JEZ Magazine - Fifth issue

MAGAZINE

Fashion. Culture. Philanthropy.

SPRING 2021 ISSUE

BLOOMING BEAUTY Spring is here & it’s time to smell the flowers

JEZMAGAZINE.COM

RTW SPRING 2021 TRENDS

by SONECA RED ALERT Two Sides to every story

ARTISTS WE LOVE &Their EXPERIANCE during PANDEMIC

VOLUME 5

Your Runway to New York City The Barclay embraces quintessential Park Avenue residential style. Classic, yet contemporary – a modern luxury oasis located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Just steps away you will find the best NYC has to offer; Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Theater District, Fifth Avenue and so much more. At The Barclay, the possibilities are limitless.

LIGHTING is EVERYTHING Quality light is crucial when photographing models and fashion so the outfits, makeup and skin tones look their best. Natural Light is ideal, and SYLVANIA Natural Series LED lighting is a gorgeous alternative because it duplicates Natural Light, thanks to TruWave Technology. Anyone who knows me knows how hard I work to get everything to look amazing. That’s why I installed these throughout my penthouse studio where I work and live, so everything can look incredible! I also appreciate how these minimize blue light which helps with my well-being and comfort, so I can fall asleep easier and see better with light that is more soothing for my eyes. With SYLVANIA Natural Series, I’m enjoying beautiful natural light all day and night in my professional and personal life.

In fact, SYLVANIA Natural LED lighting helps many of the photos in this magazine and videos you see on my social media channels look so incredible!

I hope you find your Tru light, and let it shine, baby!

EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA, JEZ MAGAZINE PUBLISHER The SYLVANIA Natural Series LED portfolio with TruWave Technology includes lighting products for all over your home. They can be found on Amazon:

https://bit.ly/EzDeLaRosaSYLVANIA

editor’s

letter

HelloReader, We’re excited to introduce a new feature at Jez Magazine, Jez Wonders, where readers can share their views about everyday life and the world around us. If you’re curious to know how people are thinking and reacting to issues that affect us all, please send your questions to: and we’ll get the skinny from our global community and share it with you.

For our first survey, we asked several Artists to review and respond to our brief synopsis of the last year wondering in particular how they were affected by the lockdown.

All we can say is Wow! Thanks to everyone for taking

MAGAZINE SPRING 2021 ISSUE

time to smell the flowers

Forever grateful for your support, wishing you blessings always,

Ezequiel De La Rosa, Editor –in- Chief

COVERS WITH AMARA LA NEGRA

MAKE-UP EDWARD CRUZ JEWELRY ANAT ICHAK

JEZMAGAZINE.COM

RTW SPRING 2021 TRENDS

by SONECA

We promise to continue shining a light on the hope of the future through faith, through cultural collaboration, and most importantly, with LOVE.

PHOTOGRAPHER EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @EZEQUIELDELAROSA

Fashion. Culture. Philanthropy.

BLOOMING BEAUTY Spring is here & it’s

the time to participate. We’d been wondering how people were coping in positive ways during the pandemic, always believing when the going gets tough, people rise to the occasion, and these responses prove it in humbling fashion.

aWeekend at the

Vagabond Fashion. Culture. Philanthropy.

LA FASHIONISTA

BEAUTY

BY OUR VERY OWN TIPS GREG BROCKINGTON

Interview with

MAGGIE JIMENEZ

DRESS CHRISTIAN SIRIANO SHOES VANESSA NOEL

RED ALERT Two Sides to every story ARTISTS WE LOVE &Their EXPERIANCE during PANDEMIC

VOLUME 5

LOCATION KIMPTON PALOMAR HOTEL SOUTH BEACH

Interview with

AMARA LA NEGRA BORN TO SHINE

JEZ MAGAZINE © 2020 All Rights Reserved. The Authors and Photographers reproduction without permission prohibited. Follow JEZ MAGAZINE on instagram @jezmagazine.

7

contributors

Creative Director

Current Trends Editor

Design Director

Writer

Style Editors

Beauty Editor

Beauty Editor

Beauty Editor

Produceer

Video Editor

Prepress Consultant

Style Editor

Style Editor

Production Director

NEW YORK LOCATION: EZ Studios | 325 W. 37th Street | Penthouse | New York, NY 10018

IT Director

SKIN DEEP

AMARA LA NEGRA

LOVE FOR SKINCARE

contents

BORN TO SHINE

MAGGIE JIMÉNEZ

LA FASHIONISTA

A WEEKEND AT THE

VAGABOND

31 23 7

47

THE ARTISTS INTERVIEWS

SPRING& SUMMER

2021

THE STORY OF MS. RIOS

A FRIEND IN NEED

71 TWO SIDES TO THE STORY

RED ALERT

103

83 93

61

contents

RTW TRENDS

BLOOMING BEAUTY

DRESS, CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM

AMARA LA NEGRA

BORN TO SHINE PHOTOGRAPHY BY EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @ezequieldelarosa WRITER DENISE PEREAU MAKE-UP BY EDWARD CRUZ @themakeuppapi LOCATION KIMPTON PALOMAR HOTEL SOUTH BEACH JEWELRY BY ANAT ICHAK @anatichakfinejewelry www.anatichak.com DRESS BY CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @csiriano SHOES BY VANESSA NOEL @VanessaNoelstyle MODEL AMARA LANEGRA

12

LOOK BY CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM

13

Amara is set on bringing attention to the fact that the Afro-Latina Diaspora is largely overlooked in history though Spanish speaking Africans have been present in North America since the midsixteenth century. The rich diversity defined by the term Afro-Latina can be characterized by Black identity and culture overlapping within the Dominican culture, and the Latin American community at large, a source of pride she cherishes and promotes.

The New York Times best seller The Midnight Library, Thomas Haig’s premise of going back in time to experience the “what ifs” life would be had we made different choices sprang to mind during our recent interview with Amara La Negra.

There’s no doubt she’s living her best life traveling a path filled with purpose. In his novel, Haig references Henry David Thoreau ‘s quote, “All good things are wild and free,” a statement we feel mirrors Amara’s beguiling, mega-watt persona. Immediately drawn in by her openhearted greeting, we were eager to learn everything about her.

Free to take charge and wildly successful in a number of carefully calibrated stage, screen and media aspirations, Amara LaNegra is an inspiring Afro-Latina woman of Dominican-American descent. Her efforts to help boost the economy in the Dominican Republic through her newly launched Airbnb real estate venture go hand in hand with the desire to give back to her people. She is for all intents and purposes, building an empire. Thoreau also touts the adage, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.

Live the life you imagined.” La Negra could clearly be defined as Unstoppable. She truly believes in manifesting her dreams, holding herself to a very high standard in all her undertakings.

Born Diana Danelys De Los Santos in Miami, Florida, she changed her name following a stint with the struggling teen-age girl group Amara. Soon after the group disbanded, she took the name Amara as her own adding LaNegra which literally translated means “black girl.” Raised by a devoted single mother, Ana Maria Oleaga, LaNegra won a beautiful baby contest at the age of one year old launching her childhood career trajectory.

A multifaceted entertainer with numerous accolades, Amara credits her schooling along with her mother’s loving guidance, hard work and determination for her success. Her first big hit in 2013, “Ayy” brought her recognition in the Latin market but success was to be short lived. LaNegra found herself homeless and in despair following her brush with fame which lasted several months. Keen on keeping a low profile till overcoming her plight, she has an affinity for the underserved having lived through this life altering experience. Opportunity knocked again when she was cast as a regular on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop Miami. Storylines regarding racism and colorism within the Latin community received attention on the show bringing negative focus once again to Amara’s Afro and her dark skin tone.

Her take? Tough if you don’t like it.

LaNegra’s career continues to evolve fueled by her creative artistry and long-term business goals in retail and real estate ownership and management.

And not surprisingly, her love of beauty and fashion has her seriously considering the creation of a make-up line for women of color. Amara is signed with BMG-Fast Life Entertainment working on future releases. Her Instagram following @amaralanegraaln is currently topped at 2.3 million followers energized in part by her weekly IG broadcast launched in 2020, hosted along with her mother Ana Maria, Grind Pretty, My Mom is the Bomb, created to inspire and motivate female entrepreneurs from every level of the business community. Living her beliefs, Amara is set to turn the world around and at Jez Magazine, we’re blessed to be able to share her story with our readers.

At the age of four, she debuted on the Spanish language TV program Sabado Gigante as the only Black member of the cast. By 16 she had numerous stage, screen, and commercial ventures under her belt having sung at 10 years of age with Gloria Estefan, appearing in Disney Productions and working as a back-up dancer for Tito Puente. Through it all she remained true to herself, flaunting her signature Afro and flawless dark skin, deflecting constant criticism to unique advantage.

14

16

LOOK BY CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM

AMARA LA NEGRA

Interview with

Tell us a little bit about your family background.

“I was an only child, born and raised in Miami, Florida by my mother but I strongly relate to my Dominican roots.

It was just the two of us after my father left and I never really knew him but now that I’ve become successful, he’s resurfaced, you know how that goes, but that’s another story.”

Did you have music lessons or a mentor?

“Yes. I was in a school for the preforming arts, so my training was a part of my life from day one. It taught me discipline and helped me develop many interests in the industry. It makes me sad sometimes to see talented people on social media given breakout star status who’ve not had any training at all. Nine times out of ten, they crash and burn really fast.

Not many people can find true success without training. When people ask me, especially kids, I always support getting an education and some kind of training if they’re trying to make a career out of it. Just saying. And no judgement on anyone.

After all, it’s still a business.”

When you go home, what’s on the table? What’s your favorite food?

“My mother’s Dominican food is of course what I crave when I’m home and I love everything she makes for me.

But I absolutely love pizza. It’s one of my favorite things to eat.”

Was your family religious?

“Not religious at all but I’d have to say I’m very spiritual.

I definitely have an awareness or connection to the Universe and what matters in life as a human being. Call it values if you will, together with an inner faith. I’ve had to be strong as a Black Latino woman throughout my life and it’s not been easy at times. Without trust in the process and faith in myself, I would’ve never accomplished what I’ve done.

We can’t see what’s right in front of us if we don’t learn how to let go.”

At what age did you find you could sing? When was your first stage experience?

“I don’t actually remember but my mother put me in a beautiful baby contest when I was one year old so that was my first public appearance. I won that one! I think it’s safe to say I was born to be in the entertainment field and I always loved it. I started singing around the age of four. By six, I was preforming all the time. Being on stage with Gloria Estefan as a kid was surreal, she’s amazing.

By the time I was 15 I was doing lots of commercial jobs.

Singing in Disney productions was great, and I even did a commercial for Oscar Mayer. My first big hit was a Brazilian Dembo Fusion single “Ayy,”in 2013. Dembo is closely associated with Reggaeton. It’s very sexy…all about the rhythms and beats. Very danceable. It makes me feel alive when I’m singing and dancing!”

Who do you credit for support in your career?

“I credit my mother for everything. She was always and will forever be my guardian angel. She’s my best friend, my confidant, my advisor, my everything.

She’s the strongest woman I know and I’m so lucky to be her daughter.”

Describe yourself in one word.

“Fabulous! And let me explain why I say that. I think to be successful in life it’s important to love ourselves first.

In my culture, there’s always so much criticism towards women. It’s either you’re too fat, too skinny, your skin’s too dark, your hair’s too nappy, your ass is too big, it’s not big enough, you’ll never succeed, why can’t you find the right guy…on and on. And it starts when we’re little girls.

Men aren’t subject to that type of criticism in any culture, but women are across the board. It’s cruel to be condemned for not being “good enough” before even getting a start in life. I say I’m Fabulous because I am. I’ve done the work.

I’ve got goals. I’ve had my shit but who hasn’t? We all get one life, and we all have the power to be what we want to be. As Afro-Latina women we have to take a stand for loving self-first because along with every human on the planet, we ARE fabulous. So, believing we’re fabulous right out of the gate crushes boundaries and then we can truly become unstoppable.”

17

NECKLACE, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM SWIMWEAR, ANITA USA @ANITASINCE1886USA

20

DRESS, CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM

LOOK BY CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM

Singer, Actress, Entrepreneur, TV Personality, Philanthropist, etc. etc. Empowering women to reach their full potential, your success is such an inspiration especially since you’ve had such challenging lows in life. What drives you?

“Again, I’d have to give props to my mother.

She’s always been my biggest supporter especially when I thought all was lost. She drives me to succeed.

I’m blessed to have such a trusting relationship with her especially because she has great instinct and instantly senses when something isn’t right. It’s like a sixth sense.

She’s the one who taught me how to trust the process and for anyone in this business, or any business, learning to do that is critical. I always share that message because not everyone has someone they can trust to fully support them.”

How did you overcome your own insecurities along your journey? What advice do you have for women who feel held back?

“I’ve said this over and over, I learned early on that I can’t change who I am nor would I want to. My children (my eggs in my ovaries, LOL!) have an Afro-Latino mother and that will never change either. I love my skin color and I love my Afro. It’s always been a part of my rebellion. Why would I want to change that? If I want to try a new look, I can put on a wig which is so fun, it’s like being a chameleon, but my Afro will always be a part of me.

In the real world, we have to accept “what” we are.

But that should never hold us back. We can always work at being a better “who” we are. We can continue educating ourselves to be successful, we can work harder, we can be kinder. We can definitely change our circumstances through hard work. I’ve been down and I’ve been up, and each day brings a chance to do something good. There’s more pressure than ever for women of color especially, and standing together is just as important as standing up for ourselves. I say go for it and don’t stop till you reach your goals.”

At what age did you recognize that racism factored into everyday living in your community? How did it affect you personally?

“I was raised in a community very connected to our Dominican roots. Some people in my culture never venture out of the community so they have mixed views on reality but there’s this underlying racism in the culture that can’t be denied. I was pretty young when I was aware of my skin color and my hair texture as being somehow not quite right to some ignorant people, but I couldn’t put a finger on why or how I figured it out or how old I was when it hit me. It was a kind of an awakening to the cruelty in the world if you can imagine.

22

Many people outside my culture don’t realize that | Afro-Latina is actually a mix of African slave descendants mixed with Spanish ancestry. We’ve been here hundreds of years. It’s been a goal for me to connect the dots so people understand that. There’s an amazing history there but we still have immigrant issues, issues with racial prejudice within the culture, even language barriers.

Afro-Latina women are in the worst position because the Dominican (Hispanic) culture is still very much male dominated, and Catholic for the most part. Women are working their asses off trying to help provide for their families but at the same time can’t seem to overcome cultural dictates to find true success.

Let’s face it. The problem with racism is universal.

And the issues for women are compounded by society’s preconceived images of perfection in every culture.

We’re all perfect humans in our own right, and I fight against discrimination not only for women, but for all people to be free from unrealistic stereotypes regarding skin color, body shaming, hair types and culture clash; anything that limits people in any way or prevents them from finding their success in life.”

You’ve received numerous industry accolades ultimately signing with UTA (United Talent Agency Worldwide) in 2018. Have you ever felt held back by the powers that be in the music industry as a Representative of the Afro-Latina community?

“Yes, definitely. I’ve had a lot of negative experiences even though when you look at my career accomplishments, you’d think it’s been smooth sailing. I’m not going to name names or rehash the past but let’s just say that as an Afro-Latina woman in the music business, missing an opportunity because you’re not the right fit, and again, there’s that skin color thing and crazy hair is certainly not uncommon.

The intensity of criticism a woman faces is much rougher than a man who may have much less to offer. It’s right off the hook if I’m being polite.”

The Afro-Latino Diaspora is largely overlooked in history books though Spanish speaking Africans have been present in North America for 400 plus years. You’re on a mission to empower your community by giving this story the attention it deserves. Please elaborate.

“The Afro Latina people have a rich history of amazing accomplishments throughout the world and are continuing to succeed on every level. I think to lift people up it’s important to know where we come from while looking to the future.

I’ll never forget where I come from because it’s part of who I am, Black and Hispanic. We’ve survived the slave traders, we’ve survived oppression. We’ve built community and country with next to nothing to start with. Our athletes are world class. Our entertainers tell our stories to audiences that are just hungry to know them. Our women are giving

24

LOOK BY CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM

us a voice in politics throughout the US. In the sciences, in medicine, in every field of business the Afro Latina community is making global inroads and the history books need to catch up. I’m proud of my heritage and it’s about time people wake up.”

while creating jobs to help people get on their feet.

I love the rehab process when you rebuild something from nothing. It’s a great feeling. I have four properties now and my goal is to buy an apartment building.

Can’t wait!”

As a Human Rights Advocate, racial equality is as important to you as breathing…how are you responding to racial disparity today especially between African Americans and Latinos?

“Discrimination not only between but within cultures is something I fight against all the time in my community.

Colorism is something that needs to stop. All Black lives matter. It shouldn’t matter how Black a person is or how fair a Black person is, the only thing that should matter is that we’re all human beings. But it’s a big issue in my culture. Families will encourage their children to find a white partner so their children will have lighter skin because there’s a myth that the lighter the skin, the better the chance for success. It’s terrible. I worry about what kind of world my kids will be living in because of this type of discrimination and racial injustice.

Where do you see yourself in five years? Marriage?

Children? Pets?

“I’ve got so many things I want to do it’s crazy! 5 years from now? I’ve got my own TV show, my real estate business is booming, my make-up and skin care line is making millions all over the world. Yes, to finally meeting my children but I gotta meet their father first. LOL! Marriage? Can’t say yes to that yet. Pets?”

We need to come together as human beings with respect to humanity. And that message needs to be repeated over and over. Social media has given me a platform to help give a voice to people who have no voice. Showing our strengths, our accomplishments and our business successes on-line reaches a global audience. It’s time the world realizes that no matter what your skin color is, you have the right to claim your best life whatever that might be.”

Your passion for helping the poor and disenfranchised, especially in the Dominican Republic is well documented.

Tell us about your business developments and starting an Airbnb network in the Caribbean. What inspired you to get into real estate? What are some of your business goals?

“When I bought my first house, it was one of the most exciting things ever for me. It was more than a validation.

It meant I could take care of my mother after she’s been taking care of me for so long. It meant I never have to worry again about where she was going to live or I was going to live, and it gave me a sense of freedom that was amazing. I love the Dominican Republic. It’s where my heart is. Investing in real estate there is a way for me to help revitalize Santiago where I first started this project,

You’ve become a fashion icon. What’s your fav fashion indulgence?

“Believe it or not, I’m a thrift store and Salvation Army freak.

Love, love, love them. Of course, I have a few indulgences, like designer shoes, but there’s nothing better than finding a bargain in a thrift store, taking it home and making it yours. I see it. I love it. I take it home. I paint it. Love spray paint! It’s like searching for treasure and when you find something that speaks to you, it’s a thrill.”

Social Media-What’s the line?

“Not sure what you mean. Social media can be our best friend or worst enemy. I think if we come from a place of honesty about what we’re doing, it’s totally relatable and beyond inspiring. It’s been a great platform for me to help women find their voice, to share my music, to promote my business ventures, to do lots of things in a public forum.

Yes, I know sometimes it’s a little crazy, but people know they can count on me to go there. You know what I mean…

LOL! It’s all good.”

What’s your motto or favorite quote?

“If you want it bad enough, you’ll find a way to get it!”

How can our readers help you in your charitable efforts?

“I would be so grateful and honored if your readers would like to make a donation to Jompeame, a charity that’s important to me. If they just click on the link I sent you, they’ll see all they need to know to make that decision.

It’s better than me trying to describe it to you. And thank you to everyone in advance for your kindness. https://instagram.com/jompeame?igshid=13qyibnh2o2gv

25

LOOK BY CHRISTIAN SIRIANO @CSIRIANO JEWELRY, ANAT ICHAK @ANATICHAKFINEJEWELRY WWW.ANATICHAK.COM CAPE, CARLTON JONES @CARLTONJONESCOLLECTION

SILK ROBE, CIRCULAR GARAGE

27

La

Fashionista THE LAST YEAR HAS TESTED HUMANITY IN WAYS WE COULD HAVE NEVER IMAGINED. Yet, where there is life, there is hope, and the tenacity of the human spirit has not only prevailed, but has pivoted forward staking resilience in its strength, in its resolve and most of all through love. We were wondering how people took charge of their lives during the pandemic refusing to succumb to daunting circumstances, thriving on positivity, steering themselves towards the future while helping others, hope in hand.

We’ve all had to shift focus on our relationships during the pandemic.

In many cases, we’ve become closer to family and friends finding creative ways to communicate our love for one another. Describe a positive change in one of your relationships during the last year.

Because of the pandemic, my oldest daughter Nicole was sent home from college, and moved back in with me for a few months. When she left for Boston University back in 2017, I honestly thought she would never live at home again full time. Although the pandemic put a pause on her junior year of college, I was secretly thrilled to have her back at home with me and my other daughter, Paola. We spent a ton of quality time together becoming closer than ever and even celebrated her 21st birthday together.

I never thought I’d have all my daughters under the same roof again so soon. The pandemic was a blessing in disguise because it brought my oldest daughter back to me for a few months. Now she’s back at school (and about to graduate!) and I miss her so much.

In many cases work relationships have been strictly relegated to Zoom conferencing. What did you do to develop and sustain new and existing relationships during the workplace lockdown?

It has definitely been hard adjusting to this new normal, especially in terms of work. For my job, I’m usually around a ton of people, going in and out of the studio. All of that had to stop and be adjusted for the pandemic.

In the meantime, I try to stay connected with people from work by always having my camera on during meetings. I think actually seeing each other’s faces can help us feel more connected. It’s easy to just keep your camera off, or just to do a phone call. I believe putting in the extra effort to be present goes a long way towards staying connected.

Stories of random acts of kindness were reported around the globe as people took to roles as front-line workers. Many people volunteered their services to charitable effort. What did you do to make a positive difference?

This is very small, but one thing I did towards the beginning of the pandemic was sharing supplies that were hard to come by with my neighbors. I live in an apartment complex, and sometime in March I got my hands on two gallons of disinfectant. I posted a sign by the elevators saying that I had extra disinfectant if anyone needed any since it was very hard to find when we went into the initial lockdown. I had some neighbors knock on my door, and others who shot me a message simply to say thank you for offering. I know it isn’t anything huge, but in times of crisis I think it’s so important to be kind and to share or give when you can.

- Written by Denise Pereau -

TV Personality MAGGIE JIMÉNEZ @jimenezmaggie Make-up by FRANZ MUNOZ @makeupbyfranz Style by SONECA GUADARA @styledbysoneca Location THE VAGABOND HOTEL MIAMI @THEVAGABOND Photography by EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @ezequieldelarosa

28

TAN JUMPSUIT, JAMES113

29

30

KNIT HEADWRAP AND OUTFIT, KREL TROPICAL KNITWEAR

31

32

PRINT TOP, JAMES113 BY DIEGO DOMINGUEZ

33

34

SKIN

DEEP

by GREGG BROCKINGTON @GreggBrockingtonBeauty

I am so pleased to write this column.

I hope it will answer some of your questions about beauty and skincare.

I am not a skincare expert.

I AM A MAKEUP ARTIST, WITH A LOVE FOR SKINCARE. With that being said…

Let’s start at the beginning And by that, I mean night.

I do the heavy lifting of my skincare routine in the evening.

Skin works more at night to repair itself.

After a day of staring at a screen for ZOOM meetings, emails, and FaceTime calls, any stress relief is welcomed.

Evening skincare “ME TIME” is my meditative luxury.

As a Beauty Brand Ambassador, I’m privileged to test out new products every year.

These are my spring summer 2021 all stars:

36

37

Let’s start at the beginning And by that, I mean Night

ROSE QUARTZ FACIAL ROLLER $38.00 | www.jennypatikin.com | @jennypatikin If you prefer to be analog try Jenny Patikin’s gorgeous It’s like a precious jewel… that I keep in my fridge. The Rose Quartz Roller is a great toolto de-puff, smooth and invigorate. Rose quartz stays colder longer, which helps to reduce puffiness. It improves blood circulation and overall skin tone, softening wrinkles, reducing undereye circles, eliminating toxins and promoting lymphatic drainage. Rose quartz comforts and soothes.

It is believed to remove emotional stress, purify energy, and open the heart.

ZIIP

$495.00 | www.ziipbeauty.com | @ziipbeauty If a Star Trek Phaser and a slick computer mouse had a baby, it would look like the ZIIP. This cute little gizmo is like a gym for the face, making facial massage easy.

Connect to the Bluetooth app, select your treatment and enjoy. It lights up so you know it’s working.

It vibrates to guide you through the various steps.

The Ziip’s golden gel conductor is a combination of peptides, aloe vera, 24k gold, hematite, and jasmine.

It zips micro-currents to the skin that lift, sculpt, tone, treat acne, and stimulate facial muscles. It aids in collagen production and promotes lymphatic drainage.

Presto! Glowing skin. You can leave the gel on afterwards for an extra boost.

BYNACHT

175.00 Euro | www.bynacht.com | @bynacht

(GERMAN FOR “BY NIGHT”) Founder Jessica Hoyer, combines sleep enhancing aromatherapy with a revolutionary skincare regimen specially tailored to the needs of the skin at night. Research and clinical studies have shown that night-time is the best time for skin renewal. The rate of renewal almost doubles. Bynacht contains the “detox-wonder” Swiss garden cress sprouts, low and high molecular hyaluronic acids, Marine Collagen and precious Persian Silk Tree extract. It feels and smell amazing.

BOTANIC USA SIMPLY CALM CBD INFUSED HYDRATING OVERNIGHT MASK $17.00 | www.botanics.co.uk | @botanicsusa This creamy, super-hydrating overnight mask, formulated with cannabis sativa (hemp) seed oil and avocado oil, calms skin overnight.

My skin feels super hydrated in the morning. It’s also cruelty free and has sustainable packaging.

39

KISSU LIP MASK

$28.00 | www.tatcha.com | @tatcha Give your lips some love as well.

This wonderful jelly hydrates and locks in moisture. It restores essential suppleness to over worked lips.

40

TATCHA SILK PEONY EYE CREAM $60.00 | www.tatcha.com | @tatcha I don’t know about you, but I find my eyes are so tired after staring at screens all day. I give the delicate under eye skin extra attention with This soft pillowy cream melts into the delicate eye area to release a powerful moisturizing elixir with liquid silk.

It blurs the look of fine lines and wrinkles, restoring the soft, smooth, natural radiance.

Their Japanese White Peony helps support skin’s natural barrier function to seal in moisture.

BUTTERelixir FACE OIL

$43.00 | www.butterelixir.com | @butterelixir

I end my night-time skincare routine with an Asian-inspired facial massage. I use Butter Elixir’s delicious face oil to seal in the previous products and to add a little slip.Butter Elixir’s Face oil is made from cold pressed, certified organic, ethically sourced apricot, rosehip and argan oils, which combined with the essential oil from wild roses, results in a glorious, comforting and deeply relaxing experience. ……A MUST HAVE!

41

Then I put on the best 5-minute sheet mask around.

LAPCOS’ GOOD MORNING

QUICK MASK

$30.00 | www.lapcosusa.com | @lapcos_usa I keep my box of 30 quick masks in the fridge.

Their super cooling action helps de-puff and wake up my skin.

Lapcos’ Good Morning Quick Mask uses aloe vera to calm, camellia leaf extract to moisturize, and red ginseng extract to refresh.

The Next Day

My morning routine starts with a family tradition. Once upon a time my aunt told me she never put hot water on her face.

Even in her 90’s she had absolutely no wrinkles.

She was a stickler for cleansing her face at night.

In the morning, she awakened her skin with very cold water. I’ve learned she was right.

The first thing I do every morning is splash cold water on my face. If I had the luxury of time, I’d use water with ice cubes, but cold tap water does the trick.

GOLD STANDARD, Say hello to

LAPCOS 24K GOLD FOIL HYDROGEL EYE MASK $4.00 each | www.lapcosusa.com | @lapcos_usa Gold in some form has been a beauty staple since Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt slept in solid gold masks to revitalize her skin. Research suggests gold has skin healing properties, especially as an anti-inflammatory.

It is also said to increase the way peptides, fruit seed oils, and acids permeate the skin.

Our Editor and chief swears by them!

TATCHA SERUM STICK $48.00 | www.tatcha.com | @tatcha I keep this bad boy in my bag or pocket for all day refreshing. A concentrated solid serum of 80% squalane and Japanese lemon balm targets signs of aging. Tatcha’s serum stick reduces dryness instantly and over time.

42

TATCHA WATER CREAM $68.00 | www.tatcha.com | @tatcha This cream explodes moisture into the skin.

Japanese Wild Rose tightens pores and smooths skin texture.

It uses Japanese Leopard Lily to control excess oil.

43

44

Magnetic dream. The beauty world is abuzz about magnets, the newest innovation in skincare. The magnetic technology seems to push skincare products up to 10 layers deeper into your skin.

SNO MAGNETIC CREAM BOOSTER $17.00 | www.swiss-organic.com | @swissorganic Our founder, Ezequiel Delarosa, loves his SNO Magnetic Cream Booster for just this reason.

The concept (as I see it).

The skin reacts to the magnetic pull, sort of like when two magnets face each other. They tend to push the other away. Similarly, the skin reacts to the magnet in the SNO by “pushing away” particles in the skin, opening a conduit for your skincare products to be absorbed more deeply. WOW!!!

45

EXFOLIATING PADS

$12.00 for a pack of 5 www.lapcosusa.com | @lapcos_usa

On those morning when I feel my skins needs some extra attention. there are the gorgeous MILK pads. I love how these one-use 100% cotton pads exfoliate and soften gently.

They’re fortified with milk protein that moisturizes, bamboo water that cleanses, revitalizes and stimulates collagen.

46

47

48

R

+Co i

s about an experience. The packaging and fragrances were designed

to enhance that experience and evoke a feeling, place, style or attitude. You’ll know just by looking at a bottle or tube what a product is meant to do, and the subtle yet

sophisticated fragrances—meant for both men and women. The award-winning line of products feature unique ingredients and benefits designed to deliver immediate, high-performing results while keeping hair and scalp health at top-of-mind. All formulas are color-safe, heat and UV protective, vegan, cruelty and gluten-free, and without harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates (SLS or SLES), mineral oil and petrolatum.

50

BLACK BATHING SUIT, ANITA USA @ANITASINCE1886USA EARRINGS, ANTIQUES BY THERESE

aWeekend at the

Vaga bond Model YULIMAR ALMANZA @yulixalmanza from @nextmodelsmia Make-up by FRANZ MUNOZ @makeupbyfranz Style by SONECA GUADARA @styledbysoneca Location THE VAGABOND HOTEL MIAMI @THEVAGABOND Photography by EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @ezequieldelarosa

52

PINK TULLE DRESS, MIRIMARI EARRINGS, LATIN CURATED

54

55

THIS PAGE: PINK PLEATED DRESS, MONICA BY MONICA MAHONEY SHOES, DVF EARRINGS, ANTIQUES BY THERESE OPPOSITE PAGE: GREEN TROPICAL DRESS, ARTRAMUS EARRINGS, ANA CAROLINA SHOES, JLO

PINK PLEATED DRESS, MONICA BY MONICA MAHONEY EARRINGS, ANTIQUES BY THERESE

57

58

FLORAL BATHING SUIT, ANITA USA @ANITASINCE1886USA

59

PEOPLE TO FOLLOW

Amara La Negra @amaralanegra

Gito @gitostores

Chad Mize @chadmize

Denise Pereau @dpereau

Carlton Jones @carltonjones212

Francesa Aternir @francesaaternir

Eduardo Jimenez @eduardojimenez_makeup

Fenton Models @fentonmodels

Ford Models @fordmodels

Gregg Brockington @greggbrockingtonbeauty

Martyna Frankow @franek176

Ruben Colon @hairbyrubencolon

Jesse Garza @jessegarzanyc

Joe Lupo @joeluponyc

Jorge Luis @jorgeluis123

Carlos Marrero @camarrero

Harold Garcia V @HaroldGarciaV

Ariel Howard @i.am.arielhoward

Jamel Robinson @iamjamelrobinson

Maria Collazo @mariacollazo

61

8

PEOPLE TO FOLLOW

Laura James @JamesLaura

Andre J Davis @andrecelebhair

Maggie Jimenez @JimenezMaggie

Ezequiel De La Rosa @ezequieldelarosa

Sylvania @sylvania

Vadee @makeupby_vadee

Isabella Rios @irdstyles

Rui Araujo @imruizaoking

Rebecca Hanobik @RebeccaHanobik

Red Models @red_models

Edward Cruz @themakeuppapi

Sophie Sumner @sophiesumner8

Kevin Damphouse @kevindamphouse

Click Models @clickmodelny

Steven Kenny @StevenKennyArt

EZ Studios @ezstudios

Franz Munoz @makeupbyfranz

62

Soneca Guadara @styedbysoneca

Montgomery Frazier @theimageguru

Yulimar Almanza @yulixalmanza

58MM GRADIENT MIRRORED AVIATOR SUNGLASSES RAYBAN: Mirrored gradient crystal lenses add a signature stamp to charming

Italian sunglasses with iconic style. 8mm lens width; 14mm bridge width; 135mm temple length; 100% UV protection. $200.00 / nordstrom.com/

SHE

WHAT

WANTS

By Carlos Marrero

WOMEN’S SLIP ON SLINGBACK HIGH HEEL PUMPS

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO: Color, New Bianco;

Fits true to size, order your normal size; Square toe; Slip on, stretch gore at slingback strap; 3.34” heel; Leather upper, lining and sole. $850.00 / bloomingdales.com

63

PREMIUM FRUIT & NUT SNACK MIX RUBY ROYALE is a blend of California almonds dipped in Ruby Cacao, sweetened cranberries coated in a sweet vanilla flavored confection, California pistachios & sweetened cranberries. spokesperson: Latrice Royale. $16.83 / amazon.com

BB+ SKIN TINT

ROSILIANCE: Organic SPF 30

BB+ skin tint. Featuring a bouquet of pale, damas, white & apothecary rose stem cells. $52.00 / tappbeauty.com

RISING STAR BLUSH PALETTE

TAINA NORELL: The ultimate cheek kit for

various skin tones. The Rising Star Blush Palette features four high pigment blushes, a reflective highlighter and a matte bronzer suitable for warming up your skin or for softly contouring. $28.99 / wigsbynorell.com

CREOLE MARANZA HOOP EARRINGS

ESSENTIAL SERUM

Who doesn’t want noticeably beautiful lashes? The award-winning BABE LASH Essential Serum will give you the lashes you’ve been looking for by enhancing the appearance of length and volume. It can also be used on brows and with lash extensions. $60.00 / tappbeauty.com

GAS BIJOUX: These vintage-inspired earrings with a hand-hammered finish and 24-karat-gold plating are anchored by a collection of graduated hoops. 2” hoop diameter; 1/2” width; Post back; 24k-gold plate; Handmade in France. $215.00 / nordstrom.com

MINI 9 INSTANT CAMERA

The new, FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI 9 features a selfie mirror for the perfect selfie photo every time.

Close up macro photos are now easier thanks to the included close-up lens adapter which allows you to focus on subjects as close as 35-50 cm. Color: Flamingo Pink. $56 / amazon.com

64

DEEP DETOX SCRUB

KENRA: Pollution can be

dulling and damaging to the hair. Deep Detox Scrub is enriched with our highest concentration of activated charcoal to deeply draw out and clarify pollutants, dulling impurities, and product buildup to renew hair’s natural radiance. $28.00 / tappbeauty.com

Bloo DRESS, WHITE EYELIT RICHARDS RADCLIFFE

FLORAL BOOTS, VICTOR DE SOUZA EARRINGS, KAREN EGREN @karenegren MAKEUP, JONES ROAD MIRACLE BALM “ROSE” FENTY BEAUTY STUBBS LIPPAINT, “UNCUFFED”

65

oming

Beauty Photography EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @ezequieldelarosa Model REBECCA HANOBIK @RebeccaHanobik from @fentonmodels Stylist SONECA GUADARA @styledbysoneca Make-up GREGG BROCKINGTON @greggbrocingtonbeauty Hair RUBEN COLON @hairbyrubencolon

FLORAL DRESS, CHIARA BONI LA PETITE ROBE

66

SHOES, STEVE MADDEN

JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON

DRESS, WHITE EYELIT RICHARDS RADCLIFFE

EARRINGS, KAREN EGREN @karenegren

MAKEUP, JONES ROAD MIRACLE BALM “ROSE”

67

FENTY BEAUTY STUBBS LIPPAINT, “UNCUFFED”

FLORAL RUFFLE DRESS, VICTOR DE SOUZA

68

SHOES, ROUGE HELIUM

EARRINGS, ERICKSON BEAMON

PINK DRESS WITH RED ROSE, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN (GITO BOUTIQUE)

SHOES, STEVE MADDEN

FASCINATOR, CHRISTINE A MOORE MILLINERY

69

CTZN COSMETICS LIPSTOKE PENCIL, “SAN”

70

BLACK DRESS WITH PINK FLOWERS, N0 21 ( GITO BOUTIQUE)

SHOES: CHANEL LIPSTICK, LISA ELDRIDGE “VELVET DRAGON”

71

BLACK FLORAL DRESS, CHIARA BONI LA PETITE ROBE

72

RED FLORAL HEADPIECE, ARTURO RIOS JEWELRY, KAREN EGREN @karenegren SHOES, CHANEL

JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON

TOUCHÉ ECLAT FOUNDATION, YSL

73

MARS RADIANT CREAMY CONCEALER, “AFFOGATO” SPONGEBOB BIKINI BEACH PALETTE, HIP DOT HEALTHY GLOW BRONZER, CHANEL LIPSTICK, “VELVET CARNIVAL” LISA ELDRIDGE GLAM ATTACK LIQUID SHIMMER, HAUS LABS URBAN DECAY EYESHADOW “BLUE JEAN DREAM” “FLASH” M.A.C. PIGMENT POWDER “ROSE W/ COPPER” LAURA MERCIER CAVIAR STICK, “MOONLIGHT” DIOR ADDICT LACQUER STICK “202”

74

H E A L T H

&

A E S T H E T I C

S U P P L Y

SERVICES: FACIAL, PEELINGS, MICRONEEDLING, CUSTOMIZED BEAUTY TREATMENTS PRODUCTS TO ENHANCE THE BEAUTY OF THE SKIN 5201 BLUE LAGOON DRIVE MIAMI, FL 33126 7866247876 @MARIACALLAZO

SERVICES: FACIAL, PEELINGS, MICRONEEDLING, CUSTOMIZED BEAUTY TREATMENTS PRODUCTS TO ENHANCE THE BEAUTY OF THE SKIN 5201 BLUE LAGOON DRIVE MIAMI, FL 33126 7866247876 @MARIACALLAZO

Q&A with

THE ARTISTS

...

Interviews by Denise Pereau Photography by Ezequiel de la Rosa

The last year has tested humanity in ways we could have never imagined.

Yet, where there is life, there is hope, and the tenacity of the human spirit has not only prevailed, but has pivoted forward staking resilience in its strength, in its resolve and most of all through love. We were wondering how people took charge of their lives during the pandemic refusing to succumb to daunting circumstances, thriving on positivity, steering themselves towards the future while helping others, hope in hand.

76

CHAD MIZE Mize Gallery info@chadmize.com @chadmize 727-251-8529

Q: We’ve all had to shift focus on our relationships during the pandemic.

In many cases, we’ve become closer to family and friends finding creative ways to communicate our love for one another. Describe a positive change in one of your relationships during the last year.

My partner and I purchased a home this past year during the pandemic.

It is definitely a positive for both of us. The feeling of being nested in a new cocoon is a calming feeling. Home improvement projects have been good for the mind and have brought us closer together.

78

79

Q: In many cases work relationships have been strictly relegated to Zoom conferencing. What did you do to develop and sustain new and existing relationships during the workplace lockdown?

Because of the nature of my work right now combined with the global workplace shift, thankfully, a team approach has not been critical to accomplishing my goals. Thanks to technology and the Internet, I’ve been able to have a more direct and closer connection with loved ones despite the physical distance between family and friends.

During the pandemic, I connected more to social media networks focusing on learning about and leveraging all the possibilities available to me as an artist on-line.

It’s been a wonderful way to share my works allowing me to reach literally, thousands of people instantly, which is an amazingly positive way to expand my network.

harold garcia @HaroldGarciaV

Q: Stories of random acts of kindness were reported around the globe as people took to roles as front-line workers. Many people volunteered their services to charitable effort. What did you do to make a positive difference?

This isn’t exactly Covid-related, but I did donate a painting to the Woodson Warriors Scholarship Fund Auction to raise money for Black college-bound high school students. I think it’s important to do what we can to help our young people whenever we can. Their lives have basically been put on hold while things are being figured out and I can feel it must be very hard for them. Unfortunately, the auction was virtual, and I wasn’t able to meet the students in person. The upside is the painting sold and all the money went to the scholarship fund so that made me very happy.

steven kenny Steven Kenny Studio St Petersburg, FL www.stevenkenny.com @stevenkennyart FB: steven.kenny.studio

82

jamel robinson jamal@jamalrobinson.com @iamjamelrobinson

Q: We’ve all had to shift focus on our relationships during the pandemic.

In many cases, we’ve become closer to family and friends finding creative ways to communicate our love for one another. Describe a positive change in one of your relationships during the last year.

The most unexpectedly memorable relationship building experience of this pandemic for me would have to be the consistency and connection of our friends Sophie Sumner and Eric Rutherford’s “Happiness Hour.” Meeting via zoom at the same time every day of the week for maybe six straight months turned a group comprised predominantly of strangers into family.

Of all the groups I’m a part of, that was the one I couldn’t have predicted being crucial to helping me making it through the height of the pandemic.

I’m forever grateful to all of them.

84

KEVIN damphouse @kevindamphouse

Q: In many cases work relationships have been strictly relegated to Zoom conferencing. What did you do to develop and sustain new and existing relationships during the workplace lockdown?

My workplace calls for solitude and peace, even though collaboration with clients is essential to fueling my success.

But when it comes down to the creative process, solitude and music are really important to me when working on a project. As a result of the pandemic, communication with clients has had to include many more visual examples and conversations with clients through texting or videos instead of meeting in person.

86

A FRIEND IN NEED PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAKE-UP BY EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA NATALIA CARRASCO @ezequieldelarosa @beautyxnatalia_

HAIR BY ANDREAE WILSON @andreawilson_hair

STYLED BY SONECA GUADARA @styledbysoneca

WRITTEN BY DENISE PEREAU @dpereau

MODEL ISABELLA RIOS @bellarios

THE JOURNEY BEGINS The American Society of Clinical Oncology: ASCO; reports 276,480 women and 2,620 men are diagnosed yearly with invasive breast cancer in the US. In addition, 48,530 women are also diagnosed with non-invasive breast cancer. It’s a journey fraught with challenges both mentally and physically but today, there’s a vast network of support groups and wellness centers readily available to help patients thrive during treatment and recovery.

Thankfully, legions of Survivors live long and fulfilled lives due to technological advances in treatment protocols as the race for the cure moves forward.

It’s hard to imagine what it’s like to receive the crushing blow of a positive breast cancer diagnosis so we spoke with a few women who described their personal experiences which are painfully similar.

The pronouncement hangs in the air: “I’m sorry, you have breast cancer.” Deafening silence arrests the psyche as the brain goes blank, heartbeats pounding. Perspiration materializes to dampen and cool the skin as it begins to flush hives. The mind races, questions begging answers. What do you mean? Are you sure?

Am I going to die? Will I lose my breasts? What did you say?

Will I lose my hair? What now? Adding insult to injury, hair loss ascribed to specific types of chemotherapy puts a face on the disease requiring tremendous courage to face down.

Patients sometimes describe life as before cancer treatment, during cancer treatment, or after cancer treatment. Recognizing the vulnerability a woman feels when losing her hair through first-hand experience, we began to explore some viable options for hair loss. We never expected we’d be helping our dear friend and colleague, Isabella Rios, diagnosed with breast cancer this past summer, to find a wig to help her feel beautiful during treatment. Faith and service to others are basic ethics of Jez Magazine.

Through supporting Isabella we found a lot of good information to share with you and we connected with two individuals who have become our favorite resources. We pray the information in this article can help anyone in need.

88

Ms.Rios Ms. Rios, a Resort Wear Fashion Designer, was stricken with grief when her beloved grandmother, who she is named after, died from breast cancer in 2018, a loss she carries close to her heart. “My mother was also diagnosed in May 2008 and my sister in October 2019 and both are thankfully in remission. I was diagnosed in August of 2020 and still in treatment. I had been tested for the BRACA gene which came back negative so when I found a tiny lump in my breast, I was worried but not fatalistic though I immediately went to the doctor to get checked out.

I was told not to worry. The doctor said it was probably benign even with my family history. Life was crazy at the time and because I had a false sense of security, I didn’t seek a second opinion and eventually things began to spiral out of control.”

Isabella jumps forward, “It may sound strange but I never mourned the loss of my breasts after having a radical mastectomy.

I mourned the loss of my hair. Society imprisons women with the importance of outer image and it was like a part of me was lost forever when my hair started to fall out. I had a relationship with my hair not my breasts. I combed it every day. I worried about how it looked. When it looked good, I felt I could conquer the world. I changed it all the time. It actually represented me and I couldn’t believe I was going to be bald. My self-worth was tied to my hair along with other things of course, but you almost feel devalued when you don’t have hair anymore.

I don’t know what I would have done without my faith in God and EZ’s help,” continues Rios, “I cried for days about losing my hair. He actually rode his bike to my house to see me one day because he was so upset for me. His first remark was, “I got you.” Then he went over all the COVID safety protocols with me to make sure I was being extra careful about protecting my immune system. He told me he wanted to do a total make-over on me and then do a photo shoot. That was that. No wasn’t an option. He didn’t tell me he was doing research to find me the perfect wig either. Having someone tell you how beautiful you are when you’re bald is life affirming even when you don’t believe them. We’d been working together a long time so I trusted him. In that moment I began to feel maybe bald can be pretty.

The day of the shoot, I sat in the chair and he didn’t let me see what he was doing until he was done,” says Isabella. “It was amazing! I felt reborn. I’m beyond grateful because he helped me find two wigs and they’re both perfect yet totally different. EZ picked wigs for me that allow me to change my look. I would have been afraid to do that with my own hair. Now I have a relationship with my wigs. I comb them and work with them every day. I feel beautiful when I wear them but what’s most important is how I feel on the inside now. I’ve accepted my hair loss and feel I’m getting stronger every day. I’m blessed I had this opportunity and highly recommend, when you feel up to it, having a makeover is the best therapy. Feeling beautiful during treatment is half the battle. Even buying a new lipstick can be liberating.”

89

JUMPSUIT, CENIA NEW YORK EARRINGS, ANN TAYLOR

90

BLACK VEGAN LEATHER OUTFIT, DUETTE NYC BLACK PLATFORM SNEAKERS, MARC JACOBS EARRINGS, ERICKSON BEAMON

THE SEARCH Often, even before a woman tells her family, she seeks anonymity from the burden of exposure through her Stylist. If she’s lucky, they will know what to do but many are not ready to help when a client needs guidance. Wig styling is a specialized skill not taught in most Cosmetology programs.

If a salon visit proves unsuccessful, the next option is to visit a wig shop or beauty supply store that sells wigs. It pays to go to more than one shop to compare pricing. An advantage of in person shopping is being able to see, feel and try on several styles before purchase. It’s the perfect opportunity to be adventurous. Typically, wig shops have personnel to help choose the perfect wig, cutting and styling them for an additional charge.

The on-line market for affordable wash and wear synthetic fiber wigs has exploded in the last decade providing a wide and varied range of options for women of every race and ethnicity. They’re easy to order if you’re unable to shop and ship immediately.

It’s prudent to check out multiple sites before buying. The cost of custom-made, hand-tied, human hair wigs with monofilament, open weave caps are dependent on length, color and style; out of reach for many, but for some, the preferred choice. And fortunately, there are some foundations that actually provide human hair wigs to cancer patients free of charge.

92

DRESS, CENIA NEW YORK SHOES, BEAUTISOLES

CUSTOM WIG DESIGN

by ANDRE DAVIS, a Celebrity Hair Designer at Julien Farel Salon, 540 Park Avenue, NYC explains his take on the custom wig design process. “When a client comes to me, it’s definitely because they want something custom made. Yes, it’s less affordable than a ready to wear wig, but when I deliver a finished piece it marks a new beginning. I feel it’s a privilege to help women on this journey because it comes down to a matter of trust. When clients seek out my services, I’m all in.

When Ezequiel called me to ask about making a wig for Isabella, I was drawn into her journey and wanted to do something fun and different for her after hearing her story. It’s not easy for anyone to say screw-you cancer, I’m going to beat this and have fun while I’m at it. But I believe there’s an unmasked honesty in being hair naked and a pure sense of strength in the moment a woman sees herself as okay without her hair. Some people aren’t okay until their own hair grows back and that’s completely okay too.

94

My job is not just about making wigs. I’m there to help my clients get comfortable with their hair loss and then I help empower them. You can’t get that over the counter. Most women have a wig made identical to their own hair helping them to feel safe and confident. But for some, choosing a totally unexpected style gives them a sense of freedom and control at a time when control is next to impossible. I encourage my clients to do whatever feels best for them. It’s very personal so why worry about what people think?”

Custom made wig design begins with a consultation including taking measurements and photos, deciding hair color and length and the selection of human hair options. Davis prefers Russian hair for it’s over all durability using a strand-by-strand placement technique attached to a ventilated lace cap so he can fashion a perfectly mimicked hairline to produce the most realistic results. The time frame for delivery is usually 5-6 weeks but orders can be pushed through when critical to a client’s treatment schedule.

Mr. Davis provides a receipt upon delivery which in many cases can be submitted for total or partial reimbursement to the insured.

WIGS & WISHES FOUNDATION

BY MARTINO CARTIER The American Cancer Society Look Good Feel Better Program offers patients brand neutral tips on how to manage hair loss and skin issues associated with chemotherapy treatment but does not automatically provide free wigs to cancer patients which is a widely held ideology. Each ACS Chapter operates independently, totally dependent on private donations.

However, most chapters do accept wig donations of budget quality which are then offered free of charge to patients who request them as they become available. A prescription from the doctor may be required which can sometimes be used for partial or full reimbursement dependent on insurance.

Call 1-800-ACS2345 to see if a chapter near you participates in this program. For further information please go to www.cancer.org for additional support services.

process because we have a great system in place.

It’s always exciting to make a delivery knowing we’re helping someone feel good when feeling good is everything.”

Martino, a man clearly driven by faith, lives by the mantra: If you don’t know how to give, you don’t know how to live!

When I hear the stories of clients suffering it really motivates me to do what I can to help. I’m humbled every time I hear them, but I wish it didn’t have to be. Finding a way to make a difference led to the birth of Wigs and Wishes and you can see everything we’re doing on our website. It’s pretty powerful.” Cartier, a well-known Celebrity Stylist, Salon Owner, Philanthropist and HSN personality from the Tri-State Region of NJ, PA, and DE, hosts a yearly fundraiser in support of Wigs and Wishes attracting widespread national and community recognition, with hundreds of volunteers and guests in attendance.

The nationally recognized, non-profit, Wigs for Wishes Foundation, founded by Martino Cartier is an exemplary, trusted resource for free human hair wigs in the US for women and children in cancer treatment. “Several years ago I got frustrated there were no viable resources or reliable foundation programs to recommend to my clients to get free wigs, and even more frustrating, there were limited resources for children’s wigs. I’d had it,” says Martino.

“Children’s wigs can be extremely hard to find and even harder to fit,” says Cartier. “The kids are especially important to us because they can’t wear adult wigs. Granting them wishes is a part of the foundation that’s beyond amazing and a perfect way to help them live their dreams. We feel everyone who comes to us for a wig is special. When we were connected to Ezequiel to help Isabella, it was an easy

Martino by Martino Cartier, Cartier’s Hot Tools line and Professional Styling Products sold on-line, on HSN and in salons, donates a percentage of every sale to Wigs and Wishes allowing them to deliver a staggering 25k human hair wigs yearly. “All that’s required is a prescription from their doctor,” says Martino. “We take care of the rest.

We also teach Salon Owners across the country through our website how to register to become a Wigs and Wishes Salon so they can help their clients get free wigs through the foundation.”

To learn more go to: www.wigsandwishes.com

95

DRESS, ZELL SHOES, MODELS OWN

BLUE DRESS, MOLA WALKER (showroom seven) JEWELRY, KAREN EGREN @karenegren

Red

S

two ides to tory Every

S

Photography

EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @ezequieldelarosa

Model

MARTYNA FRANKOW @franek176 from @elitenyc

Make-up

GREGG BROCKINGTON

@greggbrocingtonbeauty Hair

RUBEN COLON

@hairbyrubencolon

98

BLUE DRESS, Alexander McQueen from @gitostores JEWELRY, KAREN EGREN @karenegren REVERSE SUN RADICAL RECOVERY SERUM MAKEUP, @bynacht LAIT-CREME CONCENTRATE, @embryolisse FACIAL OIL, @butterelixir LUMINOUS SILK FOUNDATION, @armanibeauty DEW WET BALM, @danessa_myricks BLACK EYELINER PENCIL, @hauslabs ROCK N’ KHOL BARBARELLA BROWN, @ctilburymakeup EYE COLOR QUAD & LAVENDER LUST, @tomfordbeauty CREAM BLUSH BLOSSOMING, @kjaerweis VELVET JAZZ, @lisaeldridgemakeup BROW GEL, @anastasiabeverlyhills MASCARA BLACK, @jonesroadbeauty SILK FINISH TRANSLUCENT POWDER, @officialmanasi7

100

BLACK SEQUENCE SUIT, NADJARINA GOLD DRESS, LENSHINA NCHAMI SHOES, KARIBBEIN ANN MARIEE FASHION @kamthrbrand

101

BLACK & WHITE DRESS, DAVID KOMA

102

PEEPTOE BOOTY, GIANVITO ROSSI

JEWELRY, KAREN EGREN @karenegren

BLUE/GRAY SUIT, CATOURWEAR (FROM CONFESSIONAL SHOWROOM) SHOES, KARIBBEIN ANN MARIEE FASHION @kamthrbrand

103

BLACK JUMPSUIT, SOLACE PATENT LEATHER ANKLE STRAP, GIANVITO ROSSI from @gitostores

104

PANTSUIT, BARBARA BUI from @gitostores

SHOES, KARIBBEIN ANN MARIEE FASHION @kamthrbrand

RING, JILL.HERLANDS @jill.herlands

105

DRESS, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN SILVER AND PVC SANDAL, GIANVITO ROSSI from @gitostores JEWELRY, KAREN EGREN @karenegren BLACK SUIT, ROSSI JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON

106

LONG KNIT DRESS, THE CONFESSIONAL SHOWROOM JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON

R TW TRENDS Spring/Summer

2021 Model LAURA JAMES @jameslaura

Make-up VADEE @makeup_vadee

Style SONECA GUADARA @styledbysoneca

Location EZSTUDIOS.COM @ezstudios

Photography EZEQUIEL DE LA ROSA @ezequieldelarosa

108

ROMPER, TASHEE JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON SANDALS, MARNI (GITO)

109

110

OLIVE SILK DRESS, NADJARINA JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON

111

112

COLOR BLOCK KNIT, PIER ANTONIO GASPANI JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON

113

114

RUST COLOR SILK DRESS W/BLACK CHAIN, PIER ANTONIO GASPANI JEWELRY, ERICKSON BEAMON SHOES, GIANVITO ROSSI (GITO) HANDBAG, ALEXANDER MCQUEEN (GITO)

115

116

marrerocollection.com | @camarrero

DMark edicated to Anthony 1966-2021

119

MAGAZINE

aWeekend at the

Vagabond Fashion. Culture. Philanthropy.

SPRING 2021 ISSUE

LA FASHIONISTA

BEAUTY

BY OUR VERY OWN TIPS GREG BROCKINGTON

Interview with

MAGGIE JIMENEZ

JEZMAGAZINE.COM

Interview with

AMARA LA NEGRA BORN TO SHINE

VOLUME 5