QPMAG FASHION MAGAZINE - December 2018 - Volume 2

QP DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 02

MEG DONNELLY

by MILOS NADAZDIN

www.santinanicole.com.au

TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR ROBERT STEINKEN ART DIRECTOR & STEPHANE MARQUET LAYOUT DESIGNER

SENIOR EDITOR

LYNN VENTURELLA

FASHION EDITORS

ASHLEY FITOUSSI NATALIA VOYTOVA ERICA MER WHITTNEY BRIELLE

FASHION STYLISTS ORETTA CORBELLI BEAUTY EDITORS MICHELLE WU FRANCESCA LOPRESTI NATALIA VOYTOVA CONTRIBUTING EDITORS AMIA SERRANO ERICA MER MAKEUP ARTIST TEAL DRUDA

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

AMANDA ROBINSON NOVA KAPLAN ANDREW MACPHERSON VANESSA MAPES VALENTINA SOLCI RYLAND SHELTON DORA KOVACS

Hi there, With this issue being the last one to be published in 2018, I can only think about expressing my gratitude to all the professionals who have helped us build this project. From the long-time contributors to the new additions, I just couldn´t be more excited about what´s to come in the following months. The passion and dedication showed by these super-talented individuals are just memorable.

Although we continue producing most of our content, we can´t forget about the amazing contributions we have received so far.

This is also a THANK YOU note to all our readers and followers. I hope we can keep up to your high expectations in 2019.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ Editor-in-Chief QPmag

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COVER

"Coco Top" ZEYNEP TOSUN Earrings & Ring NMD Skirt MANOKHI

PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin FASHION STYLIST: MICHELLE WU @michellewustylist MAKEUP ARTIST: MINA ABRAMOVIC @abramovicm HAIR STYLIST: MITCHELL CANTRELL @mitchellcantrellbeauty SPECIAL THANKS: PERSONA PR & ROSE STUDIOS LA 5

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IN THIS ISSUE 8-19 |

EDITORIAL: WONDER WOMAN

20-31 |

EDITORIAL: PRETTY GIRL

32-41 |

COVER: MEG DONNELLY

42-55 |

EDITORIAL: WILD THING

56-59 |

STREET STYLE

60-69 |

EDITORIAL: MAJESTIC

70-77 |

INTERVIEW: STEFAN IMIELSKI

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BEAUTY: GET THE LOOK

79 |

SHOPPING GUIDE: DRESSING UP THE NIGHT

80-89 |

EDITORIAL: PRIVATE PARTY

90-95 |

INTERVIEW: BRIDGETTE DURAN

96-99 |

TRAVEL: NEW YORK CITY

100 |

SHOPPING GUIDE: MUST-HAVE BAGS FOR 2019

SUBMISSIONS www.kavyar.com/QP-magazine www.qpmag.com PUBLISHER @BELLOmediaGroup 6404 Wilshire Blvd. #500 / Los Angeles CA 90048 IMAGE NATION STUDIO L.L.C. California, USA INSTAGRAM @BELLOmediagroup

www.qpmag.com hello@QPMAG.com

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PHOTOGRAPHER: THOMAS LOVAGNY @thomaslouvagny MODEL: KRISTINA SHEITER @kristinasheiter AGENCY: ELITE MODEL MANAGEMENT LOS ANGELES @elitela FASHION STYLIST: AMIA SERRANO @amiaserrano MAKEUP ARTIST: TEAL DRUDA @tealmuah HAIR STYLIST: RENÉ MALDONADO CORTEZ @hairbyrenecortez NAIL ARTIST: DENISE BOURNE @denisebourne37 21

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MEG DONELLY Star Power

BY VANESSA MAPES @vanessa.mapes

The actress, model, dancer, and singer Meg Donnelly is a more than accomplished young woman. Growing up in New York, her love for theatrical arts started young and flourished until she landed her dream, the lead role in a popular Disney Channel series Zombies. She then assumed the responsibility of being a role model for thousands of fans across the country and has done nothing but embrace the honor. With more than 900K Instagram followers, she stays true to herself and her passions.

PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin FASHION STYLIST: MICHELLE WU @michellewustylist MAKEUP ARTIST: MINA ABRAMOVIC @abramovicm HAIR STYLIST: MITCHELL CANTRELL @mitchellcantrellbeauty SPECIAL THANKS: PERSONA PR & ROSE STUDIOS LA

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hat was it like to start training in the theatrical arts at such a young age?

It was so much fun, honestly, I never thought of it as training. I loved being with my friends and teachers doing what we all had so much passion for… singing, dancing, acting and each other!

I had been on so many auditions so it was truly amazing to get the part. I was not sure it was real at first! I was so excited because it seemed like such as fun role to play. And it was!! I learned so much on set and made friends that I still keep in touch with today from the cast and crew.

Who or what got you introduced to the art of dance and acting?

How would you say your acting style has changed since you first started professionally.

We sort of just found each other! When I was 6 years old, my dad and I saw a sign in a storefront window that read ‘Coming Soon: Sing, Dance & Act’. That space became Annie’s Playhouse, which soon after became my second home.

Five nights per week and Saturday mornings, I sang, danced, acted, played piano and guitar there. Since my first day at Annie’s, performing is all I’ve ever wanted to do.

I have allowed myself to transform into something I am not, but at the same time, I draw on my own experiences to develop the core of each character I play. When I was younger, I would just pretend.

Tell us what it was like to grow up in Far Hill, New Jersey? What is your fondest memory from your childhood?

Besides being at Annie’s Playhouse, I would say I loved when it snowed and we were off school. Once the roads were cleared, my friends and I would meet at a local park that had the ultimate sleigh-riding hill!!

We would sleigh ride for hours and then go to get hot chocolate. We had a blast!!

“I love my fans. I am honored that they look up to me as a role model”

Who has been your biggest inspiration for your passions growing up?

Growing up I wanted to be Amy Poehler and Tina Fey - funny empowering women.

I used to watch them on SNL and when I found out they wrote their own material I was in awe.

Currently, I aspire to be like my TV parents, Katy Mixon and Deidrich Bader. We are a true family.

They are so gracious with their time in helping me with my acting choices and shaping how I approach each scene. Not only do they help me professionally, but they are so kind to everyone around them. They appreciate what everyone brings to make “American Housewife” successful. I will always carry what I have learned from them with me.

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What was it like to get your first break out role as Ash in the Netflix series "Team Toon" back in 2013?

What was it like to find out you had been cast for the role of Addison in Disney Channel’s Zombies?

I was so excited!! I was actually on the set of “American Housewife” when I got the news! I was bursting with happiness and running around.

Everyone was so happy for me!

Getting a lead role in a Disney Channel Original Movie had been a dream of mine since I was 6 years old! Then you add in the singing, dancing, amazing cast and powerful message. The experience could not have been better!

How would you describe the character you portray for Addison?

Addison is starting high school and is looking to “fit in” based on what she was taught as a child, but she soon realizes you cannot simply accept what others tell you. You need to experience people for who they are, not where they are from, what they look like or what others tell you about them. I, like Addison, pride myself on standing up for my friends, no matter what!

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Dress BIANCA AND BRIDGETT Earrings NMD

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What is it like to now be part of the Disney Channel family?

It is truly one big family! I have met so many amazing people and we are all supportive of each other in all that we do. I could not ask for more. I had a dream come true by being in a DCOM and on top of that, I am working and are friends with incredibly talented and kind people. I am very lucky!!

You said you enjoy a variety of physical activity as part of your favorite 30 things. Which would you say is your favorite go-to to stay fit and de-stress?

Dance! It helps me unwind but also gets me pumped up.

How did you become interested in learning Japanese?

I have always been fascinated by Japanese culture.

When transfer students from Japan were at my school in NYC, I knew it was my chance to learn more! They were learning English, and I started to learn the Japanese language and more about their culture and customs. They have since gone back to Japan, but I still pursue my Japanese studies.

I was fortunate enough to be able to visit Tokyo this past summer. It was an incredible experience and I cannot wait to go back!

It is no secret that you are a role model for many girls who follow you on social media and watch your shows and films. What type of image do you look to present yourself as to your fan?

I am all about laughter, being your self and being kind to others. Hopefully, my social media posts and future projects will continue to reflect that. I try to live my life in such a way that I do not have to censor

myself when I post on social media. Also, I would love to pass on the best advice I have received to date; ‘Be prepared, but do not over think. Always be in the moment, but most of all, have fun!’ I not only apply this to my professional life but my personal life as well. Just be you!

Not only are you a talented actress, model, and dancer but you also have an amazing voice as displayed in the Zombies soundtrack! Do you plan on starting up your own music career any time soon?

I released my debut single ‘Smile’ some months ago.

It has a summer vibe and it is about being in the period of a relationship when you’re so in love, your goal is to always make that person smile! I think it's one of the best feelings ever. I was working at World Wide Practice studio, collaborating with an amazing team of songwriters and musicians. ‘Smile’ was the result, along with four other songs!

Where is your favorite destination your career has afforded you to go to so far?

Hawaii! Radio Disney sent me to Aulani, the Disney Resort and Spa to film an acoustic performance of “Smile” on the beach! I could not believe it! It was the perfect backdrop for “Smile.”

I am so thankful for the experience.

What can we expect from Meg Donnelly in the near future?

I will be releasing my EP soon. The songs are about some of my personal experiences and combine a dose of hip-hop, R&B and pop. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it. I will also be releasing a Japanese version of “Smile” in Japan! I could not be happier! I also have some surprises for everyone that are “top secret.” What I can tell you is that they involve both acting and music! Stay Tuned!!

“You need to experience people for who they are, not where they are from, what they look like or what others tell you about them”

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Jacket NF by NOUR White Shirt GOMEZ-GRACIA Earrings NMD 39

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Dress STEPH AUDINO Earrings: Stylist´s own 40

"Coco Top" ZEYNEP TOSUN Earrings & Ring NMD Skirt MANOKHI

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WILD THING

PHOTOGRAPHER: ALESSANDRA FIORINI @alessandrafioriniphotography MODEL: JOANNA PRUS AGENCY: NEXT MODELS MIAMI @nextmodelsmia FASHION STYLIST: FRANCESCA LOPRESTI @francesca_lopresti_ HAIR & MAKEUP STYLIST: NINA ALCANTARA @ninaalcantaramakeup

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Coat FERNANDO GARCIA Shoes CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

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Romper SHARON OSP 44

Corset ALEXANDER McQUEEN Shoes GUCCI

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Dress SHARON OSP Boots BALENCIAGA

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Dress SHARON OSP Shoes CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

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Dress BERTA Shoes JIMMY CHOO

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Dress SHARON OSP Earrings ARME DE L´AMOUR

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STREET STYLE

UPSCALE

YOUR LOOK

by NATALIA VOYTOVA @natalia_vvv

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Photographer: NADI MOSS @nadimossphoto 56

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Dress AMEN Boots BALENCIAGA Clutch HERMÈS JIGE Earrings ALESSANDRA RICH

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Blouse MAGDA BUTRUM Skirt AGOLDE Saddle Bag DIOR Boots BALENCIAGA Earrings Y/PROJECT

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Jacket MASAKI MATSUKA Red Dress ENGLISH CLIENTELE COLLECTION Shoes CHARLES DAVID Earrings NMD Necklace NMD

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MAJESTIC PHOTOGRAPHER: THOMAS LOUVAGN @thomaslouvagny MODEL: TIKA CAMAJ @tikacamaj FASHION STYLIST: ERICA MER @ericas_style MAKEUP ARTIST: VANESSA VENANCIO @vanessavenanciomua HAIR STYLIST: RENÉ CORTEZ @hairbyrenecortez Location PROVIDED BY GARY MICHAEL WALTERS @garymichaelwalters

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STEFAN IMIELSKI Secrets of Synergy

By VANESSA MAPES @vanessa.mapes

Stefan Imielski is one of the greats in the realm of fashion photography across Europe.

Shooting for big names such as Elle and Harper’s Bazaar, it was an honor to interview him as he shares with us his wisdom on following your dreams, systems of strategy, and secrets of synergy that must all come together as he produces his eye entrancing work.

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STEFAN IMIELSKI

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Model: Janetta Samp for ELLE magazine

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You started taking interest in photography with your first camera at age 12. Did that help release stress at all or was it merely a hobby?

When you have worked 15 years in front of the camera you can better imagine how the model feels.

Sometimes the conditions are very hard. So I remember back how I felt and I try to give the models a break or help to handle the situation.

Models can feel when you care about them and it's important because at the end they are the ones responsible for a good picture and a good mood at the set.

When a photographer photographs a model, those two people essentially create art together. How do you go about creating this sync so that the two of you and the team involved can create this overall picturesque essence that so easily flows from your work?

hat drew you to the other side of the camera after a decade and a half of modeling? Would you say it is easier to symphonize with your models as to create better shots after all your experience?

Why do you think people are afraid to make the switch like you did to follow their heart as their career?

People are in general afraid of a change in life. Sometimes they prefer to stay in their comfort zone even they are not happy.

You can see this in the job or even in relationships.

Sometimes you have to risk something to make things better.

What music do you prefer to use when shooting?

Electronic music.

In my opinion, the most important thing is to give the team and the model the feeling that you know what you want and what you do in a very calm and respectful way. You will never get synced with a person who doesn’t respect you. So the secret it´s to create something great with harmony respect and easy atmosphere on set.

"I love to shoot editorials where I can do what I want"

What is your overall articulate process of planning a shoot?

Step 1: You need a project (Editorial, Client, Free Projects) Step 2: I imagine a concept that I want to produce.

Step 3: I search for a model who fits the project.

Step 4: I search for a team (Styling, Hair & Make-up, Video, Location ) Step 5: We produce the project Step 6: Post-production Regardless of who you’re shooting for, do you prefer an artsier classic look in the ways of structuring a shoot or the high-end commercial feel?

More artistic style… You have your freedom. I love to shoot editorials where I can do what I want.

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At that time, it was just a hobby. I always wanted to become a professional tennis player.

Your photography embodies such elegance. How do you go about composing your pictures? Are there any distinctive guidelines in your head you follow or is it more of an "in the moment" creation?

I have already a firm vision in my head of how I want to have the pictures. As far as posing is concerned, I'm not a big fan of spontaneous surprises. I like the slow movements rather than the long search for the unique moment. .

You are known to be a reliable planner with your shoots who does not like surprises. Has there ever been a photoshoot that simply did not follow protocol in which you had to improvise?

YES. It was a cover shooting for GQ magazine with Bar Refaeli. She is one of the most difficult persons I have worked with. You could not please her.

First, she complained about mosquitoes in the room, then she didn’t like the styling. She said AGENT PROVOCATEUR was vulgar and cheap. Two months later she was shooting a campaign for them.

Tell us about a shoot where you had the greatest synergy with the model?

A long time ago I met a model on Mallorca. But she was not a model, she was an angel…

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"Bar Refaeli said Agent Provocateur was vulgar and cheap.

Two months later, she was shooting a campaign for them"

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Stefan recently published the Tablebook `NUDE IN NATURE´, a limited edition art piece featuring nude photographs of 23 of the world’s most stunning models.

These photos were shot at the wonderful island of Cyprus, Mallorca, Ibiza and Cape Town. The beautiful locations provided a stunning landscape to create photographs that are immediately captivating, with an innocence and purity that can only be found in nature

Available at Amazon.de

Model: Cristina Tosio for ELLE magazine 74

Model: Cheyenne Tozzi for HARPER´S BAZAAR

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Model: Bruna Lirio for HARPER´S BAZAAR

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Model: Elyse Taylor for HARPER´S BAZAAR

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BEAUTY

GET THE LOOK

By NOVA KAPLAN @novakaplan

It’s a new year, and we at QP want to shake things up a bit. Here’s a great seasonal look and the keys products used to create it. To view the full tutorial on how to get the look, just go to @qpmag and tap on the IGTV icon and watch this soft glam look come to life!

LE PRUNIER Plum Beauty Oil $72

HAIR STYLIST: JESS SWITZER @jessswitzer_hair

KYLIE COSMETICS You’re Perfect Perfecting Powder $18

BOBBI BROWN Hydrating Eye cream $54

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Iconic Nude Beige Lip Liner $22

PURLISSE Perfect Glow BB $35

MAC COSMETICS Silver Dusk $29 MARC JACOBS BEAUTY Velvet Noir Major Mascara $26 HUDA BEAUTY New Nude Palette $65

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WESTMAN ATELIER Super Loaded Tinted Highlight $65

CREME DE LA MER Moisturizer for Dry Skin $85 for 0.5 oz.

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SHOPPING GUIDE

DRESSING UP THE NIGHT

By ERICA MER @ericas_style

SEMSEM One-Shoulder Plissé-Lamé Top $1,295

MAX MARA Stretch-Wool Crepe Blazer $2,490

SAINT LAURENT Monogramme Leather Clutch $1,750

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OSCAR DE LA RENTA Falling Tassel Bead and Silk Clip Earrings $560

STELLA MCCARTNEY Vivian Wool-Twill Tapered Pants s $565

SAINT LAURENT Oppium Patent-Leather Pumps $995

SOPHIE BUHAI Gold Vermeil Bangle $630

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PRIVATE PARTY PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODELS: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 | DARIA PERSHINA @dpershina | ANDRAE BOOKER @draebooker CREATIVE DIRECTOR: ROBERT STEINKEN @robertsteinken1 FASHION STYLIST: NICOLE CLOUTIER @nicoleaimeec MAKEUP ARTIST: LUIS CASCO @luiscascomakeup HAIR STYLIST: ROBERT STEINKEN @robertsteinken1 PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: BARBARA SAGAMI @thesagamigroup SPECIAL THANKS TO MAISON PRIVÉE PR, NOW PR, AND HARPERS PR.

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LEFT: Beaded Body Suit: MADAME Beaded Bodysuit MADAMEMETHVEN METHVEN Velvet VelvetPants: PantsSANDRA SANDRADACCACHE DACCACHE Lace Dress GEORGY COLLECTION RIGHT: Lace Dress: GEORGY COLLECTION

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Floral Dress GEORGY COLLECTION 87

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Black Bodysuit GEORGY COLLECTION Yellow Necklace NMD Lace Bosyduit WOW COUTURE

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BRIDGETTE

DURAN Spiritual Art

BY DORA KOVACS & SONATA ETHRIDGE

Bridgette Duran is an emerging, Los Angeles based, contemporary artist who uses painting as a foundation to bridge between spirituality and the acquisition of inner knowledge. Bridgette’s works are greatly inspired by many emotions, situations, and meaningful life events. According to her, she is forever under the spell of accumulating those external factors into what then eventually becomes the driving force of her creative process.

Through painting, she creates snapshots of her utmost interests and thoughts, that are ordinarily oppressed by the chaos of everyday life. The process is very automatic, based on instinct rather than anything mapped out, as she takes no intermediary steps to develop a premeditated motif.

She frees her mind from any predeterminations to let her subconscious ultimately take over her actions.

PHOTOGRAPHER: MICHAEL ANAYA @michaelanaya_ PRODUCER: TEAL DRUDA @tealmuah MAKEUP ARTIST: TEAL DRUDA @tealmuah

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Dress REFORMATION

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e are living in radically changing times and art, more than ever, fights for a semblance of individuality, preserving sovereignty in the face of social cultures and external forces. We must look ardently at what fuels and inspires a contemporary modern artist. Some might believe that modern art is produced merely to decorate and often embodies some of the worst consequences of materialism.

However, in this age of social media, materialism heavily influences popular culture and it may be pressing the idea of commercialism that creates a shallower approach to the contemporary art world.

Her most recent series, Stories I Tell Myself, represents the infinite spaces where the laws of perspective are no longer held. When she works under intense emotions her subjective feelings, and sensations, resonate through in her color choices. Her altered subconscious works as a vessel to explain feelings as complex as despair or delight. When asked whether painting provokes any personal confrontation, she explains the artistic challenges of working on a commission, where often the work’s guidelines and attributes are tied to another party’s imagination. “I am naturally levitating towards using bold colors, instead of the ones my commissioner requested. These inner conflicts present some temporary struggles which I have had to overcome to

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create the sensory experience requested, but also not doing a disservice to myself, I have to remain authentic.”

Bridgette’s creative aspirations generated research in many different creative mediums, studying fashion merchandising and interior design along the way.

Interest in filmmaking and photography lead to further ventures with painting and sketching.

Her passion for creating art lead her to move abroad and pursue study at a Parisian art school, where she was introduced to abstract expressionism while also experimenting with figurative works. Inspired by her surroundings and the effect painting had on her, everything seemed to fall into place. The seeds of her creative journey had been effectively planted in Paris, but through constantly challenging herself with composition, imagination, and color, Bridgette’s painting has flourished. This past year has been one of exponential growth, both personally and professionally. Ms. Duran had her first international exhibition at the Brick Lane Gallery in London last year and has been invited to participate in many other exhibitions and showings worldwide.

With ever-emerging current trends and constant changes in taste, it is challenging to create art that will have significant longevity. Ms. Duran wants to inspire people, through her art, to look at how to derive meaning from their everyday lives.

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“I want to evoke feelings of what we normally can’t see or access in our ever-accelerating world.” She continues... “I also want to provoke a spiritual journey, pushing my viewers towards some existential crisis where they find themselves asking not only subjective but objective questions of themselves.”

The cultural and socioeconomic diversity in Los Angeles allows one to observe all the many and varied nuances that are present. It takes a strong mind to select and to develop, ground-breaking ideas here, where the erudition of people is so remarkable.

Bridgette says, “I am letting myself enjoy this

process and mature through the variance of experiences and pressing questions that I find myself battling with artistically, personally, and socially.”

Bridgette pursues participating in collaborations and contributions with inspirational women who create, educate and lead. She had a solo show in April of this year with the creative ambassadors of the brand Alice And Olivia along with the poet Mirtha Michelle Castro Mármol. Her latest showing was an innate success at the Ladurée Boutique in June.

She is currently working on a new series exploring metaphysical questions and will be exhibiting these works in the Los Angeles area soon.

Shirt and Skirt ALICE AND OLIVIA

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Dress MANGO

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TRAVEL

NEW YORK CITY WINTER EDITION

BY VALENTINA SOLCI @valentinasolci

PHOTO: BRITTANY PETRONELLA

It’s that time of the year again - the holiday season has officially arrived and was recently celebrated with the annual tree lighting at Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan!

The holiday season in New York truly is one-of-a-kind, with all of the Christmas lights, seasonal food, menus and sporadic snowfalls. Locals and tourists alike have a plentiful amount of options to choose from when celebrating in the city.

With that being said, here are some spots to visit when in New York this winter.

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PLACES TO STAY The first hotel recommendation on our list is the 1 HOTEL BROOKLYN BRIDGE. Though it is not in Manhattan, the hotel lies directly south of the famed Brooklyn Bridge and has a 360° view of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge, Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the neighborhoods of Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights. As seen in the main slogan for the hotel, “Where nature is home”, the goal of the hotel’s interior design team, led by Barry Sternlicht, is to highlight the beauty that nature encapsulates and actively implement the idea of sustainable luxury. Sternlicht and his team succeed in doing so through the use of locally manufactured items and eco- friendly cleaning mechanisms.

Being in such a prime location in Brooklyn, there isn’t a shortage of things that guests can do during their stay at the hotel as it’s just a bridge ride away from Manhattan and in the vicinity of many beautiful parks, restaurants, and stores. During the early morning hours, guests are encouraged to take a morning jog or stroll, whichever you feel up to, along Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Afterward, one can grab a cup of coffee or a freshly squeezed juice at the Neighbors Cafe, located in the lobby of the hotel. Guests also have the option to enjoy the spa, screening room, take a class at POE Yoga, or simply lounge around at the lobby and rooftop seating areas. At night, the hotel is dimly lit, guiding all eyes towards the East River view of the Lower Manhattan skyline. If you’re able to brace the cold, then head up to the Rooftop Garden and Bar, where you can grab a handcrafted drink and sit by the Plunge Pool, exclusive to hotel guests. If you feel like staying indoors, then you can cozy up in their complimentary grey robes and order a late night meal via their room service menu. Though all rooms and suites at the 1 Hotel are sure to keep you satisfied, it is worth trying to book a stay in any of the rooms that have an indoor hammock installed. This is one of the most unique features as not many hotels offer this and it simply allows you to have a peaceful lounge spot to nap, read a book, and take in the skyline views. The Hotel is a prime location for any visitor to relax while also being just a few minutes away from all the action of the surrounding metropolitan area.

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1 HOTEL BROOKLYN BRIDGE

Next, we move on over to Lower Manhattan, specifically in the Lower East Side, where American entrepreneur and real estate developer, Ian Schrager, has designed his latest luxury hotel known as the PUBLIC HOTEL. The hotel has a marvelous fusion of aturalistic elements, sophisticated style, and modern finishes. At the entrance of the hotel, guests are invited to enjoy the greenery of the garden, which is directly across the street from Sara D. Roosevelt Park. Upon entering into the lobby, guests are led towards the flower shop, the bakery and dining area, or upstairs to the second floor via an orange-lit, futuristic escalator. Here, guests are quickly checked in to their rooms with the professional staff that are equipped with portable technology tools.

Throughout the building, simple colors and dim lights create an eclectic atmosphere for guests to define on their own terms. Each of the rooms has floor to ceiling windows, a flat-screen TV, glass showers, and a warm atmosphere. It is hard to leave the hotel, let alone your room of choice, when everything seems to be offered right at the tips of your fingers. However, guests are just a few minutes away from the world-renowned shopping center of SOHO, Washington Square Park, or subway stations that can lead you to desired locations throughout the five boroughs.

The PUBLIC HOTEL also has a rooftop terrace with views of the Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, and the World Trade Center. During sunset and night hours, check out the accompanying indoor and outdoor bar called The Roof, which occasionally features both local and international live DJs. The PUBLIC HOTEL excellently defines modern-day sophistication while incorporating the energy of Downtown Manhattan.

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Moving a few neighborhoods north to Midtown, we head over to the REFINERY HOTEL, a luxury hotel found just south of Bryant Park. Historically, the building, also known as the Colony Arcade, was used as a hat factory, men’s only restaurant, and a ladies’ tea salon. Beginning in 2013, however, the Colony Arcade began to be known as the REFINERY HOTEL, which still uses the bases of the building’s historic structure and ties it together with a contemporary, fashionable feel spired by the nearby Garment, or Fashion District. This hotel is the best choice for those who want to be in the centermost hub of Manhattan as it is walking distance to main touristic attractions like Bryant Park, the Empire State Building, and Radio City Music Hall. Similar to the other hotels mentioned in this article, the Refinery Hotel also has a rooftop deck and bar with views of the surrounding areas. The design team behind the Refinery Hotel has succeeded in providing guests with simplicity, historical relevance, and artistic pieces that flow throughout the building.

REFINERY HOTEL

BEST SPOTS FOR A SWEET TREAT The top, most unique experience that is a must-see this winter has to be the IGLOO BAR at 230 5th Avenue. The IGLOO BAR is only open from November until May and is the ultimate hide out from the cold as warm, transparent igloos are the center of attention for this location. The 17 igloos currently available are found outdoors on a rooftop with exquisite views of the city. During peak hours, guests waiting to enter into an available igloo have the option of wearing a complimentary red robe to help keep you warm. There are no fees required in order to sit in the igloos, however, Igloo Bar does have a food and beverage menu for those interested.

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I highly recommend trying one of their hot drinks, specifically the Godiva Peppermint Hot Chocolate or their Apple Pie Cider in order to get even more into the holiday mood. This is a pretty iconic experience and will sure to leave you savoring the moment.

IGLOO BAR

Chocolate lovers, brace yourselves! Cradled in between the luxury fashion stores of SOHO is this petite, family-run chocolate store called L.A. BURDICK HANDMADE CHOCOLATES. Co-founders Larry and Paula Burdick founded their business in 1987 in New York City. L.A. Burdick specializes in creating artisan chocolate confections that are inspired by Larry Burdick’s past work in Paris and Switzerland’s chocolate industries. Over the years, the company has spread out and now has five U.S. store locations. Stop by their SOHO location, located at 156 Prince Street (in between W. Broadway and Thompson Street), for decadent “drinking chocolate” variations, freshly brewed coffee, tea blends, and European-inspired pastries. In addition to their café, L.A. Burdick also serves holiday chocolate assortments, which make perfect gifts to give to your friends, family, co-workers, and even yourself! The fresh, raw chocolate is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and holiday cravings this winter.

L.A. BURDICK HANDMADE CHOCOLATE

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ACTIVITIES TO-DO New York City is known to be the central hub for artists and business people alike to flourish and showcase their hard work to the larger, global audience. With that being said, there is no better way to celebrate your time in NYC than to go see a live show. Amongst all the choices, from stand-up comedies to Broadway shows to live concerts, the most classic and timeless would have to be either George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, hosted by New York City Ballet, or the Rockette’s Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Both performances encapsulate the essence of the city in tangent with the worldwide Christmas spirit.

The tree will remain lit daily (5:30 am-11:30 pm) from now until January 7th, so be sure to stop by when you are in the area.

Parks in the city play a significant role in hosting community events and remaining a green space for New Yorkers, and their pets, to spend some time outdoors. There are many popular parks and markets throughout the five boroughs, but one of the most spectacular of them all is Bryant Park in Central Manhattan. Hosted by Bank of America, BRYANT PARK´S WINTER VILLAGE is acclaimed to be Manhattan’s winter wonderland.

Located within Bryant Park’s allées, plazas, and terraces, this Winter Village has it all: a Holiday Market (with boutique, small business led restaurants and shops), an ice skating rink (providing visitors with free admission), a ringside bar and food hall called The Lodge, and an observation deck. The Holiday Market will be open until January 2nd, while the ice skating rink and The Lodge will be opened daily until March 3rd.

This is a fun, outdoor hangout spot for all to explore this winter.

ROCKEFELLER CENTER

ROCKEFELLER CENTER, located on 30 Rockefeller Plaza and founded by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., is a historic landmark that has its roots in the first half of the 20th century. Over the years, it has established itself as one of New York’s top must-see touristic destinations as it is home to the iconic Top of the Rock observation deck, NBC News and MSNBC’s headquarters, and many luxury fashion stores.

During the holiday season, ROCKEFFELLER CENTER is majestically lit up by the jaw-dropping 72-foot tall Norway Spruce Christmas Tree. This tradition of bringing in a gigantic real-life Christmas tree to the plaza has existed for decades and, thus, highlights the fact that ROCKEFELLER CENTER truly remains to be an epicenter of culture, history, and the present-day.

This year, the tree is topped by a 9.4 foot Swarovski Star that weighs in at 900 pounds and is adorned with about three million Swarovski crystals. It is designed by architect Daniel Libeskind who says, “The star is a symbol that represents our greatest ambitions for hope, unity, and peace. It is inspired by the beauty of starlight- something that radiates meaning and mystery into the world.”

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With new businesses and events sprouting about on a consistent basis here in NYC, there isn’t a shortage of things to do while visiting the city. I hope this holiday guide has helped give you some ideas on how to properly explore the city and spend time with your loved ones this winter.

Happy holidays from New York City!

BRYANT PARK´S WINTER VILLAGE

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SHOPPING GUIDE

MUST-HAVE BAGS FOR 2019

By ASHLEY FITOUSSI @lapetitestyliste

CHLOÉ Small Tess Bag in Embossed Croco Effect on Calfskin $2,090

FENDI Mon Trésor Embossed Leather Bucket Bag $2,290

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REJINA PYO Olivia Snake-Effect Leather Tote $715

JACQUEMUS Le Chiquito Handcrafted Micro-Bag in a Smooth Soft Suede $499

BALENCIAGA Ville XXS AJ Printed Textured-Leather Tote $1,790

THE ROW Double Circle Small Satin Tote $1,790

FENDI Kan I Small Flocked Leather Shoulder Bag $3,190

GUCCI Shoulder Bag with Square G $1,475

FENDI Mon Trésor Embossed Leather Bucket Bag $2,290 100

BELLO MEDIA GROUP

QP DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 02

MEG DONELLY

by MILOS NADAZDIN