Bode Magazine Fall 2021 by BODE Magazine

FALL 2021

s style & the u o

a o ld

nd rebel

li “Don’t stay in your lane. Life is full of possibilities in this industry.”

the manifest of one bad ass chick

st for F a ll

Ellie Gonsalves

li IT

Tailor Made

Photographer: Rex Yu Model: Danielle Victoria Page Hair: Reagan Link Makeup: Alisa Yasuda Agency: Scout LA Wardrobe by Vi Dang

F O E G ED

IMPACT

MAGAZINE On the Cover Photographer: Lauren Schulz Model: Ellie Gonsalves

FALL

What’s Inside

2021

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Edge of Impact Linear Contrast Nour Hammour Sarah Ashcroft Nefelibata Ellie Gonsalves BODE Style Henri Noël Jewelry Cara Woodhouse Seasonal Blooms Haley Kalil Color Story The Bloom Twins Let there Be Light Wander in Fall

Editor-in-Chief: Heather Marie Combs Creative Director: Kaylon Hardman Digital Media Director: Ashley Nicole Combs Sales Director: Carson McCall

EMPOWERING WOMEN. REVOLUTIONIZING TRADITION. PERFECT EXECUTION.

www.marinaraphael.com | (@marinaraphaelofficial

Editor’sLETTER

fter a much needed Summer fling, I finally feel ready to Fall. Something about the changes taking place around you, from the red-hued walks of leaves crunching beneath your feet to the crisp air of a dropping temperature hitting your wind-blushed cheeks, brings about an undeniable sense of newfound opportunity.

A feeling that happens every season, but a feeling that is welcomed now more than ever. I also find, that as the Summer heat fades away, making room for the oversized knits and full length tailor made fits, a sense of happy contentment comes over me. There is a freedom that encourages a balance between motive and reset. Two concepts we have come to realize in the “’20’s” 2.0 that must go hand in hand. While some things remain longstanding over time, like a collared untrimmed coat structured with power and sophistication to combat the harsher winds, the battle to balance an agenda and a journal is also nothing new. So what to do?

Well, like Haley Kalil shares in one of our many memorable interviews in this issue, “listen to yourself.” And do both. If Haley can upkeep a 4.0 GPA and become the first scientist I have come to meet, while traveling the world as an in-demand model, you too can live the best of both worlds. For we need passion and a driving direction to inspire our future and our professional impact in this world, but we also need to say “no” and take the time to reset free of guilt. Which I will admit, is not an easy feat even for myself. If we have learned anything from the pandemic that swept over our entry to another statement making “20’s”, it is that we still must try. Stress can be crippling and unnecessary and the best combat for burnout, being over worked and even un-motivation, is a reset. To take a step back and remember that a season is changing around you. Allow yourself to be refreshed and awake to a new sense of opportunity and inspiration. The designers showcased in the pages to come welcome many different tastes and insights into the world of fashion, but there was one underlier that stands out — that inspiration can strike at any time, at any place and during any moment. Embrace and cultivate every opportunity of a burgeoning season, from fulfilling the necessary hours to complete a goal, then taking the time to turn off the work and spend some time with yourself or with friends and family. In fashion, we often do our best to predict what is to come with every season, and while we will always continue to do so, it is intriguing to simply see what has been envisioned by the creative inward eye of the visionaries we look up to. Fashion is like the framework for the life we want to live, a powerful expression giving us the tenacity to confidently procure a job or buy a home or feel our best selves for that much-needed night out. Whatever the case, fashion is there; but it is nothing without a well rested mind, body and soul. So embrace the ethic to work and fight for your dream life while also allowing yourself the guilt-free time to reset and embrace the present.

Heather Marie Combs Editor-in-Chief

Shirt and Trouser: Viktoria & Woodz Shoes: Gucci Jewelry: Francesca

Photographer: Carmen Rose Model: Paris Bishop with Chadwick Models Stylist: Lydia Vingos Hair & Makeup: Bernice Mansfield Blazer: Honey from the Jar Top: Zara Trouser: Camilla and Marc Shoes: A.EMERY Jewelry: Francesca

Linear

CONTRAST

Dress: Lee Mathews Shoes: Zimmerman Earrings: Aje Jewelry: Francesca

Blazer: Honey from the Jar Trouser: Honey from the Jar Belt: Jacquemus Jewelry: Francesca

Top: Dion Lee Trouser: Honey from the Jar Shoes: A.EMERY Jewelry: Francesca

Dress: Vintage Chloé from Honey from the Jar Shoes: Zimmerman Earrings: Francesca

Photographer: Walter Pierre Stylist: Constant De Boer Assistant Stylist: Fleur van der Schiit Model: Simone Van Werkhoven Hair and Makeup: Laura Yard

L E A T Hreport ER

with

NOUR HAMMOUR

Nour Hammour and Erin Webb co-founded Nour Hammour in 2013 to create effortlessly cool leather outerwear. Their pieces may be the last item you throw on, but these designers make sure that their outerwear is not an afterthought. By Jessica Gandy 19

ith a chance meeting in the City of Lights, Nour Hammour and Erin Webb — co-founders of luxury leather line Nour Hammour — both reside between the innovative United States and timeless Paris. A Parisian design house, Nour Hammour has one singular focus — tailored and timeless leather outerwear to empower women through beauty and comfort. “When living in Paris, a fantastic coat or jacket is something that you wear year-round,” shares Webb. “How fun to design this one item of clothing that conveys so much about how a woman wants to feel. From the moment you put on a leather jacket — you immediately feel a little bit rebellious.” According to the experts, a leather jacket is the absolute wardrobe staple of any city girl. “At the time we launched there weren’t any brands designing beautiful leather outerwear that were also comfortable to wear all day long,” enlightens Webb. “Jackets were restrictive and the leather was super heavy, after a few hours it was almost fatiguing to wear them. So we started with one leather jacket that women would come customize in our Parisian workshop — to ensure she had the perfect fit. We learned exactly how a woman wanted to feel when she wore a leather jacket and that helped us develop an entire collection. It happened naturally — and then suddenly we were being worn by Kendall and Gigi. That was exciting.” Taking the time to really think about each and every client when designing their styles is a key factor the design duo attributes to their success. Europeans tend to prefer neutral colors and classic silhouettes — ‘The Tench’ and ‘The Perfecto’ — while American clients are a bit riskier and are always first to try the label’s newest styles. They even have a specific sub-group called “Dallas, Dubai, and DF” for those who love a bit of color and gravitate towards the pieces that are beautifully adorned with embellishments of crystals, stones, and studs. The cobblestone streets of Marais are where Hammour and Webb draw their Parisian inspiration. The city’s romantic architecture and darling shops make it the perfect place to don a sophisticated leather jacket for a leisurely stroll. With its showroom in Paris, Hammour and Webb derive much of their inspiration from Parisian style, but they also take notes from their time in the States. “Our designs are always tailored and elevated, which is a very Parisian aesthetic,” shares Webb, “but they are also always very comfortable as well. The functionality of the jackets is for a woman on the go, which at its design origin, was a very American concept.” Whether Hammour and Webb are designing for the doctor, the stay-at-home mother or the student, the only prerequisite is that she does not take herself too seriously and is comfortable in her own skin … and leather. No matter who the jacket is for, the quality of the craftsmanship is unparalleled. “Leather is such a particular material to work with and also a difficult one in the production process. Because of that, the artisans we work with are literally multigenerational,” reveals the co-founder. “The art of cutting and stitching leather is literally a life-long career

and is a craft that is disappearing as so many brands are transitioning to vegan leather. In addition to fostering the knowledge being passed down, we continue to work with the same workshops in Paris that we originally launched with. In order to meet demand, we helped establish an amazing female-owned workshop in Turkey that produces our shearling collections.” The end result being expertly made leather goods that withstand the test of time. Clients can rest assured knowing that their pieces are not only classics, but made to withstand hundreds of hours of wear becoming the jewel of your wardrobe. The mainstay of the brand is the leather jacket — staple pieces that have universal appeal. With the ability to be dressed up or dressed down, the specific outerwear always leaves the wearer looking polished and ultramodern. As evidenced by today’s IT-girls — Gigi Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Kaia Gerber, and Bella Hadid, to name a few — Nour Hammour’s signature and customizable jackets pair well with anything from denim shorts to cargo pants and racerback tees to tailored black trousers. “If you want to wear a minidress but you don’t want to look too dressed up, throwing a leather jacket over the look will immediately make you look more casual,” shares Webb. “Likewise, if you need to run to the market and you want to wear sweatpants, an oversized leather jacket is going to make the entire styling more intentional.” Filling the uncomfortable gap, Hammour and Webb created custom jackets in their Parisian workshop to mold their jackets perfectly for their clients. In the process, Hammour and Webb found the perfect balance between structure and comfort for their signature fit and developed an entire collection after it. Today that collection has expanded to include cropped moto jackets, trench coats, cargo jackets and more.

In continued love with the ‘Birthday Coat’ — “We actually designed it last year as a birthday gift to me,” smiles Hammour excitedly. “I was dreaming of a cool, but relaxed coat that I could wear every day that is cozy, but not heavy. It turned out so perfect that we put it in the next collection. Now every girl in the office owns one.” Webb’s go-to piece is ‘The Regina’ because it is the perfect marriage of functionality and tailored style. “‘The Regina’ has become the jacket that our clients are ordering for their travels. It’s oversized so you are comfortable, nipped at the waist so that you look pulled together, and the best part is that it has pockets big enough to hold passports for you and your family, cell phones and keys. You basically don’t need carryon luggage,” laughs Webb. Leading the outerwear leather industry for the past nine years, the design duo is most unapologetic for not taking no for an answer. “We love the French culture,” shares Webb, ‘but when we launched the brand in Paris, we were met with a lot of ‘C’est pas possible’ – people telling us that certain ways of working with leather were not possible. Eventually they all came around and we still work with the same artisans that we started with all those years ago.” Tight lipped about the exciting projects coming down the pipeline, the leather experts welcome us all to ride their coattails and join the style ranks of the elite. As Hammour and Webb love to meet their followers and clients in person, the designers encourage you to stop by their Paris showroom anytime. But if Paris is a bit out of reach, their collections are found in over a dozen stockists around the globe and in high-end online boutiques.

SAL THE STORY OF

London based lifestyle influencer and fashion label founder, Sarah Ashcroft, shares with us how she organically grew her brands — both personal and cool-girl cult favorite SLA The Label. Inspired by her desire to wear joggers 24/7, Ashcroft launched her companies from the ground up and has always focused on giving her followers and customers exactly what they are searching for — comfort and quality. By Jessica Gandy

with

Sarah Ashcroft

London’s fashion history is as old as the city itself, and within the iconic fashion city is 27 year old, Sarah Ashcroft, an entrepreneur and designer who has always known that fashion was more than just a well-constructed outlet.

ortunately enough for the young media maven, her hard work and perseverance paid off. After college, Ashcroft attended the illustrious Fashion Retail Academy in London to find her niche in the fashion industry. While there, Ashcroft started her blog, That Pommie Girl, as a way to set herself apart from other entry level job seekers for a career in fashion public relations. Using her blog as a launchpad in job interviews, Ashcroft aimed to showcase to future employers that she had an in-depth knowledge of the then-burgeoning business world of influencers, bloggers and other social media entrepreneurs. “I would upload daily outfits — many of which I now cringe looking back at,” laughs Ashcroft, “but who doesn’t love a glow up moment — and share links to where you could buy those items and little notes about myself, styling tips and anything else I felt like sharing.” Roughly six months later, a savvy 19 year old and a burgeoning blog, the influencer left her retail job and never looked back. Launching SLA The Label in June 2019, Ashcroft was inspired by her jet-set lifestyle and love for cozy, but put together, airport outfits. “I always knew I wanted to do more and have an actual business to call my own, especially after working for other brands for 7 years,” shares the designer. “I knew I had to utilize and do something with the following I had spent so many years growing, and by 2019 I had a pretty good understanding of my own selling power from previous collaborations I was lucky enough to have.” Years ahead of her time, Ashcroft saw the gap in the market for high-quality, off-duty attire that is affordable and true to the desired sizing. Predominantly, SLA The Label is a loungewear brand with a focus on tailored oversized fits. Ashcroft’s concept for her label came just as organically as her career. She designs with her followers in mind and scours Pinterest to keep her finger on the pulse of new trends. “I honestly design with my followers in mind because I feel like, especially with the OG followers, I have learnt so much from them along the way. What they want to wear, how they want it

to fit and the sort of colors they want to wear it in. The SLA girl is someone who wants to look amazing and feel effortlessly cool at the same time. She’s full of sass, but is not high maintenance,” says Ashcroft. “Someone who appreciates fashion and loves to have fun with it.” The label’s current collection Self Love was launched at the end of the COVID-19 lockdown in the UK. “It was a collection inspired by something that we all need to practice more of and that is of course, self-love,” heartens Ashcroft. “We love to try to get across positive messages throughout our brand so that felt like a perfect fit.” The collection features the label’s signature oversized fit sweatshirts, joggers, and sweat shorts in a variety of eye-catching colors. In stark opposition to the relaxed vibe that is the core of the brand, Ashcroft created SLA Luxe to mirror another side of her personal style. “I am either super casual or super dressed up, there really isn’t an in-between so it felt natural to add a dressy side to SLA,” says Ashcroft. SLA Luxe is all about cool girl chic. The line offers colors that are not normally found in her collection and is comprised of multiple little mini drops that allow the label to keep pushing out fresh and exciting fabrics and styles.

he SLA Luxe’s glitter two pieces and sequin shirt dresses are the perfect pick for post pandemic partying. Next for the label is a brand-new beachwear collection — an extra special labor of love for Ashcroft — which will include more bright colors, oversized shirts and perfect statement holiday pieces. To achieve Ashcroft’s coveted tailored and laid-back style, SLA The Label is a good place to start. The brand includes many of her go to pieces. “I love the very simple, chic, effortless looks. I live for an amazing pair of jeans with a statement leather jacket and a white racer top, or a simple oversized shirt with some cycling shorts,” shares Ashcroft. Her day-to-day look is just as refined. Ashcroft can be found in a pair of white trainers, jeans, and a bodysuit. For beauty, her choices are just the same. Ashcroft focuses on clean, clear, dewy skin. Her hero products include facial oil and a few swipes of clear brow gel and mascara. “The beauty item I can’t live without would be a really good cleanser. Nothing beats the feeling of freshly washed skin,” beams the designer.

“I love the very simple, chic, effortless looks. I live for an amazing pair of jeans with a statement leather jacket and a white racer top, or a simple oversized shirt with some cycling shorts.” Spending the past eight years nourishing her community across her various social media platforms and dedicating her years of knowledge to her ever-growing label, the entrepreneur continues to work to find the best ways to move forward. “I love the community that I have built and I am so grateful for everything it has given me,” shares Ashcroft. “I feel for me moving forward I will be focusing a lot more on SLA as I am a big believer that if you want something to work you have to give it your 100%. Having set SLA up on my own it does make it difficult to juggle both the brand and the influencer side of things so I hope that over time I can find a way for them to both sit side by side very happily and that I will be able to keep sharing both my life and my business with my amazing followers. And I hope to become someone to inspire any future female entrepreneurs by sharing my business journey the way I feel so inspired by the women in business I follow.” From luxe loungewear to sexy swimwear, one thing is for sure — no matter where Ashcroft goes her community is bound to follow — and will look and feel good while doing so.

www.woera.co | visit us at: @woeraofficial

Photographer: Katie Sudekova Model: Eva Makeup & Hair: Nicci Wardrobe: Arnold Soetanto

nefelibata “cloud-walker”; one who lives in the clouds of their own imagination or dreams, or one who does not obey the c o n v e n t i o n s o f s o c i e t y, l i t e r a t u r e , o r a r t 35

X The

NE T

CHAPTER with

Ellie Gonsalves

What began as the story of a little Brisbane girl has become the manifest of “one badass chick.” Meet Gold Coast’s resident “It” girl — Ellie Gonsalves — persona free Aussie bombshell and as of late, sporting the ever-so-coveted, platinum pixie cut. With over a decade’s worth of industry know how and digital deciphering, Gonsalves is what you would call the ultimate multi-hyphenate: model, actress and ambassador, to name a few. Here, she tells us how to balance the expectations in a digital world, the indomitable spirit of her Aussie home and her debut new hyphenate — designer. By Heather Marie Combs

eadquartered in the ultimate Australian destination lined with world-class beaches, high-rise dominated skylines and rainforest hinterland, the Gold Coast is also home to green eyed beauty and kind hearted professional, Ellie Gonsalves. Working as a model and actress for the last 12 years, Gonsalves has managed to leverage this digital media industry into a full-time business based on passion and overall admirable intentions. “I think my most memorable experience would be starring in a Super Bowl Commercial alongside an animatronic kanageroo for Yellowtail Wines,” reminisces the model, “or starring in the Hollywood blockbuster Fighting with my Family which stars Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Vince Vaughn, Lena Heady, Florence Pugh and directed/ written by Steven Merchant. Honestly incredible experiences from a little Brisbane gal!”

While her destined path of photoshoots and movie sets was not predicted as a young girl, Gonsalves was always known to have a bit of a creative flare. Now amassing an online community of over 4.5 million followers, the model has one message: “Always be you no matter how many people try and change you. Uniqueness is something that cannot be replicated, it’s something you’re born with and makes you stand out from everyone else.” A seasoned veteran, we were eager to uncover her key advice to “making it,” and with no hesitation, Gonsalves expresses, “Don’t stay in ‘your lane’. Life is full of possibilities in this industry and everyone always told me to focus on just one thing. But I’ve honestly found so much success in pursuing modeling, acting, TV, social media campaigns and I’ve even been a Wildlife Warriors Ambassador for the Australia Zoo for 10 years.

Photographer: Lauren Schulz Hair & Makeup: Penny Antuar Stylist: Paul Versace Videographer: James Connell Boat: Sailing in Paradise

Dress: Oglia-loro Couture

ocial media and technology in general has also opened up so many doors for me over the last few years which has been a bit of a ‘beast’ on its own. But I’ve always believed you have to be adaptable in this industry to make your mark and have longevity. Also, don’t be a dick,” laughed the fair faced beauty, “just be nice, respectful of others and their time! This is SUPER important.” With social media at the peek of our lifetime, this media maven has established herself in the digital realm and it is with the utmost respect she be granted the prestigious title of a genuine role model. “Social media is an outlet to not only be creative and work with incredible brands/ companies, but I genuinely enjoy sharing my experiences and messages on things that are important to me,” heartens Gonsalves. “But it’s also very important to be authentic in what you do. I’m a pretty open book when it comes to my personal and professional life, but there are a few things I keep for me as well. I always am conscious that there are a lot of impressionable people out there so I share the highs and lows of my life and how I got through them, this just demonstrates my life isn’t full of ‘highlights’ and it’s perceived to be something it’s not. It really doesn’t matter what car someone drives, how many abs they have, how many followers or how successful they are, or in this world, how successful they appear to be, if you don’t put the work into YOUR personal happiness and fulfillment, all of those other things will fade and probably not make you happy, grounded or give you balance. How you decide to share that is up to you, but to maintain integrity and longevity in this space, you should always be authentic.”

York. I think we’re so laid back in Australia and that’s something I really love. I think some people also confuse being laid back with doing nothing or being lazy, but what we’re talking about is just a bit more ‘chilled’ in day to day life, that’s something super unique to us Aussies. And honestly some of my favorite designers and labels are from Australia like Oglialoro Couture, Dion Lee, Capazello Couture, Lillian Khallouf, Khirzad Femme, Alice McCall & Nicola Finetti.” Speaking of laid back, the model is often seen in the relaxed uniform of leather pants, combat boots, bright puffer and a tee or activewear, “I live in it,” states Gonsalves. “However, when I’m working I leave most of that guidance to my amazing stylist Paul Versace, he’s so incredible and we work together to find the perfect look for how I’m feeling!” Never without her Fenty Beauty Body Sauce, the model has recently been living in her 9186 leggings. Mastering most avenue from model to actress to wildlife ambassador, it seems a natural fit that “designer” is now added to the mix. “A few things i’m really excited about coming in the next few months is launching my new activewear label ‘9186’,” reveals the badass boss babe, “that I have co-founded with my partner Ross Scutts. Interestingly, the name is the tail end of both our birth years in September. It’s a collection of fashion forward, amazingly fitting activewear for EVERYONE to enjoy.”

“Always be you no matter how many people try and change you. Uniqueness is something that cannot be replicated, it’s something you’re born with and makes you stand out from everyone else.”

A scroll through her day-in-the-life Instagram, Gonsalves will take you from the glitz of “a day in the office” to the glam behind a curated photoshoot to the celebrations of a 13 year love, and of course the elegant style of a woman who owns herself. Candid about her own struggles in the past juggling the expectations others had for her, the model was quick to realize that, “if I’m being 100 percent ME that will resonate with the right people! You set yourself up for failure if you’re not being genuine and that ‘persona’ can only last so long. There’s also no rule book for public figures these days — if you wanna be controversial, be it. If you want to be projecting positivity, do it! It would be a boring world if every public figure was a goody two shoes, just be yourself ! You won’t ever fall short or feel like you have to keep up with what you’re projecting.” Never the same day twice, Gonsalves is intentional to maintain some form of consistent regimen in a whirlwind lifestyle. “[My day] is kind of all over the place, but I have a routine. I always work out in the mornings and have a good breakfast — that’s my ‘me’ time. I then start my work day which can range from fittings, meetings/zoom meetings, design meetings, a photoshoot, content shoot, edits and selects from shoots, etc. But it’s always different that’s for sure,” shares the model. With an occupation taking her all over the world, one thing has been made clear: “My travels have made me REALLY appreciate Australia so much more,” admits Gonsalves. “We really do have some incredibly talented designers and labels. It’s also such a different style to what you’d see in LA or New

“I am also a part of a new Aussie reality show,” shares the actress, “and I’ll casually be feeding a crocodile for the very first time in November at Australia Zoo to celebrate my decade long Wildlife Warriors ambassador role with them.” With much gratitude to her father, Gonsalves grew up with a love for wildlife. “Wildlife gave me so much compassion and empathy for all living beings and that’s ultimately how I became so invested in the protection of wildlife,” heartens the model. “I was first invited by Terri Irwin to visit the zoo and the Wildlife Warriors hospital and while it was one of the most incredible experiences of my entire life seeing the zoo and having experiences with the animals, it was also incredibly sad when I walked through the hospital. It brought me to tears seeing all of the injured animals being treated and realizing Australia Zoo had no assistance other than donations from the public and profits from the zoo to operate, I asked what I could do to help them and that’s when Terri asked if I’d like to become a global Wildlife Warriors ambassador. That was about 10 years ago.” Learning one thing in not only her 12 years in this ever-changing industry, but in the unpredictable struggles of the last two years, Gonsalves cherishes the importance of making every day count. “I’m just tying to make the most out of every opportunity and am endlessly grateful to be working,” addresses the model. While work is a driving force in Gonsalves’ genuine lifestyle her nights off “doing nothing” also provides the much needed solace and balance in a fast-paced world. So what is this pixie cut bombshell doing when not gracing the world with her smoldering smize? “Probably eating a tub of vegan cookie dough ice cream watching SVU with my dog Daisy and my partner Ross,” smiled the model; “and after I destroy the tub of ice cream Ross gives me foot massages and I give him scalp massages,” she further admits with an infectious laugh. “THIS is my idea of self care. And if I’m feeling extra boujee, I’ll put a face mask on while I eat the ice cream.”

Blazer: Conilio Bodysuit: Zara 45

“I’m just trying to make the most out of every opportunity and am endlessly grateful to be working.”

Set: Dior 47

STYLE

Great

THE

FALLS

Wardrobe by CLOSED 48

Toward the end of every Summer, we count down until those first crisp, cool days of Fall provide the much-needed heated relief. From the topcoat textures to directional details and luxe takes on comfortable clothes, it is time to pack away your mini’s and lightweight fabrics and fall into piles of cozy knits and oversized tailor made fits.

Wardrobe by CLOSED 49

STYLE

Wardrobe by CLOSED Mawson Pants in Sandstone Lola Blazer in Sandstone Two Tone Sweater in Golden brown 50

G N D O E R T I T S SU

It’s a total tailoring moment this season and while blazers and full length outerwear are considered wardrobe staples, styling tailored pieces could not be easier. Pairing suiting separates of similar color hues create an elevated yet forward look, but if suiting up is not your strong suit, a long lined, full length overcoat sports as an elegant statement to stand out in the crowd.

Wardrobe by NOUR HAMMOUR Gotham Coat in Black 51

STYLE

Knits for Fall aren’t exactly unheard of, but this season, the cozy staples are more luxe and in more excess. With full on sweater sets and matching hued combos, layering with charming and warming knits and slouched pants make for a high impact motif that not only looks good, but feels good.

THE

SOFTER SIDE

Wardrobe by CLOSED 52

Wardrobe by CLOSED 53

STYLE

Wardrobe by NOUR HAMMOUR Astor Coat in Ivory 54

LO VE

puffer

Sticking to the theme of comfortable yet directional, puffer coats are the outerwear trend for the upcoming season.

You’ll find chunky coats and jackets in a range of colors — from arctic white to ashen grey — to bring you into Fall with unfussy ease. The infamous puffer trend is also taking on a new form. A little futuristic, but a worthy addition to your Fall wardrobe, puffer accessories should be embraced and deemed your must have side piece.

Wardrobe by Closed Mel Bag 55

the

Accessory

REPORT

A DIAMOND DREAMSCAPE

with Henri Noël Jewelry As we put away our Summer essentials of sunscreen, swimsuits and island vibe bangles and cuffs, it is still clear that this season’s ornamental staples continue to be at the fore. Taking the effortless idea of adopting singular core pieces and pairing it with the autumnal layering trend to put together the perfect attire for Fall, fine jewelry designer, Vivian Grimes, of Henri Noël Jewelry is with us to discuss fashion’s must-have jewelry lineup.

s we emerge from the post-pandemic necessity of waist-up dressing, jewelry — especially earrings and necklaces — continue to be of focus this season. Already being held in the most highly respected significance, a well-invested diamond collection remains to be trend proof, and Vivian Grimes of Henri Noël Jewelry knows all about the more amore approach to ornamental styling. Delivering luxury layering pieces at fair, honest pricing, Henri Noël Jewelry combines the tradition and craftsmanship practiced by her family before her, as a third generation jeweler, with the panache and flair of her own surroundings. “I draw so much inspiration from interior design as well as from my daily tasks, further proving jewelry can be worn each day,” states Grimes. With this season’s revival of larger coats, comfy oversized knits and playful puffers, and with some still believing “less is more,” you don’t need the additional layers of jewelry, but you want them. Offering signature pieces like the ‘Diamond Drop Station Collection,’ comprised of a few variations, Grimes has made sure no jewelry be left out as ‘The Drop Station’ jewelry lineup will be your core piece to achieve an overall layering look. “The best part,” continues the designer, “is that each necklace is adjustable so you can truly wear and create your own layering look with our pieces and additional pieces you may already own. Many of our pieces are adjustable, so you can wear slightly longer with your sweaters and jackets, or you can also wear at a choker length so the fine jewelry can still be showcased with your décolletage covered up,” shares Grimes. Already noticing an influx in the investment of Henri Noël’s 36” and 54” ‘Diamond by the Inch’ accessory as we prepare for the fall, “this piece can be wrapped twice which makes for a unique layered look,” deems the designer.

Henri Noël Jewelry Stacking Rings 57

the

Accessory

REPORT

hile a trademark necklace

is timeless no matter the season, earrings are not to

be forgotten when donning

a full-length tailored coat or combatting the crisp winds

with a chunky knit turtleneck.

“I do believe our signature ‘Richmond Hoops’ — named

after my partner’s favorite city in London — is also

a must-have,” shares Grimes. “I love the way hoops are

so simple but yet can be so charming, kind of like

Richmond if you have ever been.” Not overlooking

the power and draw of minimal simplicity during any

season, Grimes and her fine jewelry line value real

solid gold in aversion to plated or vermeil, and real

natural diamonds so that every day is acces-

sorized with thoughtful intention.

“This is not to say you cannot layer, because with simple,

yet unique jewelry you can create a story

through curated layers that are so tasteful! I absolutely love

decorating myself with various necklace,

bracelet, and ring layers – I mean who doesn’t love a

So what can we expect to see this season in Henri Noël earring stack!” reveals the jeweler. “I draw so much of myself with and from my relationships with my customers. simply do not have to take off, and that is what we are

Jewelry? “Well… get ready to build upon your my inspiration from the people I surround I find many want to invest in jewelry they going to continue to build upon.” Primarily

known and praised for their diamond dreamscape,

this fine jewelry house does intend to introduce

more colors and statement stones. “I am in the

process of evolving and expanding the line with

a few new colored stone pieces that reflect nicely in

any light,” divulges Grimes. “Stay tuned for up-

coming Pink Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald pieces

Robe De Chambre in Lollipop Purple NOUR HAMMOUR

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FUNC TION ALITY with Cara Woodhouse

Pushing past the conventional boundaries of universality in design, interior designer and mother of two — Cara Woodhouse — defies all the rules, exploring every avenue to express the unique authenticity of each project selected by Cara Woodhouse Interiors. Knowing a thing or two about the art of unrepeatable balance in a wide array of architectural possibility, the designer and stylist shares with us her ode to “never create the same thing more than once,” her take on the future of interior design and why a powerhouse career does not have to come at the expense of your family. By Ashley Nicole Combs

ever one to be confined to the figurative “box” of current trends, luxury high-end residential and commercial interior designer, Cara Woodhouse, has paved a flourishing career with her unrestrictive approach to detail. Known for her expertise in curating a range of entrancing spaces — from town homes in London to Playboy offices in Beverly Hills to midcentury-modern homes in West Hollywood — the designer is known to evoke an anything, but singular experience. “I started out in the interior design industry going to the New York School of Interior Design,” begins Woodhouse. “I have been in this industry since 1996. Wow I just aged myself !” laughs the interior architect. “I started interning early on for some design firms. I had some horrible experiences working for some firms, which has shown me to be a boss that I would have liked to work for. I have also worked for some incredible supportive firms such as Alexandra Hayden and her mother — we are still friends today.” Since then, the interior stylist has headed several of her own design firms, “from a much larger 20 person firm to smaller ones with just a business partner and myself,” continues Woodhouse. “Having large and small firms, I realized what type of firm I wanted to find as my perfect balance.” Housed on the North shore of Long Island in the prolific village of Roslyn Harbor, New York, the polished interior designer planted roots and set up shop in light of her latest endeavor. “In 2016 I launched Cara Woodhouse Interiors, a small boutique firm taking only the best of the best projects,” beams Woodhouse. “When I was bigger, I felt disconnected from clients and I wasn’t being as creative because I was managing so many designers under me. My clients felt like they were hiring me, not a project manager and I felt like I was too disconnected from my creative flow. I am so fortunate enough to be able be selective with what projects I take on that align with my aesthetic. It’s also so rewarding to have clients that are open to being creative and collaborative alongside me. It’s truly my dream job!” With a fresh take on modern design, Woodhouse dares her clients to step out of their comfort zone to truly reinvent a space to present a unique identity specific to that site. “I always try to push myself to try and do something different and try another angle of how I can design something. When people say ‘this is the only way to do this,’ I love to push back and say ‘there are no rules in design...let’s explore!’ I will never create the same thing more than once,” reveals the stylist.

Thriving in her dream career path, it was only fitting that the designer shift her focus to an even bigger job — the search for a dream site to call her home. “Our family has finally found our dream home!” Reveals Woodhouse with a sigh of relief. “We were looking for a very long time as we were very confused as to where we were going to be moving to. It was between the west coast and the east coast and we finally decided on the east coast — my roots! Our home is a mid-century modern gem in Roslyn Harbor, NY which is on the north shore of Long Island. We have done a complete gut renovation as it was not touched since the 60’s. We loved so much of the original character, like the original terrazzo floors in our entry which of course we restored. We basically refreshed and modernized the entire home to be modern, playful and fun to reflect how our family lives. I cannot wait to share it with everyone!” And as she is currently in the process of renovating her own interiors, we just had to ask “where to begin?” “For the beginner, someone looking for a refresh of a space, you can start with accessories,” advises Woodhouse. “Every little detail can accessorize your home, emulate your sense of style, how you’re feeling, how you live, and beyond. They make a huge difference to a space and you can change them out easily without making a huge investment. I would start by adding or changing out pillows, accessories, accent lighting and art. Art is the finishing touch to every space!” Defining herself as luxurious, playful and unexpected — nuances easily noticed in each Cara Woodhouse original interior — these traits happen to be the essence of a trusted interior visionary. Stepping out of the mold of practicality and external expectations is where Woodhouse thrives in her creative inward eye to design a space true to the owner and property. Like all passionate endeavors, the research is just as important as the inspiration. While Woodhouse is graced with inspiration from anywhere and everywhere — designers to architects and artists to worldly travels — keeping your thumb on the pulse of what is happening around you is just as necessary to the world of design. “I consider myself to be the queen of researching,” expresses the stylist. “I can go down some crazy worm holes online between Pinterest and Instagram! I think there is definitely a correlation between [developing trends in fashion and interior design,] but I wouldn’t say that my personal design aesthetic in the interior design world comes directly from fashion.” Although, “fashion and jewelry were big first loves of mine and it’s no wonder why I fell for interior design shortly thereafter. They hold many similarities and interiors can definitely be considered a form of fashion.”

“There are no rules in design...let’s explore!”

o what is “trending” right now in the world of interior design? “Interior bar rooms are making a HUGE comeback,” reveals Woodhouse. “This is something that you would find in homes back in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Everyone is either including a bar room in their new build homes or converting an unused room in their home for the ultimate bar room. I love the idea of a home bar. It’s for sure a HUGE trend right now.” With a lot of the world focused on cultivating their dream home to be the perfect sanctuary for a place to unplug, reset and take the time to be quiet and actually hear yourself, this hard working, self-made, boss is no different, and if one thing could be said about Cara Woodhouse, it is that she loves to just chill on her time off. “I love to kick back and relax with my hubby and two boys watching a good movie,” heartens the designer. “There is nothing I love more!” Proving to all women everywhere that the choice of family life vs. career life is nothing but a distant myth, Woodhouse is the testament that you really can have it all. “I feel like it has taken a while for me to balance the two, but I can honestly say, I finally feel like I have it down,” shares the designer. “I have an amazing staff / team behind me that support my business and I don’t know what I would do without them. I also have the most incredible babysitter that loves my kids almost as much as I do. I also really try and turn off when my office closes and really be with my family.” Even still, “owning your own business is tough in some ways as it is also another one of your babies and you essentially never really turn off. I sometimes wake up before

my husband and kids get up and try to get some extra work done as well as when my kids go to bed. It’s not all the time, but I do it a lot! I also am obsessed with my job so I have urges to work all the time.” Keeping the freedom of functionality in her renowned interior designs, in similar suit, Woodhouse opts to maintain a personal style that is simple, chic and comfortable, preferring to dress more minimal and letting the accessories do the work. “I love to dress more simply and accessorize fun with amazing shoes, handbags and of course, jewelry. I guess it correlates with my interior design aesthetic as I like every piece to be special.” Designing more than just a well groomed and uniquely balanced oasis, Woodhouse has also released her own accessories of jewelry and homewares, which as it turns out, will not be the last original release under the CW operation. “I am working on several product collaborations at the moment,” hints Woodhouse. “There is so much more coming — a game table collection, furniture, home accessories and hardware,” to say the least. Unapologetic for staying true to herself, which includes owning her power of persistence — “I have one motto, never take no for an answer,” — the designer plans to continue growing her namesake business in the years to come. “I would love for my work to be more accessible to the masses,” says Woodhouse. “There is so much amazing good designs coming out with more affordable companies such as CB2, Crate & Barrel, West Elm, Target etc. I would love to keep designing and creating! Something on my bucket list is to design a hotel, as I have yet to design one.” 67

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Blooms SEASONAL

Photographer: Veronica Sams Model: Kristina Peric Durdevic Hair: Mashal Afzalzada using Oribe Makeup: Ashlen Styling: Hassni Caina Styling Assistant: Isabel Bowser Camera Assistant: Garret Stone Lighting and Gaf: Alex Bonelli Home: Malibu Crest Estate by Thereza Verboon Dress: Cult Gaia Ring: NAiiA Necklace: So Cute 71

Dress: ONALAJA Necklace: So Cute Ring: NAiiA

Photographer: Nick Suarez

Photographer: Christian Michel

A TALE

girls

of two

with

Haley Kalil

Photographer: Jake Rosenberg

Once upon a time, in a tiny town in Minnesota, there lived a beautiful lab rat named Haley Kalil. There she thrived working in labs while studying to become a physician; but the striking redhead had two dreams. One of which was already in pursuit while the other required a pumpkin carriage ride to New York City. Feeling satisfied with one goal, she went in search of her fairy godmother. The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit casting bippity-bopped her into a life of an in-demand fashion model. Now, she lives happily ever after wearing both her glass slippers and lab coat, traveling the world, and supporting other women to pursue their dreams and fulfill their fairytale ending.

By Jessica Gandy

orn and raised in Minnesota, Haley Kalil is a quirky, nerdy and outgoing tomboy at heart, known for her love of fishing, hiking, rock climbing, snowboarding, and everything in between. However, the most interesting facet of Kalil’s life is not her hobbies or where she was born, but instead who she was born from. Both of her parents are scientists — mechanical engineers to be precise — and as such, her passion for science and math almost literally runs through her veins. Before setting her sights on the big apple, Kalil studied various sciences in college. The four-year Sports Illustrated Swimsuit veteran was a 4.0 GPA student at St. Cloud State University where she majored in Biomedical Sciences and Psychology with a minor in Chemistry. With plans to become a physician, Kalil, however, was always drawn to modeling. Growing up in her small town, Kalil knew very little about the fashion industry. “Of course, I’d buy every issue of Vogue, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, Elle — you name it — but I never dreamed that I could be a part of this magical mysterious world,” she says drawing parallels between herself and a certain Disney princess who was too straddling two different worlds while maintaining a perfect red blowout. Her first introduction to the industry was the 2017 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit open casting call in Brooklyn. “I was YouTubing how to go to a modeling casting the night before,” laughed the model. “My journey has been so unique and that’s why I treasure it so much.” The brainy beauty quickly picked up the skills she needed to thrive in this industry. Now, her portfolio includes a number of big hitters like Maybelline, Sketchers, Journelle, and Kohl’s. “I love my job because it’s never the same,” shares Kalil. “I’m always in a different state or country. I’m always meeting new people and exploring new places. I’m always working to be better and do better. It’s constant growth and hunger to accomplish all your dreams.”

society puts them in, acting as a safe place for women to embrace both their body and their mind. Kalil uses her platforms to encourage women to enter into STEM industries, but also encourages them to live authentically — a duality Kalil knows well. This year, The Nerd Herd is launching a loungewear campaign where 100% of the proceeds from the first launch are going to organizations that help bring young women into STEM. Acting as a beacon in a prominent industry known, but often overlooked, confidence must be at the fore for a leader of this caliber. Turns out, the same trait is important in the competitive world of modeling. “The modeling industry is hard. You are judged on your physical appearance and that is difficult for many people to handle. Just knowing that you are enough and that a ‘no’ doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you. A ‘no’ just means it wasn’t the right place or time. But that ‘yes’ will come… and if you stay humble, focused and work hard, it will happen at the perfect time!” Amassing an online community of over 400K followers, all eager to see what this multi-hyphenate bombshell is up to next can bring forth any variety of pressures. So how does this scientist with the perfect smile and the notable repertoire remain true to herself ? “[I see] digital media as a highlight reel,” shares Kalil. “I try my best to show my followers my real life… the good, bad and ugly. No one is perfect and I never want a young girl to look at my Instagram or other social media platforms and think ‘I wanna be her.’ I want her to look at my platform and be inspired to love herself for who she is and what she brings to this world. I used to be the young girl looking at all my favorite models pages and idolizing their ‘perfect lives.’ I don’t want a page that seems flawless. I want someone to look at my page and say ‘I want to have a burger, fries, and a beer with her.’”

“Confidence is key and you are your biggest competition.”

Modeling is just one side of who Kalil is. Although most days she is in hair and makeup and in front of a camera, Kalil still treasures her time in goggles and behind a microscope. To help her stay connected to her passion for science, the model launched The Nerd Herd, an organization where the goal is simply stated, but tackles major issues for women in the STEM — science, technology, engineering, and math — fields. “I started The Nerd Herd last year after witnessing the double standards in the way that men and women are treated in the STEM fields,” shares Kalil. “I have friends who are doctors and engineers that tell me they are terrified to post a swimsuit photo because they think their coworkers will have less respect for them. I saw a huge need within the STEM fields for women to be respected as the multidimensional beings they are.” The Nerd Herd is Kalil’s passion project which advocates for a society where women can embrace all of who they are and not be confined to the proverbial “box”

Unapologetic for always being herself — “a geek, a nerd, a weirdo, a goofy human who loves to live life and have fun, and who will never apologize for being herself ” — is the heart of Kalil’s relatability and impact in every industry she masters. “I want to be the bright light for someone,” heartens the model. “I want to uplift and make people laugh.” Catch her on the street and her off-duty model look is drawn from her tomboy, Minnesotan childhood. Kalil dons oversized Gap denim, crop tops, and Nikes paired with one of her go-to accessories — her Off-White bag or Burberry backpack. Preferring to don a natural face with gloss and glow, the model swears by her skin care routine, boasting approachable and affordable brands like The Ordinary and CeraVe. Of course, keeping sure she is always stocked on her hero beauty product, sunscreen. “I use CeraVe because it’s light and doesn’t cause breakouts. It goes flawlessly under any makeup,” shares Kalil.

Photographer: Nick Suarez

hile quality skincare and the ultimate girl next door motif are the perfect accent to any body, so is listening. “Your body is so beautifully designed and it knows what it needs and doesn’t need. Always listen to what your body is telling you,” encourages the model. “If you need to rest… rest. If you are ready to hit it hard in the gym… go beast it out. If you are hungry… give your body proper nutrition. DON’T let any negative inner voices or outer voices dictate how you eat or how often you work out. It’s very easy, especially as a young female, to get into a negative headspace about your body. Your body is a beautiful thing that carries you through life. Treat it as the treasure it is.” Next for the self-proclaimed unapologetic nerd, is ticking off a few more goals. “I want to do more magazine covers and I’d like to work with Victoria’s Secret and other companies that encourage and empower women,” shares Kalil. “I want to continue to grow The Nerd Herd and have it become a beautiful place for women to come together and support each other. I want to accomplish all my dreams and encourage and uplift everyone I meet along the way. And know that your dreams are possible. If this little lab nerd from Minnesota could make her dreams come true… you can too!”

Photographer: Nick Suarez

Photographer: Jake Rosenberg

COLO R story Photographer and Styling: Brie Conomos Model: Alice Yang Creative Directer and Styling: Macami Makeup and Hair: Jessica Yang

CO OL ETERNAL

with the

UNTOUCHABLE BLOOM TWINS A look into the lives and minds of dark-punk duo, The Bloom Twins. By Julienne Marie Steffen

Photographer: Luke Nugent Stylist: Kay Altamira Hair: Andy Smith Makeup: Callista Lorian Nails: Kezia Parkins

F F

irst glance at the Bloom Twins warrants a double-take — tall, regal-looking, and always sharply dressed, identical twins Anna and Sonya Bloom are difficult to miss. They cut a striking figure and they know it. Alongside their couture punk inspired outfits and matching black bobs is an air of untouchability brought on by years of experience in modeling and preforming. They are beautifully intimidating. But behind their carefully cultivated exteriors lies a devotion to the arts and a deep admiration for vulnerability, expressed best through their artistic medium of choice: music. This week the London-based dark pop singers sat down with us to discuss their views on fashion, music and finding inspiration. Originally from a small suburb in Kiev, Ukraine, a career in the entertainment industry was not the original plan for Anna and Sonya. While both girls were early music prodigies, with Anna mastering the piano and Sonya the flute, neither had an interest in pursuing the classical music they grew up with, and the unpredictability of the pop music industry made a potential singing career little more than a far-off dream. Anna admitted she was even considering a degree in mathematics before their now-manager convinced the duo to move to London for a summer to try for a career in music and modeling. Little did they expect, the move worked, and together the duo settled into London-life. “We wrote our first songs in the UK,” reminisces Anna, “It was so inspiring! Being in the capital of music was just mind blowing to us. Our favorite artists came from here, such as Radiohead, Portishead and the Beatles. Our first songs were pretty downbeat and maybe even a bit depressing. They would make you feel ‘blue.’ Moving to a big city from the outskirts in Ukraine wasn’t easy for us. We had to grow up quickly and learn English from scratch. It taught us a lot and made us who we are today.”

This concept of dressing to satisfy oneself instead of an audience is a clear point of pride for Anna and Sonya. Their only concession? Beauty Salons! Both twins admitted that the stereotype of Ukrainian women loving the beauty salons is spot on for them. “When we go back to Ukraine, I have a long routine of things I will need to get done there,” begins Anna, “nails, several hair treatments, facials etc. Ukrainian girls take everything very seriously when it comes to their looks. Rarely will you see anyone in their PJs going to the shops (unlike me),” laughs the fair faced punk-tress. It is easy to see that the Bloom twins individualist spirit and punk-pop affinity carries over from fashion to their music, describing their music as darkly ethereal. In their recent single “Daydream” they frame their breathy vocals with heavy beats to create an almost hypnotic sound. Their past tracks have similar low-fi beats and the duo is audibly honing their craft, even as they attempt to navigate the trendy nature of pop music while staying true to themselves, bringing to life their own sound of “dark pop.” Their goal is not to ascribe to any specific genre or label, but to create genuinely and openly. For this duo that frequently means pushing boundaries and experimenting with a sort of musical melting pot, as they juxtapose content and sound. Sonya ran us through some of their favorite “opposites attract” pairings, like electronic instrumentals with sweet, heartbreaking lyrics, hip hop melody combined with dance music, and rock ballads underscored by electronic drums, all individually unique elements that can be melded together to create something new.

“That’s what you do. Always play it cool, even when everything goes to hell.”

Fashion and music have always been an important part of life for the Bloom Twins, but their sense of style was turbocharged once they reached London. Sonya in particular found her calling styling the punk chic outfits her and her sister favor, outfits where their creativity and individuality can take center stage. “I’d describe Sonya as ‘Fashion Killah,’” shares sister Anna. “She has incredible style, but is extremely individual about it – so if someone says there’s a dress code, she will wear the opposite. It’s all about what pleases her in that moment – it’s sometimes a bit of a ‘f*ck you’ when it comes to clothing.”

Not falling prey to the many pressures associated with the fashionable image of “musicians and models”, the duo explained that for them fashion is an outlet, not a chore. Maintaining a sense of edginess or a “cool factor” comes second to the way they feel about their clothes at the exact moment they are putting them on. The twins are also passionate about the importance of duality in their looks, of representing their innocence and naivety as equally as they do their strength. “We want to raise questions about our fashion, our music. We want people to feel like we’re relatable, but yet untouchable,” shares Anna. Some of their attitude towards clothing is attributed to the Ukrainian fashion scene, which Anna was happy to describe as a thriving industry: “They’re killing it back home. It’s very striking out there. Ukrainian designers are not trying to please customers, they are making stuff that they love, and I love that.”

The Bloom Twins take heavy inspiration from artists like Amy Winehouse. “She always seemed so bold in her fragility,” Sonya explains, “She was true to herself.” When their creative energy is running low, the sisters often turn to old interviews of artists like Winehouse, David Bowie, or Madonna, all of whom made music that connected deeply with their listeners. The Bloom Twins value connectivity in their music as much as they do individuality. They particularly enjoy seeing their music connect with people in real time during tours. “Playing in front of and connecting with thousands of people is a priceless feeling. It’s like being able to communicate with thousands of people all at the same time,” Anna explains. “I miss touring so much! I remember when we played our first UK arena tour supporting Duran Duran, in one of the shows the sound went off completely in the middle of our set, in front of over 12,000 people. We got through it, we didn’t even stop, we continued playing for some time until the sound came back on. That’s what you do. Always play it cool, even when everything goes to hell.” Something the two sisters quickly took value to during their nine years pursuing their musical career is the importance of collaboration. Energy matters, whether in a writing room or on set, and having a team that is willing to work honestly and openly with one another is key. Noting the importance of exposing yourself and listening to others, “It’s in the eyes of others that I find myself,” Sonya boldly declares. Anna was quick to agree, admitting that she also gets some of her best inspiration from new people and good conversations. “The journey keeps us humble. It’s all about ups and downs – both of which teach you a lot in this business,” continues Sonya. 89

Photographer: Luke Nugent Stylist: Simone Silvester Hair: Andy Smith Makeup: Callista Lorian Nails: Kezia Parkins

“We have got where we are because of our managers’ tremendous work, because our mom taught us to sing from the age of five and because of our supporters that have been there for us from the very beginning.” After talking with the mature-for-their-years Bloom Twins, it is clear the importance of hard work and dedication in finding success. Their advice boils down to a few succinct phrases: A dream is wonderful, but you also need conviction. Artists must be prepared to bare all of themselves to their audience, even the uncomfortable parts. Share something that is scary to share. Develop a routine to stay grounded and understand the importance of practices like exercising, eating healthy, journaling and staying mindful. “It’s not about what’s the best or what’s perfect, it’s about what’s honest; and as much as it is about business and about providing for yourself, it’s also about the creative freedom,” encourages Sonya. “This is where the magic lies and if we can’t be free in our creativity, where can we be free? If we can’t be true to ourselves in our art, where can we be just us?” Sitting regally, with their signature beauty look — black lips with a dot in the middle of the lower eye lids, looking boldly gothic yet fresh — it is their final words that are perhaps their most striking: “Life is too boring to do what is expected of you, so just be you, even if it’s something you don’t expect yourself to do. Be true to yourself and keep on daydreaming.”

Photographer: Yelssing Espinoza Model: Gracie Masellis Stylist: Anthony Bermudez Hair & Makeup: Jenny Dyson Trenchcoat: Burberry Red Turtleneck: Ralph Lauren Thigh High Red Boot: Balenciaga

there

Let

Light

Sleeveless Long Vest & Pants: Max Mara Leather Boots: Theory Red Turtleneck: Ralph Lauren Handbag: Louis Vuitton

Trenchcoat: Burberry Red Pants: Fendi Cream Bodysuit: Zara Red Leather Boot: Theory

Red Wool Vest: Hope & Henry Gold Necklace: Christian Dior Cream Pants: Zara Red Leather Boots: Theory

Jacket: Bianca Spender 96

ander FALL in

Photography & Styling: Lucas St. Grima Model: Bodor Ocean with The Talent Buro Hair & Makeup: Kahlii Morrison Shirt: Zara

Jacket: Zara Turtleneck: Camilla & Marc Vest: Willow 99

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