QP FASHION MAGAZINE - NOVEMBER 2023 by QPmag

FASHION and lifestyle MAGAZINE

QP NOVEMBER 2023

JULIA

VAN BEZEY BY YASMINE KATEB

TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ SENIOR EDITOR CLAUDIA LOMBARDO EDITORIAL PRODUCERS MATTHEW NIENABER AREZOO JALALI

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS JENNIFER CARTER ANNA VOLOS CONTENT CREATORS SHARON JANE ALEXANDRA BONNET

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear readers, As the crisp autumn leaves blanket the streets and the air takes on a chill, we welcome you to the November issue of QP. This month, we embark on a journey through the world of fashion that is as diverse and vibrant as the changing hues of the season. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated readers and the talented individuals who contribute to making our publication a beacon of style and sophistication. Your passion for fashion fuels our commitment to delivering a magazine that is both insightful and visually captivating. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the November issue. We hope it inspires you to embrace the season's sartorial delights and encourages you to express your unique style with confidence. Wishing you a November filled with warmth, style, and the joy of self-expression.

Much obliged! JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ

Editor-in-Chief QPmag

SUBMISSIONS hello@qpmag.com ww.qpmag.com QP FASHION MAGAZINE BELLO MEDIA GROUP @BELLOmediaGroup 8285 Sunset Blvd, Suite 01 WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA 90046

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COVER

PHOTOGRAPHER: YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb MODEL: JULIA VAN BEZEY @juliavanbezey AGENCY: ELITE MODEL MANAGEMENT MIAMI @elitemiami hmua: EDGAR SAENZ @edgarsaenz7 SPECIAL THANKS TO IKON MANAGEMENT @ikonmanagement 7

UNITED COLORS PHOTOGRAPHER: MARC EVANS @marc_evans_photography MODELS: GIORGIA DALLA GASSA @iamgeorginadg, NORIAH SANTOS @noriahsantos & CAROLINE RUFINO @carolinerufinoo AGENCY: OLYMPIA MODELS @olympiamodel fashion stylist: ANTONIO VOTTA @antoniovotta_ hair STYLISTS: MATTEO SUSINI @susini.matteo & ROSSANO FASANO @rossanofasano

Nicole´s H PHOTOGRAPHER: MATTHEW SEIFNIA @matthewseifnia talent: NICOLE YOUNG @itsnicoleyoung agency: AMPR CREATIVES @amprcreatives STYLING: AMPR SHOWROOM @amprshowroom makeup artist: JACKIE ROMERO @jackiemakeup11 hair stylist: PILI ESTRADA @hair._.bypili

Hideaway Top COMMANDO Pants MANIERE DE VOIR Crocodile Hand Bag BRAHMIN Jewelry ETTIKA, LUVAJ & ADINA EDEN 27

Top COMMANDO Pants MANIERE DE VOIR Crocodile Hand Bag BRAHMIN Jewelry ETTIKA, LUVAJ & ADINA EDEN

Blazer KIANNA OFFICIAL Jewelry ETTIKA

Top EXPRESS Jewelry ETTIKA & LUVAJ

Top COMMANDO Pants MANIERE DE VOIR Crocodile Hand Bag BRAHMIN Jewelry ETTIKA, LUVAJ & ADINA EDEN

INTERVIEW

NICOLE YOUNG Interview by QP STAFF WRITER

icole, we are beyond excited to have you in our magazine. How did you get into real estate? My introduction to real estate began long before my brokerage, The Oppenheim Group, first opened its doors on Sunset Boulevard, back when I first met Jason (the managing broker) during the first year of his real estate career. I've had a lifelong interest in and passion for real estate, so I welcomed the opportunity to shadow Jason at every showing, open house and client meeting he had, hungry to learn the ropes of the industry. So, years later, when Jason opened his first office in 2014, I jumped at the offer to join his selectively handpicked team. My first year in real estate was intense as I was bartending on the side to offset the transition to a career where my income would be 100% commission-based. I was working 90+ hours a week and commuting 3 hours a day on top of it. I barely slept but it was all worth it because it gave me the financial stability to fully focus on learning and excelling at all aspects of real estate without feeling the pressure of being in a commission-only career...which can often lead to questionable ethics if you're only focusing on your commission instead of the best interests of your clients and that's something I was, am, and always will be proud to say that I'll never be guilty of that. I want people to know that being successful in real estate, or any industry for that matter, takes blood, sweat and tears and complete devotion. There's no shortcut to success other than good 'ol fashioned hard work. People often get the wrong impression that real estate is

an easy way to make a lot of money, but the truth is, it takes an enormous amount of time, dedication, and having a constant thirst for knowledge. What do you think sets 'Selling Sunset' apart from other real estate reality shows, and how has it impacted your Real Estate career? Selling Sunset is truly in a league of its own – mainly because it encompasses so much more than just real estate! Additionally, the level of production is on par with top tier box office films which gives the show such a beautifully polished look…I give all credit to the highly talented crew that we have the honor of working with day in and day out and to the mastermind creator, Adam Divello. His vision and execution are unlike anyone in the entertainment industry!

You had the opportunity to be on the show when it first aired, but weren’t ready to put your life out on television. Why did you decide to finally join the show for season 6? Funny enough, when the producers contacted me again about joining the show as a full cast member a few months before filming for season 6 started, I initially turned down the opportunity. Then, fast forward 6-8 weeks later, I got an out of the blue call from the show creators who told me I had been ‘green lit’ from Netflix to join the show… to say I was a shocked deer in the headlights is an understatement. Frankly, at the time, I was internally freaking out because I kept thinking, ‘wait, didn’t I say no?!’ I then divulged everything to my husband, who to

my surprise, told me to ‘just do it.’ It was NOT the response I was expecting or looking for lol. But looking back, everything happened as it should have….had production continued to ask me, I would have continued to turn it down, but I’m really happy they kind of bamboozled me into the situation and I’m beyond thankful for their persistence and belief in me.

You've returned for the upcoming season 7. What can viewers expect from your character and your involvement in the show this time around? Similar to S6, I am very involved in the season and storyline from start to finish. I think you continue to see more of my personal strength and ability to handle difficult situations, but I will say, my true personality, the fun, quirky, ‘I don’t take myself too seriously,’ humble and witty side has not been shown yet. I am looking forward to viewers and fans being able to see that genuine side of me now that I’ve jumped in head first and am (hopefully) a lot more comfortable in front of the camera. What is one thing that most people would be surprised to find out about reality TV? I think most people would be surprised to find out how little control we (the cast) have over our onscreen personas and storylines. What's the most challenging aspect of balancing your real estate career with the demands of being on a reality TV show? I will say, balancing my real estate career with Selling Sunset is something that I am very good about, basically because I know where my priorities lie and as much as I absolutely love being part of the show, I also know it’s going to be very short-lived compared to my lifelong career in real estate. And because of that, my real estate career and my clients have and always will come first. Having your priorities in line is of utmost importance, particularly in this situation. As someone who values their privacy, how

do you navigate the attention that comes with being a part of a popular reality show? Not going to lie, it can be quite difficult!! I’ve gotten more used to it in the past few months, but it definitely still gives me some anxiety! I will say, for the most part, in terms of my normal day-to-day life, the attention from the show doesn’t have a huge impact…at least when I’m not with any other cast member. But my god, going out with other cast members in public brings a very intense level of anxietyinducing attention that I’m not super fond of! Selling Sunset showcases some incredible luxury properties. What are your favorite types of properties to sell, and what makes them stand out? I looooooove homes with character and charm and even more so, homes that have noteworthy outdoor space and/or sizeable land. I judge a property based on the whole picture, not just the four walls of the home itself. Personally, my favorite home styles are Mid-Century, traditional, (updated) Spanish and modern farmhouse. I prefer styles that stand the test of time vs. trendy. Given your extensive real estate experience, do you have any advice for those looking to enter such a competitive industry? First and foremost, I would say to those who are interested in jumping into a career in real estate based on a reality show should know that it is NOT the easy and glamorous job that may be portrayed onscreen. Establishing yourself and proving your worth to clients takes years, blood, sweat and likely some tears along the way. There’s a reason, 90% of first-year agents drop out. That being said, if you are looking for a long-term, full-time career in real estate and you are willing to put in the work every single day and if you can handle constant rejection, are a problem solver and have the ability to separate your personal emotions in order to always have your clients’ best interests, I don’t

“Establishing yourself and proving your worth

to clients takes years, blood, sweat and likely some tears along the way” 38

Top EXPRESS Jewelry ETTIKA & LUVAJ

think there’s a better career path in the world. But, it’s ALL or nothing. It takes 150% effort, always.

You've returned for the upcoming season What can viewers expect from your character and your involvement in the show this time around? Similar to S6, I am very involved in the season and storyline from start to finish. I think you continue to see more of my personal strength and ability to handle difficult situations, but I will say, my true personality, the fun, quirky, ‘I don’t take myself too seriously,’ humble and witty side has not been shown yet. I am looking forward to viewers and fans being able to see that genuine side of me now that I’ve jumped in head first and am (hopefully) a lot more comfortable in front of the camera. What are some of the struggles that you have personally faced in your professional journey in the real estate industry? The trajectory of my career has undoubtedly continued to climb and advance year after year, but that certainly doesn't mean there haven't been struggles along the way! Particularly at 39

the beginning of my career, procuring new clients was a constant struggle and definitely the greatest challenge I faced. I was extremely confident in my abilities to represent any client, whether buying or selling, and would be able to unquestionably prove my worth, skills and knowledge once I was given the opportunity, but 'selling myself' to procure new clients was not my strong point. But in real estate, no clients = no business or sales so I felt stuck in a seemingly perpetual catch 22 situation. How could I prove my worth to clients if I had no clients to prove it to? Thankfully my dogged determination kept me focused on the longterm game and eventually I found new clients who trusted and believed in me to handle the biggest sales or purchases of their lives and were extremely happy with my services and the end results. The first few deals I closed and the clients I represented continued to bring more business and clients through referrals and repeat business. Having been raised by parents who highly valued and pushed the importance of humility, 'selling myself' may never be my favorite aspect of the job, but success comes to those who put in the work and who are willing to do things outside of their comfort zone.

Blazer KIANNA OFFICIAL Jewelry ETTIKA

COVER

JULIA

VAN BEZEY

FASHION

The Impact of Clothing on

Mental Health How Style Can Influence Self-Esteem and Mood By ANNA VOLOS @anika_volos_

Clothing is not merely a means of protection against the elements or a way to fulfill our daily needs. As someone deeply passionate about the art of everyday style, I recognize the profound influence that clothing can have on our mood, behavior, and even our small daily victories. I also understand the importance of occasionally dressing uniquely and injecting a bit of eccentricity into our routines, as clothing is a powerful tool for self-expression and a significant factor affecting our mental well-being.

IMAGES GENERATED USING LEONARDO AI

In this article, we will explore the wide-ranging impact of clothing on our psyche, drawing from a study conducted by Michael S. Lippman, Adam D. Galinsky, and Joshua M. Feiler, published over a decade ago in 2012 in the "Journal of Experimental Social Psychology," titled "Enclothed Cognition: Putting on a Blazer Makes You Feel Better-Dressed and Smarter." The research conducted by these scholars unveiled fascinating insights into the influence of clothing on our mental state and cognitive processes. Participants in the experiment wore different types of clothing, which triggered various aspects of their psychology. For example, researchers selected 38 participants (16 women and 22 men) with an average age of 36.37 years and suggested they put on laboratory coats. In this way, the lab coats were utilized to psychologically prepare the experiment participants for more attentive, cautious, and focused behavior. This type of clothing proved to be quite beneficial for this group of individuals, which, in turn, had a positive impact on their performance in the experiment. In other studies examining the psychology of color and the influence of clothing on personality, researchers have found that professional sports teams wearing black uniforms are more aggressive than teams wearing uniforms of other colors (Frank & Gilovich, 1988). In another study, scientists discovered that wearing a bikini makes women feel less modest, leading to reduced food consumption and poorer performance in mathematics (Fredrickson, Roberts, Noll, Quinn & Twenge, 1998). The expression of personality through clothing has become a key aspect of the study "Enclothed Cognition: Putting on a Blazer Makes You Feel Better-Dressed and Smarter". Clothing became not just a useful necessity but also a means of self-expression. The choice of clothing style and colors impacted mood and self-perception. For instance, wearing vibrant colors could instill a sense of energy and vivacity, while neutral tones promoted tranquility. Let's delve into the influence of clothing colors on the perception of our personalities, using a few primary colors as examples: Red: The color of passion, energy, and strength, red can evoke feelings of excitement and confidence. In clothing, red can accentuate your confidence and attract attention from others. However, its boldness can also be associated with aggression, so it's essential to use this color judiciously. Blue: Associated with calmness, serenity, and trust, blue can create a sense of professionalism and reliability. It is often chosen for business attire and contributes to making a positive first impression. Green: Linked to nature, freshness, and tranquility, green can invoke a sense of harmony and relaxation. Green is also associated with growth and development. Yellow: The color of sunshine and joy, yellow can bring optimism and enthusiasm to your mood. It is also linked to communication and intellect. However, for some individuals, yellow may be associated with danger, 55

BALENCIAGA + JACQUEMUS COLLABORATION

Psychological well-being has also been a focus of research. Wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable has a positive effect on your mood and self-esteem. The study supported the concept of "externalities," which suggests that how we look affects how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us. On the other hand, wearing clothes that don't suit our preferences or that make us feel uncomfortable can negatively impact our mood and self-esteem. This can lead to feelings of insecurity, stress, and a negative self-image.

The study also identified emotional connections between clothing and events in our lives. Clothing can be associated with joy, success, or comfort. A deeper understanding of the influence of clothing on mental health raises many intriguing questions and aspects worth exploring. Clothing not only reflects our mood and individuality but also affects us in various situations and on different levels.

For example, office workers may notice differences in their productivity and confidence when wearing formal suits compared to everyday attire. This phenomenon is known as the "uniform effect," demonstrating that clothing choices can even influence professional outcomes and how others perceive us. Another fascinating aspect is the impact of clothing on our emotional reactions in social situations. Wearing something that makes you feel attractive or comfortable can boost your confidence and help combat social anxiety. On the flip side, clothing that causes discomfort or doesn't align with beauty standards can dampen mood and hinder participation in social events. It's also crucial to consider the influence of media and advertising on our understanding of fashion and style. Beauty standards and ideals presented in magazines and on screens can exert pressure on individuals and affect their self-esteem. Fortunately, in recent decades, inclusivity in fashion has gained momentum, with increased awareness within the industry about the importance of featuring diverse body types, ages, cultural backgrounds, genders, and specific needs. It's essential to recognize that the impact of clothing on mental health can be highly individual and dependent on numerous factors, including personal preferences, cultural context, and life experiences. Therefore, each person possesses a unique perception and relationship with clothing. In conclusion, why does clothing always come to our aid? Because it is a faithful companion that is ready to support you without uttering a word! Lol. So, confidently be yourself, take care of your mental health, and don't be afraid to express yourself through clothing, because no one can be you better than you!

“A gender-neutral

fashion encourages and inspires people to find their own style and express their individuality”

INTERVIEW

VANESSA VILLELA THE 50 MILLION DOLLAR WOMAN Interview by QP STAFF WRITER

From Real Estate, red carpet to runway, Vanessa Villela isn´t here to play. This month we catch up at one of her stunning listings and delve a little deeper into Vanessa´s growing empire.

hen people talk about pushing the glass ceiling in life goals, I feel like this house may have just smashed through it. What does it take to secure a property of this caliber on your books and how much work do you need to put into it to find a buyer?

It demands a lot of dedication. Securing a property like this is a testament to believing in your dreams and persistently striving for excellence. It involves building strong connections within the industry, anticipating market trends, and understanding the unique needs of high-end buyers. Seeing this magnificent house on my books reminds me that no goal is out of reach and that with the right mindset and the willingness to put in the work, anything is possible. Many of our readers might have an unrealistic idea of the glamour within being a real estate agent. Long hours, door knocking, countless open houses as well as networking are industry standards. Had you always wanted to work in property and has it been as you imagined? The reality of being a Real Estate agent is far from the glamorous facade that some might imagine. It involves long hours, persistence, and building a strong network from scratch. It's a journey that pushes you to your limits and demands commitment. Despite the challenges, I have always been passionate about the world of Real Estate. The journey has been even more rewarding and fulfilling than I could have ever imagined. Embracing the hard work with a positive spirit and seeing the joy on my clients' faces when they find their dream home makes every sacrifice worth it. We’re loving your new nickname, “The $50,000,000 Woman” which has been coined thanks to your property portfolio. You recently rejoined your first brokerage with Santiago Arana’s team with The Agency, it must be great to be back and be a part of his team. What practices have you managed to bring into your day-to-day routine to help you remain focused and on your A-game?

Wow, I can't believe it. Being called 'The 50 Million Dollar Woman' is an honor that speaks to the power of perseverance and believing in oneself. Rejoining The Agency is like coming home, where I keep focused and driven. Time management is crucial, and setting daily goals allows me to stay on track. I believe in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, ensuring I have the energy to bring my best to everyday endeavors. Continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends keep me ahead of the game, and above all, I never forget the passion that drives me to excel, and while doing so I’m achieving my goals and honoring my sister who’s the one who got me into Real Estate. You’re not just known in Los Angeles for selling some of our city's most impressive homes, you’ve been on a few different TV series and most recently launched an accessories line called “Wave of Love”. It’s gorgeous, everything is centered around butterflies, what was the inspiration behind the design? Thank you for your beautiful words about 'Wave of Love.' This line is a reflection of my journey, especially after the loss of my sister which is the most devastating thing I’ve experienced. I went into a cocoon period for a long time and just like a butterfly I poured all the love I have for my sister to become a butterfly with new wings, ready to fly. That’s why butterflies are at the heart of its design. Butterflies also symbolize transformation, resilience, hope, love, support, and friendship. I wanted to create a collection that not only celebrates beauty but also inspires people to embrace change and spread love. Each piece carries a story of metamorphosis, reminding us that we have the power to transform our lives into something extraordinary. My hope is that 'Wave of Love' sparks the same inspiration, strength and light in others as it did in me. One thing that many of our readers might not realize is how hands-on you are with your businesses. Rumor has it that in the early stages of the launch of Wave of Love, you were answering DMs yourself. It must have been

“I have

always been passionate about the world of Real Estate”

MANGO WAY

nice connecting with your fans; do you have any stories you can share? Knowing you as well as we do, you weren’t giving one-word answers! Connecting with my fans directly during the early stages of 'Wave of Love' was a heartwarming experience that reinforced my belief in the power of human connection. I remember one particular message from ayoung woman who shared her journey of personal growth and how 'Wave of Love' resonated with her deeply. We had a heartfelt conversation about embracing change and finding strength in our struggles. Another customer from Italy gave a ring to his girlfriend on Christmas, she loved it and they both sent me a beautiful thank you note. There was also one very special, beautiful, and strong girl called Camila from Florida who is a superhero and has recovered from a very challenging health issue, she loves butterflies. These interactions reminded me that every step we take to touch someone's life positively, no matter how small, can create a ripple of hope, love, and inspiration. Let’s circle back to this property, so we’re in Beverly Hills, the views are breathtaking, the attention to detail is stunning, and the walkin closet in the master suite is next level, what are your favorite parts of this house? This Beverly Hills property is a true work of art in every detail. The breathtaking views and meticulous attention to detail set this home apart from others. I agree with you, the walk-in closet in the primary suite is an embodiment of luxury and practicality, and it’s been designed to inspire a sense of elegance and empowerment. What truly distinguishes this house is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an oasis that nourishes the soul and elevates the living experience to a new level. As mentioned, one of our favorite areas of the house is the closet which leads us to the topic of fashion. You have always had a super sexy aesthetic; what are your hero brands that you live in, and what tips can you share with our

readers to always feel confident? Fashion is an expression of our inner selves, and I believe in embracing a confident and powerful aesthetic. Some of my hero brands are those that understand and reflect my personality and values. My tip for readers is to invest in timeless pieces that make them feel empowered and comfortable. Confidence is not just about what you wear, but how you carry yourself. Embrace your uniqueness, believe in your worth, and let your authentic self shine. When you feel confident, you'll radiate positivity and inspire those around you. Sadly, for our male following, you are very much a taken woman who we understand you met on a dating app. How did England’s Nick Hardy woo you, and did you know that he was the one straight away? I met Nick on a dating app but we were both there only for friends which is an option of this app, it was the middle of the pandemic and the last thing on my mind was that I would meet my prince like that, and on the other side of the world. It was definitely a big surprise which taught me the beauty of serendipity. From our first conversation, it was easy and smooth, literally as if I was talking to myself but to a man! He impressed me with his genuine kindness, intelligence, and shared passions. He made me feel cherished, understood, and valued for who I truly am. As our friendship blossomed, it became evident that we were a perfect match, and I knew he was the one because of the profound connection, it was magical and my heart knew. Three months after speaking I said to him that I was going to Mexico to spend my birthday and that it’d be great if he could come. With both of us being romantics, we made the decision to meet in Mexico amidst the pandemic. And despite facing some potential obstacles that could have stopped our plans, fate seemed to be on our side, just like a movie. To give you an example, he lost his passport, but miraculously, within a few days when everything was closed,

“My tip for readers is to invest in

timeless pieces that make then feel empowered and comfortable”

he managed to get a new one. Thanks to that he was able to fly to Dubai, and from there he made it to Mexico, just as the English borders were closing. It truly felt as though everything was meant to fall perfectly into place for us, it was meant to be. I share this because It’s a beautiful reminder that love can find you unexpectedly, and when it does, embrace it with an open heart and an open mind. If you don’t mind us asking, you lost your sister a couple of years ago, which must have been devastating. Whilst nobody ever truly gets over losing a loved one, what have you found most useful to help you continue in a positive light whilst still holding her memories close to you? Losing my sister was an immense loss that deeply impacted me. To continue in a positive light while holding her memories close, I have found strength in cherishing the precious moments we shared and the invaluable lessons she taught me, she was my best friend. I had to do a lot of healing but when you lose someone, it doesn't really heal. The pain is always there, and each day is different, some days I'm normal and I can speak about her and some days are really hard. But I know that her spirit lives in me and through my work and the love I have for her is my everyday fuel, and when I feel down I know that she would want me to embrace life with joy, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Every day, I honor her memory by striving to be the best version of myself and touching lives in meaningful ways. One of the things we’ve loved most about your public profile in California is how upbeat and positive you have been, no matter what’s come your way. As an entrepreneur, what has been your hardest hit, and how did you climb right back up there? Awww you’re so lovely, thank you. As an entrepreneur, challenges are inevitable, and the journey is filled with ups and downs. I can’t think of a particular one but when I’ve encountered unexpected setbacks in those moments, I held on to the belief in myself and my vision. I surrounded myself with the support

of my husband, family and close friends, who reminded me of my strengths and encouraged me to keep going. I channeled my resilience and have adapted to overcome obstacles. Because I know it is up to me to overcome anything that comes, every setback is an opportunity for growth, and with perseverance, courage, and a positive attitude, we can fly again, higher than before. Now, you have this OFF-market property in Brentwood, tell us a little bit more about it. This property presents a chance to embrace a lifestyle of absolute luxury. This is undoubtedly a project that surpasses all expectations, and I am thrilled to be a part of I cannot wait for you to see this house finished, It’ll be an honor to invite you to the event. I am super excited to be involved in an extraordinary project that marks the pinnacle of my career—an inspiring multimillion-dollar development in Brentwood, Los Angeles. Which is one of my favorite places in the city. And teaming up with an exceptional group of professionals, I feel truly honored to be part of this and specifically working alongside Marco Rufo, one of California's most esteemed real estate professionals. The incredible team behind 1830 Mango Way development includes Real Estate Developer Vista Engineering and building and interior design by O+L Building Projects. Mango Way, a design-forward architectural masterpiece. Many of our readers might know you from Netflix́ s SELLING SUNSET but you have a long acting career, can you tell us a little bit about it? I love that you ask me this question as it is something that I am very proud of. I started when I was 4 years old, I was at one of my classmates' birthday parties and her dad turned out to be the producer of a famous kid’s TV show called ‘Chiquilladas”. Little I knew that this party would change my life forever. He said to my mom that he saw something special in us and said to her "Your girls are perfect for my show and we would love to have them as a part of the cast. My Mom asked us if we wanted to

“I honor my sister´s memory by

striving to be the best version of myself and touching lives in meaningful ways” 67

MANGO WAY

do that and we both jumped and said YESSSS!!! That's how my journey in acting began. I started appearing in soap operas, at a later age but I was non-stop since the age of 10 and with each role, my passion for acting grew stronger. Over the years, I found myself in many challenges but I never gave up and before I knew it I was starring in incredible telenovelas alongside actors such as “Una Maid en Manhattan”, “El Cuerpo del Deseo”, and “El Señor de los Cielos” and many more. It's truly an honor and incredible as this soap opera has been aired in more than 200 countries and is something that to this day I find to be a blessing that I can entertain so many people of so many different

cultures while giving life to these characters. You are a busy lady, last question we promise, but are planning to go back to acting? I’m an actress through and through, and my love for it is still there. As a woman, I believe we have incredible superpowers: we can be wives, entrepreneurs, actors, Real Estate agents, all at once. Each role adds depth to who I am, and I embrace the journey of personal and professional growth. So, while you might not see me on the screen right now, rest assured, I'm eagerly preparing for the day when I'll be back, ready to shine and bring stories to life once again.

“As a woman, I believe we have incredible

superpowers: we can be wives, entrepreneurs, actors, Real Estate agents, all at once”

MANGO WAY

GRACE

PHOTOGRAPHER: AREZOO JALALI @arezoojalali_photography MODEL: PAULINA BREANNE @paulinabreanne agency: GENETICS MODEL MANAGEMENT @geneticsmgmt makeup artist: NADIYA SERPOOSH @makeupnadiya.ca 75

INTERVIEW

LUXE DU JOUR Interview by QP STAFF WRITER

Welcome to an exclusive interview with LUXE DU JOUR, the epitome of Italian elegance in the world of luxury handbags. Renowned for their expertise, LUXE DU JOUR stands as a distinguished company that seamlessly intertwines the realms of buying, selling, renting, and restoring designer handbags. From the iconic allure of Dior to the timeless craftsmanship of Hermes, LUXE DU JOUR's commitment to preserving and enhancing the beauty of these high-end accessories sets them apart in the realm of luxury fashion.

ow does Luxe Du Jour determine the authenticity of vintage Gucci, Chanel, Hermes, and other high-end designer bags?

We have a multi-step authentication process where we use our in-house lead experts and another step is using ENTRUPY, a device that scans designer items at a microscopic level using AI machine learning to determine authenticity. Can you tell us about the refurbishment process that Luxe Du Jour employs to restore these bags? To restore any handbag, it goes through Luxe Bag Spa a division within Luxe Du Jour for quoting, cleaning, any minor touch ups or full restoration depending on the service needed from the client. What steps does Luxe Du Jour take to ensure the quality and durability of the refurbished bags? We remind clients that restoring a handbag does not make it indestructible but Luxe Bag Spa offers products that clients can buy to maintain their designer handbags, like the leather touch-up pen they can conveniently use at home if minor imperfections do appear. What measures does Luxe Du Jour take to ensure customer satisfaction with their purchases? Luxe Du Jour stands by their reputation and it really shows through our 1000+ 5 star reviews on Google and Facebook. Luxe Du Jour always encourages our clients to provide feedback and we ensure we resolve customer issues seamlessly. Can you provide examples of the types of refurbishments and repairs that Luxe Du Jour offers for vintage bags? Luxe Bag Spa does minor corner touchups, re-gold plating, full recolor and restoration and marks and stain removal. How does Luxe Du Jour source its inventory of vintage designer bags? Luxe Du Jour is fortunate enough to have a huge clientele base where consignors from all over the world consign or sell directly to us

because of how easy we make it. What criteria does Luxe Du Jour use to select the bags it purchases for refurbishment? Any preowned designer handbag that is high valued and have major flaws that could use restoration is sent to our in house spa. Every item restored we always ensure we disclose in the description listing. Are the refurbished bags from Luxe Du Jour covered by any warranties or guarantees? There is no warranty or guarantee for refurbished as we only restore the leather not parts or broken pieces. Can you describe the process for selling a vintage designer bag to Luxe Du Jour? It's easy! Just create a Luxe Du Jour account and fill out the details needed under CONSIGN/ SELL and get a quote within 24 business hours! Are there any specific brands or styles of bags that Luxe Du Jour specializes in? Luxe Du Jour specializes in ultra luxury brands such as Hermes, Chanel, Goyard, Van Cleef & Arpels, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Rolex as these are our TOP SELLERS.

How does Luxe Du Jour handle the cleaning and maintenance of the bags during the refurbishment process? Luxe Bag Spa has their own care product line including deodorizer, patina leather cleaner, leather protection and moisturizing cream. What is the typical turnaround time for the refurbishment of a vintage designer bag? Restoring a designer handbag through Luxe Bag Spa only takes 5-10 business days which is a lot faster than the boutique brands themselves as they take up to 6 months. Does Luxe Du Jour have any plans to expand its services or offerings in the future? Luxe Du Jour is really focused on expanding on its innovation and technology which users will see through the Luxe Du Jour app. Our mission is to make the one-stop platform to shop, sell, rent, restore all in one place: the only platform users will need!

BELLA

PHOTOGRAPHER: KENT AVERY @kentaveryphoto MODEL: CAITLYN MWENIFUMBO @bby_cai AGENCY: THE INDUSTRY MODEL MANAGEMENT LA @theindustryla wardrobe STYLIST: HANNAH KERRI @hannahkerrri HAIR AND Makeup ARTIST: KESHA @keshabyme LOCATION: DECLAN @5thletter PHOTOGRAPHER: DWSNAPSHOT @dwsnapshot MODEL: BELLA DAVIS @iambelladavis agency: 3D MODEL AGENCY @3dmodelagency FASHION STYLIST: DAVID HALEY @davidhaleyx Makeup artist: ROBIN LYNN @rlbeautyinspirer

LUXURY REIMAGINED

Shop, Sell, Rent, Lend or Restore preowned designer luxury all in one place

www. luxedujour.ca

FASHION and lifestyle MAGAZINE

QP NOVEMBER 2023

PAULINA

BREANNE BY AREZOO JALALI