Project Runway: Under the Gunn airs Thursdays at 9 pm on Lifetime
Editor’s Letter By Wanda Julian
Hello, this is where I introduce myself and tell you a little about why I decided to start this publication. Even as a small child I loved fashion, evidenced by my readily handy Barbie doll. My Mother and her friends supported my love of fashion, by creating many different looks for my Barbie’s. I think my collection of styles, and fashions could have easily won over the heart of any true Fashion Designer. And oh, how I loved to dress my Barbie, I think she probably went to as many events as a real Celebrity. I held Teas, Fashion Shows, and Paparazzi Photo shoots, my Barbie truly ran in important social circles. I even fashioned a portable closet for her out of a cereal box, yarn, and some tape with my Mothers help. That way my Barbie was always ready for any adventure dressed to the nines. And paper dolls, who remembers the fun we had with them. I loved them, and had every accessory a young girls mind could imagine. So easy to transport, they went with me on many an adventure riding on the car seat next to me. I had a flair for fashion early on, and my Mom in her wise Mom ways supported my individuality. Even when my favorite dress became too small, I chose to wear jeans under it because I loved it so. Back then jeans and leggings were not the norm. I was a trendsetter well before my time, pairing up and repurposing pieces became a passion for me. And oh—when I discovered accessories and was allowed to wear them, they became my “signature pieces.” I still have the little barrettes with gold hearts and kitties my Father bought for me as a little girl. And yes, I will sport them every once in awhile. It brings back really fond memories of my childhood. About three years ago I stepped out in faith and decided to try my hand at designing fashions. I chose one of my loves: accessories and it brings great joy to me to see someone loving and wearing something I created. I look forward to expanding my creative vision(s) this year; this publication is only one of those. I hope you enjoy my journey in the way of our new magazine; it encompasses my passion for fashion, design, and writing.
Table of Contents Interview with Annalise Dayes Page 28
Page 28
Interview with Celebrity Stylist, Ali Levine Page 50 Chermae’s Say Page 69 Paris Fashion Week Page 72 Fashion Icons of Hollywood Glamour Days Page 92 Interview with Mrs. Washington, Amy Clark Page 112
Page 50 Page 72
A STATEMENT WITH A DIFFERENCE! Handcrafted unique pieces from The Faraway Tree Collection Dennica Abdo is the talented owner of the Faraway Tree collection. Having had a successful following with her Fashion Meets Music events in the US, the Brit born designer is back on home turf with a collection like no other. Featuring an eclectic mix of handcrafted unique jewellery, accessories and bags, meticulously made with semi-precious stones, denim, glass, leather, crystals, wood and much more for the ultimate fashionista. Incorporating current trends with a mixture of mediums, her quirky pieces are hard to miss and are definitely not for the shy and retiring! Creating a niche for herself, Dennica presents The Denim Collection – using a range of eco-friendly denim types, combined with Hessian, Crystals, Studs, Chains, Prints and Leather to create statement bags, earrings, cuffs and more! This is a timeless collection, built for the unique lady, who favors personal style and loves to set her own trends. Pieces from The Faraway Tree Collection are not only collectable treasures and welcome accessories to any outfit, but also make great editorial pieces. info@thefarawaytreecollection.com www.TheFarawayTreeCollection.com www.Facebook.com/TheFarawayTreeCollectionFanPage
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Kelly Lynch-Chevalier Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Whitney Marie Root Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Kelly Lynch-Chevalier Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Erin Francis Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Whitney Marie Root Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Whitney Marie Root Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Whitney Marie Root, Kelly Lynch-Chevalier, and Erin Francis Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court
Interview with Annaliese Dayes By Wanda Julian
Did you try out for more than one season on Britain’s Next Top Model? I always used to fill out the application form for Britain’s Next Top Model, because I watched it religiously and in some way I felt that if I applied it gave me some sort of right to comment on the show! I never in a million years thought I would ever get chosen. What was the experience like being on Britain’s Next Top Model? Pretty amazing! The whole process was an eye opening experience for me. Not just because I was getting a taste of the modelling industry but because I was also writing my dissertation for my Media Studies: TV Broadcasting degree about being part of a reality show. I also felt like I was quite lucky with how my elimination went. It really did feel like it was the right time for me to leave the competition and I managed to leave without a sense of resentment or bitterness. What was the experience like being on America’s Next Top Model: British Invasion? Absolutely insane!! It was like Britain’s Next Top Model on steroids! Everything was bigger and better, which also made it a little more scary, especially because us British girls knew exactly what we were getting ourselves into but I really did love every moment. I think getting to travel to Canada and China was some of the highlights. What is a typical day like on America’s Next Top Model: British Invasion when they are filming you? Well, you would wake up with the lights going on and the cameras all up in your face! We never knew where we were going. We would just have a time that we would have to ready for. It was kind of like being babysat as an adult, as we were never alone, ushered onto our ANTM bus and fed only when the production team decided it was time. No two days were ever the same really and our bodies were totally out of sync as we were working to a 4 day week, with elimination on the 4th day. What kind of doors have the shows opened up for you? Wow, with the show being such a worldwide platform it definitely opened lots of doors for me. Especially for my presenting career. I was given the opportunity to work for Clothes Show TV and award winning company Videojug, doing online styling and entertainment videos, which probably wouldn’t have come about with the show. However people seem to think that after a show like Top Model that your life is set. It definitely isn’t you really have to get up and make the opportunities happen for yourself. Would you do another reality show? Mmmm, probably not… unless I was hosting it!! How did your sock line come about? My sock line, Frills By AD came about from my own love and passion for frilly socks. I had a big collection but couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for so I decided to have them made and from there it spiraled from a hobby into a business. We are now stocked in several boutiques and sold online via our website, www.frillsbyad. com as well as the ASOS Marketplace and other online portals.
What inspires you to design? Mainly my passion to create something unique but I am heavily inspired by urban areas that I grew up in, like Camden Town. What era or eras are your favorite for fashion? I know it’s not the classiest era, but I love the 80s!! I love the rebellious nature of the era, bright colours, bold prints and I am slightly partial to a Shell Suit! Lol What trends are you excited to see this spring and summer? Orange is the new black and I’m totally and utterly converted! What are your must have pieces for spring? Of course my new SS14 Frills By AD line!! We have new Pastel Denim Frills, which are perfect for the approaching season. My personal fav has got to be our Cartoon Frills. What are some goals you would like to achieve? The list of goals I have is pretty endless, but I suppose the main one is to become a successful TV and radio presenter. I do feel like I’m getting close… I’m currently on BBC Radio 1 Xtra throughout the month of March and I’ve got some other projects in the pipeline but for me it’s about enjoying the journey!! What can we look forward to in the future from you? My life can be so random! It’s very hard for me to predict exactly what’s coming next but I will definitely keep on pursuing my presenting career as it is my ultimate passion in life. As well as developing the Frills By AD brand, hopefully taking it global. Websites: www.annaliesedayes.com www.frillsbyad.com Twitter: @AnnalieseDayes @FrillsByAD Instagram: @AnnalieseDayes @FrillsByAD
Ilda Di Vico is A unique style, coupled with high quality has produced hats that have become a huge commercial success. Each Piece is handmade by our small team here in the studio in Sunningdale. Our hats and headpieces are all dyed to match their outfits. Her design philosophy encourages pieces that stand out, look individual and continually inspire the imagination of those who both see and wear them. It is Ilda’s mission that you will leave us feeling perfectly dressed from top to toe and ready to turn heads. Ilda Di Vico has achieved a somewhat cult status worldwide, making a name for itself in the highly selective and competitive market. Due to the recognizable unique design, numerous press releases and celebrity clients, commissioning hats for both recent Royal Weddings and other Royal Family Commissions followed. Working every year alongside Ascot Racecourse dressing the Face of Ascot as well as working alongside Longines (official timekeepers at Ascot Racecourse) providing there Ambassadors with hats every year so far being Aishwarya Rai and Chi Ling Lin. Ilda Di Vico designs hats for people who are not afraid of expressing themselves.
Dean John is raised and born in NYC. Dean comes from a family of mechanical engineer’s. He is the third generation of mechanical engineers and it is instilled in his genes. He is a self-taught fashion designer but wisely and uniquely uses his engineering skills to build garments. That coupled with his natural art and design skills enables Dean John to create some very interesting clothing with a one of a kind fit as his clients do say. Dean John always pursued arts, music and anything creative. He can make art with almost anything and with unique results. As a teen Dean started fashioning his own clothes with bleach and a pair of scissors. He then began tie dyeing tee shirts etc. which were his first designs sold. Dean always admired fine fabrics and dresses made of them. He often thought to himself “I can do that” …….. So after a 3 hour crash course in sewing machine operation from his Grandmother Dean began buying fabrics and sewing dresses with some sketchy results but kept on trying and learning from his mistakes. Dean John says drive, determination and humbleness are a few keys to pursuing any goal. Dean John has done modeling for TV, magazine and runway before pursuing fashion design. He has been on Fox Five morning News with a news caster wearing one of Dean John’s Dresses, and announcing him the designer. Aired major radio station ads for shows in NYC, and designed two dresses for a segment on inside edition. Dean also produces Dance music and plays the piano and clarinet. Dean John Fashion has been said to be very original with flowing cuts and perfect fits to any woman’s body. This line is very sexy cool with major versatility and styling options. In fashion shows you will see a dress come out twice but with two different styling options. Very original and versatile. Dean John Fashion has many looks for all occasions and he also does custom tailored dresses and gowns. www.deanjohnfashion.wix.com/nyc www.reverbnation.com/deanjohnmusic
Hourglass Footwear
Matthew David Powell for Cabiria
It’s time. Stand out.
Matthew David Powell for Cabiria
footwear P latforms Stilettos Mid-heels Flats www.hourglassfootwear.com 206.535.6193
Ali Levine Interview By Wanda Julian
Who are some of the celebrities you have styled? Jillian Rose Reed, Gregg Sulkin, Cody Longo, Jillian Murray, Perez Hilton, Brittney Palmer, Jesse McCartney, Arianny Celesete, Kearran Giovanni, Augie Duke, and Natalia Tena, Oona Chaplin, Sam Larsen, Katee Sackoff, Margaux Brooke, just to name a few. What are some of the movies you styled in? X Men: First Class, Dark Shadows, Wall Street Money Never Sleeps, In time and Heat 2, are all movies I got to work on. What red carpet events have you styled for? I have styled for many red carpet events from the Emmy’s to the Grammys and The Oscars. As well as countless pre/ post award show parties and movie premieres. What are some of the hottest trends this spring? Metallic pastels, super-scale florals and cut out lace are something to be very excited about. Athleticism is also hot right now so if you’re going for the sporty chic look opt to go more chic than sporty so it doesn’t look like you’re going to spin class. What are some must haves for our wardrobe this spring? Wide legged trousers are a hot must have this season and tea length skirts, and of course cropped sweaters! Who are some of your favorite designers? Valentino is such a classic for me and always will be, Christian Dior as well. Dianne Von Furstenberg also holds a special place in my heart. What colors are in for spring? Radiant Orchid, Pantone’s color of the year is of course a great color to go to this spring. Some others on that list are hemlock which is like a mint green color and freesia which is bright yellow hue. Hope you like your spinach because that shade is also a great color to rock this season. As I stated before in a previous question metallics are very in so your typical spring hues which are usually muted pastels are now sparkly and iridescent. Gold and silver are also included. What eras are you most inspired by for fashion? I really love Old Hollywood, it’s so glam and elegant. I also really like 1970’s fashion, think studio 54 with their plunging necklines. What are some of your goals you would like to achieve? I would eventually like to have my own namesake fashion line, Ali Levine Design. I also would like to see my celebrity clients dressed in my line. What can we expect to see in the future from you? You can expect for me to continue styling gorgeous celebrities in stunning looks on the covers of fashion magazines and in editorials. You will see my clients looks on the red carpet and on the silver screen. Be prepared to see my name everywhere. I am very determined and on my way to become the new ‘it girl’ in celebrity wardrobe styling! Fashion is my passion! www.alilevinedesign.com
Ricalyce pronounced (Ri-calice), located in London is a Bespoke luxury English headwear brand . It was founded by Ricardo Roach in 2012 . The brand originated from dance culture in the heart of london and has taken the market by storm . The brands detail and unique style is what makes it stand out from other headwear brands . Ricalyce creates designs that are bold and unique. Ricalyce is for the individual that wants to stand out from the crowd and look premium. www.ricalyce.com
Our philosophy. Handcrafted. Liberty minded. Unashamedly leather. We recognize the individual. The unique mix of style, tone, signs of age and marks of life that are reflected within each of our made to order handcrafted leather neckties. Our range of colours give the freedom to bring a touch of the unexpected, the unusual to any outfit. A bold purple with a formal three piece or black on a white shirt, artfully disheveled because it’s just that kind of night. Our process. The flip side of individuality is responsibility and we take ours very seriously. We refuse to simply source pre-coloured and treated commercial leather off the rolls. From the raw hide of English sheepskin we cut our patterns, ever mindful of its quality and character. Using our own mix of dyes we apply colour by hand, layer by layer building a deep and varied dynamic of tones that is truly unique to each piece. Over the course of days the tie will be oiled, rested and hand worked to eventually reach the desired buttery soft texture and luxurious finish. The future. It is still very early days for Mortuus Bestia, based on the Isle of Wight just off the south coast of England. Our workshop, found within the grounds of Queen Victoria’s royal estate, is gradually expanding to facilitate new products and processes such as our soon to launch bespoke pattern leather ties and accessories. www.mortuusbestia.com
www.blainelabel.com
www.blainelabel.com
Project Runway: Under The Gunn airs Thursdays at 9 pm on Lifetime.
Chermae’s Say By Cheryl M. Smith
Hello, here is where I introduce you to me and this monthly Q & A column. I own Positive Presentations and am what is known as an Image Consultant/Stylist. I specialize in services to include: Personal Shopping, and Wardrobe enhancement. Provide “closet audits” to determine how to help you develop your own “signature look”. Personal shop for you, pair up current items in your closet, style outfits for you, advise you on how to put together your own looks. This column is for your benefit, to pose fashion related questions to me. Each month I will write about a subject that has been and is always posed as an inquiry to me, thereby soliciting questions from you: our readers. This first columns subject is about Junior’s sizes and or clothing. At what age, (without Googling) do you personally think a female person should stop wearing these fashions, clothing items from Junior based store’s like for example: Buckle and Wet Seal. I am waiting for your comments so I can respond, the shoe is on your foot now, so to speak.
www.positivepres.com www.pinterest.com/akn4life www.twitter.com/haute4less
Paris Fashion Week By Joelle Osias
A very unusual fashion show took place on March 4, 2014, as a dozen models, with creative make up designed with cogs, Steampunk style hairdos looking more like hair not done, and spiked nails, went on a catwalk march in the streets of Paris, France. The “march’ started around 2:00 PM at the Pyramide du Louvre and ended at Le Jardin des Tuileries, where other fashion shows were taking place for Paris Fashion Week. The twelve ladies were showcasing Carlotta Actis Barone’s latest wear. English fashion designer, Carlotta Actis Barone, is best known for her unique fashion style that is strongly influenced by current political and social issues. She chose a nuclear apocalypse theme for her A/W 14 Collection, depicting a surviving woman who is reinventing herself into what can be called a futuristic retro style. She is rejecting her old synthetic world and going back to more natural ways - cotton, silk, wool - what I like to refer to as “noble fabrics.” She is recycling things from her past: her black, charcoal grey, auburn, and burgundy pieces of clothing are embellished with metal scraps, glass chips, chains, and gold and silver studs. She is a modern-day warrior, yet still feminine and comfortable in her asymmetrically shaped knitwear. Kuddos to Cassandra Mayers who organized the most unusual fashion show in one of the most unexpected ways!
Born and raised in the birthplace of William Shakespeare Aleah Leigh’s theatrical, artistic and vigorous interpretations’ which stem beyond their eco-friendly and resourceful weight. A fashion critique from a young age, Aleah Leigh would observe the attire of people in the street and give her opinion (albeit to her mother) on how clothes should be worn and which accessories would complement particular outfits. At the age of 16 she worked as a hair stylist and colour technician in Warwickshire. Where the designer, Director, model, stylist, and makeup artist seized the opportunity to develop her skills and creative repertoire alongside experienced stylist and industry professionals. With the full commitment to her art, she gained a nail technician diploma and secured work on photo shoots in various photography and film studio and working alongside major companies such as Graphi studio and Chiltern railways. Similar to her young self, Aleah Leigh the visionary applies the same eye for detail to her designs and approaches photo shoots with military precision makes her a creative director at its best. “My shows are a military operation the girls do not just walk they tell my story of my design. I do not like to have models waiting around I like everyone to work in order when I have asked and in the time given them. Aleah Leigh’s paper dresses haven proven to be a big hit and her bubble wrap dresses became a seller to help raise money for Bernardos they were given prized passion on the shop windows as well as Bernardos. Aleah works alongside the Jack Raine foundation, justgiving.com and notodogmeat. com. Working with Emma from Chiltern railways her train ticket dress became the dress for the 150th anniversary of the Hammersmith and city line London and when global in 3 days. Aleah Leigh describes that her inspiration comes from the people she meets the places she goes and generally everything she sees nature the world is full of potential master pieces: all from which she gathers every item need to reproduce the image in her head to reality a show by artwork her imagination. Aleah Leigh designs comprises of customized clothing , avante garde designs , shoes and head wear; fabricated with her own patterns , bold colours , fused with high drama. Besides arranging and facilitating photo shoots, the ‘queen of themes’ has brought her Aleah Leigh designs brand to the public’s attention through showcasing in her unique way also through YouTube videos Aleah Leigh rip away runway;’ mad hatters tea party. The Aleah Leigh designs brand has also gained recognitions through awards shows, national exhibitions, Notting Hill Carnival Elimu band, club promotions magazine spreads, celebrity endorsements and social media.
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA Sharmaine Nichole, Barber & Beauty Model: Whitney Marie Root
Fashions Icons of Hollywood Glamour Days By Cheryl M. Smith
In my most humble opinion there are women who stand alone in their fashion sense. They have something special to say and it is unmistakable in its clarity. This is a story about three women who blasted into fashion on their own terms, which in their respective day was virtually not done. Kate Hepburn was not trying to become a fashion trendsetter when she set out on her journey into Hollywood fame. She simply wanted to be as she put it comfortable, it was something she embraced; hence she set trends in place, almost unintentionally. Kate was only being her own woman, not buying into what was the norm for her day. She was one of the first women of her day to embrace trousers over skirts. And she made them look fabulous, with her tiny waist and stature she looked “smashing” in them is the word the media used when speaking of this elegant creature. Yes, she was called both, elegant in the same sentence as creature, in the kindest of ways. For Kate was simply, and there are no better words to describe her-- “a ravishing creature.” She went against social norms paving a way for other Hollywood starlets to follow, a more comfortable and chic way of dressing. Trousers were her mainstay, Kate was brought up in a wealthy, very progressive family and she never deviated from that mindset of independent thinking. Extremely smart, she attended Bryn Mawr, this beauty decided she could and would, make her own path to follow. About skirts she had this to say, “I realized that skirts are hopeless, and anytime she heard a man say, “I prefer a woman in a skirt,” to him her response was, “Try one, you try wearing a skirt.” Kate was a trendsetter in her day, graceful and elegant it mattered not to her that Hollywood saw her as outspoken on her choices of attire. She didn’t really give a care to those who termed her androgynous, for she was only being true to who she was. Because of her brave and unflappable attitude she made trousers a popular and viable choice for all women. If you asked her why she loved them so much her response might be, “ I like to move fast, and wearing high heels was tough, and low heels with a skirt is unattractive.” In those days women were expected to be decked out and dazzling all the time, and Kate, well she was simply Kate. Being both extremely competitive with a stubborn streak, (her hair was reddish after all) she set trends, she did not follow them. And the Fashion World took notice of this fiery creature when they awarded her the lifetime achievement from the Council of Fashion Designers of America in recognition of her influence she played in the world of fashion. Few women can say they changed the entire way women’s fashions were viewed. Kate is the first of three women we honor in this world of emerging fashion trends which have impacted the way we women dress today.
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA Sharmaine Nichole, Barber & Beauty Model: Alaska Bruno
The second in this grouping is another beauty hosting the same last name, the gamine Audrey Hepburn. This woman was not swayed by trends and rather than follow them, she like Kate, set them in place. With her quintessential love of true elegance and grace, she embodied a look that was hers to lay claim to. With the world watching her in her first lead role cast opposite Gregory Peck in Roman Holiday, this charismatic young actress attracted much attention. And almost instantly was able to command the presence of one of the great Designers of her time, that of Hubert de Givenchy. Audrey decided he should dress her for her next big film Sabrina, and a partnership was born. Givenchy readily admitted that this svelte beauty knew her body very well, its faults and how to dress them, he merely adapted to her desires. This relationship gave birth to a sense of elegance and simplicity that lives on today. Audrey’s motto for her wardrobe was indeed a trend that the Fashion world embraced “simple and elegant”. From her Wayfarer sunglasses, to her little black dress and pearls a trend was born. And well, Audrey could make the simplest pair of black capris and a black turtleneck look--well simply elegant. Audrey simply put was the epitome of grace, and she never deterred from what she loved, whether it was a chic suit belted at the waist, a black leotard, or a leopard print swing coat, she was as true to her style as her style was to her. Never had an actress garnered such attention from the fashion world. She appeared many times on the covers of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar and her fashion prowess became one for other women to both embrace and emulate. She gave us the little black dress, and perfected the look with her trademark string of pearls. Audrey was not swayed by trends, but followed her own path, that of timelessness, elegance and impeccable quality. To this day, she is the “Fashion Icon” in many a woman’s eyes, for she truly embodied her signature look of elegance and sophistication. And it can be said for her, she stayed her course, never deviating from her love for a simple, yet chic look, a true fashionista in her day.
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA Sharmaine Nichole, Barber & Beauty Model: Julia Houkum
The last to grace this group of beautiful women who made their mark on fashion is the voluptuous Marilyn Monroe. This is a woman who changed how we as women both looked at and addressed our bodies in clothing, and truly was an icon of femininity and sexuality. Marilyn grew up in a myriad of Foster homes, and I suspect was really trying to figure out who she really was most of her life. Because of the pure sensuality she exuded, along with a body that was voluptuous she embraced dresses which clung to her curves. Marilyn is almost entirely responsible for bringing sexuality to women’s fashion; it now became almost main stream okay to be sexually attractive. In a time of Peter Pan collars, where matching gloves and handbags were the norm. This set her apart from other Starlets and drew both criticisms at the same time as admiration. While many of her counterparts in Hollywood may have been as they termed it, put off by her strong sensuality, there were plenty of others who admired her strong sense of self, strength and courage. However you may think of this buxom blond, she is well remembered for her impact on fashion, from the tight fitting ruche dresses which clung to this curvy beauty’s body, to the famous skintight nude sequined gown she wore to sing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy Marilyn stands alone. We see her impact in fashions now that grace the bodies of Lady Gaga and Adele, women who are powerful, yet very comfortable with their own sexuality. No matter who comes next, Marilyn will always be the woman who brought sensual to women’s styles, this is undeniable. Her contribution to fashion cannot be denied; even her red pout is replayed every day in fashion, as we look to one of the true beauties of Hollywood, the essence that was Marilyn Monroe. These women and their love for fashion stands strong in today’s society, after all who doesn’t love a nice fitting pair of wide legged trousers like Kate did. After all a lady can still look like a lady but take on the world in great strides in a pair of slacks. And who of us doesn’t love our little black dresses paired with lustrous pearls, and a designer pair of sunglasses, not me for sure. And to feel sexy and alluring in a close fitting sheath style dress, well it just makes a woman feel, well more like a woman. Thank you to our beloved Fashion Icons embracing thewho of who you were and for sharing your sense of style with us. We are empowered knowing you loved your body just where it was and found a way to prove that to the world through fashion. We honor you.
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All natural skincare to rejuvenate tired skin. Anti aging and anti acne. Try it and you will be amazed! www.jeunvie.co.uk
Kwame Koranteng is a renowned bespoke designer and stylist for men and women, after working for George clothing as the head designer Kwame joined KGTKKT couture in 2009 which is now called Kwame Koranteng Bespoke Tailoring as the head designer and stylist. Kwame’s style is to blend his personal flair with the typical formal wear to create individual and unique statement piece with attention to details and the use of bold colours. In 2013 Kwame won the best male fashion designer at the Beffta awards which was held at London. Kwame Koranteng also creates handmade gentlemen’s formal wear accessories on request. Always remember there is power in a suit, don’t just wear a suit, wear one that speaks for you. Contact Website: www.kwamekoranteng.com Email: kwame@kwamekoranteng.com kgtkkt@googlemail.com Twitter: kwame_koranteng Facebook: Kwame Koranteng Bespoke.
Interview with Amy Clark By Wanda Julian
What was it like to be Mrs. Washington for a year? Being Mrs. Washington was a huge honor and also a very big responsibility. It was humbling to represent the married women of Washington and bring my platform of "Heart 2 Serve" to fruition. It was a very busy year full of ups and downs, but overall a great experience that I am so appreciative to have had. What kind of events did you do? I helped with all kinds of events. The most frequent was helping The Hope Heart Institute. They are the state charity for the Mrs. Washington Pageant and as the Queen, I was an ambassador for them. I traveled over 2800 miles for The Hope Heart alone! What was it like to compete at Mrs. USA? Competing at Mrs. America was beyond amazing. I had the time of my life! The best part of the competition was definitely meeting 50 amazing women from around the country, whom I now get to call friends. In fact, 16 of them traveled to Washington to support me as I passed on my title. It's truly a sisterhood! What charities are near and dear to your heart? I have loved working with so many charities, but a few are near and dear to my heart. The first charity I really connected with was Inland Northwest Baby. I love that it was founded by a teenage boy just trying to make a difference. The other one that I love to work with is Blessings Under the Bridge. I love the founder and her heart for the homeless population in Spokane. They truly are a blessing! What can you tell us about Heart 2 Serve? Heart 2 Serve is a volunteer organization that I started as a result of my time serving different charities. I noticed that I would often see the same faces volunteering at multiple charities. I started to wonder if the problem was that people didn't want to volunteer, or if they just didn't know where to even start? I really felt God gave me the idea of Heart 2 Serve. Our mission is to connect the people in our community with volunteer opportunities. We go out once a month and serve at a wide range of organizations and community groups. Anyone is welcome to join us. You can find us on facebook at Heart 2 Serve-Spokane or at www.heart2serve. com. What has it been like now that your reign of Mrs. Washington is over? Now that Mrs. Washington is over, I have more time to focus on my family and career, as well as build up Heart 2 Serve. I'm still busy, just in different areas. I enjoyed my time as Mrs. Washington, but am thankful to be able to spend more time at home. What are some goals you would like to achieve? My goals for the future are to follow whatever path the Lord leads me. My word of the year is to be intentional. Right now that means being the best wife, mom, teacher and mentor that I can. I still work in the youth group every week and Heart 2 Serve every month. Currently, I am participating as a celebrity in our local version of "Dancing With the Celebrities" which is a big fundraiser for CYT (Christian Youth Theater). It's been fun learning the routine and helping out this great organization!
Photography: Wobble Monkey Photography Model: Julia Fox
Photography: Wobble Monkey Photography Model: Amanda Sue Ewan Benefiting American Cancer Society
Photography: Wobble Monkey Photography Model: Amanda Sue Ewan Benefiting American Cancer Society
Team Page Wanda Julian Publisher/Editor in Chief contessascourt@gmail.com
Cheryl M. Smith US Fashion Director
Gordon Flynn International PR/European Fashion Director info@gordonflynnpr.com
Rocky Castaneda Lead Photographer
Sharmane Nichole Crosswhite HMUA
Ariel-Renea Burdette HMUA
James Mangis Assistant Photographer
Kathy Mangis Assistant Photographer
Credit Page Special thanks to this month’s Contributors: Photos: Rocky Castenda Photography & Creative Solutions Rocky and his team of James and Kathy Mangis produced photos for local shoots, and is our Head Photographer. www.roxphotos.com www.rockycastenda.com https://www.facebook.com/#!/rocky.roxfotos Sharmaine Nichole Beauty & Barber Sharmaine provided Hair and Makeup for our local shoots and is our Head Stylist along with her right hand Ariel Renae Burdette. www.sharmainenichole.com www.facebook/SNHDbeautyandbarber Raven Morris HMUA for photo shoot at Nectar Wine and her Assistant https://www.facebook.com/#!/parasitedoll?fref=ts Wanda Julian of Contessa’s Court who designed the lovely scarves and headband scarves used on our models in the Contessa’s Court March Issue shoot. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Contessas-Court/209985065714902 Gordon Flynn of Gordon Flynn P.R. Gordon is our International Fashion Director and P.R. Department for all of the International photos of London and Paris Fashion Week. Also for lining up our cover model. https://www.facebook.com/gordon.flynn.3 http://gordonflynnpr.com/ Cheryl M. Smith of Positive Presentations Cheryl provided a majority of the Personal Styling for all the local photo shoots, also produced an article as well as the monthly column “Chermae’s Day.” www.positivepres.com https://www.facebook.com/#!/positivepresentations
E.J. Roberts Mansion Special thanks to Mary Moltke of the lovely mansion and for allowing us to use both the rooms as well as grounds for our Hollywood Icons shoot. https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Roberts-Mansio n/273860766025923?rf=114266981938400 Susan L. Davis of Destiny Floral Special thanks to Susan for the loan of the beautiful jewelry used in the Hollywood Icons feature. Can be found at the Heart of Spokane (509) 7478190. Sonya Kassen of Wobble Monkey Photography Whatever you want to say—I have no idea what you are using so you’ll need to provide text. https://www.facebook.com/#!/WobbleMonkeyPhotography http://www.wobblemonkeyphotography. com/ Special Thanks to our lovely models in this issue: Whitney Marie Root, Kelly Lynch Chevalier, Erin Francis, Alaska Bruneau and Julia Hookum. Special thanks to our on shoot locations: Mary Moltke of E.J. Roberts Mansion and Josh Wade of Nectar Tasting Room. We so appreciate every coming on board to help us produce this first issue. We could not have done it without your support, so thank you very much. Next month look for features including interviews from the “Godfather of London Fashion”, the most amazing Gordon Flynn P.R. An inside look into what life is like in the world of Carlotta Actis Barone European Fashion Designer.
Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest Industries All clothing used in the local shoots was graciously loaned by our local Goodwills. Special thanks to Heather Alexander and her team at the 2nd Avenue location. https://www.facebook.com/#!/INWGoodwill http://discovergoodwill.org/
Learn what Bruja Estrella a very talented European model does in one of her normal fashion shoot days.
Nectar Tasting Room Special thanks to Josh Wade for allowing us the use of his fine establishment for one of our shoots. https://www.facebook.com/#!/NectarTastingRoom http://drinknectar.com/about-nectar/
More from European fashion and trends plus local Artisans and Designers will be featured.
An interview with local Stylist Cheryl M. Smith of Positive Presentations featuring photo spread from her latest Fashion show.
THANKS.
Photographer: Rocky Castaneda Stylist: Cheryl M. Smith HMUA: Raven Morris Model: Erin Francis Scarves and Headband Scarves by Contessa’s Court