THE CREW
YEMI SEKONI, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, is the owner and director of Donahue
Models & Talent - Rhode Island’s oldest model and talent agency. Her company books some of New England’s top professional models and talent to work with many corporate giants across the region.With over 35 years of experience in various areas of the acting and modeling industry, including theater, TV, film, print and runway, Yemi also holds a Bachelor of Arts in education, a post-graduate diploma in marketing and an MBA. TRADE SECRETS magazine is the culminating outlet for all of her passions – education, performing, marketing and creative writing.
JACLYN PELOPIDA,, WRITER, TALENTTALKS & THE BUZZ, gradu-
ated from Iona College in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in mass communication with a concentration in journalism and a minor in psychology. She was the arts and entertainment editor of her college newspaper, “The Ionian.” Throughout her college career, she was an editorial intern for “M Magazine,” a web editorial intern for “Seventeen” magazine, and a public relations intern for MTV Networks. She is in the midst of writing her first novel and currently resides in Cranston, Rhode Island.
CINZIA ANTONELLI, WRITER; A WINK FROM ITALY, resides with her
husband, Gianfranco DiMarco, and their 14-year-old daughter, Enrica, in the little town of Cassino, Italy. Inheriting her creative and artistic flair from her father, a painter, and her grandfather, a novelist, she grew up with a love for fashion, and a passion for creating costume jewelry. When she is not busy with her daughter or helping her husband with his business, she can be found designing and creating new lines of costume jewelry – inspired by the ancient royals of the world, primitive prints and nature. Through her craft, her goal is to express her unique personality, as she believes that creating an object for the body is also a universal form of communication and language.
OLGA HAWWA, WRITER; THE COSMETIC COUNTER , is licensed esthetician, and makeup artist offering facials, face/body waxIng, eyebrow design, makeup artistry, and body treatments for women and men. She is located 1227 Main Street, West Warwick. Hours are by appointment: makeupandimage.com
LAURA ROSSI, WRITER: SAVOIR-FAIRE, loves accessorizing!
She regularly blogs for The Huffington Post Style section, SheKnows.com, and many other lifestyle sites. Laura is a published author, digital strategist, and runs her own public relations firm.
VALERIE LANGLAIS, WRITER: ON THE TOWN, hails from Oxford,
Massachusetts and has an Associates Degree in Account- ing from Quinsigamond Community College, as well as a Bachelors Degree in Business Management from Kennedy-Western University. During the weekdays, she is a mild-mannered accountant with Charlton Furniture Co., Inc in Charlton, Mas- sachusetts. In the evenings and on weekends, the former model teaches the children’s program for Donahue Models in Cranston, RI; is on staff with the Boucher School of Dance in Oxford, MA and runs an online business selling vintage designer clothing.
RACHEL SILVA, WRITER: OPTIQUE, graduated from Merrimack college with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a minor in Sociology. She went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Education with a professional certification as a reading specialist and Literacy Coach. Currently she is employed as a reading specialist in an elementary school. Over the past fifteen years she has strived to bring out the best in students and coworkers by helping them to discover who they are. She has trained teachers during professional workshops in various writing approaches and literacy programs. Educating individuals on topics that can improve and enrich their lives professionally and personally is a passion of hers. She currently resides with her two school aged children in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. LYNELL MASTERSON, WRITER: FROM THE INSIDE OUT, founder of Nell, develops individual and group wellness programs integrating mind, body, spirit methods. Lynell uses coaching, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), Expressive Arts, Hypnotherapy, Energy Work, and other practices to create the most effective life-changing programs. Life experience required her to develop these tools to address adversity, hardship and coping skills. Lynell recognizes and honors the challenges and difficulties that we all may encounter and that is why she has created individual and group programs to heal and empower others.
NATASHA MALONE, WRITER: TEEN CHATTER, is a twelve-
year-old girl who lives in Massachusetts. She is a 7th grader and in her 2nd year at middle school. She loves playing with her dogs, chickens, and bunny. She enjoys going to fashion shows, such as Style Week which she’s been going to for about four years. Reading is one of her favorite hobbies as well as writing, drawing, hanging out with friends, and listening to music. Her favorite book series are “The Hunger Games ”and “Harry Potter”. She loves the color purple and she loves mint chocolate chip ice cream. Her idea of a perfect outfit is jeans, Converse, and a shirt with lace. One of her hopes is to be able to publish a book someday.
PRINCE SEFA-BOAKYE (Say-fah Bo-ah-chi), WRITER: PUR-
SUITS, is what people in Boston refer to as a ‘Renaissance Man by Trade,’ ‘Entrepreneur by Day, and ‘Law Student by Night.’ Prince describes himself as a student-entrepreneur blogger; providing daily blogs to students on how to start their own online business while balancing school. He also, from time-to-time, blogs about politics. Currently he is a 2L evening student at Suffolk University Law School, located in Downtown Boston, where he is studying to be a Copyright and Trademark attorney specializing in fields like social media, start-ups, entertainment, and fashion. You can often find Prince at four star restaurants in Boston, having morning breakfast at either the Ritz, Langham Hotel, Omni Park Hotel, or Kimpton Hotel— or at weekly fashion shows at Liberty Hotel. Prince’s favorite Friday hangout spot is the Bond Lounge. For questions on his student-blogging business go to www.livelikeanenterpreneur.com. For his political blogs, go to www.princesdailyjournal.com
DIANE CAPOZZI, WRITER, OUT OF THE CLOSET, born &
raised in Oklahoma, Diane spend most of her childhood focused on competitive swimming. She received a swimming scholarship at Drury University & graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Exercise Physiology, and also holds a Masters Degree in Cardiac Rehabilitation. Degrees in hand, the next item on her bucket list was working abroad, where also started modeling. After returning stateside, she secured representation with multiple agencies including Wilhelmina, Maggie, Inc. & Donahue Models. A career highlight was making it as a finalist on the modeling reality TV series, “She’s Got the Look.” Diane currently resides in Natick, MA & works alongside her husband, running a very busy event & entertainment company. When not working, this fitness fanatic volunteers at the local animal shelter, creating custom greeting cards & working on her new fashion blog: www.fashiononthe4thfloor.com. Through this creative outlet, she hopes to demonstrate that fashion & having your own unique personal style transcend all decades!
PHOTOGRAPHY
DANIELLE DUBE,
HAIR/MAKEUP ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR
SINNARITH VANN
FLAVIO TAVARES
AUDRA HUDSON
LAUREN CHIARINI
VALENCIO
SALES/ADVERTISING
SALES/ADVERTISING
HAIR/MAKEUP
COORDINATOR
FROM THE EDITOR
A
ah, happy February, everyone. It’s the month for love and romance. I hope you get to celebrate this time of ear with someone near and dear. For those of you, like me, who are flying solo, right now, I hope this month might bring you that ‘special’ something. And if you are part of the crowd who’s not looking f anything right now, that’s very okay too!
This month for our Talent Talks cover model, we bring you model, Anastasia; and I know this sounds very clichéd, but it is always a delight to work with someone so beautiful, yet so playful! As a talented ballet dancer we really put her though her paces as we had her hopping and pirouetting in those insane blue high heels. Yes, our theme this month is focused squarely on the romantic, so whether you choose to spend time with that special someone, or not, don’t forget to take a little time to curl up with your favorite digital mag, and read about Anastasia, tips on getting the perfect lip, dressing for date night and a whole lot more. Happy Valentine’s everyone!
Y
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ANASTASIA TSIKHANAVA: International Fashionista, Prima Ballerina ….16 BATTLE DESIGNS; Measuring Success ….26 Lost in Flirtation at The House of Cach ….38 Five Ways to Be a Great Lover ….42 The Legend of Giorgio Armani (Through the Years) ….48
How the Get the Perfect Red Lip ….8
Dressing for that Special Valentine’s Date Night! ....12
THE COSMETIC COUNTER
How To Get the
Perfect Red
By Olga Hawwa | Photo & videography by Valencio Sma
A
lways sexy, always sultry, and always in style, the red lip is a makeup staple no matter what the trends... especially during the month of February!
To get your lips Valentine Ready, follow these simple steps:
- Exfoliate the lips to remove any chappiness and flakes. - Lightly dab foundation over your natural lip line and follow with a face powder to set. Using a red lip liner, draw an “X” from one tip of the Cupid ’s bow to the bottom of the top lip. Repeat on the other side to finish the “X”
Lip!
all | Model: Jena Seiber
From the top of the Cupid’s bow, using light feathery strokes, continue the line to the outer corner of the mouth. If your top lip is smaller than your bottom lip, you can cheat a bit by going slightly above your natural lip line. Be careful not to overdo it. Repeat on the other side. Outline the center of the lower lip. Then using light, feathery strokes continue to both corners of the mouth. You can go slightly inside the natural lip line if your top lip still appears smaller.
Fixing any mistakes and creating a more precise line is easy! Using a fine makeup brush, apply concealer right outside the lip line. Blend the concealer into the skin. For added punch, dab a bit of lip gloss in the center of the mouth. If you really want to shine, apply lip gloss all over the lips. Avoid going all the way to the lip line to minimize bleeding.
Fill in the lips with the lip liner. This will help the lipstick set and prevent bleeding into the fine lines around the mouth.
The shade of red you choose depends on your skin tone. If your skin is cool toned, choose a blue-based red. Warm skin tones look best in orange-based reds.
Lightly dust face powder for more staying power.
A beautiful compliment to red lips is a light eyeshadow, black or gray eyeliner, and luscious eye fringe. Curling the lashes and applying a couple of coats of mascara will do the trick!
Then using a lip brush, dab lip color all over the lips, then smooth with the lip brush.
CLICK TO WATCH OLGA’S VIDEO DEMONSTRATION
OUT OF THE CLOSET
VALENTINE’S DAY STYLING TIPS
Look Flirty and Alluring
T
Without Showing Off Too Much! By Diane Capozzi
here are definitely mixed feelings when it comes to Valentine’s Day! But, whether you are heading out with friends, going on first night with a crush, spending a cozy night in with your beau or enjoying a romantic dinner with your hubby, this is a great holiday to go a little flirty, a little sultry, but definitely leave something to the imagination!
An all-black, slim pantsuit with plunging V-neck cami shows confidence! It is so elegant, dramatic & lends a little mystery to a night on the town.
There’s no need for a shoulder-baring, deep plunging neckline, sky-high dress to show off all of your assets; it will only look like you are trying too hard. We have 14 simple tips to keep your look alluring & refined, but not overtly sexy. 1. Going head to toe red is the obvious, literal nod to Valentine’s Day. Maybe try a more grown up hue, like burgundy, that is luxurious & rich. 2. Rule of Thumb! If you are going with something fitted on top, keep your look loose on bottom, or vice versa, but never both. Remember just a peek! 3. Decided on that stunning dress? Choose only one body part to tantalize him! Feel confident with a plunging neckline, show off your legs that go for miles, maybe a peekaboo back or bare shoulders. 4. Even though it’s still chilly in February, you can give ‘em the cold shoulder! Opt for a soft pink, offthe-shoulder knit that elevates your basic sweater to sexy & cool. Add distressed skinnies & heeled ankle booties. 5. Lace is very alluring, so you can play hard to get by choosing a long-sleeve fitted dress that has a classic shape. 6. An all-black, slim pantsuit with plunging V-neck cami shows confidence! It is so elegant, dramatic & lends a little mystery to a night on the town. 7. Let’s go the polar opposite, but get the same result with a long-sleeve, playful, flowy, floral shift dress that is utterly romantic! 8. Go all our girly with a skater skirt, turtleneck & bright pumps. Remember, “…you don’t have to be obviously sexy to still be sexy!” 9. Achieve street-style cool with a pencil skirt, crop top & leather jacket with pumps. That hint of skin to catch someone’s eye is a little sexy & little edgy. 10. I think leather is “completely unforgettable”. I say go for a cropped version & add a comfortable loose top to offset the sexiness of the pants. 11. Have a last-minute invitation? A sleeveless black
midi dress is so effortless, cool. By adding chandelier earrings & long delicate necklace, you will leave them wanting more! 12. Staying in with friends? Have fun with an oversized festive sweatshirt, cropped denim & colorful sneakers. 13. So, if you still have the urge for that pop of color in honor of Valentine’s Day with red or pink, use them effectively to avoid looking too cheesy. An accent here & there, breaking up the hues or adding contrasting colors will simplify the look. 14. Lastly, comfort is key! Minus the fidgeting, you can really focus on that someone special to guarantee a perfect night.
TALENT TALKS
ANASTASIA TSIKHAN
International Fashionista, Prima Ba
By Jaclyn Pelopida | Photos and videography by Valencio Small | Makeup by Sinnarath Vann | Hair & Ward
I
f you haven’t heard of Anastasia Tsikhanava, you’re about to hear and see a whole lot more of her. Not only does she have a background in acting, modeling, ballet and fashion, she also just became an ESPN Sports model and will be appearing in ESPN’s 2016 calendar.
NAVA
allerina
drobe Styling by Danielle Dube
Hailing from Minsk, Belarus, Tsikhanava graduated from National Ballet College and has been living in New England for the past 12 years. Aside from modeling for major designers in runway shows and advertisements, Tsikhanava even owned her own ballet studio in Belarus for years and worked as a choreographer there as well.
TS: “Where did you grow up?” AT: “I grew up in Minsk, which is the capital of Belarus.” TS: “What is your nationality?” AT: “I’m Belarussian.” TS: “Where did you attend school/college? Do you plan to continue your education?” AT: “I graduated from National Ballet College in Minsk, Belarus. I’m interested in working in the fashion and marketing industries. I would like to keep my options open for additional education as well.” TS: “How would you describe yourself?” AT: “I would describe myself as a very positive, energetic and friendly person. I love my family, my job and I enjoy every day of my life. It’s important to me to keep my family, friends and people around me happy.” TS: “How long have you been acting/modeling?” AT: “I have over 15 years of experience in the fashion and acting industries.” TS: “What was your first modeling/acting experience like?” AT: “My first experience was a Beauty Pageant in Belarus, which I won.” TS: “Do you have a day job, and what is it?” AT: “At this moment I do work full-time as model and actress, as well as teaching choreography on a parttime basis.” TS: “What was the last modeling/acting job that you did?” AT: “My last work assignment was for Talbot’s website.” TS: “Who was your favorite actor/actress growing up?” AT: “Sofia Loren, an Italian actress who is an incredibly talented and beautiful person.” TS: “Who’s your favorite actor or model today, and what is it that you like about them?” AT: “I love Angelina Jolie. She is talented, generous and beautiful. Angelina has a very kind heart as she is well known for her humanitarian efforts.”
With fashion as her background and her participation in runway shows for many world-renown design houses, Tsikhanava has a style that ranges from comfortable to chic. “Every day I would like to wear comfortable street style outfits; nice pair of ripped jeans or leather pants, sweater or leather jacket. My evening style would be elegant and fashionable. I love to wear dresses or something that will make my night memorable. On a traditional day I would wear jeans or leather leggings, nice pare of flats, sweater or shirt with a jacket and scarf.” she said. Being so well-versed in fashion, Tsikhanava had no hesitation telling me who her favorite designers are. “I prefer several designers. Chanel is very elegant and classy. Prada and Michael Kors are very stylish and comfortable. Zara is my favorite every day brand and where I find myself going the most when I’m shopping.” TS: “What do you enjoy doing in your down time?” AT: “In the Summer I can be found at the beach, swimming, surfing or pedal boarding. I spend a lot of time at the gym, especially during the cold New England winter.” TS: “What’s your favorite form of exercise?” AT: “Aerobic and Cardio. I love sports activities. Fitness and nutrition are parts of my daily routine. I also like to spend my time running, cycling, swimming, paddle boarding or surf boarding.” TS: “Have you traveled anywhere exotic or wish to in the future?” AT: “Yes. I’ve visited beautiful places like Indonesia, Bally, Italy, Aruba, The Seychelles, and hopefully my next destination will be Hawaii.” TS: “What’s your favorite dessert? Why?” AT: “I don’t really eat a lot of desserts, but if I have a chance it definitely would be a Tiramisu cake.” TS: “What is your favorite restaurant and why?” AT: “I prefer seafood restaurants. Any seafood or sushi restaurant will be a good fit for me.” TS: “What type of coffee do you prefer? Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, Etc.” AT: “I’m not big fan of coffee. Probably a plain black
CLICK TO GO BEHIND THE SCENES AT ANASTASIA’S SHOOT
cup from Starbucks would be my first choice.” TS: “Who is your favorite singer or band?” AT: “I don’t think my choice is original, I like Adele.” TS: “Do you like to sing karaoke and what’s your favorite song to sing?” AT: “Nooooo! I’m not a big fan of karaoke.” TS: “Are you a better singer or dancer?” AT: (Laughs), “A better dancer for sure.”
TS: “If you could learn to play a musical instrument, what would it be?” AT: “The Violin.” TS: “How many pets do you have, what are they, and what are their names?” AT: “I have a one year old, cute Maltipoo puppy named Nikolas.” TS: “Which season do you prefer and why?” AT: “Summer! I love, love, love summer when I can do all sorts of water activities.”
TS: “Share your favorite quote.” AT: “When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have a thousand reason to smile.” TS: “What the biggest piece of advice you have for other up-and-coming models/actors out there?” AT: “First of all you have to love what you do. Follow your goals, develop yourself every single day and never give up. Success is hard work, sometimes harder then we can imagine.”
PURSUITS
BATTLE DESIGNS measuring success All photos courtesy of Earl J Battle
“
First, I have to ask how do we measure success? For me I would have to say success is finishing a new collection, two or three times a year as well as making it newer than the last collect. Success is being recognized as a designer by not only by your peers, but by the general public. It’s a challenge. But I’m glad and excited to see my collections go down the runway every time. I think for me that’s the feeling of success.” Earl Battle’s stunning designs have taken audiences throughout the northeast on a fabulous journey. From gorgeous jewelry to stunning gowns, Earl’s talent cannot be contained. Growing up in Jamestown, NY, Earl learned to sew at the insistence of his mother, who was determined for both Earl and one of his brothers, to move out on their own once they turned 18. Earl found his passion and talent for sewing during these times.
TS: How would you describe yourself? EB: I wouldn’t; everyone sees something different about me. Most would say ‘very calm and patient, but waiting for the bomb to explode.’ TS: What is your educational background? EB: I have a BS in Clothing and Textile Design from Framingham State College and a Master in Costume Design from Boston University School of Theatre Arts.
TS: How was your experience as designer while you were a student? EB: Wow, thinking back to college. Well, I transferred all my credits from S.U.N.Y. Fredonia to Framingham State College about 1990 and was enrolled in Clothing and Textile Design. I remember getting along with all but one professor at Framingham, due to a mix up with taking some advanced classes, but other than that it was a good time.
His classmates were all great. As an adult returning to school and there was one other adult student and they became good friends. Despite having different styles of designing, Battle says they respected each other. “I do remember being told that I was an overachiever by one of my classmates,” he says, “but I was also told by one of the other male designers that he was glad that I was there, because he didn’t want to be the only male student in the clothing and textile department. I remember winning “Top Male Designer” at one of Framingham’s design competitions where I met Yolanda Cellucci during one of the judgings. I believe that was in 1992 and somewhere I have a picture us during that competition. I’ve since returned to show my work at a couple of Framingham’s Alumni events and taught a couple classes there.” TS: Did you ever think you would come this far as a designer? EB: Let’s say I’m still on my way to being a brand name, slowly but surely. but I’ve always believed in myself.
TS: Do you have a favorite artist (dead or alive) and why? EB: My favorite designer was Bob Mackie. I use to watch Carol Burnett and the “Sonny and Cher Show” and I would hear them say this was designed by Bob Mackie. I liked his style, he would design for the person, and the person’s personality and I wanted to do the same thing, design for the person as well as their personality. A designer’s life is far from easy. Restless nights, working hundreds of hours to perfect a collection, and learning how to survive on nothing but air and the sound of fabric running through machines. Earl’s life is no exception. From the beginning he worked tirelessly to perfect his artwork. With the inspiration and love his mother provided, everyone can see just how much love this man pours into his work. TS: You’ve mentioned before that your mother taught you how to use an old treadle machine. How has your mother inspired, influenced and shaped
your career in design? EB: Yes, you are correct my mother inspired me, but at that time she was teaching me how to sew out of necessity, she would say, “here are things you need to know.” But that was just one component. I used to draw a lot, from posters to just getting the hang of drawing the human body in different positions. I also like to figure out how to put different shapes together to see how they would come out. So after learning the basic sewing steps from my mother. I took a shirt and a pair of pants apart and figured out different ways I could put them together. Some things worked and some things didn’t work, but it was fun. TS: You started designing and making clothes at age 10. How did you get this all done at such a young age? You are the second oldest of six boys. What was it like to pursue a career in fashion design growing up with five brothers?
Were they supportive, especially since you started at such a young age, or was it a struggle at times? EB: I was a young kid full of energy, which was stated in the comment section of all of my report cards when I was young. My routine was - I would come home from school, work on a project until 3:00 or 4:00 a.m., then I would go to bed, wake up and get ready for school at 7:30 a.m., and start the process all over again. Being the second oldest of six boys you would think there would be a lot of ribbing and jokes but there wasn’t. There was more of: “he can sew let him fix it,” that sort of thing. Being one of the popular kids in school didn’t hurt either. But once people saw my work no one said a word, they just wanted to know where I got my clothes. My brothers being supportive? We were boys we didn’t think of things like that. We all played sports and we hung around our own cliques. Most of the time, to see us all together, there had to be a party or a funeral; unless my mother wanted a family picture of all the boys. Anyway, a couple of years after I started with the sewing class, the school board changed the rules. All guys had to take a home economics course and girls had to take a shop course so it became part of our school’s culture.
TS: What obstacles have you had to overcome in order to become successful? EB: I’ve been working with clothes in some capacity for a very long time. I had a lot of people who doubted me. So I would have to show them my work as a serious designer and my construction work. Once people saw my work, I got a lot more business. At one time, I did lose focus in my direction, money became an issue, and pulling together a good team, as well as having good business management, did hurt me. I was more of the creative side and I needed to know the business side. But I believed in myself and I kept that belief going. It’s up to me to know I have a good product, and I just needed to pull it all together with a solid plan. Am I “successful?” I guess that all depends on what I think success is. TS: How do you mix fashion and art onto your designs and promotional photos? EB: This is a nice question. For me art has two meanings, the first is the way you do things or put them together, and it is an art of putting not only fabric, metal, plastic and so forth on a person, it’s making it their “look.” The second is, “What am I trying to say to the audience?” As for fashion, it can be anything you want it to be as long as you have the stones to wear it and wear it like you have no shame. The promotional photo is ‘Fashion’ as a whole for me. It has a bit of everything; color, texture, shape, artistry, form, accessories, hair and makeup and a look or silhouette. All which makes the audience, react, think, praise, approve or not. Whatever the reaction, I hope people are intrigued enough to keep looking and liking what I do. TS: In 2002, you were a part of the Melting Pot Theater, (Off Broadway) NY, managing all aspects of design, sketches and production. Can you tell us a bit about your experience? EB: That was a typo, I believe that was 2003, but to answer your question I have to take you back several months before that job. I was in the Graduate degree program at Boston University, in Theater, for Costume Design. During a school break in December 2001, I assisted Department Chair in Costumes, Mariann Verheyen. Mariann was the Costume Designer for the play called “A Christmas Carol,” at the Alliance Theatre Company at the Woodruff Center in Atlanta, Georgia. At that time, I was helping out by construct-
ing some costumes for the show. I believe the costume designer and the shop manager suggested my name to the managing director to design a show called ‘Jar the Floor,’ by Cheryl West, a story of four generations of African American women. I got the job, but it ran during the school semester, so I had to ask for permission to design the show as well as be away for the spring semester. The Dean and the chair let me do the show for the experience. When it was all finished, the show got great reviews and I received a letter after closing night, that the show was being picked up by another theatre. I was excited, this meant if they used my costumes I could get credit and a royalty. Anyway, during the run of “Jar the Floor,” the managing director saw the show, liked my designs, and asked me to design the costumes for the show called “Miss Ever’s Boys,” which was in New York and an offBroadway show at the Melting Pot Theatre. For both shows, “Jar the Floor” and “Miss Ever’s Boys,” I followed the same premise; I read the script for the first time just to read. Then I read the script for the second time to make notes of costumes mentioned for each character. Then I read the script a third time for character information and character relationships. Before I sketch my designs, there is a first meeting with the director and all the production staff to go over
the ideas and vision of the director. After that meeting, I do some historical research, researching time periods that are mentioned in the script or the time period that the director wants to set the play in. This research I do will cover a five-year span before the actual time period and five years past the time period mentioned in the script or given by the director. Knowing that the change of fashion time-periods overlap before and after a major fashion change, it’s exciting to see where the characters lie in that range. After the research, I start to do character sketches to present a look of the character’s personality. This would include looks, how they would stand as well as facial expression. Then I would work on colors and swatching fabrics, so I can show color,
texture and where it would work on the body, to the director. This technique helps when the director decides if the look is right or not. If not, the director can have me make changes to the character before production starts. In the second meeting with the director and production staff, everybody presents their ideas and concepts. This meeting is where the staff work out the kinks and form a working strategy for the direction of the play. TS: When you have a runway show for your designs, what is the process like and what do you hope the audience gets from your pieces? EB: The process for me comes with an idea, I take that idea and do a little research to solidify what my idea is. Then I move into colors and buying fabric. A lot of the time, I find fabrics that work with my ideas very nicely. After buying fabric, I will lay it all on the table or the couch and start to match them together. Sometimes it’s matching the colors, sometimes it’s by pattern and color. Once all the colors and patterns are all settled, I start to sketch. As I’m sketching I consider the age group I want the looks to be for, as well as whether or not the idea is still coming through. I want the audience to see themselves in my clothes and I hope they do, no matter what the ideas are. TS: You’ve designed costumes each year for the charitable event “Band in Boston,” which raises money for arts for kids. What does this project mean to you? What do you hope people get out of it? What inspired you to start designing annually for Band in Boston? EB: Band in Boston, is a great event that brings politician, celebrities, and shop owners together to spoof different events and themes going on in the news, or things that have been trending
on social media, all for a good cause, to raise money for the kids in the arts. I really didn’t hope to get anything out of it. It was fun and I’ve met some wonderful people. I hope people get a good laugh when they see their state senators, news great, and celebrities come together to have some fun for a good cause, and to see them act like down to earth people. In 2012 I believe, someone suggested my name to the directors, Kippy Dewey and Narcissa Campion, we had a meeting. Then they told me about the whole idea. It’s been around in Boston for several years and this was the first time I’d heard of it. Anyway, I thought it was great.
no money to go to New York. But looking at S.U.N.Y Fredonia, the school didn’t have anything in fashion except for Costume design. I took the partial scholarship and I decided to go to S.U.NY. Fredonia. When I got to Fredonia I found out later on that the only way that I could do costume design was become a theater Major. So I became a Theatre major, and here is where my life path changed. TS: What would you say is your overall process in creating a piece? Do you tend to work alone or with a team? EB: My overall process is not just looking at the design as a design, but how it goes together, the understructure, the mixture of shapes if any, the shape itself and whether or not it will look good on more that one size model. When they all work together it’s more than a beautiful thing for me. When it doesn’t work, I will spend my time on the garment until I fix what I think is wrong with it.
I worked on the show for a couple of seasons, but my work at home grew more intense and I was trying to do more fashion shows. So I had to make some choices and I chose to stop designing for the show and put my efforts into working on designing and my business. I don’t plan to always work alone; it was just easier I’m sorry that it was one of the things I had to cut. at the time. Now I’m in the process of putting a team together that will fit in the sections that I need more TS: You design women’s and men’s wear but you support in, like marketing and sales, just to name a also do costume design, how are the two similar/ couple. different? What made you go into costume design? EB: For me the similarities are the design process, Earl’s collections are beautiful, elegant, and more than ideas, research. buying fabric, sketching and clothes. any one person can put into words. He’s worked hard People hear that phrase, “clothes that fit the person,” his entire life to create his incredible pieces. And he and they nod their heads. What I mean by that is, the leaves us with some very wise words. clothes I make for individual people, whether in fashion or costumes, fit their style, their character and it’s TS: If you could go back in time, what is the one that saying that kept me doing both. piece of advice you would give to your younger self? Doing costumes was like God playing a joke me as I EB: Take the money and run. (laughs) No, what I think back. Here was another avenue that I could be would say is, “don’t let anyone sway you from your creative in. But back in the day I knew I wanted to path.” I found myself moving in a new direction by go to FIT in New York, but a tragic mishap had haphaving to make a choice between costumes and fashpened; too many boys not enough college savings. ion. I would also say, “have no real regrets. you’re on So here’s what happened during high school I was your path for a reason so make the most of it.” competing in the state championship in the one-mile relay. That year our team broke the school record and I was clocked at 48.8 seconds for my leg of the race. Well at that time I was unaware that the track coach from S.U.N.Y Fredonia, saw the meet until a week later when I received a letter inviting me to join the Fredonia’s track team. They offered me a partial scholarship which was great at that time, because I had
ON THE TOWN
Lost in Flirtation HOUSE OF CACH at the
By Valerie Langlais Jewelry & Accessories; House of Cach | Garments: Jonathan Joseph Peters Hair: Betha Wood | Makeup: Holly Dalton
O
n January 31st, House of Cach hosted a preValentine’s fete: Lost in Flirtation. This gathering of artists, industry professionals and fashion enthusiasts was held in their showroom at 326 Carpenter Street in Providence: An intimate space combining a gallery-style showroom and the artists’ workspace.
Photo by Daniel Gagnon
Photo by Corey Gomes
House of Cach, is in itself, an experience. The jewelry and accessories are, if not one-of-a-kind, then limited edition. Unique and creative, the pieces are truly wearable works of art. The bridal line offers amazing headpieces and accessories that reflect an artistic and romantically gothic aesthetic. All of the collection reveals a sense of dark whimsy: some featuring painted and jeweled insects. As artists, they specialize in custom pieces either for photo shoots or performance and video. The current rumor is that they will soon have creations worn by Madonna and her cast on tour!
To truly bring your style to the next level, visit their showroom or browse their website at http://www. houseofcach.com
Photo by Daniel Gagnon
Often inspired by their large-scale art projects, House of Cach offers ready-to-wear designs for women and men, and for their newest collection, House of Cach Bridal, the designers have incorporated real flowers including roses, lilies and orchids with semi-precious stones, pearls and fine Italian leathers.
FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Five Ways to be a Great
A
t Lover By Lynell Masterson
s February rolls around and the stores begin to fill with Valentine’s themed dÊcor, it beckons me to stop and think of love and exactly what this L thing is all about. The dying question that is elusive to many, yet longed for by most.
If we were to look at how to be in love, where would it begin? Many have said it all starts within and others say until you meet the one, you’ll never know what love is. Surely it is not something easily put into words. You can’t just walk up to a bar and order two shots of love with a chaser of pure bliss. If we could, we’d probably never leave because it would feel so yummy; totally speaking on my behalf, here. This concept is not far from what we may do in order to feel better, believing there is someone (or something) “out there” that’s going to satisfy the longing for love. VOILA! Enter all the “self- help” books having justified means to say that you can’t go out and get love, you need to have it within. Just as we can access any emotion from within, love is accessible to all. Here’s what I noticed about love, being a rightful owner of an amorous heart. Through investigative field work from the shores of rapture and delight, I’ve tapped into moments of love and when I did, WOWZA, something was different about me. There was a sense of freedom, lightness and spaciousness that everything was perfect, especially me. When I felt those waves rush over me, it was as though all of my negative thoughts had disappeared. Think about it. It is quite difficult to feel love and to still feel self-loathing and disgust. They just don’t exist together. When we are in “love” there is no space to not like yourself. So how do we cultivate that oh so good feeling in our lives? While having limited control over when that special someone will step into or (yikes) out of our life, having a mad love affair with yourself will always be available to you AND help you in your external relationships, as well. “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” Oscar Wilde Well then Nell, where would we begin with this so called loving yourself technique? Glad you asked.
Five Ways to be a great Lover 1: List your top ten qualities and characteristics that make you special. Leave out the “Yeah Buts” here. YEAH I graduated 4.0 in my class BUT I never got the job I wanted. Ever notice how many times you do that to yourself?
2: Go easy with the negative chatter. Imagine how you would look at all those frustrating things about yourself, if you could be that mesmerized lover that thinks everything you do is just plain ole cute. Like when you forgot to set your alarm and accidentally overslept for the 50th time. You would say something like, how adorable you are for oversleeping today; you
must have been tired/ overworked to have done that (figuratively speaking of course). And then as a supportive partner, you would ask, hey what’s going on here, it seems like you’ve been doing this a lot lately, is everything ok? Ahem, see the difference. We can be honest AND supportive to ourselves without being mean.
PS Here’s a quick way to find out when your thoughts are unfavorable, if you begin to feel bad, grumpy or irritable, most likely your mind is thinking thoughts that are not supportive and nurturing to you. Check in and notice what is being said in the head. 3: Give love. Give yourself love just as fully as you would give to another. You are capable of great love, and you are worthy of it. Do seemingly silly things like hug yourself; tell yourself daily that you love yourself, that you’re beautiful, strong and great. REMEMBER to celebrate your wins! 4: Start to trust. Know that you have your back. As you get to know this cool person within, know that you will not hurt or abandon yourself. 5: Rinse & repeat continuously. *Last month I wrote about practicing something new and turning your life around (check it out if you haven’t already). These are very complimentary ways to begin to transform your relationships, your life and your happiness. Actually ALL of what I write about is devoted to that, WHY, because I NEEDED to in order to change my life. The sole purpose of my work is to now share what I have learned with others. If you are on your way and need a little light, send me a shout out, and I’ll send a little illumination your way! lynellmasterson@gmail.com*
A WINK FROM‌Italy
H
aving eighty years doesn’t prove that it is the prerogative only, of a genius like our King Giorgio (Armani), undoubtedly one of the greatest icons of Italian fashion. Giorgio Armani is the pride of the whole Italian tailoring industry, recognized and appreciated all over the world and despite his venerable age, he does not cease to create beautiful masterpieces that are set to go on forever!
THE LEGEND OF
GIORGIO ARMANI (Through the Years) By Cinzia Antonelli
Photo by Ralf Roletschek Source Wiki Media
He was born in Piacenza the July 11, 1934, where he stayed with his family until the end of high school. He moved to Milan to pursue a career in medicine but understood after some time, that his path would be something very different. Enter the world of fashion - almost by accident: first as a visual merchandiser, then as “buyer” for the department store La Rinascente. Here he gained knowledge of high quality products from other continents, thus enriching the Milan fashion world and other elements of different cultures unknown until it was time, for us Italians.
His creations are a true revolution, especially his mythical jackets, completely “unstructured.” The line for Men and Women, reinvents the jacket with fewer constraints, the typical rigid tradition, until now, drawn from across international fashions. The lines are now more fluid, comfortable with an informal touch, leaving bodies with a certain feeling of well-being and freedom, yet are able to give some authority, elegance and class typical of every creation of Armani. For the female world, Giorgio Armani created a new way of thinking about the classic suit, not only as evening attire, but also during the day for work; daring to pair them with a pair of ballet flats or even with sneakers. The combination of different materials in various contexts, almost unexpected and unusual, make Armani a genius creator of the most important
Photo by Alohomoratum Source Wiki Media
In 1964 he designed the collection ‘Man of Nino Cerruti’ with excellent results, and after a few years of experience in fashion, he created his first private collection ‘Man and Woman.’ And so his personal brand, Giorgio Armani Spa, started in 1975.
fashion clothing in the ‘90s. The final seal to his creative genius comes in 1982, with the famous cover of Time magazine. Now the undisputed symbol of a restrained elegance and essential King George (Armani) has entered forcefully and successfully into shows, dressing the biggest stars of cinema, theater and music. His style was immortalized by the sex symbol Richard Gere in “American Gigolo,” wearing a variety of shirts, ties and jackets all perfectly assembled according to its canons of style. Its appeal is rather more classic recognizable by creating clothing for Sean Connery, Kevin Costner, Robert De Niro and Andy Garcia, in the legendary film “Untouchables” by B. De Palma. And how can we forget the famous and beautiful Michelle Pfeiffer, as Sally in the film “Up Close and Personal,” all dressed by Giorgio Armani. He never degrades the female body, in fact he knows best how to enhance its lines discreetly. The great genius of Giorgio Armani, can also be seen in fashions that are not absolutely elite, created to be accessible to all. The young line is captured in the brand “Emporio Armani,” and has been followed by other lines that include accessories, perfumes and makeup. Precisely because he conceived his brand as a fashion item that can belong to anyone, he also created restaurants, hotels and most recently the basketball team Starry “Olimpia Milano.” Today Armani is a handsome, distinguished gentleman, with a slight upward tilt to his nose. He pronounces his words with nicely rounded ‘r’ and has a lot of charm. With his looks, immortalized with the T-shirt and blacks pants with white sneakers, after every fashion show, or with a stylish tie when showing his collection of haute couture ‘Armani Privé.’ To celebrate his forty year career, Giorgio Armani has given us his autobiography, presented at the very end of the Spring / Summer 2016 fashion show, alongside the famous international fashion journalist, Suzy Menkes. Also for this occasion, we will be able to view on his website, enriched with an additional section “Attribute,” including many special features such as photos, historical parades, awards received, commemorative items and unreleased films.
But with the summer approaching, what will the fashionable woman and the man wear for the SpringSummer 2016, from Giorgio Armami - on the catwalks of Milan, Paris, London and New York? True to its tradition and in perfect keeping with his creative genius, we are seeing Woman featured with jackets and trousers, with absolutely no monotony - an unusual combination rich and full of inspiration. Jackets are shorter and light blazers, while evening wear is the triumph of smoking-super feminine clothes and rich
sequins, beads and chiffon dresses. For Man the watchword is: fluidity, comfort and travel. Giorgio Armani imagines him traveling wearing a beret, mirrored sunglasses, soft pants and a backpack. But in the male wardrobe, there is also room to craft clothes, elegant, reassuring and no head shots! These are certainly clothes that everyone can wear elegantly, fluid, and for most, relaxing. Finally, inspired by his famous quote: “Elegance is not
to be noticed, but to be remembered,” I would say, ‘relax a little while reading, in one breath, the beautiful memoir of our beloved King Giorgio – a great collectible for your library. Happy reading! Ciao from Italy…
Photo by MIKI Yoshihito Source Wiki Media