FALL 2019
DANI EVANS
in vintage, celebrating a
DECADE IN STYLE
“If you don’t like the story rewrite the narrative.”
STYLE COMES of AGE 1
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Photographer: Emily Delphine Model: Elizma Esterhuyse Stylist: Jelena Jablanovic Makeup: Natasha Papadopoulos Hair: Robyn Coetzee - Scar Hair Location: Inyoni Location Farm
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BODE
Cover Credits Photographer: Manny Roman Model: Dani Evans P2-6 Editorial Photographer: Emily Delphine Model: Elizma Esterhuyse
WHAT’S
INSIDE
FALL 2019
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The Minimal Edit
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Nidodileda
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Dani Evans
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Courtney Halverson
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Asilio
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Face Value
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Candice Blackburn
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Dina Broadhurst
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Alta Moda
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Tim Kano
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New Frontier
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Aimee Song
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Lurelly
100 Ohh la la 106 Violante Nessi 112 City Sophisticate 118 PrivĂŠ Revaux Editor In Chief: Heather Marie Combs Creative Director: Kaylon Hardman Editor and Digital Media Director: Errin Taylor Maye Director of Sales: Caroline Penland
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EMPOWERING WOMEN. REVOLUTIONIZING TRADITION. PERFECT EXECUTION.
www.marinaraphael.com | (@marinaraphaelofficial
EDITOR’S
LETTER
Photographer: Carmen Rose Model: Ella Grace with Viviens Fashion Stylist: Rosie DesChanel Makeup Artist: Gina Cartwright Hair Stylist: Julia Homard Earrings: Etesian Undergarment: IDAE Dress: Adolfo Dominguez
Heather Marie talks celebrated styles, NEW BEGINNINGS and the importance of culture in the course of fashion.
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ver the last century, fashion has evolved from prim-and-proper dresses to drop waist cocktail attire to his and hers suit sets, tiny sunglasses and dad style chunky sneakers. Fashion has always indicated the current time in history. As we revive obvious notes and nuances from each past decade into the modern styles of today and tomorrow, it is in loving memory of the iconic tributes of each era that I introduce The Decade Issue. One look through my, possibly, overly established closet and you will see in each sourced item, a component reminiscent of nostalgic fashion statements from each era in the past 100 years. Not a particularly long time in the course of all-time, but in the world of fashion, it is the difference between a square necked corset and a shoulder padded “power dressing” blazer. And while researching the styles that gained stature as “iconic”, it is true what they say: it is culture and society that most heavily influence the visionary minds creating the legacies we live, learn and love. As the course of fashion changes, the same can be said in everyday life. How fitting it seems that our Collector’s Edition also marks the new beginning for BODE Magazine. To be BODE is to inspire and it is here that high art converses with innovative and relevant cultural content. It was on the ninth day of the ninth month of this 2019 year that marked an end, but even more so enlightened a new beginning. Signifying the portals of potential, it is believed that on the ninth day, whilst a chapter in your life may come to a close, the wisdom gained has the potential of opening a new chapter full of light; and when the numbers are tripled, the potential is amplified to a heightened degree. You might have felt this shift of potential, but here we felt it with much certainty. BODE was born and I am pleased to invite you all on this journey. Join us as we take an intimate look into the context of industry culture, expertly mingling high-class stylish fashion, while satisfying every curiosity. Much like this issue, it is with great anticipation and with no doubt that the years to come will introduce new attributes in style that will live on for the next century; but to know and appreciate the historic and evolving statements of fashion’s past is to experience the notable essence that lives on in each new era. It is an awe inspiring circle of expression that will continue to ignite the legendary minds we hold as pillars of fashion, and it is why we pay tribute to each profound moment in time with the Decade Issue.
Xx, Heather Marie Combs Editor-In-Chief 9
the
MINIMAL
EDIT
Photographer: Carmen Rose Model: Ella Grace with Viviens Fashion Stylist: Rosie DesChanel Makeup Artist: Gina Cartwright Hair Stylist: Julia Homard Earrings: Etesian Dress: Arnsdorf 10
Necklace: Etesian Suit: Adolfo Dominguez 11
Earrings: Etesian Undergarment: IDAE Dress: Adolfo Dominguez Shoes: Skin Footwear 12
Earrings: Etesian Dress: Arnsdorf Trench Coat: Lover Boots: Skin Footwear 13
Dress: Mastani Neck Tie: Stylists Own 14
Shirt: Lover Blazer: Arnsdorf Skirt: Arnsdorf 15
Earrings: Mastani Shirt: IDAE Blazer: Maje Shoes: Bared Footwear 16
Blouse: IDAE Blazer: Lover Skirt: Lover Shoes: Skin Footwear 17
Her lifestyle and career choices have always defied convention, but with her 70’s state of mind, this bohemian queen is gifting the fashion world with vintage wardrobe treasures through her label – NIDODILEDA. By Heather Marie Combs Photographer: Amberly Valentine Model: Taylor Lashae
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TRAVELER’S What began over six years ago in a dreamy attic home has transcended into a philosophy, an idea which makes you feel free; “And as she grew, we grew with her! We are now at our headquarters in Kifissia – Athens surrounded by trees and flowers and you will mostly find us sitting under our tipi in the yard on warm days,” shared Tonia - founder of Nidodileda. All about bohemian and vintage treasures, each piece is unique and theatrical. “We love embroidered and embellished fabrics, richly decorative brocade, colors and any breathtaking fabric that will speak to me. So our signature is a combination of all the above. If you see our collections you will find different patterns and fabrics combined to create statement pieces for all the free spirits out there,” exposed the free spirit herself. Born and raised in the Grecian region of Thessaloniki, Tonia is one of three sisters twin to Nadia and younger sister of Fay. “All my favorite past-times are with my sisters mostly on summer vacations in Chalkidiki,” reminisced the designer. “The dream of Nidodileda was established during the financial crisis of Greece, which was a huge risk at the time for me. I was a fashion editor for magazines, such as France’s L’Officiel Magazine, so I quit my job to begin Nidodileda.
TALE with Antonia Mitroudi
I kept my fingers crossed and slowly everything fell into place. Nidodileda (Nido di Leda) symbolizes ‘Ledas’ nest’, a constellation of the Gemini, that embraces the brotherly love of Castor and Pollux, Ledas and Zeus twin sons, also known as Dioskuri,” shared the Grecian native on the origin of her professional namesake. Finding inspiration from anywhere and everywhere it is also from her travels where she collects her innovation. “From looking at the sky, listening to music and watching old films, even just by looking at a fabric lying around, or a woman walking down the street… Morocco and Bali were amazing journeys as well as Cappadocia. To discover the culture of places like these is a gift. Vanessa Paradis is exactly what Nidodileda’s aesthetic is all about and I look up to Cher for her boldness and creativity.
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I can just go on and on about the women I grew up with and admire.” Drawn to the one of a kind jewelry, colors, and fabrics of Morocco, it was easy for this world traveler to divulge her most fashion-forward endeavor. “It represents everything Nidodileda and I stand for.” Grateful for the extreme differences in each country around the world has to offer, we explored her knowledge of the global fashion scene. “First of all, Asia is related to its tradition, which is so alive still and remarkable. Europe has amazing aesthetics no matter where you visit, there is a strong relationship from design to fashion. America, I noticed has a more urban feeling and can be easily adjusted to European influences. For me, it’s like playing a game of mix and matching by adopting anything that catches my eye,” shared the creative director. All about different colors and textures, the upcoming AW 19-20 collection features richly decorative coats and vibrant detailing. No doubt an inspired result of
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her enriching, cultured travels, and love for the free spirit fashion statements of the 70s. With a very specific identity that veers away from trends, “the Nidodileda woman is beautiful, and embraces her body; she is strong and free,” shared the designer. Not an advocate of strapless dresses, but in tune with the structure given by a padded shoulder, we had to ask, what is your go-to Nidodileda piece? “Any Kimono dress can be worn from day to night and easily, just add a belt and statement earrings and you are ready for anywhere.” Noted! As eager as we are to uncover what is next for Nidodileda, Tonia only needed a few words: “Each season has a story to tell and I am looking forward to creating beautiful ones!”
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“Each season has a story to tell and I am looking forward to creating beautiful ones!�
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Top model, now designer Dani Evans - was born to stand out as she reveals her humble beginnings, why fashion is overrated and her obsession with a dope brim. By Heather Marie Combs
Dress Jyu•ri•ri Cuff: Vanessa’s Vintage Boots: Sigerson Morrison 26
KEEPING IT REAL
WITH
DANI EVANS Photographer: Manny Roman Model: Dani Evans with Women 360 Management Jacket: Jyu•ri•ri Skirt: Ricahrds.Radcliffe Necklace: Vintage Dior from Vanessa’s Vintage
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Stylist: Alexander Garcia Makeup: Kyriaki Savrani Hair: Dante Blandshaw Vintage Coat: Another Man’s Treasure Location: VYV Apartments
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ffortlessly serving cover-worthy shots since her debut as America’s Next Top Model cycle 6 winner, Dani Evans of Little Rock, Arkansas traded her small-town roots for a New York state of mind. “I won America’s Next Top Model cycle 6, many many moons ago!” reminisced the sultry faced model; “After the journey of the show – I went back to Little Rock for six months, quietly concealing my win. Once the show concluded on television, I moved to NYC shortly after.” Thanks to the support and persistence of her brother to even audition, the now thirty-four-year-old with the coveted cheekbones and that cool girl persona fought her battle with social anxiety and “just did it as a means to get out of Little Rock,” laughed Evans. “[I remember] so much time had passed since I submitted the audition tape that I forgot about it. I thought I was being pranked called so I kept hanging up in the producer’s face. After the third call, I realized it was pretty legit.”
I remember her asking where the rest of my clothes were?” laughed the model. “I believe in quality over quantity. I also mix and match so that’s helpful with being able to take a look you’ve worn already, look completely different the next time you wear it.” Inspired by her travels around the world, the mood-based dresser should tend to overpack. “I never know what I’m going to wear on any given day so I need options. Thankfully, my father being an army guy, taught me how to properly pack so I can get an entire two weeks’ worth of clothes in a carry-on bag.” So what inspires that Dani Evans look? “Asian girls style. Simplistic, but put together. They just get it right. Also Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, to me, are style mavens. I’ve heard people rip them to shreds about their style, but that’s the beauty of being an individual. What you wear doesn’t have to be agreed upon by others. To me, the people with the best style don’t follow a manual or the majority.”
“I don’t follow trends or the opinions of others when it comes to my style. Style in and of itself is subjective and so personal.”
Now an ANTM alum and a budding presence as a public figure and designer, she can influence and inspire the masses that the model deems most valuable. “I use social media as a tool to reach others. Social media can be a slippery slope if you’re not intentional with the content you’re putting out. I struggled with not wanting to be involved with social media whatsoever! Weekly I’d want to delete my account. I did delete it about six and a half years ago. I got to the point where I accepted that our culture and industry are very social media-driven and either I would be a part of it or get overlooked because of the lack thereof. So I decided I’d participate, but on my terms. I post what I want others to see and I choose to be intentional with the content I put out. My purpose is to be a lighthouse in a dark industry. Social media allows me that space to create my narrative for that,” shared Evans.
Creating her path, mainstream and online, on her terms, her style follows in a similar suit. “I don’t follow trends or the opinions of others when it comes to my style. The style in and of itself is subjective and so personal. I feel it reflects my personality and mood.” Opting for a minimalistic approach to her wardrobe, the same can be said for her closet. “I don’t have a lot of pieces, but the ones I do own are quality. A friend looked in my closet once and was FLOORED!
Finding “fashion” to be overrated, the model and designer sees first-hand that fashion represents trends, “which is why style is more important, personally. You can have two different women in the same fashionable piece, but the woman that has epic style will make it look completely different than the other woman who’s wearing it because it’s the latest ‘fashion’ moment,” mused Evans. “My first experience with fashion was when I lived with my grandmother. She’d wear these silk, A-lined dresses with structured sleeves and shoulder pads. I’d sit with her at the table and watch her smoke her skinny cigarettes with her gold top finger rings. I didn’t have the language at that age to understand why Bobbie Jean was so dope to me, but now I get it,” reminisced Evans; “It was her style!” Monrowe – the namesake of her timeless brim line – is about her late grandmother’s husband, her grandfather. “I never got the opportunity to meet him as he passed away when my mother was seventeen years old, but my mom was so close to Monrowe that I and my brother grew up knowing the role he played in our mother’s life. Monrowe was a jazz player in the south back in the ’40s and ’50s,” – the leading influence seen in the tones and structures of each custom brim - “I grew up idolizing the photos of him that hung in our home, as well as his story. I always knew I’d use his name to some capacity later in life,” stated Evans. 29
“They’re sturdy like a men’s brim (the brand is unisex), but easy enough for both men and women to wear,” shared the designer. With no needed secret to styling a brim, it is for the brave hearts who have the confidence to wear it with pride. “The irony is that I wear brims as my ‘security blanket’ although hats typically demand attention. I find that I’m more comfortable in a brim.” Designed specifically to be worn with that effortless ease, it is a piece that can be dressed up or down. “I’ve worn my brims with a gown and turned around the next day and paired that same brim with skinny jeans, beat-up boots, and a white tee.” A long-time love and knack for “putting together a look”, it is the influence of her European excursions that also inspires her coveted style. “They take such pride in how they dress which I ADORE! I find when I go to Europe I get that opportunity to get dressed;” and it is that genuine truth to her style that appeals to her loyal audience. “One of my best guy friends who’s in the industry, but the music side, told me — ‘I should risk not getting what I want by telling the truth, rather than getting what I want by telling a lie.’ That resonated with me not only for my career but for life in general. I know a lot of people, but the ones I do life with - although most in the industry - they aren’t of the industry. Which is important for me to surround myself with solid beings that are aware and woke. None of this ego bs” encouraged Evans. Already with an inspiring resumé, this industry revolutionist intends to continue knocking down barriers and furthering her status as the beacon of light. “I see myself traveling the world even more. Growing and developing Monrowe. Being the second black woman to be the face of Guess. Booking Sports Illustrated in my mid 30’s and representing women being in their prime at this age! Signing another cosmetic contract. Other women must know that I experience and share their struggle and they’re not alone.” Truly an inspiring and passionate muse. Staying humble and down to earth, it is with a refreshing note of encouragement that Evans says to us all: “If you don’t like the story — rewrite the narrative. Nothing in life is easy so remove that word from your vocabulary. You don’t grow and develop in life by having no setbacks or hardships. It’s the difficulties that produce greatness and resiliency.”
Dress Jyu•ri•ri Cuff: Vanessa’s Vintage Boots: Sigerson Morrison 30
As we are all dying to uncover, we could not leave this interview without knowing her day-to-day ensemble and beauty routine: “My go-to beauty look is Dr. Hauschka liquid bronzer, Bobby Brown Eye Opening Mascara, and brow pencil by MAC. My go-to fashion look is a blazer, brim, vintage tee, and a dope pair of black boots or sneakers. Cher and YOKO Ono’s era in the ’70s is my favorite fashion era! I appreciate anything high waisted. The skinny high waist Levi’s with the silk loose shirts. I also fancy some fashion moments from the ’90s. I could live in high waist Levi cut-offs with an oversized collared jumper and sneakers.”
Jacket: Byron Lars Earrings: Oscar De La Renta 31
Vintage Coat: Another Man’s Treasure Location: VYV Apartments
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“If you don’t like the story — rewrite the narrative.”
Dress Jyu•ri•ri Cuff: Vanessa’s Vintage Boots: Sigerson Morrison
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OCEAN DRIVE
Photographer: Eric Neujahr Dress: Sézane 34
Southern California Blogger and Actress, Courtney Halverson, Utilizes Her Knack for Performing and Fashion to Connect with the World By Errin Taylor Maye
Dress: & Other Stories Belt: The Dreslyn Handbag: Chloe
“I can’t remember a time where I didn’t want to be an actor.” Flashing back with splendor, Courtney Halverson relays, “I remember in Kindergarten I told my teacher that I wanted to be on television, and I don’t know where I got that idea – I just always wanted to act.” Thirty-year-old Orange County native turned Los Angeles resident, Halverson remained adamant turning thought into action. At the age of thirteen, developing her knack for performing and with Halverson’s granted parental permission, the copper-haired beauty started participating in musical theatre. Pursuing theatre as much as possible, Halverson eventually transitioned from stage to screen. “A lot of my early teens were spent sitting in traffic driving up to LA for auditions, callbacks, and shooting.” Fast forward, Halverson has since booked appearances on General Hospital, HBO’s True Detective, Murder in the First, and Criminal Minds, just to name a few; “I’ve worked pretty consistently in that world for over half of my life, so it’s hard for me to imagine a world outside of auditions, and scripts, and filming. It’s just always been a part of my life.” Aside from the glitz and glamour surrounding the Hollywood persona, Halverson respects the very craft and underbelly of performing. “I love being able to immerse myself into a character, to sink into someone else’s skin and to create a full backstory. There’s so much of a character’s life that we don’t get to see in a final film or TV show – it’s just glimpses – so fleshing out those parts that are unseen are what I love to do.” Becoming someone else takes time, practice, and preparation, even for Halverson, but deciding who she will become on-screen has allowed moments to be captured in real-time, making it that much more real. Though real, in the sense of social media today can be read off as a cliché. Not for Halverson. “I value how connected I can be with women from all over the world.” As a public figure and a social media personality, Halverson has allotted time to connect both online and off.
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Dress: Sézane
“While my photos tend to be very curated and carefully planned, I feel that the personality I share through both my words and on Instagram stories is pretty unfiltered. That said, there is plenty in my personal life that I choose to keep private if nothing than for the sake of not having my phone in my hand recording at all times. I choose which times to check-in and which times to just live my life.” Adding to her already extensive resumé and schedule, Halverson’s blog, Pretty Little Fawn, showcases the actress’s other interests: fashion, travel, beauty, and lifestyle. Making the most of what her family could afford, growing up thrifting has led the actress-blogger to get a sense of fashion and style – mainstream, as well as her own.
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Top: Sézane
“Sifting through either rack of clothing or piles at a garage sale or estate sale was how I came to define my style.” Sifting through unique finds from the 1950s of one’s estate sales opened up new interests in the vintage sector. Described as simple and classic, Halverson’s style is the perfect mix of her finds, interests, as well as other creatives who share their style online. With the aid of Instagram and blogs, Halverson thanks the access to these digital platforms for allowing her to discover and try out new styles and brands. But that said, “I tend to stick to neutrals and earth tones because that is just what I’m drawn to. I like classic shapes, and I still love vintage silhouettes, and tend not to try out the latest trends because I want pieces that will last.”
“I love being able to immerse myself into a character, to really sink into someone else’s skin and to create a full backstory.”
Dress: Sézane Necklace: Chloe
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Dress: SĂŠzane Handbag: SĂŠzane
Fearing the cliché, Paris tops the blogger’s list for being the most fashion-forward. Having visited the city at least once a year for the past four years, Halverson feels an embedded draw to the effortlessness of today’s Parisian women. “I think that’s our curse as American women – we’re always looking to the French for style cues! Or at least I am, I tend to just sit at a cafe and watch women, young and old, walk by in the most effortlessly chic ensembles. It makes me want to scale back my outfits to just the necessary details and to not strive for perfection. There’s something both playful and mysterious about how Parisian women dress.” When time is of the essence, simplistic staples allows the actress to free up her time and closet space, “high rise vintage denim and a silk blouse, or else a great coat. I always feel so polished when I wear a coat.” When it comes to beauty, Halverson keeps it as simple as possible. “My makeup takes about 10 minutes tops, every day.” Focusing on evening out her skin tone with a bit of concealer – making sure to never cover her freckles – some blush, and sheer lip color. Halverson always makes sure her eyebrows are shaped, as it “really pulls my whole face together.” Yet, her one solid go-to beauty item and piece of advice for every woman: “Wear sunscreen.” Both her journey in the fashion and entertainment industries born out of childhood objectives – dressing up and putting together performances – for those on the outside, it makes sense that Halverson’s career has become the perfect divide between both worlds. For many, what starts as a hobby inevitably becomes a career. For Halverson, it started while working at a secondhand clothing shop. “From there, I started to document my outfits on a blog I launched in 2011. It was just a hobby, and something
I could dedicate some time to when I wasn’t auditioning or filming.” No surprise, blogging, and outfits became its full-time job for the booked and busy actress, taking note that she has since employed her husband to assist. “He photographs every look and also helps create all of my video content by filming, editing, and even creating the music that goes on top.” Whether on set or off, Halverson makes time to travel, write and document making for great content and research. “Social media and blogging are funny things to talk about because it can seem like it’s just this completely vapid world. But in reality, what I do has afforded me more opportunities to connect with those with different backgrounds and lives from my own, and I feel so lucky because I have such an active, engaged, and intelligent audience. I learn so much from my audience, and I often turn to them for advice and tips, just about as often as I share my own. I don’t ever want what I do to be a oneway dialogue.” For many in the public eye, social media can be dangerous to one’s mental health. Halverson’s best advice, Handbag: when working in the industry Chloe and being present offline, is to be kind. “There are all kinds of ego that can come from success or perceived success in both acting and fashion, and that can lead to being selfish or rude. It’s just not a good look, and there is no need to be anything, but kind when you get to do the sort of work that most dream of. My advice would be the same – always, always, always choose kindness.” So, what can we expect next from Courtney Halverson? “To be honest, I’d like to know the answer to that one myself ! Every day in my life is different from the next, and I never really know where exactly I’m headed. But, I love what I get to do. It’s a real privilege.”
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QUALITY. MODERN ELEGANCE. INTELLIGENT DESIGNS 40
www.gregory.net.nz
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A NAME,
WITHOUT A
MEANING? Aussie-based brand - Asilio - gains global attention taking minimalism to the next level, and for Kate Wallace the traditional path is worth the taking. By Errin Taylor Maye
Photographer: Jessica Horewood Model: Hannah Sam Agency: Precision Management Australia Stylist: Chelsea Skye Hair & Makeup: Dana Vaughan | Shev Kelly Accessories: Kitte | Vintage 42
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ommitted to contemporary tradition, we sat down for a tell-all talk with Creative Director Kate Wallace for an inside look at this Aussie Atelier. “Someone told me recently,” says Asilio creative director Kate Wallace, “to put a daily reminder on my calendar: The universe will look after us.” For Wallace and her team, the universe has been on their side these past few months. Asilio is opening a second location come October – in addition to the celebrated flagship staple establishment in South Yarra – the brand’s four-year industry trek has been phenomenal. Once a wholesale driven label, the current focus is even more divergent than today’s modern-day business strategies. Aside from industry visibility in e-commerce (and conglomerate storefront), Asilio’s aim has remained on the “traditional” path. “Our strategy is predominantly brick-and-mortar, and selective wholesale partnerships internationally.” An “understated elegance, with an edge,” is just one-way Asilio’s creative team openly describes the brand and its collections. “We aspire for each collection to be discerning, yet minimalistic, with detailed elements.” The Asilio woman merged with the delicate care placed on Mother Earth, simultaneously acts as the team’s motivational design muse. “We pride ourselves on the quality of what we manufacture, beyond our pricing matrix. At a comparative level of esteemed international brands, we are focused on ensuring conscious and cruelty-free practices.”
One day, I hope to return and complete my studies.” Aside from a day at the office, the creative director’s life outside of Asilio means spending weekends at her coastal home. “It sits on the cliffs [in Melbourne] and the view is beyond magical. We have foxes living in the garden, and pelicans fly past most days. We take part in a hike on Sundays. Even a day here a week revives the soul,” heartened Wallace. With her newfound love and appreciation, for boxing, Wallace credits the workout to fueling her imagination and creativity. “[Boxing] has become my daily escape. Not to fight, but to master the strategy, and it is such a contrast to the rest of my world.” Weaving and utilizing outside hobbies and interests allows Wallace to perform her best for the luxury label’s consumers and future collections. For now, Asilio is pushing full steam ahead and Wallace is keeping her eye on the prize.
“We welcome our current clients, as well as newcomers, into our world and on this incredible journey.”
Launching a brand, many will voice knowledge of the one crucial component for its success: consistency. Taking note of today’s social media influencers and celebrities, simplicity in a namesake makes for memorable business. For this team, the brand just came as a “slip of the tongue.” Asilio is a name without meaning. Established in Melbourne, Australia, ultimately earning status in 2018, what started as an acquired project, in time, became a global name. Yet, as a surprise to many, Wallace’s initial plan was to dominate in the courtroom. To paint a picture, think Elle Woods. “I initially studied Law before undertaking a degree in Fashion and Design, to me, it is unfinished business. 44
Over the last twelve months, Asilio’s creative team has been slowly retracting from the market and pruning their focus toward building a new foundation for the brand. Redefining femininity with an architectural eye garnished with intimate ruffles, cascading tiers and baroque lace, Asilio is carving a nonpareil reputation as the paradigm of contemporary chic. “We did such and believe it will build a brand we are proud of. We welcome our current clients, as well as newcomers, into our world and on this incredible journey.” Amid the sport-leisure obsession, activewear dominates street style. In Australia, additionally, many free-spirited bohemian and resort brands have since been founded and launched. Thus far, exemplifying a much more casual design vibe compared to other major fashion capitals in the northern hemisphere. With a high admiration for contemporary art and traditional techniques and craftsmanship across many genres, Asilio has been using extensive travel note-taking to better the threads of their very collection. “We find travel as an inspired point of reference. We recently sourced some gorgeous laces from Turkey and intend to travel there again next year. Shibuya, Japan is a wonderfully manic, theatrical blend of fantasy and fashion. It usually all starts with the fabrication for us.
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In the process of development, we either source or develop from mills in Europe, New Zealand, and Asia, then we build the base of each collection from here and design around the customer predominantly,” exposed the creative director. Inspired by other figures and moments in fashion – Ossie Clark and the late ’60s, early 70’s British fashion movement – Wallace’s current trend focus with Asilio: Tran-seasonal Fall collection. “In our latest collections, we have been blending a juxtaposition of the ’30s covered buttons, Edwardian ruffled details, and Victorian-inspired sleeves – in our dresses and blouses – along with tailored power suiting.” Consumers will notice the ever-flowing silhouettes, in contrast to the current DNA structure of the Asilio brand, seen hinted throughout their resort and holiday lines. “This is our trans-seasonal Fall injection. Just recently, we introduced lilac and olive into our color palette, which is predominately black, white, navy and grey. While experimenting and incorporating new schemes, we opted to freely play with differing sleeve details and ruffles.” Working to evolve, Wallace recalls her earlier stages in design.
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“In one of my very first design positions, I was told to always question ‘how many I could sell?’; although obvious, it is imperative to consider. So this is the advice I also pass on as well as the importance of having a presence on the shop floor directly with the client, it is invaluable to engage and share a little of the story of the creation of the garments from start idea to finished product.” With a budding reputation in the international circuit and a global impact, we were curious of the upcoming ventures on the horizon for Asilio. With an eye for New York City, it seems creative director, Kate Wallace, aspires to train and complete a Marathon, “hopefully the New York Marathon in 2020,” she says with a laugh, “If I commit and commence training forthwith.” Staying true to the polished and edgy persona of the Asilio woman, it is the ‘Ivory Tie Front Blouse’ the creative opts for. “The fabric is so special and works with both denim and a tailored look.” As a newly acquired venture already making an impact, one can only imagine the strides to be made for this Aussie Atelier in years to come.
“understated elegance, with an edge�
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FACEVALUE
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Photographer: Lauren Schulz Model: Krini Alejandra Agency: Chadwick Models Stylist: Molly King Hair & Makeup: Max May Dress: Pfeiffer
Dress: Pfeiffer Shoes: Tony Bianco 49
Dress: m a r i a m.seddiq 50
Top: Maggie Marilyn
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Dress: Pfeiffer 52
Blouse: Maggie Marilyn Intimates & Hosiery: Trios Earrings: 0.8
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andice Blackburn may not be your typical social media influencer. Portraying the picture-perfect life, traveling the globe, documenting the luxurious scenes on Instagram, sun-bathing on million-dollar yachts, and flaunting vintage Chanel sets is not what model and activist Candice is all about. To remain transparent as a public figure, Candice’s curated feed is just scratching the surface of who she is. “One thing most people don’t know about me, I crave knowledge. Anything and everything, even from the most obscure niches. I come out with the oddest facts; I have what you’d call ‘Google knowledge’,” she laughed. Stumbling into the modeling industry by accident, Candice credits one competition in particular for the initial introduction. “I started modeling accidentally through a competition in 2012. I never wanted to be a model, and never thought of it as a career path.” Encouraged by competition scouts, Candice was initially reluctant but entered anyway. “Surprisingly, I won.” From then on, Candice’s modeling career started accelerating. Leaving a mark on the London scene for three years, she made the trek to South Africa, a stint lasting six months, then flying halfway around the world to Los Angeles for a year stay. Just recently, Candice has officially moved back to London. “All I can say is: there is no place like home.”
debates. “As a child, I was naturally very drawn to nature. After school, I would look for trees near my school and ‘talk’ to them.” Like a Disney princess? Candice continues, with a laugh, “I would sense their extremely old age and I loved being around them. As I got older, I started to see how the seasons were changing. No snow at Christmas and very hot summers.” For nature’s green-eyed activist and purist, taking in the sights, sounds, and imagery of Animal Planet’s Blue Planet, her knowledge began to strengthen. “I realized we were killing the planet and instead of fixing our mistakes, we argue over land, oil, and religion. Still today, it seems ridiculous! Our planet will die very soon, and we will die with it.” To make her contributions toward helping the planet, the model is starting with what she puts on her plate and in her body. “I decided to cut out all red meat and dairy from my alimentation. I rarely eat chicken and occasionally fish. My goal is to cut all animal products out of my diet.”
“My followers trust me to be truthful and honest, and therefore I never hold back.”
Proud twenty-three-year-old Manchester native, Candice has split time and made memories in both Warrington and London, respectively, from childhood and throughout her teenage years. An avid reader and talented musician in both guitar and piano, the young model’s social media channels allow both fans and industry admirers to relate to similar hobbies and interests, strengthening the model’s local and global social connections. “For me, it’s complete transparency. My followers trust me to be truthful and honest, and therefore I never hold back. People may say, ‘I’m brutally honest at times,’ but I think it’s important for people to know that as I’m classed as an ‘influencer’, I want to influence people in the most truthful way possible.” In the most truthful way possible, this perspective often entails serious discussions about the current climate change 54
With all of this talk, how can a public figure – of Candice’s stature – honestly uphold a demanding mainstream life? In all honesty, Candice says there is not much difference. “What you see – especially on my stories – is me in my mainstream life. I can be serious, but most of the time I’m very childish and love to mess around. I’m also trying to uplift myself when I’m feeling down. I would hate for anyone to think that we – as models and celebrities – have these amazing, fun, and charming lives. We don’t. I, myself, often struggle to find motivation and I want my audience to know that share that, yet importantly, relate. Remember where you are in your life is something you should be proud of. You’ve accomplished so much just to get to the point in your life you’re at right now. Take a moment to be proud of yourself. I want everyone to have a beautiful day and rock it.” From a follower’s standpoint, Candice is the all-around “It” Girl. Prideful of being low maintenance, the London local is thankful for less time spent on primping and more time present happenings. “For me, fresh skin, bushy brows, and some mascara are my go-to. For fashion, a jumper or t-shirt, leggings, cool trainers and a denim jacket. Oversized, of course.”
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London model and activist Candice Blackburn knows there’s no other place like home, and thanks to social media her followers can equally share the admiration. By Errin Taylor Maye
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One interesting takeaway: the model steers clear from patterns and label logos. None. Nada. Zilch. Naturally gravitating towards and sticking to clean, sharp lines, Candice believes that with age comes wisdom – same goes for fashion. “As I’ve gotten older, my knowledge of fashion and history increased. I’ve realized how much I love the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Bold colors and oversized everything resonates with me.” The best advice the model credits to her personal and professional development: to look at yourself as a business. “Through all the rejections and criticisms, you as a person must be protected. Others will see and know ‘Candice Blackburn the business, the model, not the person.’” To Candice, fashion is still just a trend. “It comes and goes and doesn’t necessarily look great.” 58
As a teenager, the model recalls the fads that echoed the closets of her friends and peers, even more so, the school halls. In turn, taking in the uniqueness of her classmates opened her eyes and individuality. “I realized that, firstly, I will never be part of the crowd. Secondly,” she concludes with a laugh, “fashion isn’t always stylish.” Looking at the short lifespan of fashion and its fads, Candice eventually wants to focus on other ventures. Like Hollywood? Real estate? “I want to step away from modeling and go into acting. I’m getting my foot on the property and investment ladder as well. So many things to keep me busy.”
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Golden Girl and mixed media artist, Dina Broadhurst exposes the hidden truth behind “what it seems� with femininity, sexuality and her small army of pristine beauties. By Heather Marie Combs
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rom Down Under, we got candid with Aussie native Dina Broadhurst on her love for the outdoors, her desire to uncover the truths of still life and why the 90s stole the show. Growing up just south of Sydney, Australia on a waterfront property in Kangaroo Point, it was no surprise her outdoorsy love as a child grew up with her. “My favorite pastime is always the sun and being outdoors. Beaches, walks, landscapes, nature,” reminisced the artist. Those childhood memories, past and present experiences, immediate surroundings and her intimate relationships all shape the inspiration evident in the art we currently love and look forward to. Proving that inspiration comes from a very personal place within Broadhurst, it is also the relationship with herself both physically and emotionally that you see etched in her work. “Love, passion, desire, and acceptance are a huge inspiration,” noted the artist. “Art to me is about expression, exposing yourself, diving deep within, breaking through your barriers, growth, and accepting all kinds of light and dark in the world.” Introducing us to a reborn genre of artistic genius true of this digital age, her style uses photography and collage to create layers of contrast meaning links and contrasts. “Each work is like an emotional map, an uncovering or a discovery while concealing the distractions of the obvious. I’m drawn to this style because photography typically depicts a scene from life, a split second in time, a reality; but it is never what it seems. Sometimes it is set up, sometimes it is only one perspective, sometimes truths are left out. And collage editing and manipulation afterward to my works further emphasizes that photography is not as real as it is initially perceived. Neither is a person at face value. And that is what I love to uncover and delve into. I love contemporary art and have always had an obsession with pop art.” Authentically quirky with an obsession to wet wipes this brunette bombshell is to our surprise extremely shy. “Being shy you often feel like an outsider or that it’s hard for people to get in and know the real me. It felt very humbling [when my art gained recognition]. I felt a huge sense of pride and purpose and I felt understood in a way I had never felt before. I realized
that my art suddenly gave people that access to me that they hadn’t been able to achieve before in the usual social settings or friend relationships. They could get past the walls I usually held up high, through my art,” exposed Broadhurst. First experiencing the draw as a young adult, it was Broadhurst’s art teacher, Miss Beare, that she deems her eye-opener to the art world. “It was always what I was drawn to in family friend’s homes or on holidays in new places, [but it was Miss Beare that] made it seem so personal and so accessible. Telling me what was on locally and what artist she had just bought at the time. If only I had done the same,” smiled the stylist turned artist. At home in the laid-back, outdoor lifestyle of Sydney, it was the likes of Milan that earns its stature as the most fashionforward circuit Broadhurst has experienced. “I love the style, the architecture, and the hidden gems. Fashion is a big influence on my art as it’s something that holds such strong memories and moments in my life. Fashion is what you use to express yourself and the face you put on for the world. And fashion photography introduced me to fine art photography and I love the cross over and seeing fashion photographers being able to express their creativity in such a tangible medium of fashion. I see high-end luxury fashion the same as I do sculpture. It is wearable art in many ways.” So we had to know what era influences the artistic designer’s fashion: “I love 90s minimal and simplicity.” It is that simplicity that weighs into her wardrobe. “Simple. Quality. Quite minimal and a little mix of both feminine and masculine,” is how she describes her style. Privy to a groomed and filled brow, the minimalist practices a natural makeup with flushed pink cheeks and lips, glowing skin and a curled lash with black mascara. You will most likely spot this beauty in a pair of jeans or jumper with a knock out heel. Growing as a public figure for more reasons than one, Broadhurst intends to keep her passion for art at the forefront, revealing “A lot more painting to be involved in works and editing and obliterating images to even more abstraction. I am also working on a coffee table art book and an enlarged Polaroid series.”
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Recognizing the great value of complexity and hidden details in jewelry. www.soulsia.com | @soulsia_official
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Trekking between New Zealand, Australia and Japan, actor Tim Kano has discovered a harmonious way to cultivate culture within his professional work. By Errin Taylor Maye
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ife as an actor has its ups and downs. Being able to deal with the constant auditioning and occasional dead ends is one of the hardest parts of the job. When you’re booking and working, you’re on top of the world doing something you love and making a life out of it. Having just come off of a three-year project, Tim Kano, 32, is currently re-climatizing to life as an actor. “I was drawn to performing at a young age. I always loved films and plays and was fascinated by how they were made. I used to love to sing solo and in a band, so performing sort of fell into one big outlet for me as an artist. It’s always fun, and a challenge, understanding a character you’re portraying while telling someone else’s story.”
A huge fan of both independent and blockbuster action films, Kano has been actively eyeing the horizon for similar genre projects. In hopes of working abroad, the actor wants to build upon what is already available in Australia. “I’m excited about moving into other roles. Neighbours was amazing, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience in terms of pace and adaptability!” Entering the acting scene at a young age participating in school and local plays and musicals, Kano eventually moved into television work – while still in the early stages of high school – and modeling became another addition to the already busy resumé. “I had agencies in Japan, New Zealand, Belgium, and New York. For me, and like most teenagers, my parents weren’t always so supportive of me pursuing a career in the arts. While also working in politics and advertising between casted roles, acting was always something I had pursued and felt natural to me. My most recent job on [Australia’s longest-running drama series] Neighbours was great for reminding me where my heart lies.” With more than 8,000 episodes to date, since its premiere in 1985, the show meticulously follows the suburban lives of six families housed on Erinsborough’s cul-de-sac. Since adding face and talent to the popular television series, Kano understands the value of separating personal and private happenings as a public figure. “I try to keep the two quite separate as sometimes it’s nice to step back and have a break from anything work-related which is the same working in any industry or job.” Part of a day’s work in the field, attending various events and industry gatherings for anyone it can become quite tiring. “On top of a daily schedule, staying true to yourself and not taking it too seriously helps you to enjoy the experiences and treat it as fun rather than work.” Very much an introvert, the New Zealand native says having a public persona that is
much the same as the private, escaping the industry world and maintaining a small intimate group of friends is what keeps his gears active. “There’s so much going on and so many moving parts, it’s important not to take things too seriously or personally. Everyone has a job and purpose in what they’re doing and it’s important to focus on yours and not worry about what anyone else thinks. As long as you’re doing what you’re there to do to the best of your ability nothing else matters. If you surround yourself with loving, supportive people you’ll be set to soar.” Kano constantly reminds himself of the importance of his job, first and foremost, being a storyteller. Whether on or off-screen, the actor wants to put and keep viewers and fans at the forefront. “By using social media and a visible platform, I want to express important messages, the ability to get them out, letting people know they’re not alone with whatever they may be struggling with. It’s also a great tool for helping friends, who are pursuing something, to share their message. It’s not something I feel so confident in – definitely not around the clock – I do understand it’s becoming a part of the work and industry now.” As an extension of oneself, fashion has been a lasting outlet for decades. For Kano, traveling, an education abroad, and working with diverse individuals has allowed the actor to bring those same experiences to both television and handheld screens. Influenced by the likes of classic cinematic works and timeless music, Kano is unable to pinpoint a particular favorite era, yet he wholeheartedly enjoys seeing stories from another period in time. “The music, costume, language all elements take you on a journey to time from the past or future and that for me is memorable. My favorite films cross all genres and eras, but stick with me usually due to a deep character-driven plot that can make you happy or leave you deeply saddened.” Usually reflecting a particular mood, Kano’s style inspiration has spawned from days living in Antwerp, simplicity of luxury powerhouses Margiela, Dries Van Noten and Demeulemeester, and icons of the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s. “I’m a huge fan of the 50s and 60s for men’s fashion and film. There was a transitioning in culture from the extreme class divide and formal to smart, casual yet maintaining a sharp dapper aesthetic. I love music and bands such as New Order and The Cure. I guess a lot of my style inspiration comes from the era of the 70-80s British rocker. I love my Acne leather jacket as it’s timeless and can go with anything. Black on black is always easy for me. Simple. Good jeans and a tee.”
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Focused on clean lines, minimalism, professional and intellectual cuts, and quality fabrics, living in Tokyo opened the actor’s eyes and imagination, hugely impacting him. Always ahead globally, in terms of trends and experimentation, Japan has etched itself into Kano’s being. “Japan will always be a country I look to for trends and creativity in personal expression.” Currently residing in Melbourne, Australia, Kano’s experience with the world stems from crossing waters. Having attended university in Tokyo, the actor fell in love with the country’s chaotic yet serene city, its mix of culture, history and modern times all somehow working harmoniously. “New Zealand is the polar opposite. Being very relaxed and laid back, yet I had the best of both worlds. More importantly, the cuisines!” With unspoken respect, Tokyo’s influential execution being the hub of the future, the likes of design and trends emerging 78
will indefinitely be subtly infiltrated into western cities over the next decades to come. In the states, New York City’s heir of individuality is just one jewel on the pedestal globally. With resounding love and respect, the magic of The Big Apple will likely rub off on anyone. “That place gives you more freedom to experiment and play around with things you may normally like, but not feel the confidence to try anywhere else.” Naturally, as now, a lot of fashion and style have been configured to fit the standards of the consumer and its overall functionality. Exploring the world, using global cultures as teleportation, or film and music to live or relive an era, Kano wants to continue using whatever readily available platform to present a reflective view that who one is, where one came from, who one once was, and where one can go. Stating that this form of representation is paramount.
“If you surround yourself with loving, supportive people you’ll be set to soar.”
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Blouse: Sandro Belt: Stylist’s Own Ring: Krysia Renau Earrings: Argento Vivo Boots: Vintage Hat: Custom hat, Glady’s Tamez Millinery
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From an award-winning blog and Instagram portfolio to launching her self-titled clothing label, Aimee Song – the mastermind behind leading social style brand Song of Style – is rapidly evolving into more than a social media influencer. By Errin Taylor Maye
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o her 5.3 million followers, Song of Style is and has been the leading insider on all things beauty, style, travel, and lifestyle. From capturing and curating behindthe-scenes footage to shooting epic street style montage videos to garnering more than 800,000 views on how to make celery juice, Song has been inviting the world in on her life from the get-go and we cannot help, but get comfortable. When Song wasn’t sitting front row at New York Fashion Week, the influencer was out promoting and launching 2016’s must-have bestselling book Capture Your Style – a modern-day bible for inspiring influencers and Instagram users looking to up their photography game. The book alone landed Song on the coveted New York Times Bestsellers list. Soon thereafter, the influencer turned author’s first book became the stepping stone for her second work World of Style – taking readers on a memorable global journey. Now, she has one more notch on her belt of accomplishments – designer of a fashion line. Just earlier this year, the budding mogul launched her clothing brand, Song of Style, with millennialinfluencer-one-stop shop, Revolve. Since 2008, Song has been on a roll.
In Los Angeles, Song and her creative team work to create versatile and functioning pieces for the working woman who travels. “She’s in board meetings, getting shit done and knows how to chill, enjoys going to galleries, and loves to live life to the fullest wearing clothes that don’t restrict her.” Song is a woman about her work, putting words and ideas into action. Throughout her Instagrams -- @aimeesong and @Songofstyle – Song displays her pieces fully as a living, working spokeswoman. Who better to bring the looks to life on the street than the designer herself ? As she is often reminded by fans and followers of her intriguing and inviting influential lifestyle, Song has found inspiration for her collection through women from pop culture to distant lands. “My travels and the women I meet inspire me the most. When I’m designing, I’m thinking about a narrative. Who are the women wearing our clothes, what is she doing? In pop culture, I love strong female characters that are unapologetic such as Samantha Jones from Sex and the City, Fallon Carrington from Dynasty, etc. My favorite fashion eras are the 70’s and 80’s.” The most inspiring place Song has come across in recent times? “Tokyo, Japan. I love how so many of the women dress for themselves not for other people.” Journeying across different regions, one is sure to notice and appreciate different styles and even beauty routines. With social media, we are connected more than ever. Looking forward to future Song of Style collections, Song and her team note and highlight, “We’re defining more of our aesthetics and will be expanding to other categories.”
“Be authentic and have passion. Remember why you started.”
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Aimee – pronounced as Ah-Mee – started her first venture into the digital world as a blogger. Fast forward a decade later, Song has evolved from blogger to influencer to author to designer and entrepreneur and shows no signs of stopping. The journey to establishing the Song of Style brand, drawing Song into the world of fashion, began from pure fascination. “I didn’t have a lot of money growing up so it was always fun people watching on the weekends on Melrose Ave and watching runway shows on Fashion TV. I was also really obsessed with how confident people looked when they were dressed well.” Well dressed, well versed and confident, Song depicts the modern-day millennial working woman and the style and philosophy of her latest Song of Style venture reflect just that.
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The leading social entrepreneur hopes every woman remembers to be authentic and to have passion. “My favorite quote by Diane von Furstenberg is, ‘Be the woman you want to be.’ My advice to anyone looking to be a part of this industry or break into others would be: to be authentic and have passion. Remember why you started.”
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Lurell M. is living the dream – on her own terms.
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Being…Lurell For luxury womenswear designer Lurell, affordability shouldn’t cost you everything. By Errin Taylor Maye Lurell M. is living the dream – on her terms. From curating shoots to styling coveted looks, Lurell is surely a big dreamer. The creative director and founder of luxury women’s brand, LURELLY, founded her professional namesake in the fall of 2012 on pure instinct. “I have always been passionate about fashion and design, and creating LURELLY just came naturally. The most valuable part of my position is the freedom to create whatever designs I want. There’s nothing like seeing my ideas come to life.” That same passion has garnered the attention of actresses Alexandra Shipp, Julissa Bermudez, Shay Mitchell and the consumer world of Instagram. Located in the heart of Los Angeles’ Fashion District, LURELLY’s decade long journey from the very beginning has been an adventurous one. “I’ve always had my unique style, and since the start, I’ve been designing and creating my wardrobe. Well before I officially started the brand. It’s been very adventurous. From the people my team and I have dressed, each collection we’ve done, even the behind-the-scenes ups and downs, it’s all been a great lesson for growth and improvement.” Jamaican born and bred, Lurell’s connection to the island, its inhabitants – significantly her mother Jada Marie – has since played a major role in the woman she has grown to be. “Growing up on an island, the beach has always been my favorite place and the place where I feel the most Zen. It is exciting finding inspiration I love from so many sources, from art to vintage fashion and fabrics.” As a child living in Jamaica, her grandmother crafted dolls for Lurell and her sister. “We would make them little dresses and clothes out of fabric scraps we found. We would even dye the garments with berries and plants found in our backyard.” The experience of creating dresses for the dolls as a child created a lasting impression for the now-designer. “It was a very blissful time for my sister and me, and I try to capture that feeling when I’m designing my collections.”
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Today, fast fashion has rapidly dominated the industry. Lurell hopes to see this trend evolve to more careful considerations by designers and corporations. “What I would like to see differently is for customers to take a closer look at who they’re buying from and support more ethical brands.” Making a name outside of what has become a norm in the fast-fashion industry, LURELLY’s mission is to bring luxurious, affordable fashion to the modern, everyday woman. “I believe that the LURELLY woman should always look and feel her best.” With sustainability becoming the leading mission for global labels, Lurell’s adoration for traveling and exploring new places visually intertwines every bit of inspiration along the way. “My hope and goals for LURELLY are to build a strong sustainable fashion house with stores all over the world and inspiring women to be their authentic beautiful selves.” For many, fashion is a form of self-expression. A way to express how you feel to the world, an unspoken language in its own way. For Lurell, her true happy place is designing – for LURELLY. “I try to design based on how I want to feel, and how I want the LURELLY woman to feel.” Hunting for the next major look, one is likely to find the designer happily hunting in her local fabric store. “I am easily inspired by beautiful fabrics and prints, and I can immediately envision pieces I want to create.” Described as refined with modern-day elegance, LURELLY’s pieces are significantly timeless. Feminine, light and ethereal, the label has lasting staples that are sure to be in constant rotation. With the upcoming fall and winter seasons around the corner, there are a lot of things coming for Lurell and the LURELLY brand. From transitioning to sustainable fabrics to pop-up installations, Lurell is focused and engaged. “We have a lot in the works.” The most important work of all: making sure the brand is always giving and displaying the best for the current and new LURELLY woman. For up-and-coming designers looking to Lurell for advice, she says, “Go with your gut.” Take chances and follow your bliss are just a few things Lurell hopes her clientele and fans take away from the work she has done. “Make sure everything you put out into the world is an extension of you and what you love. It’s difficult working in this industry, but if you love what you’re creating, it’s worth it. Make sure whatever you’re doing in life is fulfilling for you and in some way heading for the goal you have for yourself.”
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With nostalgically tailored shapes, authentic femininity and elegant silhouettes - VIOLANTE NESSI Italian womenswear Atelier for the ‘gitane’ modern lifestyle - is remastering past classics for the future.
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estled in a charming townhouse in the heart of Chelsea, London, the newly launched fashion house made its first appearance in February of 2018; now at the hands of Founder and Creative Director Violante Nessi, the label’s essence has been building momentum in Italy for the last three years. Paying homage to the roots of tradition, each curated piece is exquisitely made with a commitment and passion for craftsmanship and high quality. Born in Bologna by her German-Italian father and Chilean mother, Nessi’s designs evoke the sensuality of her Latin heritage, with the perfect harmony of pure elegance. “It’s a discovery of myself, a challenge dense of emotions, incredible people and an everyday lesson.” Enriched by experience, painting, and art – adding the personal indulgence of fine dining and music – it is only right that the designer’s main inspiration be a blank page. “My emotions, my dreams, and my feelings are the fruit of experiences, people, artworks and things that I have lived that have left in me something deeply and that I need to express through my creations. There is one city which is always in the scenario and this is New York,” revealed Nessi. But to the point of fashion, it is the city of Tokyo that ignites the brand’s nostalgic draw to the past with a focus on the future. “They have the natural ability to implement the values of their culture in any form of style of our current generation.” With a new home in London, the visionary is also drawn to the dressed-up lifestyle of this mecca destination for fashion. “I believe that people in London still have a desire to dress up for occasions and this is something I love and I cannot find easily in other countries.” Bon vivant by nature, Nessi is designing for an intelligent and opinionated woman, proud of her femininity, passionate about life and “who values her individuality more. She makes choices led by her instinct, heart, and authenticity of aesthetic.” Celebrating the elegance and values of Italian fashion this designer with a story to tell is only just getting started. Mixing heritage chic and curled silks with supple silhouettes, the signature structured shoulder detailing is reminiscent of the powerhouse women determined by vocation and living life la dolce vita in Violante Nessi. “I love the 50’s and 60’s where the reason to wear clothes was just to be the best version of themselves,” mused Nessi.
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Each piece expertly constructed with passion and emotion carries a story, a refined design destined to become the timeless staple in your special wardrobe. Drawn to the stories of each capsule collection, we had to know! What is the creator’s go-to piece and why? “The ‘Yayoy’ sweater paired with the ‘Matisse’ trousers are the perfect combo to feel sexy and elegant from day into night.” What do you love to see in the industry today? “I love to see the new wave of mixing male tailoring with female couture. I don’t like when brands do politics.” So what can we expect in the upcoming Violante Nessi collections? “New modern takes on the knitted dress and structured blazers,” revealed the designer. Finding inspiration in artistic expression and the blank pages filled with life’s experiences and the emotions within, the young and promising founder and creative director lives by these words: “Beauty is harmony and that’s all I look for.”
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“Beauty is harmony and that’s all I look for.”
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MOVEMENT . STILLNESS . BREATH . BODY www.natures-spa.com | @naturesspacharlotte
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