mad sounds
NOVEMBER 2016
a publication for the young and daring
modern muse ISSUE NO. 18
mad sounds a publication for the young and daring
Giselle Melendres Editor-in-Chief, Creative Director, & Designer madsoundsmagazine@gmail.com Staff Writers Brindy Francis, Emily Zheng, Justin Tilton Staff Photographers Sheridan Dyches, Willow Greene, Aidan Doyle, Riley Donahue, Chalisa Singh, Kate Opre A Special Thanks To.... Claudia Sulewski, Charles Gross, Riley Donahue, Kaija Jen, Kennedy Dawn Stearns, Jordan Worthy, Patrick Gray, Abi Omisore, Chalisa Singh, Dani Van Winkle, and GLEAM Futures
ON THE COVER Photography by Riley Donahue Featuring Claudia Sulewski
stay rad, stay mad @madsoundsmag www.madsoundsmagazine.com @madsoundsmag
contents
introduction 009 a letter from the editor editorials 010 the less i know the better by JORDAN WORTHY 022 you’re not the one by WILLOW GREENE 038 kisses, kitten by SHERIDAN DYCHES 052 you make my dreams by DANI VAN WINKLE 064 i’m not in love by PATRICK GRAY written 070 how to wear what you want by JUSTIN TILTON 072 is your news feed tearing you down? by BRINDY FRANCIS 074 “if i were skinny...” by EMILY ZHENG features 078 CLAUDIA SULEWSKI: YouTuber, Creator, & Actress 090 CHARLES GROSS YouTuber & Content Creator photography by RILEY DONAHUE featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
106 ABI OMISORE Blogger & Stylist
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
modern muse
CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
RILEY DONAHUE I can’t believe it’s already November, and my... how the year has flown by. As we begin to wrap up 2016, I’ve looked back on all the issues we have published thus far--the topics we’ve discussed and the lessons I’ve hoped our readers would take away from them. For this issue of Mad Sounds, I wanted to focus entirely on the subject of confidence and self-love in the theme of “Modern Muse”: an issue dedicated to discussions on how to love yourself, feel inspired, and gain confidence in your own skin. I thought that it was particularly important to have a cover star who exemplified these qualities and encouraged these ideas in their audience, and I couldn’t think of a better person than Claudia Sulewski.
ration and confidence. As an internet figure who has become an inspiration and personal icon for so many, it was an honor for us to talk to her about these personal questions, and take a look into how she uses these same topics to inspire her viewers in her videos.
We were extremely lucky to work with Claudia on this issue, and talk to her about these same ideas of self-love, and how she finds her inspi-
So please enjoy this issue of Mad Sounds, and I hope you all have an inspiring November!
We’ve also featured some amazing creatives in this issue: one of my favorite YouTubers, Charles Gross, and upcoming blogger & stylist, Abi Omisore. We’ve packed this issue with a ton of incredible photography, articles, and interviews that I hope you will use as a source of inspiration, and I cannot thank my incredible team enough for the amazing work they’ve contributed in the making of this issue.
Giselle Melendres Founding Editor-in-Chief & Creative Director
009
the less i know the better photography by JORDAN WORTHY featuring KENNEDY DAWN STEARNS
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
013
photography by JORDAN WORTHY featuring KENNEDY DAWN STEARNS
mad sounds editorials
016
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
017
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
019
photography by JORDAN WORTHY featuring KENNEDY DAWN STEARNS
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
021
mad sounds editorials
you’re not the one photography by WILLOW GREENE featuring MARYN WORHACZ
022
photography by WILLOW GREENE featuring MARYN WORHACZ
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
027
photography by WILLOW GREENE featuring MARYN WORHACZ
photography by WILLOW GREENE featuring MARYN WORHACZ
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
031
photography by WILLOW GREENE featuring MARYN WORHACZ
mad sounds editorials
036
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
037
mad sounds editorials
kisses, kitten photography by SHERIDAN DYCHES featuring ALANA BEALE
038
mad sounds editorials
040
mad sounds editorials
042
photography by SHERIDAN DYCHES featuring ALANA BEALE
photography by SHERIDAN DYCHES featuring ALANA BEALE
photography by SHERIDAN DYCHES featuring ALANA BEALE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
051
photography by SHERIDAN DYCHES featuring ALANA BEALE
mad sounds editorials
you make my dreams photography by DANI VAN WINKLE featuring AVA WITTKOP
052
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
055
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
057
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
photography by DANI VAN WINKLE
059
featuring AVA WITTKOP
mad sounds editorials
060
photography by DANI VAN WINKLE featuring AVA WITTKOP
mad sounds editorials
062
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
photography by DANI VAN WINKLE featuring AVA WITTKOP
063
mad sounds editorials
i’m not in love photography by PATRICK GRAY featuring ALLY JO
064
mad sounds editorials
photography by PATRICK GRAY featuring ALLY JO 066
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
067
photography by PATRICK GRAY featuring ALLY JO
a guide to wearing what you want editorial by JUSTIN TILTON
photography by
WILLOW GREENE featuring
MARYN WORHACZ
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE When I was younger, it was not uncommon to receive a snide comment whenever I would wear an outfit that was unique, dyed my hair, or rolled up my pants. Don’t get me wrong, I have great, supportive parents, but they are rather conservative and self-expression was not something they were used to (plus all of my fashion choices were miserable). However, the truth is, I’ve always loved expressing myself through my appearance and it took quite a bit of convincing to explain that careful attention to personal image is less of an egotistical indulgence than it is an opportunity to be taken advantage of. As a guy, it’s strange to a lot of people that I pay careful attention to what I wear. However, it’s not just something I enjoy, it’s something I’ve found to be an asset. As a marketing major, I know the importance of image and how one’s attitude toward something can be affected just by its appearance. Ideally, no one would judge a book by its cover; however, we don’t live in a world of ideals, and people unfortunately make assumptions based off of appearance. No one wants to shop on a website with a terrible design. In the same way, assumptions are made about us strictly from appearance. That can either be a disadvantage, or something we make the most of. It’s because of this that I’m always confused when people don’t realize that their clothing isn’t just something that covers their bodies. One of my friends I played baseball with during high school ended up pitching in college and eventually was drafted. He sported a gnarly mullet for his last few years in college for one reason: he wanted recognition. I remember sitting in the stands at one of his games and hearing scouts talk about the “kid with the mullet”. He knew what was making his image unique would stick in the head of the scouts and ultimately increase his chances of getting drafted because his look was simply hard to forget. He was marketing himself. Want a girl to like you? Dressing well helps. Want a job? Dressing well helps. Don’t get me wrong, when I say “dressing well” I don’t mean wearing a suit and a tie everywhere or looking like a schmuck
“Be self-indulgent and know it’s not an egotistical trip: there’s a purpose. Be expressive. Dye your hair and wear that weird shirt. Do whatever the hell you want, just inspire yourself. Find an aesthetic you enjoy and rock it.“ straight out of prep school. Hell, I wear T shirts every day and most of my pants are so ripped my knee caps could tell you the speed and direction of the wind. The important thing is to project yourself how you would like to be viewed and to let your clothes and overall image contribute to who you know you are inwardly. The saying “look good, feel good” is definitely true for me. If I’m comfortable with what I’m wearing and am proud of the image I’m projecting, then I automatically am more confident and feel better about myself. Some people don’t understand this concept because not everyone values the same things. But, for those of us who actually view clothing as more than something to cover our genitals, I’d encourage you to view it as a way to brand yourself. Be self-indulgent and know it’s not an egotistical trip: there’s a purpose. Be expressive. Dye your hair and wear that weird shirt. Do whatever the hell you want, just inspire yourself. Find an aesthetic you enjoy and rock it.
071
is your news feed tearing you down? editorial by BRINDY FRANCIS
photography by
JORDAN WORTHY featuring
KENNEDY DAWN STEARNS
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
The hot topic of discussion currently is all about social media. People are raving about the positive and negative aspects of social media and its effect on millennials.There are people starting to get rid of all of their social media accounts to disconnect from some negative aspects, such as the concept of body comparison and so on. For some people, flat out deleting all social media isn’t too easy. You have people trying to create platforms and followings for their businesses and personal work. There are people trying to stay in touch with their enormous family over Facebook. The majority of people just don’t want to, which is just fine. Social media has a large impact on this generation, so clearly, we are all taking advantage of it. There are safe ways to use social media when it comes to body image through the eyes of followers. We all know some people who have abused it in a not-so lovely way. Women all over Instagram are praised for their perfect bodies and Facetune. It gets tricky around here because in no way am I saying that these women should be put down. They’re beautiful! Of course they should get recognition for it, but it becomes something negative when women (or men) all over the world are then put down and insecure because they don’t fit the “Instagram standard.” A tip I have is to go through your following list and truly re-evaluate the accounts. If you know that a certain account will just tear you down, hit that unfollow button. It’s one thing to be inspired by their body image and physical appearance versus telling yourself you’re nothing compared to another. On a broad scale, we are all here for the same reason. We are all equally relevant, physically, mentally, and economically. Encourage yourself to start following accounts that will inspire you, whether that be painters, writers, dancers, yadda yadda yadda. I tend to follow ac-
“They’re beautiful! Of course they should get recognition for it, but it becomes something negative when women (or men) all over the world are then put down and insecure because they don’t fit the “Instagram standard.” counts that are all about embracing body types (@ danceswithcircles), positive global change (@seekthetruth), recycled clothing (@itshoneyvintage), local shops and music (your favorite record store or local band), and things that as a whole make you feel inspired and confident. Over the past year, I have struggled with body image, expressing myself, and being a happy person in general. Ultimately, how you feel about yourself at the end of the day is what matters the most. If you are inspired enough to achieve your goals and continue living happily, you’re good to go, but having a toxic social media feed will destroy your chance of being at peace with yourself. You are the only person you have to deal with for the rest of your life, so you might as well treat yourself as you would treat your best friend.
073
“if I were skinny...”
editorial by EMILY ZHENG
photography by
SHERIDAN DYCHES featuring
ALANA BEALE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE “If I were skinny, I would totally wear that,” my friend Larissa sighs, as she gawks at my fitting tank top and denim shorts. “Oh my god, what are you even talking about?” “Don’t deny it, Emily. You know, I know, we all know: I could never pull that off.” Despite non-ironically calling myself beautiful on the daily, I used to be the queen of self-loathing speech. I would scowl at my mirror, disgusted with my acne, my “huge stomach”, my “pudgy legs”, and groan, “I am just so ugly. Maybe if I weren’t so heavy...” That magical word “if”. If I shed a few inches off my waist, if I had whiter teeth and bigger boobs and shinier hair, I would be worthwhile. Beautiful. Suitably fuckable. That girl who guys hit on. I would have the power. I would no longer flinch when a boy touches my skin, worried that his hands have graced a more worthy woman. She is the embodiment of sensuality and I am the poster child for hideous. I am the before and she is the after. I was on a walk with my friend Heather yesterday, and we agreed that every person has a “dating Achilles heel”. That one quality about someone that makes people disinterested dating-wise. “Mine is definitely my boobs,” I confidently declare. “Didn’t we just have that entire conversation about how you think you’re too forward? That you’re too aggressive?” “Yes, but if I had bigger boobs, my directness would be hot.” I am the biggest advocate for body-positivity. I profess my confidence every chance I get, yet there I was, falling under the trap of if’s. I write countless articles about unconditional self-love, but even I have my lapses. When I heard Larissa criticize her body, I recoiled in horror. How could someone so beautiful make these absurd comparisons about herself? She’s not alone.
075
“To hell with these alternatives, I am undeniably myself in this moment, and no one can take that away from me.” “God, I wish my body was like her’s.” These words aren’t mine but sound all too familiar. Envying the way clothes hug her frame, the ease at which she moves. I used to roll my eyes but now, I know better, the way flaws can suffocate you, like the very air you breath reeks with insecurity. If I had bigger boobs, if my personality weren’t so jarring, if my eyes were even, if I were white, if I had a flatter stomach, I would not be me. Sure, more guys would be attracted to that version of myself, but that person will never be me. To hell with these alternatives, I am undeniably myself in this moment, and no one can take that away from me. This is for all the people out there who only see if’s: in case you aren’t already aware, you are a fucking firecracker. You raise hell on all that stands in the way of your dreams. You are worldly and complex and nothing, not your insecurities, not some sleazy guy, can detract from your clarity. The way you narrow your eyes when you’re determined could start a forest fire. I know that you’re scared for the future. I am too. I know that you use your self-doubt to cover you on a cold night, but please. They will bring you no warmth. In this world of if’s, there is only one that matters: if I believed in myself. Let me tell you: with that, you could set the world in flames.
mad sounds features
CLAUDIA SULEWSKI interview by GISELLE MELENDRES featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI photography by RILEY DONAHUE
076
photography by RILEY DONAHUE featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
Meet Claudia Sulewski: an L.A. based lifestyle vlogger, actress, content creator, and the “modern muse” behind our November issue. Starting YouTube back in 2009, Claudia has now inspired nearly 2 million subscribers with her videos, encouraging ideas of confidence, self-love, and positivity within every video. She’s a face you won’t easily forget—a girl boss entirely self-made and self-motivated, and she’s taking on the world of entertainment and content creation by storm. Today we had the opportunity to chat with Claudia about her journey on YouTube, her current projects in acting, and her biggest advice for staying confident, and learning to love yourself. Read on to learn more about Claudia, and the reasons why she’s inspiring a generation of young creatives. HI CLAUDIA, THANKS FOR SITTING DOWN WITH US HERE AT MAD SOUNDS TODAY. TO START OFF, CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT A DAY IN THE LIFE OF CLAUDIA SULEWSKI? Of course, and thank you guys! Ooof, if I knew the answer to that question. I’m always running around keeping myself busy, but it totally depends on what I’m working on at the moment. I spend a lot of my time on set, preparing for auditions, and working on my YouTube channel. Working out has become a huge priority for me, so squeezing that in is always important. YOU CURRENTLY LIVE IN LOS ANGELES, WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PARTS ABOUT LIVING IN L.A.? WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LOCATIONS? My favorite part about L.A. has definitely got to be the connections and opportunities I’ve been able to make. This city is filled with so many driven and creative people that I’ve been lucky enough to attract and get to know. Location-wise, L.A. is the greatest starting spot for any road trip. Wanna go to the desert? Bam. Wanna go to the beach? Bam. Wanna go to the mountains? BAM!
HOW DID YOU START CREATING YOUTUBE VIDEOS? WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START? I started making videos all the way back in middle school. (Where did the time go?!) I remember stumbling onto YouTube and discovering the “YouTuber” side of the site. Beauty videos, vlogs, music video parodies, I watched them all. I was fascinated with the idea of posting a video and having anyone in the world watch it. Craving that interaction, I started as soon as I could. WHAT DO YOU THINK WAS THE MOST EXCITING OR PIVOTAL MOMENT IN YOUR YOUTUBE CAREER THUS FAR? There have been so many pivotal points within my YouTube career that have left me feeling so grateful and speechless. Knowing I have so many people that support and believe in me is the most rewarding feeling. Walking out of my first few meetings with my current team of agents and management were very special moments. “OH MY GOD, HOW IS THIS MY LIFE?!” pretty much sums up all car rides home. I engage in celebratory car jam sessions quite often.
079
photography by RILEY DONAHUE featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“After my first gig, I was hit with the acting bug HARD. Love at first sight, really. I feel so proud and passionate for the projects I’ve worked on so far. Each brought in so many memories, friendships, and lessons.” AS A WIDELY KNOWN YOUTUBER, THE NOTORIETY CAN HAVE ITS PROS AND CONS. HOW DO YOU HANDLE HATE OR NEGATIVITY THAT YOU ENCOUNTER AS A PUBLIC FIGURE ON THE INTERNET? Everyone reacts to hate differently but the best thing to do is to NOT do anything. Don’t respond to it, don’t read it, don’t search for it, and most importantly, don’t start believing it. At the end of the day, you and the people held closest in your life are the only ones that truly know you. Never let a stranger’s judgement change the way you look at yourself. WHAT IS ONE OF THE BEST THINGS ABOUT BEING A CONTENT CREATOR? Having 100% creative freedom. Hands down. There is no better feeling than sharing a project you feel passionate about, knowing you brought it to life.
081
WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR VIDEOS? I find video inspiration anywhere and everywhere. Conversations, movies, music, pictures, etc. The simplest thought can turn into something so special. YOU’RE ALSO PURSUING ACTING RIGHT NOW AND HAVE WORKED ON A VARIETY OF SHOWS SUCH AS TAGGED, THE COMMUTE, AND MORE. HOW DID YOU GET INTO ACTING, AND WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE PROJECTS YOU’VE BEEN WORKING ON? Growing up, I always silently craved the feeling of fighting zombies or giggling with a boy in a romcom. Weird to think about this now, but acting had always seemed like this unattainable, intimidating thing that I’d never excel at. Of course I would have never proved myself wrong if I had continued to believe that. After hosting and being in front of the camera for so long, acting naturally came into the picture. As my experience grew, so did my love for it. After my first gig, I was hit with the acting bug HARD. Love at first sight, really. I feel so proud and passionate for the projects I’ve worked on so far. Each brought in so many memories, friendships, and lessons. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE CLOTHING STORES AND FAVORITE FALL PIECES AT THE MOMENT? I’m all about Reformation, Nasty Gal, and Revolve. During the fall season I usually gravitate towards comfy skinny jeans, statement jackets, and every type of boot known to mankind. Give me all of the boots.
photography by RILEY DONAHUE featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“You’re stuck with this body and mindset for the rest of your life, so why not learn to love it? Discover what makes you feel confident, happy, and unique. The second you start to truly love yourself, everything else falls into place.”
CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
083
photography by RILEY DONAHUE featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST/MOST IMPORTANT LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED IN LIFE?
NOW FOR SOME RANDOM QUESTIONS, WHAT’S YOUR ALL TIME FAVORITE FILM?
I love this question… The biggest realization I’ve recently made is how important it is to truly learn to love yourself. The way you view yourself changes your day, your actions, those around you, your ENTIRE life. A more blunt way of looking at is: you’re stuck with this body and mindset for the rest of your life, so why not learn to love it? Discover what makes you feel confident, happy, and unique. The second you start to truly love yourself, everything else falls into place.
Mr. Nobody. The storytelling and transitions in that film blow me away. COLD OR WARM WEATHER? TEA OR COFFEE? Cold weather if I’m looking out from the inside. Warm if I’m actually outside. Iced tea with a packet of stevia: the way to my heart. IF YOU COULD LIVE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD YOU LIVE AND WHY?
THIS ISSUE IS CALLED “MODERN MUSE”, A THEME ALL ABOUT SELF-LOVE, EMBRACING INDIVIDUALITY, AND FEELING INSPIRED! WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ADVICE FOR LOVING YOURSELF, STAYING CONFIDENT, AND FINDING INSPIRATION?
New York City would be so fun to test out. The energy and hustle out there intrigues me.
This question flowed in perfectly with my last response. Find what makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Eating healthy and working out have become so important to me because I know how confident I feel when I take care of myself. Stemming away from that, it’s also important to take care of your mind. Give yourself creative time, surround yourself with people who inspire and appreciate you. You are so worth your time. That sounds a little weird, but think about it.
I would most definitely cry if I ever stepped foot onto the same set as Rachel McAdams.
THROUGH YOUR YOUTUBE VIDEOS, WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HOPE TO EVOKE TO YOUR VIEWERS?
LASTLY, WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU CAN GIVE TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN PURSUING YOUTUBE, ACTING, OR A CREATIVE CAREER SUCH AS YOUR OWN?
IF YOU COULD STAR IN A MOVIE WITH A COSTAR OF YOUR CHOICE, WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE?
One of my favorite subjects to touch on is motivation and taking charge of your day. (Any of my vlog channel viewers will be able to vouch for that one haha.) I strongly believe everyone has the power to build a life they can be proud of. Anytime I discover a new motivational thought, the first thing I want to do is share it with my followers. Helping to change someone’s day around or giving them a little push into pursuing their goals feels so fulfilling.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF FIVE YEARS FROM NOW? I hope to still be in absolute love with whatever I’m working on. I’ll also probably still be at Soul Cycle every week... that workout, man.
BE YOURSELF. Don’t be a lesser version of someone else when you can be the best version of yourself. Own it! KEEP UP WITH CLAUDIA: Instagram: @claudiasulewski Twitter: @claudiasulewski YouTube: @BeyondBeautyStar
085
mad sounds features
086
photography by RILEY DONAHUE featuring CLAUDIA SULEWSKI
mad sounds features
CHARLES GROSS interview by KAIJA JEN featuring CHARLES GROSS photography by KAIJA JEN
090
photography by KAIJA JEN featuring CHARLES GROSS
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
Meet Charles Gross, a New York based YouTuber and content creator who is taking over the internet: one video at a time. Starting YouTube back in 2014, Charles has captured the hearts of nearly 300,000 subscribers, simply by remaining unapologetically and authentically himself. We had the opportunity to talk to Charles in the Upper West Side and ask him about his YouTube videos, his favorite spots in NYC, and some of his personal advice for becoming a successful YouTuber/creator. Read the interview to learn more about Charles Gross, and his #iconic journey on YouTube.
HI CHARLES, THANKS FOR SITTING DOWN WITH US TODAY! LET’S START OFF BY TALKING A BIT ABOUT YOUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: HOW DID YOU START MAKING YOUTUBE VIDEOS AND WHAT ORIGINALLY MADE YOU WANT TO START A YOUTUBE CHANNEL? I kind of feel like it was this very familiar story—a lot of YouTubers say that they started watching YouTube and got into it, and I loved watching YouTube before I started. One day I just decided to upload a video and see what happens, and I did it really with the intention of just finding other people with similar interests in fashion and topics like that, and people started to watch and I started to upload more often. It all just started from there! IN YOUR YOUTUBE VIDEOS, WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE THE VIDEOS YOU DO, RATHER THAN VIDEOS IN A SPECIFIC GENRE?
BEING A YOUTUBER COMES WITH SOME NEGATIVITY AND HATE, HOW DO YOU RESPOND TO ‘HATERS’? I feel like I was aware of hate and was expecting it when I started; no matter what medium you do it on, when you put yourself out there you’re going to get hate. WHAT HAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF YOUTUBE BEEN THUS FAR? The biggest challenge has been the business end of it, making business decisions with YouTube. Sometimes I love it so much that it’s hard to see it as a business, but other times you have to look at it through a business lens so you can make the right decisions. Admitting that it’s a business can definitely be a challenge.
No matter what video I do I’ve always wanted it to be…this is going to sound narcissistic—but I’ve always wanted it to be about me. I feel like my personality and my life is always what I’ve wanted to share, so whether it’s about fashion or my life or what I’m doing that day—or even who I’ve slept with, I always want it to be about me. I want it to be honest and real.
093
mad sounds features
094
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“My advice is to be yourself throughout the entire process: never lose that, and don’t ever stop uploading content. If you want to be successful in YouTube, you have to be consistent and be 100% respectable to your audience.” WHAT WOULD BE YOUR ADVICE FOR NEW YOUTUBERS INTERESTED IN CREATING CONTENT FOR A CHANNEL?
If anyone is starting a channel, my advice is to be yourself throughout the entire process: never lose that, and don’t ever stop uploading content. If you want to be successful in YouTube, you have to be consistent and be 100% respectable to your audience. Never forget your audience: they’re the reason that you have everything that you have and they’re the reason that your channel exists, so you have to love your audience. SO THE FIRST PART OF THAT WAS TO BE 100% YOU...WHAT’S 100% YOU? That’s such a hard question!! I don’t know, I’m such a weird mix of crazy New York and I don’t know…I like to think that there’s some elegance in me—I always like to think of myself as an old, retired, bitter model or something that just galavants around the city, but I feel like when I’m filming, no matter what I’m filming; I just let myself come out in everything I do.
095
WHAT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AND ALSO UNEXPECTED THINGS THAT HAS COME OUT OF YOUR YOUTUBE CAREER? It sounds so cliche, but just meeting everybody: meeting other YouTubers and people who watch my videos, and people will recognize me in the street (which sounds narcissistic!!) but it catches me off guard and I still get so flattered, and I can’t believe that it’s real….so I’m kind of blown away every time it happens. I always want to hug them and have a conversation, and I think that’s one of the most incredible things—meeting people and meeting a community of people with similar interests that become a really positive community. YOU’RE A NEW YORK CITY NATIVE, WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITIES TO DO IN N.Y.? WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO SOMEONE VISITING MANHATTAN FOR A WEEKEND? I would say don’t plan too much, because New York City is so much better unplanned. Wake up whenever you want to—spend the day shopping, walk down Madison: uptown to downtown, and then at the end of the day when you’re exhausted from shopping, pour into a restaurant, eat something fatty or full of sugar and indulge yourself. Go up to your hotel or wherever you’re staying and look at all the stuff you bought. Take it slow and completely off the cusp, no rush, because New York City is much more exciting when everything is totally relaxed. DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE SPOTS, RESTAURANTS, OR STORES? This restaurant we’re in right now, American Table, is one of my favorites. I always take my friends here, I used to take all my first dates here—you can get a coffee, you can get a full meal. It’s such a perfect eating place and it’s so gorgeous. For shopping, I love Saks Fifth Avenue—it has everything you need, it’s central in the shopping area I love on Fifth Avenue and Madison, so you can walk around. I also like Riverside Park, it’s a lot calmer than Central Park so you can take a nice walk. I love Lincoln Center, where we’re going to be shooting today—it’s gorgeous for when you want to sit with friends and relax. Upper West Side in general is really lovely.
photography by KAIJA JEN featuring CHARLES GROSS
photography by KAIJA JEN featuring CHARLES GROSS
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“ I always felt very ‘glamorous’ growing up here. I feel like living in New York City gives you confidence when you’re raised here, you have this innate sense of confidence and it’s really wonderful.” WHY DO YOU LOVE THE UPPER WEST SIDE? YOU GREW UP HERE SO THAT HAS DEFINITELY SHAPED SOME OF YOUR PERSPECTIVES OF NEW YORK--CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT GROWING UP IN NEW YORK? I feel very lucky to have grown up here because I feel like I was exposed to a lot of different people’s ways of life and a lot of different cultures and everything in one city. I was also exposed to a lot of different creative things in the city, different forms of art and shopping. There’s so much to take in. Growing up on the Upper West Side, it’s very calm, it’s very friendly—it’s a big community, even if you don’t know the people here it’s just a nice place to grow up. So I always felt very ‘glamorous’ growing up here. I feel like living in New York City gives you confidence when you’re raised here, you have this innate sense of confidence and it’s really wonderful.
099
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP FIVE MAKEUP OR BEAUTY PRODUCTS THAT YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT? My first one is a recent find within the last few months, and it’s the Chanel Rouge balm, which is a lip balm from Chanel. I bought it completely spontaneously at Saks, and my lips are constantly chapped—it’s such a small thing to think about but this lip balm changed my life. Another product I’ve been using recently is clear mascara, I never really used to wear mascara but clear mascara gives you this kind of ‘teary-eyed’ look, like your eyelashes are stuck together from tears. It sounds weird, but it gives you this very wideeyed, ‘opened-up’ look and I really love it. I also love the Tarte under-eye concealer, I feel like even if you don’t wear a full face of makeup, you can throw on just a little bit of under-eye concealer and it will make you look awake and put-together, and it’ll give you that no-makeup, polished look. Perfume is also my can’t-live-without product, I have to have perfume. I have perfume in my bag constantly! My last beauty product would have to be…this is going to sound so cliché but drinking water. I feel like if you stay hydrated during the day it keeps you energized, it keeps you on your toes so you can have confidence. It’s something that people overlook but if you keep water in your bag you will notice a difference. HOW WOULD YOU BEST DESCRIBE YOUR SENSE OF STYLE? I would describe it as very…artist or model “off-duty”—not that I consider myself a model—but that very refined all-black, New York City, kind of ‘sulking in the corners’, power-walking through the city, coming out of a nice store, getting out of a cab, model off-duty look. Black turtle neck, sunglasses: a casual but elevated look.
mad sounds features
100
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“ It’s important to spend every minute being happy: everybody on this earth is the same when they’ve stripped down their clothes. Just be yourself, do what makes you happy, and don’t let insecurities or anything else get in the way of that. “ BESIDES YOUTUBE, DO YOU HAVE ANY CAREER ASPIRATIONS THAT YOU’D BE INTERESTED IN PURSUING? I’d love to work in entertainment, and that goes hand and hand with YouTube. I really want to be a ‘personality’ and develop my personality and my ‘brand’ so-to-speak so that I can become an entertainment personality and go into any media, and continue to do YouTube and do something on television or do something in hosting. There’s all these different avenues when you market yourself as a personality. WHAT KIND OF PERSONALITY DO YOU WANT TO BE AND WHAT KIND OF THINGS DO YOU WANT TO DO WITH THAT AUDIENCE? I think there are so many entertainment personalities—entertainment personalities are kind of a new thing, you’re not an actor, you’re not dancing, you’re not singing, you’re just being yourself and selling that. Since there are so many people already trying to do that, I just want to be unique and different and true to myself, so that I stick out
101
of the crowd and I entertain people. As for audience, I’m thinking something in entertainment, reality television, or entertainment news, but I feel like as long as you’re staying true to yourself and your personality is really strong you can almost apply it to anything. And as long as you stay yourself you will just fall into place. CAN YOU PICK ONE OUTLET THAT YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO BE A “PERSONALITY” FOR? I would love to have a reality show, but not just like a “follow me around” type of show. I would love to do maybe a hosting/reality show, trying different things in the city—I would love to do something like that. THIS ISSUE IS CALLED ‘MODERN MUSE’, A THEME DEDICATED TO CONFIDENCE AND SELF-LOVE, WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ADVICE FOR BECOMING CONFIDENT AND LEARNING TO LOVE YOURSELF? My tip for being confident and loving yourself is to really realize that you only have one life and your life on this earth is really limited, and if you worry about what other people are thinking or if you spend your time being insecure—it’s not worth it. It’s important to spend every minute being happy: everybody on this earth is the same when they’ve stripped down their clothes. Just be yourself, do what makes you happy, and don’t let insecurities or anything else get in the way of that. KEEP UP WITH CHARLES: Instagram @charlesbgross Twitter: @thecharlesgross YouTube: charlesgcollection
photography by KAIJA JEN featuring CHARLES GROSS
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
103
photography by KAIJA JEN featuring CHARLES GROSS
ABI OMISORE interview by CHALISA SINGH featuring ABI OMISORE photography by CHALISA SINGH
photography by CHALISA SINGH featuring ABI OMISORE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
Meet Abi Omisore, fashion guru and upcoming style blogger from Bowie, Maryland. Abi’s passion for fashion and styling sprung while she was in middle school and she has been working her way up the ladder ever since then. Her unique style and persona has allowed her to attract a diverse and large following where she can connect with people and express her creativity. In today’s interview, Abi tells us about her current fashion obsessions, her creative inspiration, favorite brands, future projects, and her go-to outfit!
HI ABI, THANK YOU FOR SITTING DOWN WITH US TODAY AT MAD SOUNDS! TO GET STARTED, CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR PASSION FOR FASHION? Thank you for having me! I’m currently a student at Towson University in the DMV––DC Maryland Virginia. Growing up in the DMV has just been absolutely crucial to my style because the DMV is filled with so many diverse, creative, innovative genuine souls that you can easily get inspiration. Fashion is more than just a killer outfit to me, it’s more so a lifestyle. I love how freeing you can be with your style, and say so much without sharing a word. The fashion community is so diverse, and it’s that diversity that I think needs to be focused on more. You kind of can’t define being stylish, you just know when someone is. It’s not just what you’re wearing, it’s how you carry yourself, and how you interact with the world. To me, it’s one of the purest forms of creativity because you’re practically walking art. WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOU HAD AN EYE FOR FASHION AND STYLING? I realized I had an eye for fashion surprisingly in middle school when I discovered Lookbook.com, however I didn’t have the confidence to go out in unique looks till high school, closer to the days when Tumblr really went viral and mainstream. Lookbook.com became a holy grail secret be-
tween my friend and I, so we were always sharing style inspiration while in class. I think one of the first trends I noticed were the classic Jeffery Campbell Lita platform boots, which changed everything in my opinion because it became such a staple in girls’ wardrobes everywhere. CAN YOU DESCRIBE FOR US A DAY IN THE LIFE OF ABI? I begin my day with a cup of tea, some meditation and yoga, and my getting ready process always ends in a fashionable outfit with clothes littering my room. I’m currently in school studying Architectural design, so my life pretty much consumes of lectures, studying, and more studying. When I’m not doing something school related, most of my time goes towards my creative process. Whether it be putting together new looks for a video or shoot, researching personal styling, or browsing Tumblr, Twitter, or Instagram for inspiration, I try to update at least one of my social media platforms daily, so I’m almost always creating some form of content. I also like to keep my creative journal by my side at all times, so throughout the day I can keep track and jot down any creative thoughts, ideas, questions, or references.
109
mad sounds features
110
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“I’m extremely detail oriented so most likely if you’re seeing something, it’s almost exactly what I wanted. When I have a vision for an outfit, or whatever it may be, as tedious as it may be, I won’t be happy till it’s how I visualized it in my head. “ CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR STYLE BLOG? HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? My style blog, which will be launching in November *cheers*, is extremely reflective of who I am and how I like to present myself to the world. So the web design and content is very structural, a lot of cool, light, airy tones mixed with hints of edgy vibes, similarly to my style. I like to keep things simple, and get straight to the point so you can expect purely content. I’m extremely detail oriented so most likely if you’re seeing something, it’s almost exactly what I wanted. When I have a vision for an outfit, or whatever it may be, as tedious as it may be, I won’t be happy till it’s how I visualized it in my head. If I had to describe my style it would be “glam grunge”. I love diamonds, spikes, baby pink, silks, textures, practically anything that juxtaposes the other. If I’m wearing a soft makeup look, I might throw on a leather jacket and some thigh high boots. Serving looks daily, as one should!
111
WHERE DOES THE CREATIVE INSPIRATION BEHIND YOUR FASHION CHOICES COME FROM? WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST ICONS? My creative inspiration mainly, if not solely, comes from how I’m feeling––in that day, moment, year. As I’ve gotten older my style has definitely been refining, which I love. I know what I like and can immediately look at something and know exactly how I would style it. I get inspired from pretty much anything, similarly to fashion design. It might be a building in Tokyo, Japan ( ex: The Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower), a costume designers work in a favorite film (Magali Guidasci work in The Porfessional: Leon), fashion designers (Lisa Folawiyo) or even just a fashion blogger (Alaeli May). WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BRAND TO WORK WITH WHEN STYLING? I’m all for finding affordable pieces that can stay in my closet for a while, so I’d have to say my favorite affordable brand is Zara. I love how much versatility you can get with their more basic pieces, but I also love a good co-ord set which they always have a great selection to choose from. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FASHION BASED MAGAZINE? That’s so hard, but if I had to choose one my favorite fashion based magazine would have to be I-D magazine. I appreciate their light, and carefree approach to fashion and culture. Kind of a “youth in revolt” persona.
photography by CHALISA SINGH featuring ABI OMISORE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“I think it’s important to show people how much you can do with just a few bucks. Don’t get me wrong, I adore designer and high end clothing, I appreciate the attention to detail that you just can’t get with fast fashion, but I think it’s also important to keep in mind that you can work your way up to that.” YOU’VE SEEMED TO CAPTURE QUITE A FOLLOWING WITH YOUR UNIQUE STYLE, HOW DOES YOUR AUDIENCE INSPIRE YOU TO CREATE MORE AND MORE? My followers are all very supportive of how carefree and unique my style is which is beyond refreshing, and reassuring. I get so many questions on where I get my clothes, and how I put together my outfits. I want to show people that you can still be just as stylish as the next, on any budget. I’m a huge thrifter ––practically consumes 40% of my closet–– and bargain shopper being that I’m a young adult in college. I think it’s important to show people how much you can do with just a few bucks. Don’t get me wrong, I adore designer and high end clothing, I appreciate the attention to detail that you just can’t get with fast fashion, but I think it’s also important to keep in mind that you can work your way up to that.
113
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO OUTFIT? Being that I’m in college, I like to stay comfortable so my spiked high top converses are a staple weekly. I might pair them with some boyfriend jeans, a graphic tee, and if its chilly a statement jacket. For everyday outfits, I like to elevate the looks by how I accessorize. So probably a choker, mini bag, or some rings are added. WHAT ARE YOUR CURRENT FASHION OBSESSIONS? My current fashion obsessions are anything off shoulder, anything baby pink, and anything mini, particularly, mini purses. Pairing bombers with gowns (ex: Marc Jacobs F/W 2016 collection), fish nets with denim, oversized sleeves…the list goes on and on. WHAT IS A DREAM GOAL OF YOURS, AND/OR WHO WOULD YOU LOVE TO COLLABORATE WITH? Personal styling has become one of my greatest obsessions and goals; I respect how difficult of a craft it is to get into and climb up the latter. I would love to style a shoot or video for Rihanna. Hands down one of the greatest fashion icons of our time. I get so much inspiration and relate to her carefree, undefinable style. She can rock anything, and kill it while she’s doing it.
photography by CHALISA SINGH featuring ABI OMISORE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
115
photography by CHALISA SINGH featuring ABI OMISORE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
“Putting myself out there has led me to face a lot of fears and it’s also just a great way of expressing myself, which I’ve always struggled with. I love how much can be said through a simple video or photo; I’m able to express myself in ways I never have been before.” WOULD YOU SAY THAT BEING ABLE TO EXPRESS YOURSELF WITH YOUR APPEARANCE AND FASHION HAS MADE YOU MORE CONFIDENT? Absolutely! Style by far has been one of the greatest modes for me making friends, and it’s also a great conversation starter. I think unanimously in the style world, everyone can agree that some of our best friendships have begun from receiving/ giving a compliment on an outfit. That’s one of my greatest reasons for starting my blog, and entering the world of personal styling. I want to help others find a new kind of confidence that starts from what they’re wearing. It’s more than just feeling comfortable in your skin, but opening yourself up and putting yourself out there. A Stylish outfit is one of the greatest conversation starters.
117
WHAT TIPS DO YOU HAVE FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN PURSUING FASHION BLOGGING? First and foremost, let your guard down. Be shameless! Don’t be afraid to try daring or unfamiliar looks. A big part of what I pride myself on is how versatile my style is because I don’t let rules or what’s trending define it. My style is solely based on how I feel in the moment. I try not to get lost in what I like to call “generic” or “artificial style” which is basically styles that are overdone, or force fed to us, and instead take inspiration from them. There’s a fine line between inspiration and replication, and I believe that truly stylish individuals dress how they want, not how they are expected to. DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS THAT YOU CAN TELL US ABOUT? Yes! I have a few projects that I’m very thrilled to share with the world that are coming up. Besides the launching of my blog in November, I have some creative videos, beauty videos, and content in the works that will be releasing soon. This is kind of my first time putting myself out there–– full visibility to the world–– so it’s a little nerve racking but I’m beyond excited for all the new opportunities coming my way, including Mad Sounds, and being able to interact with such creative like-minded people. Putting myself out there has led me to face a lot of fears and it’s also just a great way of expressing myself, which I’ve always struggled with. I love how much can be said through a simple video or photo; I’m able to express myself in ways I never have been before. KEEP UP WITH ABI: Twitter: @QuiteSickly Instagram: @AbixGold Tumblr: @brown-medusa
photography by CHALISA SINGH featuring ABI OMISORE
NO. 18 — MODERN MUSE
STAY TUNED there’s more mad sounds on the way! DO YOU WANT TO BE FEATURED? email madsoundsmagazine@gmail.com with a cover letter & link to your online portfolio not all submissions will be featured for publication
121
mad sounds