eLIFE #20 :: The New Face of the Press

Music, FASHION Culture the 242

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INSIDE www.facebook.com/elife242

Editor eLIFE 242 Magazine

WHAT’S

THE CHANGE

The 242 is changing by leaps and bounds, minute by minute, second by second. Especially in the fashion and music industry, that was once difficult to get into. Now with the advent of many new technologies, every one has the opportunity to be photographer, designer, musician etc. To some of the people in the industry this may be a hindrance, but in reality how I look at it, this is the best time for those of us who have become lackadaisical in our work/ craft to finally to begin to step our game up.

The world now is gone totally global, we can no longer compete with the person down the street we have to compete with the person halfway around the globe. This is the only way we can continue to keep The Bahamas on the map as a force to be reckoned with, not only in sports but in every aspect of the entertainment industry. The one thing we cannot deny is that the talent is here. Some of it is raw and some of it is refined, we must now work on showcasing the talent on a global scale whilst keeping it at the highest standards. #Bahamas2theWorld

COVERSTORY THE NEW FACE OF THE PRESS

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY Entrepreneur FARRENO FERGUSON FEATURING AVA TURNQUEST. NIKIA DEVEAUX, SANCHESKA BROWN, & IANTHIA SMITH

SAGE EDEN

LOCATION: CABLE 12 STUDIOS

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CONTRIBUTERS Traceyann Perpall - Managing Editor Aneka Stewart - Staff Writer James Weech - Staff Writer Chet Kincaid - Staff Writer Vuitton Bain - Staff Writer Uri J. B - Staff Writer Shaniece Pinder - Staff Writer Shandia Mackey - Staff Writer Carissa Rho - Staff Writer Ianthia Smith - Contributing Writer Lamon Bethel - Photographer

train 16 Last to Paris

Local Fashion Blogger Vuitton Bain Gives the Rundown on Paris Fashion Week

SCAN THE BARCODE Using any barcode scanning app on your iPhone or Blackberry .

Welcome to the Future

Dahar Butler - Graphic Artist Eddie Brown -Marketing/Sales (359-2589) Donald Knowles - CEO/Managing Editor

GIBSON 18 Michaella

To join the team email - info@islandikonz.net FOR MORE INFO 242.454.0264 Copyright Š 2011 iKonz Media All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher,nor be otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published.

The beliefs and opinions of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of eLIFE 242 Magazine or any of its affiliates.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E It all began with a Casting Call, and after seven weeks of intense training and competition, Menie Thurston and Fanchon Dawkins walked away with $10,000.00 and a one year contract as spokespersons for BTC. Special thanks to our viewers. If you didn’t have an opportunity to follow the show, you can visit www.btcstarmaker.com and watch all eight episodes.

Menie Thurston and Fanchon Dawkins walked away with the $10,000.00 Grand Prize Jr. Winner Menie Thurston with $10, 000 grand prize

BTC Acting CEO Kirk Griffin presents Sr. winner with $10,000 Grand Prize Starmaker Contestant Jillian Russel

Sammi Starr performs at the Starmaker Finale.

Starmaker Contestant Amy Sands Starmaker Contestant Valdere Murphy

www.btcbahamas.com 2 www.elife242.com

THE WWW.THECSPERSPECTIVE.COM RUNDOWN

CSPERSPECTIVE

WORDS BY

Artist Spotlight

albums Rise AgainstHelp is on the way You might remember them from their hit song “Savior” but Rise Against is back with their latest single from their album “Endgame”. It’s just as rocking as anything you’ve ever heard from these guys.

Wiz KhalifaNo Sleep Wiz Khalifa gets no sleep on this track and he attacks it like tomorrow will never come. It’s a cool track off his upcoming debut album “Rolling Papers” due to hit the shelves March 29th. The beat from Benny Blanco (who also churned out beats for artists like Brittney Spears and Katy Perry) sounds like a bangin’ laid back party-the-entire-weekend anthem. *raises plastic cup*

songs On your

Bodine “Be“ Johnson - Push Almost two months later and Be is back with another single entitled “Push.” The single is lifted from her forthcoming album, The BeComing. Carey Bros; Rik and Sketch, are the production duo behind this motivational mid-tempo.

ArmsChristina Perri This Jar of Hearts singer is back with her second single entitled “Arms”.

Perri makes quality music with strong lyrics and she doesn’t seem as if she’ll have a one night stand with the music charts anytime soon.

ipod

Rocketeer (FT Ryan Tedder) - Far East Movement

Flying in on the coat tails of their song “Like a G6” this group has paired up with One Republic’s front man, Ryan Tedder to bring this catchy pop -ballad single that was co-written by Bruno Mars.

Push- Avril Lavigne Chase- Two Thousand and Eleven

Chase, is making as many moves as possible in 2011. Last month, he dropped his freestyle to Nicki Minaj’s “Moment 4 Life” entitled “Two Thousand and Eleven.” This viral tune is just a warm up to his Young Story mixtape which will be entirely filled with original material.

Shandia Mackey & Chet Kincaid

Dev- In the Dark She’s the female voice you heard in last year’s hits “Like a G6” and “Bass Down Low” (Ft The Cataracts) but now she’s released her next single that has just enough kink and club appeal for this song to burn well into Summer 2011.

Complicated” singer and the next artist in Atlantis’ Live Concert Series, Avril Lavigne is releasing her second single from her upcoming album, Goodbye Lullaby.

Push is a slow classic Avril ballad.

Nothing to get Too excited over.

Party Rock AnthemLMFAO

As if their song “Shots” (ft Lil John) wasn’t addictive enough, they release this crazy/fun song that is sure to thrive in the clubs this summer and have you shuffling everywhere.

F.A.M.E. - Chris Brown The winds are definitely picking up for Chris “Breezy” Brown since the 2009 release of his album “Graffiti”. On the album, Chris is more mature, strong and confident than he’s ever been. It has everything from sultry ballads to bumpin’ dance tracks. Clearly Chris is back and saying that he is talented and won’t be shoved down the Wal-mart shelves any longer!

Femme FataleBritney Spears What is it about Brittney Spears that ALWAYS seems to hook us in? Yes, her personal life was an atomic mess but she always manages to bring it on the track and she does just that with this album.

The album which is filled with lots of fun party songs was created from producer giants like Dr. Luke, Will.I.Am and Max Martin.

Wiz KhalifaRolling Papers This one is for all the rap heads out there. Wiz does this album right with tracks produced by Jim Jonsin, Big Jerm, E. Dan and Stargate. His name was made popular from last year’s hit “Black and Yellow” and he’s not stopping with this album. Wiz is a pretty good rapper and that combined with spankin’ hot beats makes for a good album like this.

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ENtrepreneur

Profile

SageEden

International DISCOVER, DREAM, THEN DIVE IN!

SHARELL FERGUSON

Founder and CEO, SageEden International strives to develop innovative and cutting edge concepts,

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ADVICE: “Always remember that your ability to believe that you can changes everything.”

REMINDER: “Success, as good as it looks, is NOT for the faint at heart.”

ccording to Sharell Ferguson, Founder and CEO, SageEden International strives to develop innovative and cutting edge concepts, and unique delivery in its approach to individual and corporate branding. “One of the missions of the company is to coordinate opportunities to motivate and inspire others to believe and act on their dreams,” Ferguson added. Soup N’ Success, a goal- setting event organized and hosted by SageEden on January 8, 2011 at The Soup, Nassau Bahamas, demonstrated the power of accountability partners and networking. “The event brought individuals from various sectors of society together to share their goals and make strategic partnerships with those who would help them achieve them.

“The evening was charged with positive vibes and it was encouraging to be a part of that process. To me, doing what you love well, makes the difference between someone who is merely existing and those who truly live their lives! I choose to live! While my vision includes building a marketing and media empire, everything I do is a stepping stone toward ministry and philanthropy, she said.”

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PHOTO BY WORDS BY STYLIST BY

Miquelle Nairn Artistry SageEden Designer’s Image Boutique

Since its official launch on February 1, 2010, SageEden International has provided its clients with the standard of excellence in Marketing, Event Planning and Business Consulting Services.

organizing and hosting entertaining events, motivational speaking and media consultation, among others.

MOTIVATION: My vision, and knowing that many young individuals need more examples of successful role models who are making a positive difference while paving a pathway for them to follow.

In just one year the company has evolved and endured various challenges. “Running a successful business is not for those who are interested in becoming an “overnight success”. You must be prepared to face and overcome obstacles that are inevitable. This is why having a personal and corporate vision is crucial for sustainability and endurance, she added.”

With packages customized for each client’s budget, SageEden’s services range from coordinating conferences, planning and promoting book launches,

INSPIRATION: Those persons in my life who live selflessly for others, while breaking the mold, doing things differently and embracing the changes that life brings.

I’ve come to understand and embrace the process to greatness, and though the road may come with uncertainties, for me, fear will not be a factor.

For further information or to join the SageEden membership, visit www.sageeden.com

“

I’ve come to understand and embrace the process to greatness, and though the road may come with uncertainties, for me, fear will not be a factor.

for breakfast lunch ... or dinner.

Great Food | Great People | Good Times West Bay Street | Nassau, Bahamas | ph. 242.363.3508 www.compasspointbeachresort.com

Specialfeature LIFESTYLE FEATURE

Tone it Down By : Uri J B

I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice.”

So someone tell me why do we have people walking around looking like spoiled noni fruit? You folks who are addicted to skin lightening products, with your faces looking like Harvey Dent replicas…Listen Up! It’s not healthy for my eyes and especially for you to be parading the streets as salvaged 1992 Hondas with white hoods and black doors. I apologize (well, not really) but it’s embarrassing, distasteful and it doesn’t compute to me. Point being, ALL bleaching creams should be put to eternal rest.

Bleaching creams include ingredients that are not compatible with all skin tones leading to embarrassing side effects. Mercury is a main ingredient found in skin bleaching creams, and is considered a toxic chemical. Its compounds cause irritation and redness to the skin that ruins skin cells that protects us from harmful UV rays. It doesn’t end there; excess mercury exposure can result in poisoning leading to kidney and liver damage.

Sure, you may have skin discolorations or dark spots caused by natural effects such as aging, sun damages, hormonal changes acne and genetics that you may want to get rid of- understandable. But when folks move beyond getting rid of a few blemishes and take it to the extreme of attempting to look the color of Chris Brown when they used to look like Akon. When I see people walking around with burnt red faces and black knuckles, it shows me that our women and sometimes men (clears throat) have a problem that may have less to do with skin and more to do with what lies within.

There is no reason for them to be risking their health and true beauty by conforming to a lighter skin tone, just to belong to a “higher class”, “feel prettier” or whatever BS reason

I apologize (well, not really) but it’s embarrassing, distasteful and it doesn’t compute to me.

that people have created within society or in their own head.

STOP trying to audition for the Bahamas’ Next Top Albino Model, and live as you were born. Whether it is caramel, coffee, pecan or honey – you are and will always be beautiful!

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For a very long ti you are. But the 24 are, going to the sa No longer are they riding through Nas the story of four of moments and wha telling the story of

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ime they were people you saw on TV, often older, seemingly out of touch and just not interested in the same things 42 has a new crop of young journalists on its hands. Reporters who are out hitting up the same clubs and parties that you ame events, talking about the same topics and issues, dressing like you, dancing like you and running in your circles. y the stuffy talking heads on TV your parents hang out with, but they’re the people you hang out with.You can catch them assau bumping some Rihanna or Nicki Minaj, or meet them in a local club doing the” Dougie” with everyone else. This is f Nassau’s young talented female journalists ; their ups and downs, aspirations and of course embarrassing on the scene at social issues move beyond the headlines and are impacting their lives. These are the people who are recording and PHOTOS BY F.DoT Photography f our generation, so eLIFE 242 Magazine took the time to record theirs.

WORDS BY

Nikia Deve aux

The Na ssau Gu ardian/ NB12

eLIFE Lifestyle Editor

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NIKIA

NAME (f ull gove rnment) WORKS A : Nikia D e AGE: 25 T: THE NASSAU GUARD veaux IAN/NB STUDIED 12 AT: Univ MAJOR e : Mass C rsity of Kentuc ky ommun HOBBIE S: ic listening I’m a beach b ation / Spanis h um - be to musi c, bein g in go aching and b o od com pany, d ating, reading , ancing ...just ha ving fun .

Why did you get involved in media: Many noted international journalists refer to the profession as a calling and not a job. My mother always tells everyone that I was an observant, talkative, outspoken and nosey (although I prefer inquisitive lol) child, and that hasn’t changed one bit. I’m competitive, I love public speaking, I love reading and learning, I also really enjoy adventure and being in “the mix”...it is the perfect fit.

Which Journalist locally and international do you look up to: Michelle Malcolm and Judy Terrell are two women who I always admired in the media and Jerome Sawyer is the man lol. They were so relaxed and natural. There are also a number of people in journalism right now that I look up to. But since I see them often I won’t call names...that would just be weird for me lol. I like CNN reporter Soledad O’Brien, and former CBS reporter Dan Rather.

Any embarrassing moments (describe) ... LOL the Prime Minister mispronounced my name more than once live on national television, even after I corrected him twice.

“Nikita? Nikera? Ok Nikera what’s your question.” That was pretty embarrassing lol.

I’ve also had my dress blow up during an interview...yikes!

Describe what you would call your best day being in the press ( or most memorable moment) I’ve had so many memorable moments. I think the best moments are when my stories touch someone’s life, or when they help others. I’ve had people call me at work on several occasions to thank me for a story that helped them, or got their story out there.

What National Issue Concerns you most ... and why? Well crime of course. In my short time in the media I’ve seen far too many mothers cry for their murdered sons. I’ve been on many murder scenes, reported on more armed robberies than I count, and I’ve been a victim of house break-ins and car break-ins. Many of us in this country are living in fear, and many of us have been victims of crime one way or another. It shouldn’t be that way. The Bahamas was once known as a peaceful, laid-back country...those days seem to be gone. I want them back.

What are your goals in the industry ? To be the best journalist in the country. Aim high, right? Lol seriously though, I would like to be respected for my work and recognized as one of the country’s greatest even after I’m long gone. I’m working on it.

What advice would you give to those coming up in the journalism field ? Stay up-to-date on current events. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Go find your stories, don’t wait for them to come to you. Contacts are key! Find a senior reporter that you look up to, ask them for help whenever you can, and learn from them. Always aim for the top story. Most importantly, you must be willing to work harder than the rest. Best of luck!

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IE N N SA

Brown heska : Sanc t) n e vernm 102.9 (full go M NAME AT: Island F as y S ns with m ood Baham icatio WORK of the s Commun anging out g 5 y e 2 ll : g a E e ll G s re h t a A Co g, I’m no and M D AT: Hostin STUDIE Journalism ting, Radio ven though ri R: (e MAJO : Feature W y bowling tl IES recen HOBB d n a nds girlfrie l) at it lo Why did you get involved in media: There was no doubt from the first time I picked up a pen that writing is what I was destined to do. Couple that with the fact that gossip is a woman’s favorite past time, what better job can there be than to get paid to talk someone else’s business. Serioulsy though, I knew it was something that I am good at and it’s something I love. So it was a win win situation.

Which Journalist locally and international do you look up to: Locally – hands down Candia Dames. She is a hard working woman who has dedicated her life to the craft and it has paid off for her in a major way . She is indeed one of the greatest if not the greatest female reporter in the Bahamas.

Internationally – Nancy Grace. She is provocative, always timely and has a way that keeps the audience glued to the screen. She entertains as well as informs and in some ways she reminds me of me. (the older white me but still me)lol Any embarrassing moments (describe) ... Wow. I have had so much embarrassing moments. But I must say I when I was down town covering a story and didn’t realize that my bag was riding my skirt up, until passer by asked me If I couldn’t feel all the breeze on my butt. Keep in mind I was interviewing parliamentarians after the House of Assembly so I am sure all of them saw but neglected to say anything. To make matters worse. I tripped and fell a few minutes later. Not one of my finer moments.

Describe what you would call your best day being in the press ( or most memorable moment) My most memorable moment in the press would have to be recently during the BTC protest on February 23rd. I went out there not expecting such a huge and angry crowd. I went in the middle of them to get some good sound and was thrown about like a rag doll. I felt helpless for a brief moment. But it was also good to see Bahamians from all walks of life coming together, standing up for what they think is an injustice.

What National Issue Concerns you most ... and why? Crime. Crime is increasingly getting worse and it seems as if those who have the power to effectively do something about it are in the dark about what should be done. Criminals aren’t afraid of police any more and even our police are slowly turning into criminals. Its a reality that we all have to deal with because crime touches everyone.

What are your goals in the industry ? I just really want to be the best that I can be.

I want to stand out and be remembered not for being another reporter or another voice on the radio but for being THE voice on the radio.

What advice would you give to those coming up in the journalism field ? Being a journalist is not as easy as it looks and there is a lot more to it than going to a press conference and being an TV. It takes hard work , sacrifice and dedication. But once you have mastered it, its something that will benefit you forever, no matter what different career paths you choose to take

IANTHIA

NAME (f ull gove rnment) WORKS A : Ia Love 97 T: Jones Comm nthia Shashic FM, JCN a Aphro unicati ons Ne AGE: 25 TV 14) twork (T dite Smith he Bah STUDIED ama Jo A urnal, MAJOR T: The Univers ity of Ta : Comm mpa unicati HOBBIE ons and S: Danc Wri ing hobby, pole da , Playing volle ting ncing a y s a form ball and bask etball, of exerc soo ise (lol, no for re n-to-be al!)

Why did you get involved in media: Because I’m nosey and I want to be the one to deliver the news! Well that’s a part of it. I also joined this prestigious field because I love to write and I am very creative and imaginative. Writing for me is a form of therapy and heck, I do it well so why not make some money from it!?

Which Journalist locally and international do you look up to: Locally, I can’t say that there is one journalist who stands out in my mind but there are things that I like about various reporters. On the international scene I’d have to say Don Lemon from CNN. He’s just an all around reporter and anchor and he’s cute!

Any embarrassing moments (describe) ...In life in general, I have many embarrassing moments, lol but we’re talking about on the job right? A few years ago I was on a murder scene in Nassau Village, a guy was stabbed to death. So after getting the police interviews I proceeded to go to the crowd of people watching the scene to get reactions about the latest killing. I walked up to this guy and asked, “How do you feel about what happened in your community tonight?” He replied; “Miss, don’t ask me how it feel to get stab because you have never been stabbed.” He raised up his shirt and showed me about five to 10 scars on his chest. Pointing to them he said, “Look at my chest, I was stabbed all over my body, so don’t come around here asking no one how it feels to get stab. Get from around here.” And he was loud and this was in front of at least 20 people. Well shame ole me quickly threw my recorder in my bag and got the hell up outta there!

Describe what you would call your best day being in the press ( or most memorable moment): So far I’d have to say the best day was when I first sat behind that anchor’s desk to deliver the news to the nation! From writing speeches in school, to being a cub reporter at The Nassau Guardian and The Tribune to being the anchor of a news station? Me? That’s indeed one of the most humbling experiences in my career thus far. That coupled with the calls, emails, text messages, BBMs saying “You’re doing great” or “I just love to see you on TV” or “Thanks for that story, it was awesome,” it seems I create memorable moments everyday. :-) What National Issue Concerns you most ... and why? I don’t want to be cliche in saying crime but right now the situation, more specifically murder, is really bothering me and having to report it is even worst. I just hate going into the office on any given day and learning that someone or a few people were killed. Having to interview their families after the murder makes it ten times worst because you get to see first hand how not having that person any more will affect their three-year-old daughter, or how their husband/wife cant sleep at night or how their ailing mother is finding it hard to cope with the news, it’s just sickening. It seems my people have become so cold and angry it’s like everyone is a walking ticking time bomb and you’d better be careful what you say or you’ll be another statistic. Must we really record five murders in one week? It seems like we’re not slowing down on these murder numbers.

Continued on NEXT PAGE

AVA

est Turnqu : Ava ment) rn e v (full go une NAME AT: The Trib as S K R O Baham W ID 20’s llege of the ation M : E G A nic Co D AT: ommu STUDIE AA Mass C efinitions : D R , O le J b MA rab IES: Sc HOBB

Why did you get involved in media: For whom the bell tolls. I consider it my first devotion to emergent occasions.

Which Journalist locally and international do you look up to: Hunter S Thompson.

This profession is innately critical, so most of my admiration comes posthumous. I’m hooked on Vanguard right now, it’s a documentary series. Locally, there are a few writing styles I admire. They’re my colleagues though, so let’s just say they all work, or have worked, at the Tribune.Internationally.

Any embarrassing moments (describe) ... Every day. We’re human beings, but on top of that there’s this daily struggle to be detached, but not disengaged; critical but not compromising. Something embarrassing happens every day, at least to me.

Describe what you would call your best day being in the press ( or most memorable moment) Hah! Best days are free lunch days. I’m kidding - the lunch is always cold - but in this environment ‘best’ is fleeting. Most memorable... sometimes you can’t sleep for all the memories. I always romanticize my job far too much than I probably should; however, when a complete stranger takes you through their life and then entrusts you to share it with countless others... it sticks.

What National Issue Concerns you most ... and why? Freedom of Information Act. Without this, we are ultimately crippled in our coverage of all other national issues.

What are your goals in the industry ? National coverage. We need to figure out how to strengthen communications throughout the entire Bahamas. How can we ever gain true national identity with a scope this narrow? By our lapsed interest, we’re losing vital social history every day.

What advice would you give to those coming up in the journalism field ? This is not a marketing rite-of-passage, and there are other ways of building your media contact list. This job has a lot of perks, but you have to earn them. Be genuine and stay honest. You’re writing the future and documenting the past.

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Continued from LAST PAGE

IANTHIA

What are your goals in the industry ? I want to change Bahamians’ perception of journalism and journalists in the country.

I often say reporters, police officers and politicians get the worst rap in this country and it is so unfair, especially on our end.

People always criticize us about “not doing enough investigative reporting.” But when we try to we either reach roadblocks in the government or the same people (the public) accusing us of not being investigative don’t want to help. They want to run from the cameras, say, “No comment” (and don’t even know what that means), or simply be ignorant to the issues of the day. How do you expect us to present the news if you don’t want to give it? Being a journalist it hurts my heart to see how ignorant some of my people are, worst yet is the fact they they fear victimization for speaking their mind or voicing their opinions. This is The Bahamas, not Cuba. You can speak, you can voice your concerns, you can trust the media! Note: this is a major pet peeve of mine, I could go on but I wont.

What advice would you give to those coming up in the journalism field ? Don’t come in the game “slunking”. Journalism is a field where your name is everything and the stories you put that name to can either make or break you. Be creative, keep cur current, not only with current news but international news as well, be original and don’t be afraid to ask the hard questions.

Oh yea, I was in Phil’s Food store on Saturday and this guy walks up to me and says, “Hey, you don’t look so big in person. You’re a tiny lil woman.” Yes the camera does add 10 pounds!

dies in these la Look for paper, on your s y your new our Radio. The y f o n o n r o ati TV o w gener rters. e n e th o are ews rep female n Press Edition is le Our Ma G SOON COMIN

Don’t Wait

APPLYNOW To be a part of the 2011 Summer Swimsuit Edition of eLIFE 242 Magazine email photo & contact to swimsuit@elife242.com

www.elife242.com for more info

MAN UP WRITTEN BY

MALE FASHION REPORT

A LOOK AT WHAT’S COOL FOR MEN

James Weech

A Good “Look” at

Summer Things are about to heat up once again as summer rolls in, so let’s take a peek at a brighter future. Tinting has always been a staple necessity of comfortable island life in the 242, but let’s talk a little more mobile. The right pair of sunglasses has become extremely important across the board when it comes to the varying roles that style plays at home as well as worldwide.

Here’s a look at the right specs for you!

The NEW Classic: RayBan WayFarer:

We’ve mentioned them before, but I can’t help but reinforce the comeback that these retro style specs have made in the 21st century. The simple design boasts infinite marketability by matching up to any and every sense of the word style.

The Malcolm-X Specs: RayBan Clubmasters:

An interesting twist on an oldie as RayBan decides to throw tints on the famed spectacles of Mr. Malcolm himself. While giving up some of the simplicity of the original Wayfarer, the Clubmasters hold a distinguished air of class around them.

Retro Super Future: The “W”

I was fortunate to catch a glimpse of these gamechangers in a Diggy Simmons music video. The Super “W” sunglasses are ultimately the definition of vintage futuristic. The perfect blend of the past meeting the present in the sleek edged design is nothing short of genius.

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fashionSpecial

last train to

PARIS Local Fashion Blogger & eLIFE 242 writer Vuitton Bain Gives the Rundown on Paris Fashion Week By : TyriNA NEELy

B

ank teller by day, sought after fashion blogger by night.

wenty-three year old fashion enthusiast Vuitton Bain recently returned from a whirlwind trip to Paris for Paris Fashion Week and he’s giving us the dish on his ultimate fashion adventure.

A blogger for online fashion blog fashionbombdaily.com for over two years and a writer for local entertainment magazine ELife242, Vuitton gives us the rundown on his recent trip to Paris, his views on the local fashion industry and how aspiring fashion bloggers can break into the industry.

I became a faithful, daily reader and after a few weeks, I noticed that there was a competition up for an internet intern blogger.

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How did you get your position at fashionbombdaily?

It’s a funny story. I think I was Googling a pair of shoes for a friend, and happened upon The Fashion Bomb. I became a faithful, daily reader and after a few weeks, I noticed that there was a competition up for an internet intern blogger. So I entered the contest on a whim, completely not expecting to be eligible because I’m Bahamian.

But I entered, and the readers loved how I attacked the tasks that were handed to us contestants. They voted at the end of the week, and I won!

Describe your style in three words.

Classic meets trendy.

What was the most exciting aspect of your recent trip to Paris?

My top 2 moments would have to be seeing fashion greats like Anna Wintour, Andre Leon Talley, Emanuelle Alt, and Anna Dello Russo all under one roof at the Isabel Marant show. I felt so star struck and unworthy to even breathe the same air! My second favorite moment would have to be being in the middle of a fur protest outside of the Jean Paul Gaultier show, and yes, I was wearing a fur coat. It was a bit embarrassing having people look at me and chant their anti-fur protests, but in my defense, the fur was faux. Two French kids came up to me afterward and said how brave I was for not even flinching, and I thought it was the coolest thing. Next time

tell a story, not just say “this is a pretty dress I think you should purchase.” Versace in Atlantis does an amazing job of visual merchandising, other boutiques should probably take notes.

though, I’ll probably just wear a peacoat.

What shows did you attend?

Only three: Isabel Marant, Maison Martin Margiela, and Cacherel. Had an invite to A.F. Vandevorst, but I got lost (it was my first night there). I mistakenly threw the invite for Jean Paul Gaultier away and didn’t realize until I got there.

What was your favorite collection shown at Paris Fashion Week (whether you attended the show or not) and why?

Jean Paul Gaultier seemed interesting. The models took off clothes and shoes and threw them into a pile at the end of the runway making the pile bigger and bigger. Margiela had amazing accessories (hex nuts as rings?). Dior, obviously because of all the controversy surrounding Galliano being ousted because of his antiSemetic outbursts. And I loved how the Dior Atelier came out at the end. Not often do you see the people who actually put their sweat and tears into such masterpieces.

What three trends do you think will be huge for Fall 2011?

For fall there was obviously tons of fur and shearling as well as tassels and fringe on outerwear and boots. Rich, deep hues like navy blue, plum, and hunter green were also prevalent on the runways this season. Also floor length silhouettes especially with dresses, skirts, and wide leg trousers.

Who is your favorite designer at the moment and why?

Now this is ALWAYS a tough question for me. I can’t say that I have any favorite up and coming designers because I usually stick so close to those who’ve been around for a while. I absolutely love what Frida Giannini has done for Gucci since Tom Ford’s departure as creative director for the house.

Marc Jacobs is undoubtedly amazing at what he does. He has his line, his diffusion line (Marc by Marc Jacobs) as well as being at the creative helm of Louis Vuitton. And for him to sort of maintain the identity of each of those lines but still managing to show his “Marcness” in each piece, for lack of better word, is just pure genius.

Sarah Burton has managed to maintain the mastery that is Alexander McQueen since he left the fashion world. And doing that is beyond my realm of comprehension. Anything McQueen is just pure art and genius to me, and just can’t be thought of. It has to be dreamt. Everything that comes down a McQueen runway just takes us to somewhat of a tangible fantasy. Something we never thought could exist until it’s actually seen.

What are your views on the local fashion industry? What do you think needs to happen for substantial progress in this field to take place?

The local fashion industry is a few steps behind from where I’d like to see it. It’s at no fault of the persons here who are really involved and have an eye for what’s really fashionable. It’s the consumer, and the boutique owner who just decided one day to sell clothes because they were probably

complimented on an outfit more than twice. And a ton of these “boutiques” really only cater to a specific type of girl. Either the girl who likes to look cute when she goes out, or the girl who thinks she looks cute but she wore too many colors and looks a mess. But it’s never the girl who took such a fashion risk that it ended up being the best risk she ever took. In order for this industry to progress substantially, people actually have to pay attention to what’s happening in fashion internationally, not just what Rihanna wore to a party and try to sell that look, or some shoddy interpretation thereof, to everyone.

When I say pay attention, I mean to everything. Trends, lengths, fabrics, accessories, beauty, and hairstyles of the season; all of these things encapsulate this constant revolving door that we call fashion, and we have to keep up if we want to get anywhere with it. Men’s fashion here needs a serious boost. Tailored is the way to go, which is why most of the guys who actually care about how they present themselves do most of their shopping away or online. Another thing that can be done to improve the industry here, and it’s the simplest thing, window displays. As simple a thing as the way the mannequins are posed and dressed can make a person a client or someone who would just never set foot in your store. Too often I see clothes hanging nonchalantly from the ceiling or draped across headless and amputated mannequins, and it makes me sad. One’s window has to

What three local fashion designers are on your radar?

This is a bit of a toughie, namely because a few designers I know seem to have taken a break, But obviously Theodore Elyett.

He’s been around for a while, but he always changes it up.

David Rolle’s collection at Islands of the World Fashion Week was simply beyond, especially since he hadn’t been formally trained. I’m excited to see more from him in the future. Of course, this goes without saying, LaVonne Alexis of Cute Confections. They’re definitely going to put the Bahamas on the map.

Oversized clothes are just downright annoying and just look sloppy.

Men’s clothing stores here are doing nothing to cure this unnecessary epidemic.

What advice would you give to someone interested in breaking into the field of fashion blogging?

Know what avenue you want to take. Is it going to be a personal style blog? Fashion news? Style advice? Once you’ve decided which direction you’d like to take, scope out the competition.

Write down the pros and cons of their website and see what you can offer your readers that the others don’t already. Be witty and likable with your writing, but remember that grammar and punctuation play a pivotal role in having a stellar blog, and people who leave comments are merciless, especially when it comes to that.

Think about your target market. And most importantly, know EVERYTHING you can about fashion. I mean EVERYTHING, from designers to fashion writers to stylists to magazine editors and buyers. It’s imperative to know these things, because you will be tested in some way or another. People want to believe what they’re reading and who they’re reading it from are credible sources. Be prepared to spend late hours creating posts for your blog. And come up with an interesting name for it.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Hopefully a buyer for a chain of luxury boutiques or some type of fashion editor for a magazine. Maybe living in Toronto. Absolutely love that city.

www.elife242.com 17

eLIFE 242 MAGAZINE p r e s e n t s

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Michaella Gibson

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AGE: 26 SIGN: P ISC MEASU REMEN ES TS: 3 HOMTO WN: NA 2-30-48 SSAU, N P

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brought to you by THE BILLIONAIRE BOYS CLUB

So tell us about Michaella ? (Hobbies, etc. ) When I’m approached with challenges I learn to deal with them, when I don’t like the hand I’m dealt; I play it anyway. When no one believes in me, I believe in myself. Why? Because I’m a strong black woman.

If eLIFE242 was to take you on a date and we didn’t compliment your best asset, would you be offended ? (Why or Why Not) No It wouldn’t offended me. I know what my best assets are and personally I don’t need anyone to complement me on them, I have enough self confidence in myself.

Speaking of dates, what would be your ideal first date ?

The typical guy that enjoys going to “dinner’’ or the “movies” bores me. My ideal date would be going to Marios (Bowling) or doing something similar to that, Where we can both interact, have loads of fun and a bite to eat while we converse with each other. Plus it’s a major icebreaker. By the time we know it, we’ll be comfortable with each other.

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What is your biggest turn off when it comes to guys ?

Smoking, Bad English, extremely clingy and no goals.

So when you go out on the town, how many times do you get approached by guys on a regular ?

It happens way too often. To the point of where it becomes annoying to me.

Photo by Farreno Ferguson (FDOT) Want to be featured ? Submit full body shot and short bio to [ digitalgirl@elife242.com ]

So what do believe is your best physical asset ?

I’ve been told many times that I have beautifully shaped legs, so I believe them. But it’s a tossup between my lips and my legs, to sum it all up, my curves are my best physical assets.

Do you ever meet any good guys like that ?

Well I don’t normally go out I am not the social type.

So are you going to pursue modeling or are you just keeping the body in shape for fun ? :) Not interested in modeling but keeping my body in shape is nothing new. It’s my motivation for being me and being sexy!

Michae

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