even fiercer style has embodied her into the cultural icon she is, her image consisted of a severe angular hair cut and over the top outfits. The turning tide of fashion is also capturing the zeitgeist. At the mere age of 16 Andrej Pejic was scouted as a model. Pejic is notable for serving successfully as a model for both male and female clothing. He has walked for major shows like Jean-Paul Gaultier, Marc Jacobs, and so much more. Golden Needle Award winners Dean and Dan Caten of D Squared are two gay identical twin brothers that have made their mark by designing clothes and staging remarkable fashion

ANNEX: DIANE

GENDER

pion

grace jones

david bowie

amanda lepore

As an Actor, Model and Musician she often took advantage of her androgynous features to fight against the status and promote selfexpression. Her confidence and look had a strong inﬂuence on the power of the cross dressing movement in the 1980s. Known for strong statuesque elegant beauty with a masculine edge, Grace took the entertainment industry by storm, becoming a true visionary icon and inspiring many of today’s most successful musicians. 74

David Bowie did what The Beatles before him and Nirvana after him accomplished: to take a genre of music and turn it into a lifestyle. Glam Rock was an escape, a mode of expression for a man with an idea way beyond the time he was in. With Bowie it wasn’t just about the music, but the right to be an artist; he incorporated fashion, art, and sexual exploration, taking music to more freeing depths than ever expressed before.

Living an extravagant lifestyle of luxury and excess as David LaChapelle’s transsexual muse, Lepore, who made her name in the days of the original Club Kid, is a full blown icon now. Through LaChapelle’s famous lens, Lepore has been the face for multiple campaigns, catapulting her to a fame of her own as a transgender woman in the spotlight.

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BENDING

eers

tilda swinton

jobriath

eddie izzard

As a comedian not being afraid to tell it how it is and exactly how he feels is no shock. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ability to show exactly how he feels and do want makes him feel happy that makes him a force to be reckoned with. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll go to extremes to make you laugh and go even further to prove points which makes him a legend, and not to mention the fact of being a straight man and choosing to perform in womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garb for iconic showings.

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Credited as the first mass market pop star that was openly gay, Jobriath proved that there was no need to hide behind a facade in order to be accepted by society or to reach heights of success. Pushing gender stereotypes and stigmas, Jobriath blew through like a massive storm shaking every surface in sight, leaving it altered forever.

Early in her acting career, Tilda took a stand to excel and transcend boundaries. She wanted to play roles that coincided with her avant-garde personality, roles that bent the standards of gender and challenged the art of her craft; she did just that. She has kept this standard high throughout her career and because of this she has become one of the most accomplished actresses of all time.

JANELLE MONAE

THE

NEW FR KAZAKY

ADAM LAMBERT

Janelle Monet is a refreshing element the music industry has been lacking for some time. With her nod to the golden age of James Brown and Motown on top of modern edge and drive, Monet is what true musicality is made of. She has her signature in her clothing with a polished androgynous look of heavily tailored black and white pieces with highlighted feminine qualities keeping a clean neutral pallet, so the focus can remain where it should be: on her voice. Just because she’s a female, she doesn’t see the need to frolic around in short skirts and heels while she’s trying to rock out.

In a short period of time this well dressed musical ensemble has swept the world. Inﬂuencing and representing the revolution of the boy band in the music industry, and quickly becoming favorites of the fashion world, Kazaky is on to unforeseen heights. With pronouncements like “Kazaky is an amazingly alluring cult of dance, music, body, sexuality, fashion and provocation”, these boys are turning fashion and music on its head. They make the movement of the male body into an art form, and subtract the usual over-masculine stereotype.

Proving that due to stigmas still present in modern society, Adam Lambert had to hide part of who he was to achieve success; however, now that he has a prominent position, he’s speaking loud and clear, often sporting his signature high heels during his performances to coincide with his high pitch range. Adam Lambert has brought back ﬂashes to a time in music when the gender line was nowhere to be found—and no one was looking for it.

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RONTIER

lady gaga

SHARON NEEDLES

BIG FREEDIA

The Official Queen diva of the New Orleans style of hip-hop called Bounce music, Big Freedia is credited for bringing this upbeat sound to the masses. In 2011 she was named one of the best emerging artists, in her hands the bounce revolution is full force and approaching a permanent spot as one of music’s prominent genres. With her gender inquisitive look and sound she is bringing a new and virtually unforeseen face to music.

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Striking gold as the winner of the 4th season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Sharon Needles is kicking ass and taking names, scaring her way into the world’s heart and quickly rising as one of the most famous drag queens in the world. After snagging editorials in iconic fashion publications like Purple Magazine and being the first drag queen ever— if you don’t count Lady Gaga, to cover Out Magazine— even being featured in the coveted Out 100 list, making Sharon the belle of the ball per se. En route to be the new Mistress of the Dark, Needles is moving faster than morphine.

Her look and alternative standards for pop music quickly catapulted her to the top of the charts; however, it was her fearless takeno-prisoners attitude that has kept her there. After the release of her number 1 hit Born this Way, her message to the world became coherently clear and emphasized its importance. Her afﬂuence on the fight against bullies is commendable and personal, and strikes many accord from fan to fan. Lady Gaga, like those before her, has pressed the good fight to let every man, woman, and child know that it’s okay to be you, because why? You were born that way.

ANNEX: You are exalted for your unique transgressive, gender-bending person, was this fostered at a young age? Ever since I was a child I’ve been interested in what wasn’t “normal” & I’ve always been attracted to the unknown or what people fear. It came natural to evolve into something that wasn’t human in the eyes of everyone else. I became obsessed with makeup and beauty when I would look through my mom’s makeup case and Cosmo magazines. She used to be a model and I loved how every one of her pictures was like a story. A different look and pose. I wanted to be a chameleon in that sense.. so I made it my reality. Music came after the look. I always wrote poetry and lyrics in high school but never thought to make music until I started to hang around musicians at shows and they would later convice me to start something.. ANNEX: Born Jeffrey Lynn Steininger you are now known as Jeffree Star what was the concept behind your name Jeffree Star? I changed my last name to shed my past and involve into the person I saw myself turning into… My whole life is a contradiction that is supposed to make people think. Because, haven’t people FORGOTTEN how to have their own opinions? Everyone is waiting for someone else to tell them what to like and what to wear.. it makes me sick. “Star” was to mock everyone who was so desperate to become one.. Through my music and big mouth, I touch on issues that everyone can relate to. Body image is the world’s worst problem. As a makeup artist, I know that the “beauty industry” is the number 1 selling industry on this planet. Everyone does something to change how they look.. wheather it’s mascara or a nose job, you’re altering something and we can all agree on that. I use harsh subject matter like plastic surgery nightmares and builmia in my photography beacuse it makes you think about something. It triggers thoughts you don’t normally have. Rather then staring at yet another boring skank in a swim suit with her tits out, I like to actually show meaning through my art. ANNEX: Speaking of models, what’s your opinion on plastic surgery? I know your website hinted at you personally having some, but it also seemed like your appreciation of it might be fading… lensed by: Josef Jasso

LIFE WITH

JEFFREE STAR “

Everyone is waiting for someone else to tell them what to like and what to wear... IT MAKES ME SICK!

I think it’s fascinating to be able to go to sleep and wake up with something completely different. If you’re getting plastic surgery because YOU want it, then that’s great.. because not everyone is happy with what they have. But if someone is getting surgery because other people tell you you’re ugly and you start to believe it and buy into it, than that’s not healthy. It’s not realistic to ever think you can look like someone on a magazine cover. Women see from an early age that girls who are “pretty” have a perfect tan, nice breasts and that Seventeen magazine airbrushed body but that’s bullshit. No one really looks like that. Photoshop is what makes everyone “perfect” not starving yourself and posing half naked for the world to see. I myself have enhanced my looks. And I did it because I wanted to look like something that I wasn’t. I like my mannequin-like features and 10 pounds of makeup. Am I a hypocrite for telling people to be themselves while looking the way I do? NO. Because at the end of the day when I wipe my face clean and just wear underwear, I’m happy with who and what I am. I don’t go to McDonald’s in full makeup, I’m the same person with or without my “face” on. ANNEX: Working as a model, makeup artist, DJ, singer-songwriter, and now fashion designer, where do you find inspiration to keep you fresh? Do you have a muse? I have a huge problem with sitting still. I can’t just sit at home and be content with what life has given me.. I don’t know how grown adults can just sit back and let life pass them by. I create things that I think the world is lacking.. whether it’s the new clothes my brand Beauty Forever comes out with or a new song I’m writing, I want people to enjoy the art I’m creating and give them something new. My muse is myself. ANNEX: In between all of your hard work you still find time hit the night scene being caught at all the best parties. What is a typical weekend for you? Any hangout spots you’d recommend for our readers? I think it’s important to get your beauty sleep… but it’s also important to show your face around town and let bitches know who’s the neon

“

boss of this city. LA is actually a very small town and I’ve been going out since I was 16 with a fake ID… that was ten years ago! So now I prefer to hang at dive bars where there’s good music and treaty people. ANNEX: You have worked with amazing talents throughout your career, what has been you favorite project? I think what excites me the most is what the future holds… being signed my Akon and getting to put put my next album in a major way that I wasn’t able to do before is a dream come true. Patience and hard work may sound easy but I’ve sacrificed my whole life for my career and it’s only up from here! ANNEX: You just launched a clothing line Beauty Forever, what was the creative process like? I wanted to create fun edgy street wear that ANYONE in the world could wear and afford. My ﬂoral print hats and beanies have been selling so well, we’re growing quickly! It’s fun to step away from music for a second and put my creativity into something new.. we’ve had orders from so many different countries through the online store, I can’t wait to expand! Our new hats will debut on KarmaLoop.com next month and my brand will be on all of the Vans Warped Tour this summer… ANNEX: In such a short span of time since your launch your line has been all the rave- constantly selling out of styles. Is your demographic exactly who you’d hoped it would be? Who are you targeting? When I started to create it, I wanted the clothing line to for everybody. Not just fans of me, but I wanted people that hated me to not know who designed it and to wear it. It’s working. I have bros that would normally say “fuck that” rocking’ my “Killin’ It” snapbacks to the clubs.. it’s such a good feeling.

Dress /BLACK HALO EVE / blackhalo.com Shoes / SAINT LAURENT PARIS / ysl.com

CIARA ONE WOMAN ARMY Lensed by: Bradford Rogne BradfordRogne.com Creative Directors: Allan + Ashley Retouching: Felipe Menezes laretouching.com Editor Assistants: Pikka Turangan, Amanda Marie Johnson, Shelbie Rae Nicholson, Jacqueline Dilanchyan Hair: Cesar Ramirez for Dew Beauty Agency Makeup: Yolanda Frederick for MAC

Dress / MIKE VENSEL / mikevensel.com Shoes / SAINT LAURENT PARIS / ysl.com

Annex: You were initially signed back in 2003 by L.A. Reid… What were your expectations for the music industry and now that you’re approaching 10 years in the game are you still as enthused about the industry as I’m sure you were 9 years ago? Ciara: When I was first signed I was young, excited and had lofty goals…in some ways all of it was very much a dream. Now, 10 years later, I am even more enthusiastic because the wisdom my experiences in the industry have given me are huge part of me and have helped me grow into the artist I am today. Annex: What’s it like to be back under the guiding hand of L.A. Reid once again as your career reached such heights under him; do you guys expect to strike gold twice? Ciara: When LA first signed me, although he helped me finish my first record, we did not get to launch the project together. So to finally be able to create and launch a project with him…it feels like home. Annex: I know your last 2 LP’s didn’t necessarily reach the precipice your first 2 releases did; what do you think was the cause of that, and what are you doing with ‘One Woman Army” to see that it makes a true impact? Ciara: There are too many variables that can contribute to the success of an album to pin point an exact cause. I choose to believe that everything happens for a reason and every step along the way is a part of my journey as an artist. My mission with the new album was to dig deep and be completely free in the recording process and what is meant to be will be Annex: ‘One Woman Army’ is your first release under Epic Records as well as your first project since 2010; how are you shaping it to be different from your previous records and show your growth and maturity as an artist? Ciara: I am approaching this record in a different way than I have any other project before. While recording “One Woman Army” I have been running towards my fears and allowing myself to be vulnerable in many ways; for the first time I allowed myself to be completely open in the music making process. I can honestly say this is the most fun that I’ve ever had making an album. Annex: You’ve always been an artist to really twist and play with gender roles in your music and your visuals; was this something you set out to do very early on or did you kind of fall into it? Ciara: This is not something I consciously set out to do, I think it’s happened organically being that I’m a tomboy. All the things I do have a little toughness to them. I just can’t help it. Annex: “Like a boy” had such a profound effect on pop culture back in 07’; from the fashion and even to your choreography, were you at all surprised by the reception? Ciara: It’s always a great feeling when to get a positive reaction to something I’ve worked on, because I know I believe in it, but once you release it to the world its in their hands. It makes it all worth it when the world understands you as an artist.

Vest / TODD LYNN / toddlynn.com Skirt / NONOO / nonoony.com Shoes / BENJAMIN ADAMS / benjaminadams-

Jacket / LOCAL SOICALITE / localsocialitexo.com Pants / RAMY BROOK / ramybrook.com Shoes / SAINT LAURENT PARIS / ysl.com

Annex: Your styling and image have definitely evolved over the years, especially as of late- I know you are very close friends with Annex’s favorite designer RiccardoTisci of the house of Givenchy; are you finding a new footing in high fashion, and how does it inspire you? Your latest video for ‘Got me good’ was riddled with Riccardo’s Spring 2013 collection and it looked amazing. Ciara: My hunger to learn more about fashion is insatiable and I’m learning more and more every day. It’s an amazing thing to be able to pair fashion with music together and that’s really what I enjoy the most. Annex: So, Future. Are you? Aren’t you? What’s going on there? Ciara: The Future is really bright Annex: You co-penned your new single “Body Party” with your close “friend” future, which must have felt very natural for you two with the state of your current relationship, no? Ciara: absolutely Annex: With “Body Party” striking hot and getting great reviews, what can we expect from its upcoming visual? Ciara: sincerity, raw-ness, sensuality, and pure love Annex: Everyone knows your deep love and admiration for the late great Michael Jackson—is there any artist of today that inspires you or who you enjoy listening too? Ciara: I really love listening to artists like Lana Del Ray, Kendrick Lamar, Drake just to name a few. However, I continue to find inspiration from the generation of greats such as Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna. Annex: From that, who’d be your ultimate dream collaboration? Ciara: Janet Jackson Annex: What was it like performing at VH1 Diva’s 2012 as it was your first major showing of your new material? That must have been nerve wrecking, no? Ciara: I was nervous and excited at the same damn time, but when I saw all the fans it gave me the greatest feeling and it was exactly what I needed at that moment. Annex: I have to ask, have you heard of the youtuber This is Mack TV, and your alter ego he has created The Famous Ciara? It’s quite hilarious; he’s amassed quite a large YouTube following. Ciara: No, never heard of it, but definitely going to look him up ASAP! Annex: We know you’re a busy girl, so 2013— what’s your biggest goal? Ciara: My ultimate goal is to have fun! With that being said I’m really looking forward to taking my “One Women Army” experience on the road and sharing it with the world. Annex: If you could sum up “One Woman Army” with one word what would it be?

Vest & Collar / ELLERY / elleryland.com Pants / IIMUAHII / iimuahii.com Shoes / BENJAMIN ADAMS / benjaminadamslondon.com

Ciara: I can narrow it down to two words…Fearless and Power by: K. Escobar

Top / IIMUAHII / iimuahii.com Pants / VIKTOR LUNA / viktorluna.com Shoes / BENJAMIN ADAMS / benjaminadamslondon.com

MUSICAL

ANDROGYNY

Discovering one’s self has been a journey for humans throughout history. Previously, when making this journey you were restricted to your sex as the basis for discovery; but, in our modern times, people have become more open minded and their exploration is open to influence from the opposite sex. Music has always been an outlet for self-expression and discovery, therefore it’s natural to both display your true feelings and influences through your music, as well as use the music to lead you in a direction towards that discovery. Modern pop artists who draw inspiration from the Glam Rock era and modern Hip Hop artists, who draw inspiration from earlier generations, both swim in the same pool of creativity and experimentation in the pursuit of who they are as people. From ASAP Rocky to RuPaul, being a unique artist and developing your unique image knows no gender. The 1970’s saw the earliest beginning of androgyny in pop music—from the Beatles donning the long hair and makeup for shows, and rock legend Jimi Hendrix who wore women’s shirts, scarves, and high-heeled boots. Their music stayed true to them, but the barrier of presentation to the public had been broken. Boy George was the next to push boundaries, as his appearance became more and more feminine with further makeup and shiny clothes. His sexuality wasn’t defined by his music, yet he hadn’t declared himself to be gay until 2008. Legendary musical icon Prince, was very well known for his use of makeup and women’s clothes in his performances, while his songs reflected his love for women. Again he was one of the first major icons to embrace feminine influences into his life. In more modern times, RuPaul has been the forefront for transgender musicians. Although he’s much more open about his sexuality and influences from both male and female genders, his success as both an actor and musician has been inspiring to the youth that identifies with him. The Hip Hop community isn’t the most accepting or tolerant of new styles or female influences. It’s a male dominated culture. ASAP Rocky emerged from Harlem in 2011 with a style that, while familiar, wasn’t yet capitalized on. His quick success and open mind allowed him to climb to the top of rap music, but also as a fashion icon. Develop94

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ing close relationships with Jeremy Scott, a gay fashion designer, and Alexander Wang, amongst others, Rocky’s style set trends throughout all of America’s youth. Extra tight jeans and oversized tees— that most who weren’t cognizant of as labeled “dresses”— a lot of Rocky’s style comes from female inﬂuences. He doesn’t let that affect him, as his music stays true to who he is, and his fashion represents the human he wants to be. Androgyny is defined as a person who does not fit neatly into the typical masculine and feminine gender roles of their society. While emphatically straight, ASAP Rocky’s style is the epitome of Hip Hop Androgyny. As society becomes increasingly open minded and accepting of all people and their true selves, androgyny will continue to be seen by the public on a larger scale with larger inﬂuences. 2013 has brought the revival of the kilt thanks to Kanye West, with some who disapprove labeling it as a skirt. But it’s the silhouette and self-expression from Kanye West that brought forth this trend. Kanye has been pushing the fashioned-gender boundaries throughout the years, even donning a women’s Celine blouse at his 2011 Coachella performance. Artists will continue to discover new ways to find themselves, inspiring others to become more creative and open minded. by: K. Escobar

ANNEX: DIANE

JACKIE BOYS ANNEX: How was the adjustment growing up in Savannah, GA and coming to LA to pursue your dreams? The adjustment took a little getting use to. The people, the big city.....no matter where we were we always felt like the stage never changed. Singing on the street in Savannah felt just like 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, Hollywood Blvd etc. It was a platform to stand on. ANNEX:How was it writing your first hit ‘Sugar’ by Flo-Rida as your first single in 2009? It was an incredible feeling. It was created by just simply freestyling on the mic. We will never forget that. It shows the power of God over our lives ANNEX: Since that single, you’ve gone on to write hits for Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, and David Guetta amongst others, how did these situations happen and how do you keep up with it all? With Justin we got asked to be apart of the project early on when he had just gotten signed to Def Jam, We knew it was something special there. With Chris his team requested us to come out and work with him it was a great experience. I think us staying humble and grounded allows us to keep it all together and still have fun. ANNEX: After reaching such commercially successful nights, how has your life changed and what do you wish was the same? I think the respect level has changed as a new writer/artist you can easily get over looked but now people respect our opinion and listen to what we have to say. What’s stayed the same is our ability to still be ourselves some people when success sinks in they begin this Ego Superiority complex and that’s not something we want. ANNEX: What was the process like leading up to finally being signed by Universal Music Group, how much work did you put in before getting to that point? A lot of handwork and perseverance Universal Music Publishing saw talent early on and knew we had a hunger to win and keep winning but it was not easy we were singing on the street since 04 till 09 so about 5 years yeah lot of work ANNEX: While you have seen success with the projects you’ve worked on, why have your albums only been released in Japan? Why we only decided to release in Japan initially is because the need was so high for Jackie Boyz material our records were charting left and right out there but don’t worry we have a new album that will be releasing soon all over the world! ANNEX: What was your worst studio experience like, and what did you learn from it? I would say this one producer (I won’t say names) but he never showed up to the session and we were real confused that someone who seemed so professional could miss their own session we called a few times but decided to do a song the record became a big record for us overseas so I can’t be too mad lol.. We learned more & more everyday and we have a job to do whether their for it or against It and at the end of the day it all makes for great music. ANNEX: How does your song writing process differ between writing an R&B/Urban tracks and writing a Pop track? Its all melodies we just sing what feels good to us on the tracks but writing from scratch is the best way playing with instruments and concepts makes the best songs to us. ANNEX: Plans and Goals for 2013? The Vision for 2013 is to brand the Jackie Boyz name further through our own original music called “Progressive Soul” a mixture between soul and dance it’s very new and exciting also we have been working consistently with this production team called APEX watch out for these guys and continued growth and prosperity. by: K. Escobar

Shout out to our A&R’s: I Manage Stars (Nate & Christian)

Willam Wears: Dress / RACHEL ROY / rachelroy.com Shoes / BLONDE AMBITION / blondeambitionstyle.com

w i c k ed n ess STARRING:

WILLAM BELLI RAJA GEMINI COURTNEY ACT

Lensed by: Tatiana Gerusova TatianaGerusova.com Creative Directors: Allan + Ashley Editor Assistants: Pikka Turangan, Shelbie Rae Nicholson, Jacqueline Dilanchyan

Raja Wears: Dress / SHAIL K / shailkusa.com Shoes / PLEASER / pleaserusa.com Courtney Wears: Dress / SHAIL K / shailkusa.com Shoes/ ALEJANDRA G / alejandrag.com

Raja Wears: Dress / SHAIL K / shailkusa.com Necklace (used as Head Piece) / DESLA / deslacouture.com

Willam Wears: Dress / JOLENE / dressgoddess.com

Willam Wears: Dress / VAL STEFANI / valstefani.com Courtney Wears: Dress / RENATO BALESTRA Shoes / ALEJANDRA G / alejandrag.com

Willam Wears: Corset / HOUSE OF DEVALLI Skirt / BACKSTAGE / backstagepresents.com Shoes / BLONDE AMBITION / blondeambitionstyle.com Raja Wears: Dress / INES DE SANTO / inesdisanto.com Shoes / PLEASER / pleaserusa.com Courtney Wears: Dress / VIKTOR LUNA / viktorluna.com Shoes / ALEJANDRA G / alejandrag.com

Courtney Wears: Dress / GAURAV GUPTA / gauravgupta.com Shoes / ERIC RUTBERG: transparent collection / EricRutberg.com

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fashion never sleeps

january 1, 2013 The Vogue Festival in London, returns again in the month of April. Wwd.com

january 18, 2013 Musician- centric casting walked down the runway for Maison Martin Margiela, people such as Richard Fearless, Gwilym Gold and Paulo Goude. (Sons of Grace Jones and Jean-Paul Goude)

january 19, 2013 The Swedish brand, Acne will hold its first women’s ready-to-wear in the season in Paris that begins on the 26th of Febuary.

january 7, 2013 Happy Socks collaborates with Curtis Kulig’s signature “Love Me” for the three sock styles for Valentine’s Day.

january 21, 2013 Christian Lacroix and Hermès introduces a new collection of tableware.

highsnobiety.com

january 8,2013 Uniqlo is set to expand throughout the New York Tristate area.

january 12,2013 The search for the plane that carried Vittorio Missing is reported to be kept going.

january 14,2013 Johanna Konta and Jarmilla Gajdosova wears styles from the spring collection of EleVen by Venus Williams at the Australian Open.

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february 18, 2013 Galleries Lafayette releases their ad campaign in celebration of the inauguration of their renovated men’s department featuring the Spanish Director, Pedro Almodóvar.

february 4,2013 Urban Outfitters opens their 36th store in Europe straight in London on Oxford Street.

february 6, 2013

february 19, 2013

The Parisian concept store and Saturdays Surf NYC have collaborated to create a five piece unisex line, consisting a tote bag, graphic tees, board shorts, hat and a beach towel.

Shaquille O’Neal makes an appearance at Project in Las Vegas to re-introduce his Reebok sneakers “Shaq Attaq”.

february 8, 2013

february 24, 2013

Nina Ricci extends her line to bed and bath; the brand reﬂects the feel of sensual and romantic.

Cynthia Rowley releases her new candy line in her Upper East Side store labeled “CuRios”.

february 11, 2013 Fendi teams up wit DAMAC Properties of Dubai to construct the 490-foot high residential tower and private apartments in DAMAC heights at the Dubai Marina. All projects due to finish by 2015.

february 14, 2013

february 27, 2013

Marc Jacobs designs 3 cans for Diet Coke, as the creative director for Diet Coke of 2013, he designs the cans with illustrations of nineties models in nineties fashion.

Robbie Williams’ Men’s line “Farrell” launches at KaDeWe in Berlin, which are also available in 11 specialty and department store in England, Italy and Ireland.

ANNEX: DIANE

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joyrich spring summer 2013 launch party

project mvmt

ANNEX ON THE

TOWN

karl lagerfeld launch party

rupauls drag race Season 5 Premier Party 124

ANNEX: DIANE

victoria justice turns 20

Harpars BAZAAR + 'Dukes of Melrose' azadeh springh 2013 trunk show

morrison hotel gallery ANNEX: DIANE

125

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