ICON Magazine Fall 2012 by The Icon Mag

Full AD

table of

content 08 14 20 22 24 34 38 42 46 50

art meets real world

gillian jacobs - From the playground to the TV screen

love sex dating - To Online Date or Not Online Date?

mr c hotel - The Cipriani’s Have Made It To The Golden Coast!

Jamie Lynn Sigler - Let’s Hear It For Our Girl

feel good music - “Feels Good Girls” Volumes 1-3

casey labow - Getting to Know Casey LaBow

travel - Good Morning Vietnam

Kitchen diaries - “Home Grown”

fashion - Be an Icon - Fall Do’s

COVER wardrobe CREDITS: *Hellmuth 18K Rose Gold Croco Hoop Earrings - www.HellmuthUSA.com *Cengiz Abazoglu Black and Gold Silk Tulle Gown - www.CengizAbazoglu.net *Kate Spade Necklace - www.KateSpade.com *Swarovski Ring - www.swarovski.com this page - wardrobe CREDITS: Page 28 www.theiconmag.com

Staff/ contributors Editor in Chief >> Casey Geren Art Director >>> Samuel Guevara Copy Editor >> Christopher Dorsey Contributing Editor >> Liz Goldmann Entertainment Editor >> Reilly T. Bates Sex/Love/Dating Editor >> Lexa James Fashion >> Mito Aviles Travel >> Marisa Matluck Hospitality >> Joseph Martinus music >> Christine Solomon

Contributing Photographers >>>> Steve Erle Sebastian Smith Derek Wood Christos Karantzolas Andrea Dematte

cover Jamie Lynn Sigler Photography by SteveErle Shot on location at siren studio

Subscribe to Icon

www.theiconmag.com ICON Publications, LLC ÂŠ

www.theiconmag.com

transition Dear beloved readers,

Wow! What a summer! We have been working nonstop on our first full-length issue with the current ownership and now it’s here! Transitioning out of summer is always fun and exciting. You get to put away your shorts, tees, and tanks and pull out your fashionable clothing that was too hot to wear during the heat wave of the past three months. Even as a magazine, transition is not always easy, but with countless hours of hard work and amazing teamwork, we have been able to make it enjoyable and exciting! A special thanks to everyone who emailed us with feedback and support, because we can’t grow into something greater without knowing what works and what doesn’t. With every issue, we strive to include more relatable and relevant content, so keep the comments coming! This issue is filled with everything from the latest fashion trends to this season’s top beauty picks, from feel-good music to our charismatic cover girl, Jamie Lynn Sigler. Some may shy away from transition, but with a positive attitude and a fresh outlook, change can be a wonderful step toward an exciting, new adventure! And this issue is just that! We hope you enjoy our new, full-length look as much as we enjoyed making it!

Casey Geren, Editor-In-Chief

www.theiconmag.com

Artist Dana Louise Kirkpatrick has caught our eye lately, and we were lucky to catch up with her on a recent trip to Los Angeles, where Kirkpatrick often works. With bold paintings and a huge international following, her work propagates all sorts of feelings. We wanted to tap the brain of the Uber-talented artist, but what we learned is that we were actually in the midst of a genius.

www.theiconmag.com

Dana Louise Kirkpatrick By: Reilly T. Bates ICON: When you were a girl, what did you want to be when you grew up?

ICON: What do you want people to take away from your art when they see a piece?

Dana Louise Kirkpatrick: Someone who was far away from where I was. Someone who would make people see.

DLK: The truth.

ICON: What’s been your proudest achievement as an artist so far in your career? DLK: The other day before jumping on a plane back to JFK, I sat on a chair with a borrowed baby in my arms at the Silverlake Conservatory of Music [in Los Angeles]. Flea, of the Red Hot Chili Peppers sat there signing 900 Helen Burns vinyl albums. The Conservatory needs to raise $7 million to buy a property on Hollywood Boulevard, so we are doing a benefit together in October. I asked him if he wanted another artist to do the art for his invites. He just blue-eyed deadpanned me and said, “you.” He kept on signing the albums. So yesterday morning, I was really proud of that. I respect him a lot.

ICON: As an artist, how is it living in New York compared to LA? DLK: New York City’s cruelty sort of becomes okay when you see installation art trash piles like “FUCK YOU BEDBUGS” sharpied on a piss-stained mattress, or when you see African subway drummers dripping sweat and color, or Jim Joe tagged way up high, or six face-paintedwhite Japanese women in full traditional dress, or even just walking to the train with Rancid loud as life in my headphones. That’s my New York. In L.A. there is space between bodies and nobody cares how talented you are. They care what celebrities own your work. L.A. is fixated on beauty and unconcerned with empathy, but my music family is there and they have my heart.

ICON: From where do you draw your inspiration?

ICON: Describe for us a typical day or night in your studio.

DLK: Other artists, struggle, the underdogs, boxers, whores and dark faces. I find inspiration from iconic imagery done again. I drew the Mona Lisa on a flattened out cardboard box and put a Montana Gold bullet through her head and the red trickle running down made her beautiful.

DLK: In Manhattan, I sneak onto the F train to the C train to Spring street, all before going up a flight of steps and loudly bang on the door because the workers deadbolt it so they can siesta and smoke hash. I walk through a maze of some—it’s a soap warehouse—and I gorilla glue a canvas to the

walls, or cardboard if canvas is too scant, and I begin to paint. I trade a drawing or two for lunch at the vegan restaurant down the street. 12 hours will pass in an instant. Either I smoke cigarettes or I don’t. Then I take the train to wherever I am crashing, covered in paint. ICON: Did you have a mentor at the beginning of your career as an artist? DLK: No, but Jon Bresler gave me a space to paint in his SoHo warehouse. And Tim Hutton has let me destroy the floor of his barn, and Lyndley Schwab tells me I have a strong hand. And flea believes in me as an artist. They’re all kind of my heroes, so I’ll keep going. ICON: When is your next show or where can people see your art? DLK: You can see my art if you walk around the east side of L.A. or the Lower East Side of New York City. I’m donating work to Flea’s Silverlake Conservatory of Music dinner, and to Kerry Kennedy’s RFK Center Gala this winter. Established galleries, to date, have rejected me. It isn’t street art and it makes elite museums uneasy. I hear a lot of “what is she doing, she doesn’t have an MFA,” or “It’s so crude, it’s unresolved, she won’t articulate her process.” I’m holding out for people to open their eyes.

www.theiconmag.com

Gillian Jacobs has an undeniable aura of classic beauty about her, but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probably the last person to agree with that statement. When we caught up with the Community actress, we

www.theiconmag.com www.theiconmag.com

asked what she thinks about being considered a bombshell of good looks. Sure enough, she lets out a soft giggle followed by a short hesitation.

www.theiconmag.com www.theiconmag.com

gillianjacobs Photography by SebastianSmith Makeup: Toby Fleischman for The Wall Group using YSL BeautĂŠ Hair: Casey Geren for artistbytimothypriano.com Stylist: Jordan Johnson Previous page: Sweater: Brunello Cucinelli Shoe: Nina Ricci Necklace: Ista Ring: Le Vian This page: Sweater: Tory Burch Pant: Jean Paul Gaultier Shoe: Manolo Blahnik Necklace: Shay Ring: Ista

www.theiconmag.com

this page:

Trench Coat - Jean Paul Gaultier Necklace - Nikki Baker

www.theiconmag.com

“I just don’t think of myself as a bombshell,” she says shyly. “It’s very flattering to be dressed up in these clothes and have photos taken, but I definitely don’t see myself that way.” By: Reilly T. Bates Whether she likes it or not, Jacobs is getting a lot of attention and not just for her sexiness appeal. Since 2009, the dynamite success of NBC’s Community, where she plays Britta Perry, has gilded her star status and legitimated her solid on-screen talent. However, her personable nature makes meeting her feel like catching up with a humble, albeit famous, old friend. “It’s been remarkable,” Jacobs explains. “I never thought I would be a part of something so successful, or a part of something that people look forward to each week.” And indeed it is remarkable, to say the least. Jacobs began pursuing acting when she was just eight years old. Although a very creative young girl, she fell into it in an atypical way for a woman who now performs weekly on television with such demureness and ease. How did it happen? “My mom signed me up for an acting class one day,” she tells us with a chuckle, “because the school called my mom and said I was talking to myself on the playground!”

www.theiconmag.com

From the playground to the TV screen, Gillian keeps a low-key and down-to-earth demeanor, and not without the help of a good support system around her, which is almost as crucial as a publicist or a Blackberry in today’s Hollywood.

“The hard thing about being on television is trying to see my friends,” she quickly tells us. “But we love to eat! I love Son of a Gun and I love Animal. It’s also fun to discover those amazing small, hidden strip-mall restaurants—it’s a fun way to explore L.A.”

“I think that success at any age can be hard, but the older you are the easier it is to grapple with,” Gillian explains. “I think a good upbringing, good friends and a little therapy are all good reminders of what’s important.”

The future looks bright for Jacobs; all signs point toward a fast track to becoming a Hollywood veteran.

These good reminders probably help explain why we will continue to see a lot more of Jacobs. Currently, she’s wrapping up big-screen projects such as Milo with Ken Marino, Teddy Bears, a dark comedy directed by Thomas Beatty and Rebecca Fishman, and The Incredible Burt Wonderstone starring comedy greats Jim Carrey and Steve Carell. When not on set filming or posing at a photo shoot, Gillian catches up with her friends and loves to explore her gastronomical foodie side around Los Angeles.

“I really just want to continue to work on projects that I’m proud of,” Jacobs says. “I really want to continue developing as a performer.” One thing you won’t catch her doing in public anytime soon? “I’m a terrible singer,” she says laughing. “Unless they want me to do riot or crowd control over a speaker—no on the singing.”

Shirt - Love,Zooey Shorts - La Perla Necklace - Ista Ring - Big Bang

www.theiconmag.com

12 20

www.theiconmag.com www.theiconmag.com

To Online Date or Not Online Date?

By: Lexa James Even if you haven’t ever jumped online to find a date or flirted with the possibility of finding Mr. or Mrs. Right by scrolling through endless profiles, admit it: you’ve been a bit curious at least once. Although I haven’t dated online in quite sometime, I have a long history of online dating. I’ve met some great guys online (along with some not so great ones of course). Life gets busy and hectic, and sometimes my eyes are already glued to a computer screen, so why not see what the cyber world has to offer? You never know, you may just find the one you’ve been looking for. Online dating offers a variety of outlets that cater to most individuals. Looking for anything from a hot hookup to a serious relationship? Try Match.com. Marriage? EHarmony.com is the site for you. A little bit of this, a little bit of that? Log onto OkCupid.com. Looking for someone with a serious cash flow? Try MillionaireMatch. com (see gold diggers, I didn’t leave you out). And of course, the newest to the online dating scene is HowAboutWe.com, where the site focuses around posting your idea of an amazing date (at no cost) and finding someone who shares the same dream date and interests. Even if you are the slight bit curious or you are ready to

dive right into the online dating scene, here are a few of my Pros and Cons to get you started. Pro: It offers the ability to filter and search based on your own personal criteria. You can search based on distance, age, occupation, and even hair color! It gives you the chance to eliminate what you know you don’t want and focus on what is really important to you in a partner. Pro: Online dating is an alternative to the crowded bar, set-ups from friends who think they’re matchmakers, and having to give out a fake phone number to a random in the club. You can “date” and browse thousands of profiles from the comfort of your own home. Pro: It’s a lot like shopping. Do you have a height requirement? Or strong political views? These are just a couple of ways you can narrow down your “shopping list,” but instead of shopping for a new pair of shoes, you’re shopping for love. Con: Membership fees can be annoying. Most of the sites give you a less-expensive rate if you sign up for at least 6 months. Some sites even offer a complimentary

week. But who can put a price tag on potential love? Con: Dishonesty can occur with online dating, so be careful. Sometimes people will post outdated photos on their profile or misleading information, just take extra precaution and make sure you’re comfortable before making the decision to meet up in person. ALWAYS meet in a public place such as a restaurant, a coffee house or a bar. Con: Writing your profile can be exhausting and time consuming. It can be overwhelming and it’s full of every detailed question possible. Just sit back with a drink of your choice, remember to be honest and detailed, and let the world of online dating know exactly what you are and are not looking for! Whether you decide to take your love life online, remember to have fun. Even if you realize the person sitting across from you isn’t your exact match, you may spark a new friendship or at least a great story to share with your friends!

www.theiconmag.com www.theiconmag.com

mrc hotel The Cipriani’s Have Made It To The Golden Coast!

By: Joseph Martinus Beverly Hills just got hotter with the arrival of Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani’s signature hotel, Mr. C. Since last year’s debut in one of the most prestigious, trendsetting, celebrity-spotted cities, they’ve been blazing through the radiant California sun attracting all types of fans—Angelinos, tourists and celebrities. Mr. C is definitely an old world charm in a new world metropolis. Upon entering the hotel’s lobby you are quickly transfixed by the combination of both classical and contemporary European design. Mr. C delivers that quintessential essence of getting away. Their staff takes pride in delivering exceptional service to guests with

a personal approach that sets them apart from their competitors. A favorite among tourists and A-list celebrities alike, Mr C. has 12 gorgeous signature suites along with classical suites and spacious guest rooms. Each of the 138 rooms comes equipped with a private balcony offering mesmerizing panoramic views of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. As comfortable and as glamorous as the rooms make you feel, the 4,500-square-foot pool is a must, especially during the Southern California summer, which fortunately lasts year-round. Private poolside cabanas are surrounded by beautiful gardens that transport guests out of the city.

Mr. C’s self-titled Italian restaurant delivers Cipriani signature classics such as Carpaccio and baked tagliolini. The 165 seats in the restaurant are split between indoor and outdoor seating to please anyone’s preferences in conjunction with the weather. From the grand Venetian chandeliers to the Italian travertine flooring, rest assured, you can’t help but feel luxuriously special. Amid the plethora of signature hotels and resorts in Los Angeles, Mr. C has exceeded the expectations of guests and critics worldwide—and continues to do so— with its charming combination of classical and contemporary European design and an unparalleled personal approach to meeting their guests’ needs.

14 24

www.theiconmag.com

Sigler made her television-acting debut on the hit show The Sopranos, which quickly made her a television success story. So, you can imagine the level of excitement bursting out of our ears when she agreed to sit down with

us during her Icon Magazine photo shoot to catch up. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been dying to know about the new show sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starring in on NBC, Guys With Kids, which is definitely unlike any show out there right now.

www.theiconmag.com

ALL SAINTS leather dress Availble at: www.AllSaints.com Anthony Franco Corsette worn as neck piece Price Available Upon Request Available at: www.AnthonyFrancoDesigns.com

www.theiconmag.com

Let’s Hear It For

Our Girl

By: Reilly T. Bates We all love those simple moments that remind us that life is truly about the little things—when you beat rush hour traffic, or when you realize it’s free scoop day at Baskin-Robbins, and especially when you get that unexpected upgrade to first class on a long flight. One such moment happened recently when we found out that one of our favorite actresses, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, was returning to television! Sigler made her television-acting debut on the hit show The Sopranos, which quickly made her a television success story. So, you can imagine the level of excitement bursting out of our ears when she agreed to sit down with us during her Icon Magazine photo shoot to catch up. We’d been dying to know about the new show she’s starring in on NBC, Guys With Kids, which is definitely unlike any show out there right now. “There seemed to be this void in television of people in their late-20s and early-30s who have kids,” Sigler explains. “It’s either Teen Mom-type shows or older couples, but nothing for that kind of group, so I think Jimmy Fallon, the creator, is trying to put a positive spin on parenting, and really on fatherhood. It’s smart, well-written and fun! Parenting is hard, so it’s sort of adventures in parenting of this group of six friends who are trying to figure it all out, but you

also see these guys enjoying being dads but who are also sort of kids themselves, in a way.” Sigler, who plays Emily on the show, is excited for the challenges the show presents, especially the idea of playing a mom for the first time. “Emily is probably the [character] most like me that I’ve ever played, which sounds crazy because I played myself on Entourage!” she says with a laugh, “but that wasn’t really me. Emily is more like me: she’s obsessed with organizing, she always wants to find the positive, she wants to help her friends, she’s a guy’s girl—and that is all very much me.” Indeed finding the positive, Sigler says her character’s nature comes easy to her and that she took on the role for other telling reasons—one of them being to prove another outspoken critic wrong. “You know, I’ve done comedy before, and I’ve appeared in sitcoms before, but to be on my own show is a whole separate rhythm,” Sigler says. “And when I finished The Sopranos, somebody told me that I would probably never be a sitcom star because of my background. So, I think I took it as a personal challenge as well. For all of those reasons, the show is very different than anything I’ve ever done.”

Though Sigler is comfortable playing a mom on television, we had to wonder if life would be imitating art any time soon with the possibility of kids of her own. “The thing is,” she says before pausing, “I was married when I was 22, and I’m glad we didn’t have children, even though I thought I was ready for kids. In this business, you live such an adult life at a young age. In hindsight, I look back nine or ten years ago and I wasn’t an adult. It’s not that I wasn’t ready to be committed to someone for the rest of my life, but I was still a kid and still trying to figure things out. I’m not going to sit here and knock anybody for getting married at a young age, but I am way more prepared to have children now than when I was 22-years-old. I know a lot more about myself and I’m grateful that I had this time to figure it out before I put another life before me for the rest of my life.” Right after her divorce from ex-husband A.J. DiScala, who was ten years her senior, Sigler made a point to grow and make time for herself. Having started work on The Sopranos in high school, she tried to recapture aspects of growing up that she thought she might have missed out on.

www.theiconmag.com

28 JamieLynnSigler Photography by SteveErle Shot on location at Siren studios Makeup: Marina Gravani for artistbytimothypriano.com Hair: Casey Geren for artistbytimothypriano.com Stylist: Jeff K. Kim at Margaret Maldonado Agency Fashion Assistant: Kate Keegan Cook Post Production: Matthew Castle

Anthony Franco Black Leather Corset with Studded Corset Available at www.AnthonyFrancoDesigns.com AMIT GT Pink Ruffled Silk Mermaid Gown Available at www.AmitGT.in Amrapali Rasberry Tourmaline and Diamond Chandelier Earrings Retail: $13,600 Available at www.Amrapali.com

table of content wardrobe credits: Dress: AMIT GT Black Silk Mermaid Gown Available at www.AmitGT.in

Left Hand: Amrapali Rose Cut Diamond Bangle Available at www.AmrapaliJewels.com Isharya 18K Gold Plated Indian Square Bangle Retail: $678 Available at www.Isharya.com Isharya 18K Gold Plated Swirl XL Cuff Retail: $278 Available at www.Isharya.com

Right Hand: Amrapali Rose Cut Diamond Bangle Available at www.AmrapaliJewels.com Isharya 18K Gold Plated Indian Square Bangle Retail: $678 Available at www.Isharya.com Isharya 18K Gold Plated Metal Icon XL Cuff Retail: $298 Available at www.Isharya.com Swarovski Ring Available at www.swarovski.com

Earrings: Sethi Couture 18K Eiffel Earrings in Green Diamonds and Rose Cuts Retail: $7,200 Available at www.SethiCouture.com

www.theiconmag.com

“I really made a point to find my youth again and to not feel like I had to work all the time,” she explains. “I felt such a pressure to act like an adult, especially in this industry. I realized it’s okay to make mistakes and move on. I had my time with me, and so when I have a child, he or she is going to come before everything: before work, before me, before getting to wash my hair, before anything. That’s the type of mom I want to be.” Even through the ups and downs of divorce and living a life watched and sometimes scrutinized by the public eye, Sigler has managed to nurture a highly creative and fun side. She recorded an album—something she has been quoted as saying that she regrets—and she’s even written an autobiography titled Wise Girl: What I’ve Learned About Life, Love, and Loss. Writing is something she definitely wants to keep pursuing. “I feel like when I start getting in the swing of Guys With Kids and a routine, I’m going to really get into my writing,” she says excitedly. “Whether or not anything happens with it, I think it’s really good to be creative and use your imagination. I’m a firm believer that we create our own destiny, so I believe that using that side of our brain and having fun is good for anyone.” So what does a woman with a booming career and a knack for creativity do to unwind? You’ll probably be just a little surprised. “I’m in a Big Brother fantasy league,” she tells us straight-faced and matter-of-factly. “Big Brother is my all-time favorite [reality television show], but that only happens once a year in the summer,” she says with a small sigh.

www.theiconmag.com

Sigler’s best friend, Lance Bass, got her into the show a few years ago and she says that it can take up a lot of her free time, because it airs three times a week. “Oh, but then there’s Big Brother After Dark, which is on Showtime, so you can watch them live,” Sigler says, perking up a bit. “It’s just a crazy human experiment, and you watch these people break down. It’s crazy.” Separate from many of her contemporaries, Sigler has an effortlessly chic look about her. Between shots for ICON, she breezes around in a silk and chiffon maxi-dress that compliments her olive skin tone, a result of her Greek and Cuban heritage. When we ask if she has any style icons herself, she answers without hesitation. “You know, I never feel educated enough in fashion to answer that question. I always feel like people have these great answers and I just feel like I’ve never been able to think of mine,” she laments. “I’m influenced daily by people—by people who I see in the street, other actresses, every time I play a role—it’s so fun for me. Wardrobe is such a big part of playing a television role. You have to get under their skin.” Day to day, she switches things up and plays around with her personal style. “I love to play around. It’s really hard for me to pick one style,” she explains. “In general, I respect how anyone dresses because it’s an expression of self, and I tend to be that person who says, ‘I think that’s cool, and I think that’s cool!’ You know?”

Sigler says she prefers to browse Instagram to check out current street styles rather than check blogs. But, enough about clothes—how does someone who inspires young women everywhere reconcile the responsibility of being a role model herself? “I think it’s more of a responsibility just being a person living in this world,” Sigler points out. “I think that I’ve become more confident since I put less pressure on myself, and I think that when I used to put a lot of pressure on myself—and I’m a perfectionist by nature—I was so insecure. Just a few years ago, I started being able to be like, “Yeah, I mess up,” or “Yeah, I don’t know how to do that.” I feel more confident and more comfortable just owning up to who I am, you know? I think that that’s a more important thing to put out there than anything else.” “I’ve had a lot of ups and downs in my life,” she continues, “but I’ve never let anything stop me. Being married and getting divorced at a young age didn’t make me give up on love—I’ve had beautiful relationships since then. Working intensely and steadily, then working sporadically, then someone telling me I can’t do something, and now here I am doing a sitcom—it’s stuff like that. Don’t let other people’s opinions influence you. Take them and listen to them, but then you decide what to do with them.” When Sigler says such notions, no amount of free ice cream could make us more excited than her return to our television screens.

Hellmuth 18K Rose Gold Croco Hoop Earrings Available at: \www.HellmuthUSA.com Cengiz Abazoglu Black and Gold Silk Tulle Gown Available at: www.CengizAbazoglu.net Kate Spade Necklace Available at: www.KateSpade.com www.theiconmag.com

ColorProof Lift It Foam Mousse

www.colorproof.com

Heir Atelier Ultimate Make Up Prep www.HeirAtelier.com

Make Up For Ever Aqua Rouge #10 www.makeupforever.com

Make Up For Ever Black Tango Palette www.makeupforever.com

b c

a j

www.theiconmag.com

Giovanni D:tox System Purifying & Exfoliating facial cleansing towelettes

www.giovannicosmetics.com

Eau d’Italie Shampoo

www.lafco.com

Eau d’Italie Conditioner www.lafco.com

Eau d’Italie Shower Gel www.lafco.com

The Body Shop Tea Tree Pore Minimiser www.thebodyshopusa.com

g i

Bdellium Tools www.bdelliumtools.com

www.theiconmag.com

By: Christine Solomon I will never claim to be a cutting-edge, hipster music gatherer, but I am indeed a gatherer of good music. Proving the old adage that music is timeless, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been finding songs and artists that released music years ago that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve fallen in love with all over...

www.theiconmag.com

It’s Fall, the leaves are changing, the weather is cool and crisp. entrance explosive. Hopefully, these songs will at least play in your head as you enter Clothing has moved from neon back to beautiful berry, earth tones and black. You can finally pull out your boots and start wearing those lovely tailored jackets you left in the back of the closet for months. It’s time to move on from the summer anthems and get some feel-good tunes into your playlists.

a room and make you feel good.

These are the songs that always give a warm, overwhelming feeling when you walk around outside with ear buds in as you immerse yourself in the moment. We’ve all considered what song should play when we enter a room. Some days it would be whimsical and feminine. Other days it would be hip-hop or rock, making an

This playlist is full of songs by women who have taken over my airwaves. I will never claim to be a cutting-edge, hipster music gatherer, but I am indeed a gatherer of good music. Proving the old adage that music is timeless, I’ve been finding songs and artists that released music years ago that I’ve fallen in love with all over.

“feels good girls” volumes 1-3:

After a tough year of life changes, I’ve sunk into music that supports whatever my current emotion is at any given moment. I attach to the song that takes me somewhere beautiful or somewhere dark, the song that hugs me and doesn’t let go, songs I can escape deep into with lyrics that connect. These artists are not the coolest, newest or most fashionable but they are real and you’ll feel that when you listen. So dear reader, let’s take a chick-heavy journey of feel-good music from artists new and old.

www.theiconmag.com

Sharon Van Etten - tramp

Doe Eye - hotel fire

ELLE KING - the elle king ep

Elle King “No One Can Save You”

This bleach blonde, Ohio-born, Brooklyn-bred songstress connects the beauty and grit of her surroundings to this heartbreaking song. Her vocals are piercing and honest. This newly released 2 minute and 16 seconds of raw emotion can turn you from blaming yourself to blaming him!

Oh Darling “Prettiest Thing”

It’s too cute and I can’t get enough. This song from the Prom soundtrack is somehow convincing me with this little soft vocal that I am the prettiest thing she’s ever seen. If her voice sounds familiar it’s because you have probably heard the music on a national commercial or four (KIA, anyone?).

Neko Case “I Wish I Was The Moon”

From the 2002 album Blacklisted, this song gives a quick escape to the moon, transported by her sultry vocals. This alt-country singer, better known for her work with The New Pornographers, can clearly hold her own solo.

Sharon Van Etten “We Are Fine”

I had a hard time picking one song from Sharon. She simply has too many great songs. This Jersey-born singer-songwriter has 3 albums worthy of repetitive play.

“We Are Fine” comes from her most recent release, Serpents, and Sharon’s voice and honest emotion come through in every lyric she writes and every line she sings.

Jolie Holland “Damn Shame”

This is my greatest find from the last few months. A friend of mine saw her perform in Chicago years ago and played one song for me. I was hooked. Jolie’s voice and writing are heart-wrenchingly great. From her 2004 album, Escondida, this song has been on repeat for weeks.

Doe Eye “I Hate You”

I must say that all of us cool girls have recited these lyrics one way or another before she wrote them. This track, sung with a soft vocal, repeats the words “I hate you for making me feel this way” over and over. It’s an angry song, but sung beautifully, and gives such a contrast that you can’t stop listening. Second EP entitled ‘Hotel Fire’ out now ilovedoeeye.com

Oh Laura “It Ain’t Enough”

The album A Song In My Head, A Demon In My Bed came across my desk in 2008. I’ve been listening to it ever since. This Swedish, sultry version of alt-country is well worth getting acquainted with on Spotify.

www.theiconmag.com

We’ve all heard of Breaking Dawn and are more than familiar with the legions of fans who follow the three main characters—but recently Casey LaBow, who plays Kate in the movies, has been catching our eye.

LaBow, who is working on multiple upcoming projects, opened up about life as an actor, her style, and what she does when she’s not a part of a vampire clan. She’s been making big splashes lately, and we can’t get enough of it.

www.theiconmag.com

caseylabow Photography by DerekWood Makeup: Ernesto Casillas Hair: Megan Lanoux Stylist: Madison Guest Top/dress: vintage Necklace: luv AJ

www.theiconmag.com

Getting to Know Casey LaBow By: Reilly T. Bates

ICON: How has the Breaking Dawn movies changed you as an actor? Casey LaBow: It’s funny because when I got the job everyone said my life would change, and my life hasn’t really changed a lot! Maybe once the next movie comes out, who knows. I think that the obsession and the devotion of the fans really stays with the main three characters. But in the end, I learned a lot about myself. ICON: Is it true that you had to audition five times for the part of Kate? CL: I’m pretty sure it was four auditions. The whole thing took about three and a half months for me to get in and out—it was a difficult task. It seemed easier for everyone else who got the parts. It was so hard once I did get the part because I couldn’t tell anyone! ICON: You grew up in New York, but now live in Los Angeles? CL: Oh, I grew up—it’s kind of complicated—I grew up between Westchester and New York. New York is definitely where my heart and soul is, but I like to think I remain a child of America. I live in Venice Beach now, but I’m trying to get back to New York, we’ll see. ICON: We read that you used to be a stylist’s assistant—is that something you wanted to

pursue before acting? CL: No, it was more of a means to an end. I’ve had a lot of odd jobs on my way to becoming a working actor. I was also an assistant to a chef, and so on. You got to make money to pay your bills! ICON: So if you weren’t an actor now, what could you see yourself doing? CL: I could see myself definitely being a chef. I find myself very comfortable in the kitchen. I love watching people eat the food I make and smile. I guess that I get the same feeling when people watch my movies. ICON: What inspires your personal style now? CL: I get into these uniform moods where I wear the same thing for a while and then move on. Right now I’m really into wearing button up shirts all the way buttoned, chucks, or shorts and flowing tops. ICON: If we were to go through your iPod, what would be some of the most played music we’d find? CL: I love a lot of old music. I’m seriously like a 1940s black woman living in the South, so I listen to a lot of oldies and a lot of blues. I do love Jack White. I just went to his show, and at the end he

said “I hope you feel good—because I know I do,” and that really touched me. It was amazing. ICON: What’s a hobby or interest that your fans don’t know about you? CL: Honestly, I just love to watch movies all the time, and not just because I’m an actor. There is no greater pleasure than watching a good movie for me. Lately I’ve been watching a lot of Woody Allen. ICON: Would it be a dream to work with him? CL: Are you kidding me? It would be the dream to work with Woody Allen. ICON: What other projects are you currently working on? CL: Funny enough, I’ve been working with Catherine Hardwicke and helped her cast a new movie. She had me come in and do a cameo. I’ve also dabbled in some independent films, but the world of that is so funny— it’s really difficult to get things off the ground sometimes. With that, we expect to be seeing a lot more of this lovely lady on our screens. Until then you can catch the next installment of Breaking Dawn out in theaters this fall!

www.theiconmag.com

By: Marisa Matluck Waking up at 6 a.m. to House music blasting outside my window is something I deal with on a regular basis while living in Miami’s fist-pumping district, but when I opened my jet-lagged eyes, looked around the meticulously clean hotel room, and peered out the window to the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), Vietnam, I saw something very different: 60-year-old women Jazzersizing to the latest David Guetta Remix. An endless sea of early risers on motorbikes whooshed by as I tried to get to the ‘dust cafe’ across the street from my very modernized hotel. It was only breakfast and I was ready for dinner—the ever-delicious soup, Pho, quickly became an addiction. I’ve gathered my top “not to be missed” things to do in ‘Nam and some advice to go with it.

www.theiconmag.com

1. Travel Down the Mekong Delta 3. Get some tailored clothing in 5. Trek through Sapa – Rice fields line – This southwest river region, which opens into Hoi-An – Not to be confused with Hanoi, the northwest region of Vietnam that serves as the sea, is home to millions of ethnic Viet and a mecca for floating markets. Take your time on Mekong and plan to stay with one of many local families that love to host tourists in their homes. This will give any outsider a glimpse into how village life revolves around the river. The best part? Snake wine! Yes, you can cross snake wine off your ‘to do’ list, because these families usually end their evening meals with snake wine for celebrations and rice wine for fun!

2. Cross the Street – You may laugh, but

this American girl waits for the walk sign and has a huge fear of crossing streets. In the capital of Hanoi, and in any bustling city in ‘Nam, crossing the street is a real-life version of the video game ‘Frogger’. That’s right, you have to dive, dip and dodge motorbikes and bicycles the whole way across. Most interesting were the street vendors. Yes, women actually sold things in the middle of the street as people streamed by, making shopping a true adrenaline rush!

www.theiconmag.com

the capital, this little beach town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While walking through the old city streets, you can snag tickets to a cooking class. Or, take pictures of your favorite designers’ latest fashions and have a whole new wardrobe affordably tailored to fit your body to a ‘T’. Shop ‘til you drop then sit on the beach or venture out into the surrounding areas of Hue and check out some ancient sites and architecture.

4. Junk Boat on Halong Bay – Don’t

let the name fool you. These boats are nothing but authentically decorated, floating hotels that take you on a breath-taking ride through Halong Bay. Made of more than 3,000 islets, the limestone in this bay has gone through 500 million years of formation in different conditions. Anchoring in the middle of the bay at night, you can see dozens of shooting stars. Riding the junk boat is by far the most beautiful part of an already gorgeous country.

the gateway to the stunning Tonkinese Alps. I’m not much of a hiker, but I made the 26 km trek through this region very graciously with the help of the Dao—a group of guides indigenous to the region. For nearly 2 days, they carried my bags (and sometimes myself) through the mountains. This was probably, no it was, the longest walk/hike of my life and I would do it again in a heartbeat. The views were absolutely breathtaking.

Vietnam has a special place in my heart. I went there with a preconceived notion that it would be a scary, dirty country (thanks to the movie Tropic Thunder) and was more than pleasantly surprised to find I had been very, extremely wrong.

wheretostay HO CHI MIHN:

SAPA

On the

Luxury Park Hyatt Saigon 2 Lam Son Square | District 1 web: saigon.park.hyatt.com tel: +84 8 3824 1234

Worth the hike: Hmong Mountain Retreat Km 6 Sapa, Ban Ho Rd, Sapa Surrounds, Sapa (Lao Cai), Vietnam Web: hmongmountainretreat.com Tel: +84 20 6505 228

Luxury: Victoria Can Tho Resort 92 Cal Khe Ward, Can Tho, Vietnam Web: victoriahotels.asia Tel: +84 710 381 0111

Standard Vien Dong Hotel 275A Pham Ngu Lao St., D.1 Web: “http://viendonghotel.benthanhtourist.com” http://viendonghotel.benthanhtourist.com Tel: +84 8 3836 8941

HOI AN: Luxury The Nam Hai Hamlet 1 Dien Duong Village Dien Ban District, Quang Nam Province Web: thenamhai.com Tel: +84 510 394 0000 Standard Hoi An Hotel 10 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An 10000, Vietnam Web: hoianhotel.com Tel: +84 510 3861 445

Standard Sapa Rooms Boutique Hotel 018 Phan Si Pang St | Fan Xi Pang St, Sapa 19999, Vietnam Web: saparooms.com Tel: +84 20 6506 228

MEKONG DELTA

Homestay: Ba Linh Homestay 95 An Thanh, An Binh | Long Ho,Vinh Long, Vietnam N/a - book on a tour while there

HALONG BAY: Bai Tho Junk Head office: 5 Le Quy Don Street, Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam Web: baithojunk.com Tel: +84 33 3826 709

www.theiconmag.com

As the season of al fresco dining comes to a close, we turn our thoughts to preparing a healthy helping of home cooked food. Paired with the zing of fresh-farmed vegetables that are still in season, slow cooking this fall brings the promise of supreme, surprising ingredients and traditional, simple flavor. By: Liz Goldmann

Applewood is housed on the ground floor of a turn-of-thecentury Brooklyn storefront. Its menu changes daily, and seasonal cocktails showcase its devotion to sustainably grown, local products. The wine is equally devoted. The list drips variety and originality for pairing perfection with its seasonal dishes. The ever-changing menu has dishes such as: Grilled New Hampshire pork, squashes, and French green lentil ragout; Chatham Hake and marinated cherry peppers; House cured corned beef; and House made charcuterie. For dessert, peach, plum and basil flavors are on the menu tonight.

Owners Dave and Laura Shea recently acquired a farm in the Hudson River Valley, NY. They are raising Landrace, Yorkshire and Duroc pigs, Rhode Island Red hens that lay lovely brown eggs, and Black copper Marans that lay dark brown eggs prized for appearance and flavor, all of which is starting to be delivered to the Brooklyn restaurant. Icon loves a farm!

www.theiconmag.com

Crispy RoastChicken with Herbed Garden Veggies Ingredients: 1 medium sized chicken 1 lemon Whole head of garlic (cut across the equator) Olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper Directions:

»» Preheat oven to 22°C/440°F/Gas 6. »» Make sure chicken is at room temperature before cooking. »» Cut the lemon into eight pieces. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon wedges and garlic. Rub the outside of the bird all over with the olive oil and season very well with salt and pepper. Cut down through the skin between the legs so that they flatten out. »» Put the bird in a roasting tin and pour in a bit more oil, but not too much. Roast on the middle shelf of the oven for approximately 1 hour, making sure to baste the chicken regularly. After 1 hour, the chicken should be golden brown in color and well cooked. Remove from the oven and test that the juices in the thickest part of the leg run clear. If the juices are pink a little more cooking time will be required. »» Remove to carving dish and cover loosely with foil for 10-15 minutes before serving. Cut off the breast and legs and serve in large pieces. The remaining meat can be used for sandwiches or salad the next day.

The Best Roast Potatoes;

Peel and cut up the potatoes. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain. Put the lid back on the saucepan and give them a good shake so they look a bit rough around the edges. Put 2oz goose fat or lard (goose fat gives best results) into a roasting tin and heat until sizzling in oven 22°C/440°F/Gas 6. Pour potatoes in hot fat and cook for 45 minutes. Shake or baste a few times during the cooking time.

The Gravy; Ingredients: Juices and a little fat left in the roasting tin from the chicken 1 Tablespoon plain flour 1 Beef stock cube dissolved in a pint of hot water, stock or vegetable water

Directions: Put the roasting tin over a low heat and sprinkle the flour into the juices and fat from the chicken. Stir well for a minute to make a roux (flour paste). Gradually add the hot stock with the garlic and lemon from the chicken and whisk. Stir well, scraping all the caramelized bits from the bottom of the roasting tin until the gravy thickens. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Strain into serving jug.

www.theiconmag.com

Veggies; You can use earthy veggies like carrots, squash, or spinach, peas and zucchini mixed together. For sweet carrots, boil just enough water to cover them, say 2 inches, and a teaspoon of brown sugar. Cook simmering gently for 20 minutes. For the greens, just steam for 5-8 minutes. Chop together some thyme, mint, and tarragon, then mix over the veg before serving.

Home away from Home: Applewood Restaurant â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Brooklyn NYC

for reservations ph: 718.788.1810 501 eleventh street brooklyn, ny 11215a $45 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $70 per person.

www.theiconmag.com

Photography by: ChristosKarantzolas @212 Artists Representatives. NY

Model: Olga Kubrak @Major Models, NY Stylist: Maria-Stefania Vavylopoulou @www.halleyresources.com Hair/Makeup: Elena Perdikomati @Utopia, NY Fashion Assistant: Kia Alford

Black peplum skirt, Knit cardigan, Shoes and Clutch: Bottega Venetta Black lace tank top: Pas de Calais

www.theiconmag.com

Sequined dress, Shoes and Bag: Bottega VenettaÂ

www.theiconmag.com

Velvet jumpsuit and blouse: Tucker Bag and belt: French Connection Lace-up booties: Bottega Venetta

www.theiconmag.com

Floral peplum dress, Belt and Booties: Burberry Prorsum

www.theiconmag.com

Black blazer with embroidery and Shoes: Paul Smith Velvet pants: Nicole Miller Dress worn as a Top: Ted Baker Clutch and gloves: Burberry Prorsum

www.theiconmag.com

By: Mito Aviles

Fall is officially here and we surely hope your Let’s face it, granny’s got a brand new bag and wardrobe has been able to keep up. You think it’s full of stylish tricks. your grandmother’s closet is a thing of the past? Chic sportsmanship with a twist, goth revival, Think again. sartorial collars, and a new take on military will This fall, embrace your retro side surely stock up your fashion arsenal. Burgundy is the new black this season, but don’t despair; with a mix of florals, lace, bucket black and white are also invited to the party. Fur hats, knit tweeds, and of course, accents, needle point, embroidery—a fashion the shawl—all of which need be maven’s paradise! The fall mash-up is what’s in order and ICON Magazine has you covered at the top of your shopping list. with our dazzling fall Do’s and never the Don’ts.

www.theiconmag.com

Chic Sportsmanship: Play with this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out-of-this-world proportions. Keep it clean, and structured. Add a twist with some color and create a fall look all on your own.

www.theiconmag.com

Cropped Trousers: Always classic. Incorporate florals, prints, and geometric shapes to add some fun. Now, you have revolutionized the high water pant.

www.theiconmag.com

Burgundy: Burgundy is the new black this season. Mix it into your Fall wardrobe for a pop of this latest shade.

www.theiconmag.com

Military: Nubby knits, wool, fur. Layer it up and your ready for your daily battleground in any urban concrete jungle.

www.theiconmag.com

Goth Revival: Mix in black leather, spikes, lace and skulls. This will get you tickets to the Dope show for sure.

www.theiconmag.com

Black and White: Whether it be black or white or a mix of the two. You can never go wrong with such a classic look.

www.theiconmag.com

Mix Bag: Leather, Needlepoint, Embroidery, Retro Mix, and everything else. Incorporate something new to your everyday wear.

www.theiconmag.com

MODEL

Photography by

ANDREADEMATTE

Makeup: ASAMI MATSUDA Hair: KAY CHANG Stylist: LARISSA ALEKSANDROV