FASHION and lifestyle MAGAZINE
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KATHERINE
McNAMARA BY YASMINE
KATEB
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LUXURY BAGS INSPIRED BY CONFIDENCE
WWW.MAISONBANGBANG.COM
TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR YASMINE KATEB MANAGING EDITOR JENNIFER M. BAKER
SENIOR EDITOR
LYNN VENTURELLA
FASHION EDITORS
MELISSA VALE SHARON JANE BREANNA MULLES
FASHION STYLIST GEMMA LOUISE MAY
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
ALEXANDRA BONNET
MAKEUP ARTISTS TEAL DRUDA VANESSA VENANCIO
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
JUSTINE DUCLAUX SHANNEN TIERNEY GIORGINA CAMBLOR VALENTINA SOLCI
HAIR STYLIST JENNIFER M. BAKER
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Hi there, We couldn´t be more excited about presenting this new issue with the beautiful and talented Katherine McNamara on the cover, along with a selection of editoials we think will be a delish to you. In this unique situation we are all going through, it´s so refreshing to see new creative concepts like Yasmine Ketab´s THE FACETIME SERIES, using this popular video chat service to photograph models vhile keeping the social distanciation we are being required to experience. Special mention to our interview and photoshoot with stunning Brenda Song. Definitely omething worth reading. Like always, we want to each and everyone who has made this issue possible. Cheers, guys! PLEASE, STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY. THIS WILL BE OVER SOON! THANK YOU!! JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ Editor-in-Chief QPmag
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talent: KATHERINE McNAMARA @kat.mcnamara photographer: YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb wardrobe STYLIst: YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb MAKEUP artist: VANESSA VENANCIO @vanessavenanciomua hair stylist: JENNIFER BAKER @hairbyjennifermelissabaker SPECIAL THANKS TO THE LEDE COMPANY @theledecompany
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IN THIS ISSUE 8-23 | EDITORIAL: BAD GIRL 24 | INTERVIEW: YASMINE KATEB 25 | THE FACETIME SERIES 26-35 | EDITORIAL: PINK BAROQUE 36-47 | COVER: KATHERINE McNAMARA 48-55 | EDITORIAL: SHINE BRIGHT 56-60 | FASHION: NYFW FALL 2020 61 | THE FACETIME SERIES 62-71 | INTERVIEW: BRENDA SONG 72-79 | EDITORIAL: SIREN SONG 80 | FASHION: TOTEM FASHION & BESFXXK 81 | THE FACETIME SERIES 82-91 | EDITORIAL: INTO THE WOODS 92 | FASHION: FASHION VS CORONAVIRUS SUBMISSIONS hello@qpmag.com ww.qpmag.com QP FASHION MAGAZINE BELLO MEDIA GROUP @BELLOmediaGroup 6404 Wilshire Blvd. #500 / Los Angeles CA 90048
www.qpmag.com hello@QPMAG.com
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BAD GIRL
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 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. 88
Cover Up STYLIST´S OWN Earrings ELIZABETH COLE One Piece SWIMINSTA Jewels NATALIE B. JEWELRY Boots BONJ LA Hat LACK OF COLOR Bag JJ WINTERS Sunglasses DIFF EYEWEAR Sunglasses Chain SINTILLIA
PHOTOGRAPHER: KENT AVERY @kentaveryphoto MODEL: ANNIE MORRISSEY @annie_morrissey AGENCY: MERAKI MODEL MANAGEMENT @merakimodelmgmt WARDROBE STYLIST: GEMMA LOUISE MAY @gemmalouise_may HAIR AND MAKEUP: STACY SALAZAR @makeup_bystacy LOCATION: THE APOLLO @apollodrivehouse
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Jacket ZARA Pants ZARA Bag MAISON BANGBANG Bracelet CARTIER
Blazer ZARA Skirt ZARA Earrings ELIZABETH COLE Heels ALDO
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Dress LE QU’A ATELIER Earrings VINTAGE 10
Blazer ZARA Skirt ZARA Earrings ELIZABETH COLE Heels ALDO
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Bralette VERSACE Skirt YSL Earrings VINTAGE Heels ALDO
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 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. 14 14
Cover Up STYLIST´S OWN Dress LE QU´À ATELIER One Piece SWIMINSTA Earrings VINTAGE Jewels NATALIE B. JEWELRY Boots BONJ LA Hat LACK OF COLOR Bag JJ WINTERS Sunglasses DIFF EYEWEAR Sunglasses Chain SINTILLIA
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Dress LE QU´À ATELIER Earrings ALESSANDRA RICH Heels ALDO
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 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. 18
Cover Up STYLIST´S OWN One Piece SWIMINSTA Jewels NATALIE B. JEWELRY Boots BONJ LA Hat LACK OF COLOR Bag JJ WINTERS Sunglasses DIFF EYEWEAR Sunglasses Chain SINTILLIA
Dress HOUSE OF CB Earrings VINTAGE Bracelet HERMES
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Dress LE QU´À ATELIER Earrings VINTAGE
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 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. 22 22
Cover Up STYLIST´S OWN One Piece SWIMINSTA Jewels NATALIE B. JEWELRY T-Shirt BASSIKE Boots BONJ LA Earrings FISHER HatJENNIFER LACK OF COLOR Heels ALDO Bag JJ WINTERS Sunglasses DIFF EYEWEAR Sunglasses Chain SINTILLIA
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INTERVIEW
YASMINE
KATEB
Pictures from a Far: How to be Creative while Social Distancing
Meet fashion photographer Yasmine Kateb, who has been keeping herself very busy during the pandemic of COVID-19. She has found a way to stay creative working with models around the world. Her goal is to inspire others to continue doing what they love doing during these unfortunate times. She says that thinking outside the box and making the best of what we have at the moment has never been so crucial. How did you think of this video chat photoshoot concept? The first time I experimented with video chat photography was three years ago. At the time my boyfriend Nick and I were in a long-distance relationship. Thanks to modern-day technology we were able to keep our relationship strong through face time. These face time sessions inspired me to photograph him through the computer screen. We formed a special bond over this and to my surprise produced some very unique shots. Now here I am 3 years later quarantined using that very same concept to continue sharing my passion with the rest of the world. Would you say you are the first photographer to think of this concept? No, I wouldn´t take credit as being the first to come up with this concept, but I know for certain that I can be the first in coming up with a different artistic apporach that hasn´t been done yet the more I experiment with this. Are there specific programs you use for video chat? Yes, I use primarily Zoom, Face time, or whatever communication platform is available to the model.
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What would you say makes you stand out as a video chat photographer? Being a creative director and directing these
photoshoots through a screen has presented a new challenge that I have fully embraced. I use the skills that I’ve developed over the years to find the most effective light source and angles to enhance the models' beauty. Do you have a specific goal for this video chat photography you want to accomplish? My goal is to photograph as many models around the world. This unique concept has allowed me to create magic with models around the world while still practicing social distancing. Now there is no excuse for a model not being in town! I would also love to create a video shoot and movie using only video chat platforms. I feel like there is still so much more to be discover. Are you only doing this video chat photography with only models or taking clients as well? My primary focus at the moment is to work with models. I’m still open to the idea of working with people who want family portraits, engagement photos, etc. I’m always up for a new challenge. QP is publishing some of the first video chat images Yasmine has photographed. Her photos speak for themselves and trick the eye of not being able to determine whether these images are captured in person or through video chat. Feel free to be the judge of her work and let us know your thoughts! Interview by JOSE-MARIA JIMENEZ 24
THE FACETIME SERIES A project by
YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb
MODEL: JENNA ROZARIO @jennarozari AGENCY: LENIS AGENCY @lenisagency @THEFACETIMESERIES #THEFACETIMESERIES 25
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PINK BAROQUE PHOTOGRAPHER: KARINA DOBRA @karinadobraphoto MODELs: DAISY GRAY @daisygrayofficial IZA RIOS @izarioss NOAH TEICHER @noah_pierce WARDROBE STYLIST: @andi_ism MAKEUP artist: AKIKO RUSSELL @akiko.artistry HAIR STYLISTs: JENNIFER M. BAKER @hairbyjennifermelissabaker AYANO J @ayanojhair edITORIAL PRODUCER: BILL WAESCHE @bwaesche location: THE PINK PALACE @thepinkpalace_
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COVER
KATHERINE
McNAMARA Embracing the Wonders of Life
The beautiful and talented, Katherine McNamara, has found her passion for acting without having looked for it! She started as a dancer and never imagined she would pursue an acting career. Fortunate enough to have worked with amazing people, she has and continues to grow a little more every day. From Broadway to the big screen, McNamara has come a long way and welcomes new adventures with open arms. Here at QP, we can’t wait to see where she goes next. Interview by GIORGINA CAMBLOR @giny_camblor & ALEXANDRA BONNET @bonnetalex18
PHOTOGRAPHER: YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb WARDROBE STYLIST: YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb MAKEUP ARTIST: VANESSA VENANCIO @vanessavenanciomua HAIR STYLIST: JENNIFER M. BAKER @hairbyjennifermelissabaker special thanks to THE LEDE COMPANY @theledecompany
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rom Broadway to the TV Screen you have done a lot, more than most people your age. We see that you started acting at a young age. What inspired you to pursue your career so early? I actually never intended to end up in this industry. I was a dancer, but I never imagined a career as a performer. As a kid, math was my favorite subject and I wanted to pursue a career in economics. I happened to run into a family friend who was directing a community theater production and needed a dancer. I was the kid who would try anything - so I did. I instantly fell in love with the process and the community. I remember walking on stage on opening night, and something hit me like a brick wall - this is what I was put on this Earth to do. I knew in that moment with absolute clarity that this is what I have to do for the rest of my life. How do you think you’ve evolved in the industry since you were a teen? Entirely and completely! I have been fortunate enough to work with some incredible artists in front of and behind the camera who have taught me so much. I am a perpetual student - constantly trying to pick up and absorb anything I can from those I work with and respect. That is something I love most about being an actor. I am constantly learning and growing personally and professionally and the possibilities are endless.
How was it playing Mia Smoak on “Arrow” and appearing on other DC shows? It was overwhelmingly wonderful! When I first auditioned, I had no idea that the role was to play Oliver and Felicity’s daughter - when that was revealed to me, I knew I had my work cut out for me given that they were such a beloved couple on the show. I watched the entire series (then 6 seasons) before I started and tried to glean as much as I could mannerisms, character traits, little easter eggs I could bring in to make Mia a true amalgamation of their characters. Once I got to set, I was so thrilled to be instantly welcomed into the Arrowverse both on and off-screen. The writers did such a beautiful job of laying out Mia’s story, it was a pleasure to collaborate with them. On top of that, the cast and crew of Arrow and all the DC shows - are so lovely.
“I watched the entire series (Arrow) before I started and tried to glean as much as I could”
What advice would you give to any kids that want to get into acting? My biggest advice to anyone considering the pursuit in an all-encompassing career such as entertainment is to make sure you really love it. This life is not always as glamorous as it seems. It takes hard work, dedication, and a thick skin. However, if the passion for it makes you excited to jump out of bed in the morning, it will all be worth it in the end. If there is anything I have learned, it is that those with tenacity and passion that make it in the end - no matter the industry. Were there any actresses that inspired you to go into acting growing up? I grew up watching old Hollywood films mostly so I
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was continually inspired by the work of actresses such as Rita Hayworth and Audrey Hepburn. I gained a whole slew of influences as my film consumption expanded, but these legends gave me the bug to start.
What was it like working on “The Stand”? “The Stand” was the most creatively fulfilling roller coaster ride I have experienced in a long time. Everyone involved in the production really put their all into bringing the story to life in its fullest capacity. As a Stephen King fan myself, it was so thrilling to step into this world, especially when people are creating with such passion from all sides. Julie is basically the personification of hedonism and narcissism so I had a lot of fun bringing her to life. It was a true pleasure to join such an incredible company - I can’t wait for folks to see it. How did it feel wrapping up "Shadowhunters" last year after three years together? In a word - strange. When you work on a show like "Shadowhunters" where you are living in a different country for the majority of the year, building a show from the ground up, with an amazing cast and crew who become like family to you, it can be all-encompassing in the best possible way.
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 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. 40 40
BLOOD LINES Beaded Dress LUXURY BY FEYI Black Dress LEXI
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It was such a special rare experience working in such a beautifully collaborative environment on a story that meant so much to all of us and to the viewers as well. My life had so completely revolved around the show and around Clary for years that I had to re-define my routine and my focus once the show was finished. It still hasn’t fully set in because I’m still going to comic cons and talking about the show throughout the year. Also, I am still close with the cast and see them often. If you weren’t an actor what would you want to do? If I wasn’t an actor or in the entertainment industry at all, I would be working in developmental economics. I fell in love with this field of economics before I was an actor - in fact, I even studied this in university. However, there are several other aspects of the entertainment industry I am aiming to explore. I have been shadowing and studying different directors over the last few years which has only solidified my desire to jump behind the camera as well. Above all else, I am a storyteller and I always will be. If you could remake any movie or TV show and play a part in it what movie or show would it be and who would you play? One of my favorite movies of all time is “Gilda” starring Rita Hayworth. It was the tail end of the noir period and the film is just velvet - its so gorgeous in every respect. It was made back in 1946 so I think a remake is quite possible. That film was and is such an influence for me, I’d love to bring that role and that story to life again.
“I find constant inspiration and creative discovery through music”
What role has been your favorite so far? Which role have you identified with the most? Which role has been the most challenging? This is an impossible question for me to answer although I am asked it often. I put my heart and soul into creating each character so it is impossible to choose a favorite. I put a little piece of myself into every one of them and find something in each that I relate to so I can bring my truth to their journey. Also, every role brings with it a challenge, an obstacle, an opportunity to learn something new or grow in some way. These are so specific to each situation it is impossible to rate one over the other, however, I am more than grateful for each and every one.
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We find it fascinating that you appeared on Broadway. We know that Broadway and Film are vastly different disciplines, both difficult and rewarding in their own right. What are the differences for you? Which do you find more rewarding? Would you consider doing Broadway again? Well, thank you! YES. I would love to return to the stager. Film tends to be more intimate - you create the little details that only the camera will catch but often with little to no rehearsal. Theater is a live show in which the audience also plays a role. It is such a rush to feed off of their energy and have the opportunity to experience the character’s entire arc every show. You are absolutely right in saying they are completely different disciplines but that's why I love both (and going back and forth between the different mediums) so much. It keeps me on my toes and constantly growing and reinventing myself. Do you listen to music to get you in the zone? If so what is your go-to song or playlist? I always turn to music to get focused, to motivate myself, or even to get into character. My taste in music is ever-evolving and quite diverse. I go through phases of top 40 pop, country, alternative, musical theater, 80’s rock to name a few… Other times I throw it on shuffle and re-discover my old favorites. My go-to playlist is ever-changing. However, I do make a playlist for every character and project - music choice says so much about a person, I find constant inspiration and creative discovery through it.
You’ve had a few songs featured in film and television, would you ever consider making an album or EP and diving more into the music industry? Absolutely. I’ve been working toward that for years but other work has (thankfully) impeded my momentum. However, I’ve finally had a chance to get back to it a bit this year so stay tuned… You have great personal style. What are your influences? All black everything? ;) As far as influences go, I’m not sure I have any specific ones. I always try and go for clothes that fit well and make me feel good, but my personal style is constantly evolving.
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It does, however, tend to have a consistent undercurrent of classic with a bit of edge and lots of black. What’s the one essential thing, you feel, should be in everybody’s closet? I think everyone needs a great pair of jeans that make them feel awesome. They are the hardest item to find and fit, but there's a OTP of denim out there for everyone. They can be dressed up or down, and last forever. There’s nothing like sliding on a pair of jeans that feel like a second skin and being ready to take on the day. We’ve seen your hair in so many different colors. What shade has been your favorite? What is your go-to hair product? Ooh, tough question. I have actually loved every color so far! Hair style and shade colors your personality a bit or at least for me adds a different flavor as it were depending on how it makes me feel. I always tend to gravitate toward shades with even a bit of my natural ginger in it, however, I love being blonde too. The pink for "The Stand" was a whole new animal I had never experienced before. I was a little nervous jumping in to such a bold color - but I actually ended up loving it! What would you like to be remembered for? Life for me has been rather unexpected at every turn. As such, I tend to not be too specific about these things. However, on the whole, I would like to be remembered for bringing quality and diversity to my work, for being a kind and hardworking person, and for doing
something for the greater good of the world. If I can affect others in a positive way whether directly or indirectly, that is all I can ask for. What is the one thing that nobody knows about you? I love silly socks! At work, I am always wearing black and leather and covered in blood for some reason, so at the end of the day, it brings me so much joy to take off my bloody boots and discover pink unicorns, hedgehogs, pandas, dinosaurs, or some other silly creature on my feet! Where do you want to be in 10 years? In 10 years, I hope to be working in projects that continue to challenge and inspire me both in front of and behind the camera. I want to have traveled a great deal more than I already have and to have learned quite a bit from it. I hope to have wonderful people in my life both at work and at home that make me a better version of myself. With everything going on in the world today, is there any advice or inspiration you would like to give to your fans? First of all, I would like to say thank you for the constant inspiration they give me with their art, their kind words, and their support. Overall, I would say follow your heart and your passion. Do something every day that makes your soul sing for joy. Whether you do that thing for five minutes or five hours, its progress. Also, don’t forget to breathe and find the silver linings when you can in situations. Life can and will throw you curveballs you have no control over - the important thing, in the long run, is how you handle them. Keep your chin up and look on the bright side. You'll make it through anything.
“I hope to have wonderful people in my life both at work and at home that make me a better version of myself.”
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PHOTOGRAPHER: CHRIS ALLEN @christianallenphoto MODEL: JESSICA FELTER @jessica_felter AGENCY: LIPPS LA @lippsla WARDROBE STYLIST: ANDRE EMERY @andreemeryofficial MAKEUP artist: ANGELIQUE CERNIGLIA @angelmakeup45 using MAC COSMETICS HAIR STYLIST: JENNIFER BAKER @hairbyjennifermelissabaker using ENZO MILANO ADDITIONAL RETOUCHING: OLGA VOLK @morph_retouch
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FASHION
NYFW FALL 2020
THE BIGGEST TRENDS TO WATCH
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By MELISSA VALE @melissadvale
his New York fashion week was a slightly quieter one for me, as is often the nature of February fashion weeks more generally. But I’ve also learned from past mistakes not to over-schedule myself, and I prioritized supporting my favorite designers and their shows, presentations, and events. Some of the trends were surprising too, which kept things really interesting! Let’s dive in, shall we?
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Fall is typically a season for blacks, dark colors, and neutrals, but this season we saw something a little bit different: monochromatic color. There were a couple of different shades that popped up repeatedly, but of those, the most notable was green (perhaps because, as many of you know, I’ve deemed it “my color”).
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90S GRUNGE/PUNK: While the Euphoria inspired makeup trends planted many of the spring 2020 shows firmly in the 80s, much of the fall fashion jumped right into the next decade, complete with plaids, dark florals, and combat boots. Jonathan Cohen’s show even resurrected the Doc Marten.
NICOLE MILLER
MONSE
ANNA SUI
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BUTTERY LEATHER INCORPORATED INTO EVERYDAY PIECES: Whether real or faux, leather jackets always become a staple as the weather cools, but this season more then ever, designers incorporated buttery leather pieces as more than just outerwear. L’Agence, so well known for their coated denim and liquid leather leggings, not surprisingly was most on board with this trend, with some super chic, luxe pieces that someone still shy on head to toe leather could easily incorporate into her wardrobe rotation.
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For the bolder, there were head to toe leather looks all over the runways: one favorite was this ultra-luxe ode to the 90s from Claudia Li.
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Or these statement pants from Self-Portrait.
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OVERSIZE KNITS: Colder weather calls for some warm sweaters, and designers put their own creative spin on it for the fall. The most notable twist on this look probably came from Herve Leger’s creative director Christian Juul Nielsen, who combined an oversized sweater with the House’s signature bandage skirt to create the ultimate day to evening dress (in that trending signature green, natch). Brandon Maxwell featured a bell-sleeved sweater dress — in green yet again! — belted over some denim for a chic and creative fall look.
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CAPED CRUSADERS: There was a ton of love for superhero-inspired outerwear on the runways, with the rest of the look kept fairly minimalist and classic.
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THE FACETIME SERIES A project by
YASMINE KATEB @yasminekateb
MODEL: SAVANNA JAMES @savannaleighjames AGENCY: WILHELMINA MODELS @wilhelminamodels @THEFACETIMESERIES #THEFACETIMESERIES 61
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INTERVIEW
BRENDA SONG Finding Her Footing As three-year-old Brenda Song walked through the Arden Fair mall in Sacramento, her mom was shopping at a nearby kiosk. The innocent toddler noticed that there was a school searching for potential models. Intrigued, she began to strut as she showed off her best model walk. Finally, one of the women conducting the search noticed her and flagged down Song’s mom to badger her with information. Simply trying to get back on their way, her mom told them what they wanted to hear. “She took the information and didn’t think twice about it, but I wouldn’t shut up about it,” Song shared with us. “I was only three but I was already talking - shocker.” Interview by SHANNEN TIERNEY @shannen.tierney
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PHOTOGRAPHER: ARIYA AKHAVAN @ariyastudios CREATIVE DIRECTOR: ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC @alekandsteph WARDROBE STYLIST: JESSICA ARMSTRONG @jessicaarmstrong_style MAKEUP ARTIST: PAUL BLANCH @paulyblanch HAIR STYLIST: PRESTON WADA @prestonwada PRODUCED BY BELLO MEDIA GROUP @BELLOMediaGroup MAISON PRIVEE LA @Maisonpriveepr_la ALEXANDRA BONNET @bonnetalex18 62
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fter begging her family for weeks to enroll her in the school Song’s grandmother finally caved in and took her entire savings of $527 to sign her up. Song’s family has continued to be the biggest support system for her career. She says that her mother is the pillar of her family. As she told us, “My mom is an incredible woman and so supportive and I would not be the person I am without her.” Her parents would even use acting as a way to discipline Song growing up. “When I was bad or misbehaved or something like that I didn’t get to go to my auditions,” she shared. “My auditions were my reward. It wasn’t the other way around.” With her family’s support Song was able to book a string of gigs before being offered the deal of a lifetime: playing the part of London Tipton on Disney’s, “The Suite Life of Zach and Cody”. This may have been an easy decision for any other actor but Song had also gotten accepted into college around this time and wasn’t sure which path to follow. We all know how hard it is to grow up and make big life choices so imagine being a 15-year-old girl having to choose between education or your dream job. Again, she turned to her family for advice. Her father told her, “You go to college to figure out what you want to do and if this is what you want to do then you have an amazing opportunity with this show.” Given that her dad was a teacher himself Song was shocked he’d advise her to try a different route than college, but she listened to him and took the job. She played London Tipton for eight years on Disney Channel and turned the character into a pop-culture staple.
While grateful for her time at Disney and the relationships she made, Song found it hard to transition from the network. After playing the same character for eight years she went through a bit of an identity crisis thinking: “Who am I as an actress? Am I just London Tipton? Is that who I am? ”Imagine spending your entire childhood playing one character and even having your first kiss on screen! " Reevaluating her life at that time, she expressed “It’s like I woke up one day and I was 22 and I’d never been to a house party.” After being on a sitcom for years the actress was getting pressured to do more serious roles that she wasn’t ready for and began to feel very conflicted about her career. “I just didn’t know where I fit in this industry,” she shared. “I love doing what I do. I feel so fortunate to have worked consistently but I just didn’t know where I fit and I was very confused.” This feeling persisted until about 2017 when she filmed a movie in Thailand. Being half-Thai she realized the trip was something she really needed and felt a change in herself. She shared with us, “For the first time in my career, I chose me and what I thought not professionally that I needed to do... but what I wanted to do
“It’s like I woke up one day and I was 22 and I’d never been to a house party.”
Thankfully, the Disney Song grew up in is available to watch on the new streaming platform, Disney +. It features not only “Suite Life” but some of the movies Song did as an early actress including “Stuck in the Suburbs” and “Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior”. While she admits it’s a little weird for these projects to be broadcasted to an entirely new generation of kids and to get recognized for movies she filmed 15 years ago, she is grateful to have a chance to get to relive some of the moments from her teens. She’s more concerned that the films are still relevant to audiences today and as she said: “I hope that they translate well and aren’t too outdated but I'm too scared to watch, you know.”
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She was back in Los Angeles and feeling more confident, ready to get back to work. It was at this time that she got the call for “Secret Obsession”. Not known for thrillers, the actress was slightly taken aback at the offer and as she shared: “When I was approached I was actually really excited but of course I was like… Me? Really? Because this is something so different from anything I’ve done.” Still, Song was intrigued. She grew up loving thrillers, crime stories and anything suspenseful. I mean, who doesn’t love a good true crime documentary? Song knew if she got in the right mindset she’d kill it, so she did some reading up on books like Stephen King’s “Misery” and watched a few of her favorite scary movies. She then threw herself into the role, which wasn’t too hard given that they were filming at a dark and abandoned college campus. “Me running in the dark on this scary campus in the rain was actually terrifying,” she expressed. “I was like someone could literally be hiding around the corner where I’m running and I wouldn’t know it so I really steered into that.” Yikes. She was just as scared filming the movie as we were watching it.
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While filming “Secret Obsession” Song got word of another project, “Dollface”. The actress read the script and immediately felt like she “was reading the adventures of (her) and (her) girlfriends”. Once she found out Kat Dennings was attached to the project she was sold. Her audition was after a night shoot and she had only gotten a few hours of sleep. Tired. Beat. Exhausted. Song was convinced she botched it: “I had been crying and running the night before and now they’re like Ok! Be Funny!” she recalled. “I walked out and I was driving to work and I was like I’m so sad because I loved this project and I just blew it.” Fortunately, Song got the part, “by the grace of God,” she said. Filming “Dollface” was a lot of work but also a lot of fun. The cast never took themselves seriously when filming and this will most likely be the case for Season 2: “We know what kind of show we are. We’re making fun of ourselves. We’re out to have a good time and you know we had such a good time making it so hopefully, that translated.” The fun continues off-camera as the girls are even closer friends in real life. With all the craziness that happens in today’s world, it’s important to have a good group of friends by your side. Song loves that her show is centered around this idea and as she said
happily, “It truly is about your girlfriends and hopefully when you guys are watching you feel like you know you’re part of the friend group. ”Given how close the stars were, it was no surprise that they were all elated when they learned “Dollface” had been picked up for Season 2. Dennings even called to deliver the news before producers could. After finding out Song texted all the girls and said: “I’m sorry but you’re stuck with me for another year!” Between “Secret Obsessions” and “Dollface” Song feels she knows where she stands as an actress today. Now, she is at a place where she feels comfortable revisiting her Disney days, voicing the character Anne Boonchuy on their new animated show, ‘Amphibia’. Although Song may have stumbled a few times she has finally found her footing not just in her career but in her personal life as well. “I’m such a believer in when you choose to live for yourself and choose life and choose to take care of yourself for your own well-being everything else will fall into place,” she shared. “I’m trying to make choices for me and for me to be happy. I know it sounds so simple and sort of lame but once you start doing that everything else really does fall into place.”
“I’m such a believer in when you choose to live for yourself and choose life and choose to take care of yourself for your own well-being everything else will fall into place”
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PHOTOGRAPHER: ANDREW M. GLEASON @andrewmgleason MODEL: KRISTEN KASSINGER @kristenkass AGENCY: DT MODEL MANAGEMENT @dtmodelmgmt WARDROBE STYLIST: LINDA MEDVENE @lindamedvenestylist STYLIST´s assistant: SAPREET GILL @preesochic HAIR & MAKEUP: GLENN NUTLEY @glennnutley
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TOTEM FASHION ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH BESFXXK By JUSTINE DUCLAUX @justine_duclaux
or fashion lovers‌ The showroom Totem Fashion is pleased to announce its collaboration with the talented label BESFXXK!
Discovering the brand BESFXXK: a cool wardrobe with British and Korean influences‌ The men's and women's ready-to-wear brand created by 33-year-old South Korean designers Bona Kim and Jae Hyuk Lim. Founded in 2017, BESFXXK studied at the prestigious Royal College of Arts In London & London College of Fashion Respectively before launching the brand. Defined himself as an experimental fashion house, who takes a surgical approach to design and product development. The technique involves physically combining specific items with diverse backgrounds and histories. The outcome is always unexpectedly innovator and wearable. "We work around the transformation of clothing which can be worn in different ways, and around the mixing of cultures. Our fashion is quite experimental. We love fashion and that passion became our work", the designers said the press. BESFXXK set out to reinterpret the symbols coming from both the street world as well as the luxury realm. The creative process involved re-examining the standards of what defines a current trend and what defines the past. Their collection is now stocked in more than 40 stores, over 15 countries worldwide.
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THE FACETIME SERIES A project by
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 CREATIVE DIRECTOR: ROBERT STEINKEN @robertsteinken1 FASHION STYLIST: NICOLE CLOUTIER @nicoleaimeec MAKEUP ARTIST: LUIS CASCO @luiscascomakeup Lingerie HONEY BIRDETTE 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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PHOTOGRAPHER: MISHAN WARNAKULASURIYA @mishanw MODELS: BRE TIESI @bre_tiesi & ALEXIS RUPP @alexisrupp24 creative director/production: MALVINA GHAOUI @miss_melaa ASSISTANT PRODUCER: RICHARD GARCIA @ejay_35 MAKEUP artist: ASHLEY CHAO HAIR STYLIST: ARTA BALAJ @ _artab_
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 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. 86
Cover DressUp WHITE STYLIST´S RUNWAY OWN Lingerie HONEY BIRDETTE Earrings One Piece ISABELLA SWIMINSTA MAY Skirt LE QU´À Jewels NATALIE B. ATELIER JEWELRY Boots BONJ LA Hat LACK OF COLOR Bag JJ WINTERS Sunglasses DIFF EYEWEAR Sunglasses Chain SINTILLIA
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PHOTOGRAPHER: MILOS NADAZDIN @milosnadazdin MODEL: ALEKSANDRA NIKOLIC @alexnicolic89 Lingerie CREATIVE DIRECTOR: ROBERT STEINKEN @robertsteinken1 HONEY BIRDETTE 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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FASHION VS CORONAVIRUS By JUSTINE DUCLAUX @justine_duclaux
he world has been affected by the Convid-19 for several months. Faced with this problem, the fashion industry decides to commit itself to fight against the pandemic. The following are just a few examples, since there is a huge quantity of fashion brands who are joining this altruistic movement.
KERING
To help Italy, Kering is mobilising. In a joint action with all the group's brands operating in Italy, the group announced a donation of 2 million euros to numerous local healthcare organisations. The donation will benefit several healthcare institutions across Lombardy, Veneto, Tuscany and Lazio, all key areas for the aforementioned Kering brands.
VERSACE
Donatella Versace and her daughter, Allegra Versace Beck, have pledged more than $200,000 to the intensive care units of the San Raffaele hospital in Milan. In an official communiquĂŠ, the two women explained this gesture: "During this period, it is important to be united to help those in need, who are fighting every day to save lives. Our thoughts go out to the sick people, doctors and hospital staff who have been working tirelessly and heroically for weeks to protect those we love."
LVMH
The world's largest luxury goods group, ordered 40 million health masks from a Chinese supplier to help France cope with the coronavirus epidemic. For a total of 10 million masks delivered on 16th March. This first batch was handed over to the French health service for distribution to those in need early. LVMH also produces and delivers hand disinfectant to French hospitals free of charge.
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FASHION and lifestyle MAGAZINE
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BRENDA
SONG BY ARIYA AKHAVAN