xo, Charlie
I am grateful and excited that you chose to flip through CAKEDbycharlie Magazine’s FIRST issue!! I have to admit that it is pretty late, but better late than never!! If you know me personally you can understand the accomplishment upon this online magazine. The most important thing about CAKED to me is that this magazine is an outlet for our rising stars to be recognized, and or appreciated. Appreciated for their hard work, dedication, vision, and amazing talent! CAKED will give you a personal feel to our up and comers, or already established individuals that has fought for their dream. My goal as the editor of CAKED is to keep you in the loop whether it is on the next fashion designer, next event, or next artist you will always know about the freshest out there. There is a major renaissance movement going on right now, and whether you are apart of it, or you support it, it is important that we appreciate it, and give it the value that it deserves. Each month you will get to meet someone new doing something original, and meaningful. There is so much more to CAKED, but I rather surprise you.
I was introduced to GabiFresh.com by a friend, and I thank her mentally every time I read Gabi’s blog. I don't remember the last time I felt flabbergasted by someone. As I scroll down her site I fall in love with each piece she models. From her head to her toe she has fashion written all over her. Gabi Fresh has a way of embodying High Fashion, and making it look easy to replicate. An intelligent fashion forward beautiful woman describes Gabi to the tee. Graduating from Mt Holyoke College in Western Massachusetts Gabi earned a degree in International Relations she became interested in Fashion Journalism and decided to go with her passion that was obviously a wise choice. What motivated you to become a Plus Fashion Blogger? I was really interested in fashion journalism but I didn't have much experience. I knew blogging was becoming more popular and decided to start a plus size fashion blog because there weren't really any resources for younger curvy girls who wanted to follow the trends. I also participated in lots of outfit communities online and had many requests to start a blog showcasing my clothes.
Gabi is the ideal go to for Plus Size Fashion. Having no remorse on flicking off the haters that refrain our beautiful full figured women from feeling that they have the ability of being fashionistas. Gabi is not scared to get candid on her thoughts, views, and opinions! Who can truly resist real talk?! Especially coming from a smart reasonable resource! Gabi decided to use her talents to make a way for those who have the same fashion views as her, and I personally thank her highly for that. She is such an inspiration to many including myself who want “to take risks and have fun with clothing regardless of their size�. What and who was your inspiration? I loved Karla from Karla's Closet. Her blog was everything I wanted mine to be. Stephanie from Le Blog de Big Beauty was another inspiration of mine. What attracts you the most about Fashion? I think fashion is transformative. It can really change peoples' lives--I've witnessed it! It's also just a great, fun way to express your personality and I love dressing up each day.
Gabi being the trendsetter that she is came up with a brilliant idea. Being that she is also confident and wants to promote being so she came up with the “Fat-Kini” movement. After being in vacation and taking pictures in what she wore to soak the sun, she was inspired to encourage other full figured women to feel comfortable and confident in their “Fat-Kini’s” and send in their pictures that were featured on xojane.com. Such a wave reached the attention of Good Morning America, and they reached out to Gabi to have a live interview on the show about her photos (not the first time btw). Now of course the questions about promoting obesity rose. Asking her questions on her views on the statistics on obese women Gabi answered each one fluently and respectfully. Especially when she said “ my health is not determined by my size”. She graced my living room with her humble well presented personality, and cute outfit. As the Plus Size Fashion Industry rises what do you feel you have accomplished and would like to continue to accomplish as a well-known Plus Fashion Blogger?
I think I've accomplished a lot! I know the industry was NOT the same before I started and I think bloggers have had a lot to do with pushing things forward. We have made it clear that we want cuter and younger options and I've seen brands start to embrace that because of us. I want to continue to show everyone that style is not just for certain sizes and I hope to see more and more designers extend their size range.
Describe a moment that you felt as if you finally made it? Just recently when I realized I haven't been "employed" by anyone for over a year and I'm still making it on my own just by blogging. It feels good to know that I can support myself doing something I love.
Describe your shopping & getting “dolled� up process? Usually I shop online! I actually find it easier. To most people's surprise, I'm VERY low maintenance so my getting dolled up process consists of like 10 minutes of makeup and that's pretty much it. My hair is usually natural so I don't have to do anything but wash and go.
You have done a Make Over for a reader that was a mom of two, and who wanted assistance in making herself feel as beautiful as she already was. What motivated you to do this for her? I receive tons of emails from people asking for help. They are usually working on self-acceptance and don't know where to start when it comes to fashion. Since I unfortunately can't help every single person, I decided a good way to give back would be to offer a giveaway on my blog. It was a ton of fun and Jasmine was so happy!
In the industry of Fashion & Blogging what do you enjoy the most? && dislike the most? I enjoy pretty much everything about it! The only thing I dislike is the competitive nature that some bloggers have. I think there's room for everyone and we all offer something unique to our readers.
Terrace 390 was filled with an event that meant more than exposure. The Fashion Against Bullying Event showed that you can contribute to a cause while showcasing your talent, and passion. The beautiful outside side part of this venue was filled with people who came to enjoy the entertainment while giving donations towards The Gay and Lesbian Education Network. 390 echoed performances by Jasmine Rhey, Corey “Nova” Grimes, Michael “Flocstarnice” Whitaker, Limitless 5, and Niko IS. The designers were NUVizions, DExclusive, Orygin, and Dream Catcher Designs. Each designer expressed different sides of fashion that showed each of their personalities. This event was hosted by the beautiful Estee Martin, co-host on the 95.3 morning show. Filled with an amazing personality Estee made the event personable, and inviting. Ms. St. Augustine, KristiLee Twirler gave a touching speech on her take on bullying, and shared an inspiring story on victims that she came across during her community outreach. This event traveled from Georgia, and will continue to spread the awareness on bullying and what we can do to put a stop to this excusable crime while doing it with style.
“ Bullying is very horrible to me, because it can lead to hurting someone, hurting them self and can also lead to death. Some people that been bullied have grown up to be a bully or be really abusive. When I was in Middle School until my 10th grade year I was bullied because of my Sexuality. It was very hard for me with the name calling every single day. I use to cry all the time because I hated that they use to pick on me. I didn't even want to be Gay anymore until some good friends helped me out. I would tell victims that there is always someone that will listen to you. There is a wide range of organizations that are willing to help you and protect you from those who bully you and if I can help you I WILL.�
“I was most interested in what the F.A.B event stands for Fashion Against Bullying. Let's face it, bullying exists. And when you can create an event that brings art and creativity together all the while showing people what the real meaning of respect is, you've hit a homerun. Many ask whether or not I have been bullied. They're surprised when I say yes. Maybe not in the traditional sense, but everyday in the media. People are criticized for who they are or what they look like. All of us deal with that every single day and have to reach within ourselves to be original and an individual in society. Bullying falls under many categories and this event was able to capture them all. Stay STRONG! I know it sounds clichĂŠ, but seriously you have to! Fight your battles with positivity and prayer; they go a long way. I think it is very important to take a stand! I remember one time a boy's backpack opened up as he walked and all his books came flying out. Would you believe no one bent done to help! I stopped the whole crowd of people got on the floor and helped the boy. Small acts go a long way. so stick up for others and stick up for yourself!
“My platform as Miss St. Augustine is mentoring at-risk youth, and through my experiences with teens from less-than-ideal family situations came my discovery that what happens at home is often a direct cause of bullying. Many bullies come from abusive situations at home or were bullied themselves in their past. I've worked with these teens to show that they can overcome their situations and prevent against becoming a statistic. I've met many homeless and foster care children who have been bullied, and while each story is heartbreaking, being able to see each individual's healing process has been most rewarding. I share the view that in order for bullying to end, awareness of the facts and stories of others must be spread to motivate and encourage change. Listening to the stories of those with family members who have ended their lives due to bullying has emotionally moved me to take a stand and join the FAB movement. By spreading awareness, I know that many others will follow in those same footsteps.�
“My cousin Laylla gets bullied in school and it really affects her performance in the class room and her behavior at home, and it constantly reminds me of how i was when i was a kid getting bullied feeling like know one could hear me, so i wanted to be a voice for the voiceless. I was bullied and I reacted by beating up my bully's, I was bigger than them and one day I had enough.”
“I've been writing and performing hip hop for about 10yrs I wanted to use hip hop as a way to reach our youth in a way they are very familiar with, although rap music's positive effects are often overshadowed with scandal and negative views. coupled wit the FAB event i used news clips and rap to take a stand on this bullying epidemic that plagues our schools across... the world.”
“I have been performing for 12 years. My first original single that I released along with a music video is called "Life Goes On" and it was inspired by events that happened in my life as well as ones that I saw surrounding me. It showcases the struggle I went thru with verbal bullying in middle school and how no matter what my struggle was or anyone's struggle is, life goes on. The choices we make because of those circumstances are all we have control of. Although bullying is very hurtful to your self-esteem, its important to build yourself stronger, know yourself and what you're worth. I choose to make a positive impact with my life and that is why I chose to be a part of Fashion Against Bullying. To be a positive inspiration to even just one person is the biggest blessing one can afford to oneself.�
A & Q k Quic How long have you been designing? I started as a seamstress when I was 11. In my early teens I started designing different dresses and it quickly evolved into something I knew I would do for the rest of my life. Describe your line. The inspiration behind it is my heritage and Dream Catchers. The concept is that we can filter the bad out of our lives if we focus on the positive. That being said majority of my line is organic materials and several have a dream catcher on them or in the material design. As with all fashion it changes throughout the year. Being a Florida based designer my line tends to be a little more revealing than most and Florida Heat friendly. What do want your brand to contribute towards fashion? I would like people to look at my clothes and see art.
What's your perspective on bullying? Coming from a family of 8 children (I am the oldest sister) and I also have 2 children of my own I am firmly against any form of bullying. I believe it is too often overlooked or shrugged off as "just being kids" when in fact we are allowing the children to learn behavior that will follow them throughout their life. How do you feel about coming together with fashion to take a stand? I think this is a great idea. Anything we can do to spread the word and give guidance so we can teach our children together to be better.
A & Q k c i u Q How long have you been designing? I've been designing for a couple of years but just recently started taking it serious. Art and fashion have always been two things that I've always had a passion for so I thought it was time to take it serious and show the public. Describe your line. My line is a brand that transitions two complete different types of clothing into one. I bring urban designs to high end wear. Being unique and standing out from the rest is what I strive for. What do you want your brand to contribute to Fashion? I want to be known as a brand that shows creativity at its highest by bringing art into fashion. Orygin will be a brand bringing original never before seen designs to the public.
What is your perspective on bullying? I really dislike bullying i know people who have been bullied and I have always been against it. Bullying takes place at all ages no matter what race you are, it can happen any place and time. Bullying can even take place in the business world too between former colleagues, bosses or whomever you may encounter during business. How do you feel about coming together with fashion to take a stand? When I was asked to be a part of this movement I was honored. Bullying is a cause that doesn't get the attention that it should get from the public. The fact that David Rice thought of combining the awareness of a cause like bullying with fashion, something that so many people are a part of is amazing. We are all designers that are using our talents to show everyone that bullying exist everywhere and needs to be stopped.
I'VE ALWAYS FELT THAT FASHION HAS BEEN A PART OF SOCIAL ISSUES AND IT WAS NOT BEING REPRESENTED AS FAR AS BULLYING. SO MANY PEOPLE ARE BULLIED FOR WHAT THEY WEAR THAT WE FELT IT WAS TIME FOR FASHION TO TAKE A STAND. DAVID AND I WERE HAVING A MEETING AND WATCHING A TV SHOW WHERE WE SAW A STORY ABOUT A YOUNG MAN WHO HUNG HIMSELF AFTER BEING BULLIED OVER A PERIOD OF TIME. THIS WAS ALSO PERSONAL FOR MYSELF BECAUSE I WAS BULLIED AS A KID FOR BEING SHORT DARK AND OVERWEIGHT. DAVID HAS ALSO GONE THROUGH IS SHARE OF BEING TEASED THROUGH OUT HIS TEENAGE YEARS. ADRI SILVERMAN WHO ATTENDED OUR LAUNCH EVENT IN ATLANTA. WAS SO MOVED BY THE EVENT AND WHAT IT STOOD FOR THAT SHE CONVINCED US TO TAKE THE SHOW ON THE ROAD AND SHE SPEAR HEADED THE ORLANDO EVENT. OUR GOAL WITH THE FAB EVENT IS TO GO ON THE ROAD AND TOUR DIFFERENT CITIES AND STATES, OUR NEXT STOP WILL BE NEW YORK IN NOVEMBER. EXPANDING THE SHOW AS WE GO ALONG, DOING AN EVEN BIGGER ONE IN ATLANTA. WE ALSO WANT TO BEGIN ASAP, WORKING WITH SCHOOLS AND KIDS IN THE COMMUNITY JOINING WITH POLITICAL LEADERS AND GET THEM INVOLVED. WE WILL BE DOING MINI FUNDRAISERS TO HELP RAISE FUNDS FOR THE TOUR. WE ARE WORKING ON OUR WEB SITE AND OTHER EXCITING THINGS THAT YOU MUST STAY TUNED TO SEE DEVELOP.
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June 16th, 2012 The Access Fashion & Wine Event took over The Abbey in Downtown Orlando. This venue was lit with awesome designs, and had a sparkling runway smack dab center stage which complimented the fashion forward look this venue has to offer. The Abbey was infiltrated with stylist that came from different directions to
show off their particular eye for fashion. FahionablySadeCloset, Apricot Lane Boutique, Created4Fashion, Fashion Junkees, and last but not least Tally Renee were sending off the models down the runway with their individual concepts of fashion and styling. On top of fashion who can resist a chilled glass of Chardonnay?! The event was hosted by funny Sterling Stevenson. There were performances in between the show by vivacious singer Scarlie P. who killed the runway with not only with her voice and moves, but also with her wardrobe. After the models rocked the runway they were surprised with Fashionably Sade Closet’s give away. They
got to keep the look they strutted in. Talk about quid pro quo. Now there were also quo’s for those who attend the event. Apricot Lane Boutique filled each chair in the venue with a bag of goodies that included a mini Vera Bradley Clip Zip ID case and an Apricot Lane roll on fragrance that really smells like apricots. Overall this event went by smoothly and cordially. The Access Fashion Show was truly a success, not relying on the amount of
tickets sold, and the number of seats filled, but because of the positive vibe that allowed networking and communication come easily. Coordinators Brianna Corchado and Toni-Ann Blair, CEO and founder of Ladies 1st INC did an amazing job putting this show together and keeping it that way!
FashionablySade’sCloset had the runway and audience on a thrift as she sends each model down the runway at The Access Fashion & Wine Show. FSC is all about the ‘everyday” affordable style that is convenient for the everyday woman. Being an everyday woman herself she believes in looking stylish with out spending too much cash.
FSC styled the models with casual almost effortless looks, and the crazy thing about it is that she did not spend over forty-five dollars. YEP you read correctly !! 45 BUCKS!! All the way from the clothing to the accessories. In my book she is the go to when you need a new wardrobe with out breaking pockets.
I’ve been hoping that an event like this existed here in Orlando and all along it has. An event that showcases raw local talent within all areas of our urban lifestyle. From art to music Orlando aLive sure knows how to pick them. Coordinated by Culture Climax and Event Junkies this event is expected to have a fashion forward artistic hip hop vibe. Hosted by Prote- J hip hop was surely exalted. Young Smitchell on the ones and twos reassured bangin’ tunes. My fav. of the night “Vibrant Thing” by Qtip!! GlorifiedEgo held down fashion and GenesisAngel showcased their one of a kind earth toned jewelry. Amazing performances by
soulful Bobbie Ruffin , eclectic Kaitlin Jonez, melodic Evan Taylor Jones, and many more amazing MC’s & Singers. A sick cypher concluded an amazing evening with an amazing vibe! I cannot wait for the next Orlando aLive Event coming up August 27th!! Be there or be squared!! && F.Y.I NO one likes squares!!
Sick boards, sick kicks, tight apparel, and beautiful ladies sounds like a concoction for an amazing Photo shoot! TOP NOTCH TREND and GlorifiedEgo collaborated on a shoot to showcase GE’s fashion, and might I add it looked pretty damn good on these ladies! Photos were taken by Short Stop Studios and Pocket 7 was in the building. So we got to get a preview on whats coming and expected from GlorifiedEgo, and Top Notch Trend. You can view more exclusive shots of the shoot at www.topnotctrend.com!! It’s about to BLOW!
Kristina Renee Photography teamed up with Shear Love and thought of an amazing gesture. Being selfless themselves they thought of a way to give back to the woman that deserves. Make Over Monday was conceived and the y
began to search for those who needed a new look! Krisitna posted on Facebook and asked for nominations. She thought what’s better than a make over? Feeling appreciated, and being told that you deserve one. Time went by and she noticed the nominees that were brought to her attention each one of them truly deserving a pampering treatment due to their big hearts, amazing testimonials, and the need for a fresh new look to remind them how worthy they are. Nominated by, friends, loved ones, or co workers these ladies received amazing treatment. Hairstyling provided by Shear Love in
her home Salon, and make up done by K. Luxe they walked out a whole different person. Some were shocked to be nominated, and others knew that they were deserving. I personally was shocked when I found out that I was a nominee, but was so grateful in knowing that I was perceived as deserving as well, and at perfect timing. Cause I was due for a blow out!
Gail Johnson was nominated by a coworker who noticed the type of mother and grandmother she was. I think at times we underestimate grandmothers. We forget that this is their second time around raising children and this time it wasn't their choice. Being a “meemaw� has its perks, but it can still get a bit overwhelming. There is a reason why they are called GRANDmas.
Christi Pomeroy was nominated for this Make Over by family due to the hard work she puts in for her family. Being a mother sometimes allows one to forget about themselves and attend to what is most important in one’s life. Christi deserved the over due hair cut and photo shoot provided. I have to say she definitely rocked that royal blue.
Marion Pascella was a nominated from Port St. Lucie, FL by a friend through Facebook. Being a High School English Teacher Marion is often exhausted yet still finds time to be there for those who need her. Being a selfless and mindful friend landed her this make over. Being newly engaged I am sure she was ready to show off her new do’ to her boo. I hope he appreciated it because she just looked stunning.
Marla Appelo was nominated from Lake Mary, FL by a friend who felt that this make over was going to do Marla some justice. Marla is a Avon Representative that motivated other women to reach their goals. Being diagnosed with Colon Cancer, and headed to surgery in several day Marla deserved this make over to reassure her that she will look beautiful before, during, and after her surgery. Also being a grandmother of two boys it was time to put away the tennis shoes for a bit.
When Wilmary Roque decided to nominate herself I agreed with her. A mother of a 4 year old boy who was diagnosed with eye cancer on his left eye she dedicated her life to the well being of her son. For the past four years Wilmary spent it side by side her baby boy praying and having faith and strength in knowing that with her help her son was
going to get through these hard times. She admittedly stated that she let herself go by gaining weight and never really having the time to even look at the mirror. Spending the last four years nose deep in her son’s health driving back and fourth to Miami, FL in order to see a specialist Wilmary forgot how it felt to be a woman. When I asked about her educational career she replied “My degree was in stay at home mom� I thought well that must be a PhD then. After prayers, and commitment her son was cured, and did not have to go through a gruesome surgery of removing the ill eye, yet still blind he is healthy. Wilmary felt accomplished and grateful to her God, and to herself for being the strong, caring, attentive parent he expects us to be, and more than deserved this make over, and any more to come.
Top Notch Trend is a fashion company in New York City which also expanded in Florida. We are a team of young energetic people. Our mission is to provide models, designers and publishing companies with enhanced branding, innovative campaign strategies and top notch photography. Top Notch Trend is the one stop shop for all talent. Our services include portfolio enhancements, personal shoots, marketing and event planning. We are not a modeling agency, photography company or publisher, we are “everything fashion.� Cameron M Top Notch Trend Marketing, Event Coordinator (917) 420-3227 Cam@topnotchtrend.com www.TopNotchTrend.com
Fashionably Sade’s Closet has been taking thrift-ing by the scrotum and making it visible that she has every reason to. I can honestly say that I have tried thrift-ing myself and came up with nothing. FSC is
making her mark in this day in age by proving that even though our economy is suffering our wallets and closets don't have to. I gained access to ask Sade Gray CEO of FSC questions about it all. Check out this exclusive live interview with FSC.