MOD Magazine: Volume 8; Issue 1; Winter 2019; 7th ANNIVERSARY ISSUE (Cover 2)

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contributors Holly McGlynn, Roxanne Morris, Joanne Pidlaoan using Smashbox Cosmetics, Ryo Narushima, Shan Pasca @ First Model Management, Vanessa Davinia, Cheng Po Ou Yang, Maria Dmitrieva @ Feliz Models & Nastia Serdiuk @ FMI Models, Hikari Chang, Weic Lin, Kirstie Wang, Amina Zaher, Hussy ElCeliemy, Diana Harby, Heba ElDessouky, Olga Shirokova, Alina Bobyleva @ SystemAgency, Ira

Grazhdankina, Anastasiya Sillanteva, Andrea Dematte, Louyse, Edu Hyde @ Vitrine Mgt Agency using NARS Cosmetics, Stefan Dani, Justyna Wandycz, Kasia Baczulis, Sabina Anna, Sabina Jakubowicz @ Specto Models, Luis Beltran, Sonia Lee @ Carmen Duran, Angel PF, Paola Garcia, Jade Berry, Roxanne Morris, Sam Lascelle, Ryo Narushima, Anna Kossmann & Sophie Lempers, Megan Smales, Tiffany McLean, Simon Dufresne,

Tracy, Anissa Zabala, Julia Kuryliuk, Ania Ikonnikova, Anna @ Kmodels, Liudmila Agakhanova, Tetyana Likarenko, Yelssing Espinoza, Jenny Figueroa, Bri Soffa, Maya Frankel @ MP Management, Igor Iden, Milana Artemkina, Julia Odintsova, Alena Katkova, Dmitriy Chumakov, Blaze Studio, Vijat Mohindra, Ernesto Casillas, J, Leo III, Sandy Aziz

Vo l u m e 8 ; I s s u e 1 ; w i n t e r 2 0 1 9

features maddie simpson With her versatile vocal range, relatable lyrics & nostalgic flair, Maddie Simpson is securing her spot as the next pop sensation.

Saweetie

Editor’s Note 48

82

This rising rapper from the Bay Area has captivated the hip-hop industry with her smooth flows & magnetic charisma.

erika tham

132 Illustration by Antonio Soares - antoniosoares.tumblr.com

Rising star, Erika Tham, plays Bonnie Rockwaller in the recently released Disney Channel Original movie, Kim Possible.

on the cover Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Talent: Saweetie, Makeup Artist: Ernesto Casillas, Hair Stylist: J Saweetie wears: Lingerie Set & tights by Agent Provocateur, Red Tulle Cape by Rita Vinieris Couture, Diamond Earrings & Bracelets by Tiffany & Co., Silver Floral Ring by Vanna K For Bella Luce, Shoes by Charlotte Olympia

Saweetie wears: Dress

by Discount Universe, Corset by Agent Provocateur, Fur Stole

by Wachtenheim Furs, Butterfly Brooch by Outhouse Jewelry, Butterfly Hair Clip by Colette Malouf, Diamond Earrings & Bracelets by Tiffany & Co., Rings

by Vanna K for Bella Luce, Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

This special issue marks the 7th anniversary of MOD Magazine—and what a journey it’s been! It still blows my mind that we’ve been lucky enough to work with such talented artists from around the globe. Moving forward, I hope we can continue shining a light on the emerging fashion community, while inspiring the next generation of creatives. So to anyone who’s ever shot an editorial for us, written an article, read an issue, or even liked a social media post: THANK YOU! Thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown throughout the years. It truly means the world!

- Shannon Phelps

maddie simpson With her versatile vocal range, relatable lyrics, and nostalgic flair, Maddie Simpson is already securing her spot as the next pop sensation. The LA-based singer-songwriter made her mark, last summer, with her debut single, “Love Me Loud.” She continued to captivate fans with her follow-up, 90s throwback jam, “Woulda Never.” Now, Simpson is ready to break new boundaries and show the world she’s here to stay! We caught up with the songstress to chat about everything from her musical inspirations to her weirdest obsessions.

Mod: When did you realize you wanted to pursue music professionally?

Maddie: I remember when I was 9 years old, right after I sang the National Anthem in front of 20,000 people at a Phoenix Suns game, I said to myself, “this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

Mod: Who are some of your greatest inspirations?

Maddie: My parents, my grandmother, and my great grandmother—they’re who I look up to as the epitome of a strong woman figure. As far as artists that inspire me,

I’d say my top inspirations are Jennifer Lopez, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Bruno Mars. They encompass everything I want to be as an all-around entertainer.

Mod: What are some things that inspire you creatively— specifically as a songwriter?

Maddie: Anything and everything going on in my life, things going on in the world, stories my friends tell me about situations in their lives—I pull from so many different places to write songs.

Mod: Your single “Love Me Loud” is produced by Harvey Mason Jr., who has worked with the likes of Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, etc. What was your experience like working with him?

Maddie: It’s been really amazing and such an honor to work with him. He believed in me and my vision, way before I ever had any music out and really helped me

Talent: Maddie Simpson, Photographer: Trevor Flores, Hair & Makeup: Luna Mariposa

OD: At what age did you start singing?

Maddie: My mom says I could sing before I could really talk, but my earliest memory singing is probably at 3 or 4 years old.

grow as a songwriter. I’m proud of the music we’ve made together.

Mod: Who are some other artists you’d love to collab with, in the future?

Maddie: There are so many! I’d love to work with Bazzi, Mark Ronson, Travis Scott, and Bruno Mars.

Mod: We love how “Love Me Loud” promotes the idea of women taking control and making the first move in relationships. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the song?

Maddie: I’m so happy you picked up on that! I just feel like there’s always been this idea that “the guy should make the first move” and I’ve never understood that! The song is about the whole “game” that two people usually play in the beginning of the relationship and how so much time is wasted “playing hard to get.” I feel like we’ve all been through something like this before.

Mod: Your video for “Woulda Never” has a really cool retro aesthetic. Tell us a little about the creative process behind that concept.

Maddie: Thank you so much! The creative process was super collaborative between the director Marcella Cytrynowicz and myself.

It was really important to me that we portrayed that the type of situation I talk about in “Woulda Never” can happen to anyone, so we wanted to have different kinds of couples in the video, in addition to myself.

Mod: What’s the main thing you want listeners to take away from your new album?

Maddie: I’m still in the very early stages of creating my debut album, but I just want people to relate to what I have to say. There’s an unexplainable feeling when you listen to a song and feel like the artist is reading your mind and speaking to you, and I hope more than anything that someone feels that feeling while listening to my music.

Mod: What are some charities that are close to your heart?

Maddie: I love the Ryan Seacrest Foundation—I think what he’s done with all his hospitals is great, and I love that many artists come by. That’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I also really admire the Trevor Project and Best Friends Animal Society.

Mod: What are some things you like to do when you get a little time off?

Maddie: I love spending time with my family and friends, boxing, spending quality time with my dog, and going to the movies.

Mod: What are some of your favorite travel destinations and why?

Maddie: I love Hawaii, but I am dying to go to Paris and Italy.

Mod: What’s on your current playlist?

Maddie: I love Mariah Carey’s new album, Caution, the A Star Is Born soundtrack, John Mayer, and Kanye’s Ye album. A little bit of everything.

Mod: What’s your favorite TV show?

Maddie: Friends. Always and forever.

Mod: What’s the funniest movie you’ve ever seen?

Maddie: Talladega Nights is a classic.

Mod: What’s the last movie you saw that made you cry?

Maddie: A Star Is Born!

Mod: What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

Maddie: Mint Chip Mod: How would you describe your personal style?

Maddie: Everyday, I’d say sophisticated casual, but performance style is 90s supermodel meets 2019 hypebeast.

Mod: Three beauty items you can’t leave your house without: Maddie: Lip balm, perfume, and blush.

Mod: Where do you typically turn for fashion inspo?

Maddie: Literally everywhere! I could see someone on the street and be obsessed with their outfit, and go home and try to work an element into my wardrobe.

Mod: What’s your go-to lip color?

Maddie: Either something really close to my natural lip color or a very sparkly gloss. I love Fenty Beauty’s Gloss Bomb.

Mod: What’s the biggest beauty/ fashion risk you’ve ever taken?

Maddie: I’m not sure if it’s a risk, but I used to be

scared to wear men’s pieces and now I absolutely love it. I don’t care if it’s made for a guy, if I like it I’ll wear it.

Mod: What are your favorite places to shop?

Maddie: I love vintage shopping!

In LA there’s this flea market called the Melrose Trading Post and I’ve found so many cool pieces there. Most of my jeans are vintage Levis from there!

Mod: One piece of fashion advice you think every girl should know: Maddie: You don’t always have to follow the trends—if you like something or feel comfortable in something, wear it! Confidence is the best accessory.

Mod: Got any weird obsessions or guilty pleasures?

Maddie: This is honestly so weird, but ever since I was a little girl I’ve collected stuffed animal pigs... I know it’s so weird but I love pigs so much. They are my favorite animal.

Mod: What’s your mantra?

Maddie: Work hard, be kind to others, and be kind to yourself.

Mod: What advice would you give to other aspiring singers out there?

Maddie: Be proud of what you like and don’t try to chase trends.

Take criticism gracefully and try to grow from it. And speak up—don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t have a voice.

Mod: So what’s next for you? Any details about upcoming projects you can share with us?

Maddie: Music, writing, and more music and writing!

Check out Maddie’s website (maddiesimpsonofficial.com) to keep up with her latest music and follow her on Instagram (@maddiesimpson) for more updates!

Saweetie This rising rapper from the Bay Area has captivated the hip-hop industry with her smooth flows, glamorous style, and magnetic charisma. In late 2017, the 25-year-old USC grad burst onto the scene with “Icy Grl”—her viral freestyle track, set to the beat of Khia’s “My Neck, My Back.” Since signing with Warner Bros. records, Saweetie released a series of bossy anthems on her major label debut, High Maintenance. This year, she’s poised to make even bigger waves in the industry, with brand new music on the horizon, her very own lip gloss line, a dazzling jewelry collection, and much more!

mod: Who were some of your favorite rappers, growing up?

Saweetie: Lauren Hill, Trina, Biggie, and Pac. mod: If you could describe your sound with one word, what would it be?

Saweetie: Icy. mod: You gained popularity by posting freestyles from your car on Instagram. Tell us more about that stage of your journey. What motivated you to take that approach?

Saweetie: I couldn’t afford a studio, at the time, so I looked to social media to put my music out there. mod: You now have over 1.7 million followers on

Instagram. How have you adjusted to social media fame?

Saweetie: To be honest with you, it gives me anxiety that so many people are watching me. I feel like I have to be conscious about my moves. mod: What’s the most memorable fan interaction you’ve had so far? saweetie: A girl told me that she broke up a toxic relationship with her boyfriend of ten years because of my song “B.A.N.” I was happy to hear that I gave her the courage to do something that isn’t easy to do. mod: How do you deal with internet trolls and haters? saweetie: I don’t. mod: We love the Game of Thrones theme of your “Pissed” music video. How did this concept come to be? saweetie: I love Khaleesi! She’s such a strong character and I feel like we have a lot of similarities. We are both boss ladies and ruling empires. mod: Got any predictions for the show’s final season?

Who do you think will end up on the Iron Throne?

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas

od: What made you realize you had a passion for music?

Saweetie: I’ve been writing since I was 14. I used to enjoy writing poetry and eventually, I realized I liked writing over beats better.

Saweetie wears: Lingerie Set & tights by Agent Provocateur, Red Tulle Cape by Rita Vinieris Couture, Diamond Earrings & Bracelets by Tiffany & Co., Silver Floral Ring

by Vanna K For Bella Luce, Shoes

by Charlotte Olympia

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas Saweetie wears: Dress by Discount Universe, Corset by Agent Provocateur, Fur Stole by Wachtenheim Furs, Butterfly Brooch by Outhouse Jewelry, Butterfly Hair Clip by Colette Malouf, Diamond Earrings & Bracelets

by Tiffany & Co., Rings by Vanna K for Bella Luce, Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

Saweetie wears: Dress by Discount Universe, Corset by Agent Provocateur, Fur Stole by Wachtenheim Furs, Butterfly Brooch by Outhouse Jewelry, Butterfly Hair Clip

by Colette Malouf, Diamond Earrings & Bracelets by Tiffany & Co., Rings by Vanna K for Bella Luce, Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

Saweetie wears: Lingerie Set & tights by Agent Provocateur, Red Tulle Cape by Rita Vinieris Couture, Diamond Earrings & Bracelets by Tiffany & Co., Silver Floral Ring

by Vanna K For Bella Luce, Shoes

by Charlotte Olympia

saweetie: Khaleesi, duhh! [Laughs] No, but the show is amazing and I hate to send it end. But my girl Daenerys has got to be the last woman standing! mod: What are your thoughts on the media’s tendency to pit female rappers against each other? How do you manage to stay above the negativity? saweetie: A lot of the beef stems from social media and the way I stay above it is by minding my business.

There is way too much negativity going on right now, and girls, from birth, have been taught to be in competition. That needs to be squashed here and now!

Girls/Women, we have to support each other and bring each other up!

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas

mod: Many aspiring artists forego the traditional college route to pursue their dreams. However, you actually finished your program at USC and still managed to start a music career.

What motivated you to stick it out and stay in school?

Saweetie: I was enrolled in the number one Communications school in the country and wanted to challenge myself to finish and graduate. Education has always been something that has been important to me. I have always been passionate about going to a 4-year university and making life-long friends. I think it’s an important transition in your life, if it’s something you want. I love learning and I’m glad I got my degree before I descended into my career. mod: How has your college degree come in handy so far in the music industry?

Saweetie: My experiences in school taught me the importance of business, responsibility, and time management. mod: Who are some artists you’d love to collab with, in the future?

Saweetie: J. Cole and Jasmine Sullivan. mod: How has your songwriting process evolved throughout your career?

Saweetie: I’m able to record without writing down my lyrics now. It comes with practice. mod: What’s the main thing you want your listeners to take away from your new album?

Saweetie: That they can be independent, bossed up, and icy like me. mod: What can you tell us about your new lip gloss

line?

Saweetie: It’s going to be sensational! mod: What’s a beauty tip every girl should know?

Saweetie: A makeup wipe is not a face cleanser. mod: What are three beauty products you can’t live without: Saweetie: Lip gloss, lashes, and tweezers. mod: Your style really oozes confidence. How’d you develop your unique sense of fashion?

Saweetie: I’m from the Bay, so growing up, our way of expressing ourselves was always through fashion. mod: What’s your favorite fashion trend right now?

Saweetie: I love when boys wear crossbody fanny packs. mod: What’s a trend you hope goes out of style soon?

Saweetie: Shading people for clickbait. mod: What’s your favorite city you’ve visited so far, and why?

Saweetie: New Haven, CT, because their energy reminded me of the Bay area. mod: What’s a movie that never gets old, no matter how many times you’ve seen it?

Saweetie: Anything with Denzel Washington in it. mod: What’s your favorite food?

Saweetie: Sushi and pasta. mod: What’s your mantra?

Saweetie: Boss up, get ya’ cost up. mod: What’s one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned from the industry, thus far?

Saweetie: Don’t take everyone’s advice, because when you start listening to everyone’s opinions, you stop listening to yourself. mod: What are some things you want to accomplish before 2019 is over?

Saweetie: I want to have a couple of # 1s, I want to get into acting, launch my lip gloss line, icy merch line, and my lingerie line.

Be sure to follow Saweetie on Instagram (@saweetie) for more updates!

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas

Saweetie wears: Dress by Discount Saweetie wears: Universe, Corset Lingerie Set & by Agent tights byProvocateur, Agent FurRed Stole by Provocateur, TulleWachtenheim Cape by Rita Furs, Butterfly Brooch by Vinieris Couture, Outhouse Jewelry, Diamond Earrings &Butterfly BraceletsHair

by Clip

by Colette Malouf, Tiffany & Co., Diamond Earrings Silver Floral Ring & Bracelets

by Vanna K For by Tiffany Bella Luce, Shoes& Co.,

by Vanna byRings Charlotte K for Bella Luce, Olympia Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas Saweetie wears: Dress, Bikini Set & Bracelet by Laurel DeWitt, Fur Stole by Wachtenheim Furs, Diamond Earrings

by Tiffany & Co., Gold Bracelets & Ruby Ring by David Yurman, Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

Talent: Saweetie, Photographer: Vijat Mohindra, Wardrobe: Leo III, Hair: J, Makeup: Ernesto Casillas Saweetie wears: Dress, Bikini Set & Bracelet by Laurel DeWitt, Fur Stole by Wachtenheim Furs, Diamond Earrings by Tiffany & Co., Gold Bracelets & Ruby Ring by David Yurman, Shoes by Stuart Weitzman

Erika wears: YVY by Yvonne Reichmuth black jacket, YVY by Yvonne Reichmuth fringe trouser, LA Roxx white bodsysuit, Wolford socks, Steve Madden heels

erika

Photographer: Michael Becker, Styling: Timothy Chernyaev, Hair: Sacha Quarles, Makeup: Shannon Pezzetta

tham

Rising star, Erika Tham, plays Bonnie Rockwaller (Kim Possible’s archrival) in the recently released Disney Channel Original movie, Kim Possible.

Ironically, while she plays a frenemy in the movie, we are confident we would want her as our best friend in real life. In fact, she described her perfect Sunday to us as hanging with her best friends, making brunch, and going thrift shopping! How perfect does that sound? Not only is she authentic and adventurous, as can be seen from her insta posts (@erikatham), but she is unstoppable—she sings, dances, and acts! We got to catch up with her about the current “sitch” and more. Interview by Sandy Aziz

andy aziz: Tell us about yourself and growing up.

Erika Tham: I grew up moving around Asia. I was born in Singapore, then moved to Indonesia, Philippines, Taiwan, China and Thailand before moving to LA, which is where I live now! sandy: What is your favorite city and why?

Erika: That is so tough! Maybe Rome? I am a huge history nerd, so to walk around the city and be surrounded by such iconic historical architecture, like the Colosseum, was fascinating to me! sandy: How would you describe yourself in three adjectives?

Erika: Loyal, passionate and creative. sandy: Who has been your favorite character to play so far in your career and why?

Erika: Bonnie Rockwaller! I was such a huge fan of the original Kim Possible series, so to now get to be a part of the franchise is surreal and so much fun! Not to mention she is so sassy and has some of the funniest lines I’ve ever gotten to deliver. sandy: We understand you like fashion—and given it is fashion month—what is one of your favorite trends right now?

Erika: I love hair accessories and I think they’re really making a comeback. Using bobby pins/clips instead of trying to hide them, or thick black headbands and scrunchies – it’s like taking all the little hair accessories

Erika wears: MSGM black sequin dress

my mom used to put me in as a little girl, but making them fashionable. sandy: What music are you currently listening to?

Erika: 6lack, Nova Moura, Amir Obe, THEY, J. Cole, Anders, Reo Cragun and a lot of old Drake/ Kanye! sandy: What do you like to do in your spare time, when you are not filming or working?

Erika: I spend most of my free time on my piano!

When I was in Vancouver filming Kim Possible, I ordered a little keyboard to my hotel room so that I could write music while I wasn’t on set! Besides that, I love to just spend time with the people I love! I’ve been so blessed to have such amazing friends and family in my life, so when I’m in town and free, I try to spend as much time with them as possible. sandy: So, what does a day in your schedule look like?

Erika: That’s tricky! Every day is different for me and I think that’s one of the best parts of my job! I could be doing a photoshoot and then grabbing Ramen with my friends, or working out before an audition and then catching a flight to go film—no two days are ever the same.

sandy: What is an important message that you want to reach your fans?

Erika: Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself, your passions, and your opinions. In school, wanting to act and sing and being in the school plays was never cool, but I did it anyway because I loved it, even if it meant I didn’t have many friends. I would never want someone that looks up to me to let what other people [think] stop them from doing what they love. That attitude has had to continue into my professional career and is something that I strive to maintain every day, in all aspects of life. Don’t let anyone else’s opinions stop you from doing what you think is right and what makes you happy. sandy: If you feel stuck creatively, what do you do?

Erika: When I’m in a creative rut, I try to take a step back from all the craziness and spend time with myself.

Sometimes, I find that outside influences like the stress of work or social life can affect the clarity of my thinking—so taking a step back and time to be alone can really clear my mind and put me in the best place, mentally, to create.

sandy: What was the last thing you watched?

Erika: The Kim Possible movie! It premiered Friday, February 15th, and Disney threw the cutest viewing party! sandy: Tell us what you are working on now.

Erika: I have been working on a new acting project that I am super excited about! I can’t say too much yet, but it’s different from anything I’ve ever done before and has been so much fun to be part of! sandy: What is next for you?

Erika: There is a lot I have been working on, besides acting, that I can’t wait to share with people this year!

Music is a big one, but there is also another project I have been working very hard on that is separate from both acting and music that I can’t share too much about yet, but keep an eye out!

The Disney Channel Original movie, Kim Possible, premiered on February 15th – so go check it out!

Photographer: Michael Becker, Styling: Timothy Chernyaev, Hair: Sacha Quarles, Makeup: Shannon Pezzetta

sandy: What is/are some valuable lessons from the industry you have learned so far?

Erika: You can never control or predict what opportunities are going to come your way, but you CAN control how ready you are to seize them. Do the work, over prepare and know your worth.

Erika wears: Wolford black sleeveless bodysuit, MSGM pleated pattern silk skirt, Wolford socks, Steve Madden heels