myCULTURE Issue 2

TM

vol one • issue two

Style Statements for Charity:

MOVEMBER & BREAST CANCER ORG.

+

The Styles of NYC FASHION & BEAUTY TRENDS: FALL/WINTER

Couture to Ready-to-Wear: Take the Best of the Avant Garde into Your Everyday Wardrobe

Interview with Jewel Lee, Designer of Jewelry Brand JUBILEE RIOT

3 8 1 5 t h A v e 3 r d F l o o r, N e w Yo r k , N Y 1 0 0 1 6 www.kb1111.com H Office:212.213.0601

Photographed by: Andrew Lawrence, Model : Magnus KB1111 Model Mgt.

Letter Fro m The President

myCULTURE Magazine explores and celebrates the rich cultural diversity shaping fashion and our lives in the great metropolis we call New York City and (better yet) our home.

Blurring Lines Between Fashion and Business

myCULTURE caters to our “one percent”: the affluent, fashion-forward select few who can call New York City home. In a city where we are privileged to be surrounded by the finest luxuries this world has to offer; therefore, as New Yorkers we are granted access to the melting pot of beauty, culture, lifestyle and, of course, various forms of fashion.

T

he workplace has been the arena of a battle of self expression since corporate life began dropping hem lines and creating uniforms. As the CEO and President of both a model management company and a fashion publication, my staff and I are in the industry of self-expression through the art of clothes. The question arises of how to dress appropriately but still be true to the artistic expression that is fashion.

Having been in the fashion industry for a majority of my life — from model to a magazine publisher and business executive — I went from showcasing these forms of art in avant garde ways to going behind the scenes and making sure the business side of showcasing this art form is done efficiently. But how does one acclimate to such a change? Easy. Fashion is malleable and can fit to any needs. One company might ask its workers to wear a black shirt and black pants not only for uniformity but also for accessibility to the public, while another one makes their employees look like carbon copies of each other while sitting in cubicles going on with their daily grind. I have learned in this industry, if you limit these free spirits and deprive them of getting to express what they love through what they wear, they will not enjoy their work life.

As for me, there is a good median between the mundane and the extravagant fashion choices at work. A nice rule to work and play with is by asking yourself,“Can I meet a client in this, while keeping the integrity of my job?” By no means can one work in a gown or anything haute couture simply based on practicality. A fashionista can transform a regular white blouse or any type of dress shirt into living, fluid art. Statement jewelry, funky bowties, ascots, bolos, pocket squares can all be used by both men and women, depending on which way they want to express themselves. Even with pants, skirts and shoes, there are countless ways of making a statement with your clothing without taking too much attention from the workflow. It’s always a good distraction to be able to look at something nice once in a while, especially during some of these long meeting-after-meeting days.

In an environment where everything is controlled and uniformed, if a person dresses the way we dress in the fashion industry, it would receive a lot of attention (a sticking out like a sore thumb situation), but if the environment you cultivate is a creative one, especially where the people will appreciate the clothes, chat about it for a bit and exchange knowledge about the industry. It will further help the morale of the office.

I now tend to opt for the “business chic” look, as I call it. Think Wall Street with a few statement pieces tied in. Whether necklaces or bracelets, these statements put a twist on the cannon of how businesswomen can dress.

However, sometimes I do like to come in wearing a dress that billows in the wind and to have a more relaxed twist to my routine. Powerful men and women in this industry will always have a hard time trying to juggle what to wear when your morning meeting might be with foreign investors before quickly moving over to a meeting with creative, all while trying to stay true to the essence of expressing yourself with fashion. •

Join the elite with myCULTURE.

“

For advertising information please call 212.213.0601 or email info@myculturemagazine.com

Fashion is malleable and can fit to any needs.

To secure a complimentary subscription please email info@myculturemagazine.com

“

Karem Belalcazar President/CEO KB1111 Inc. 2 m y CULTURE

Photos: Victor Cucart

Y

outh Link offers prevention and early intervention programs that exist in partnership with police departments, housing authorities and dedicated business leaders who support a powerful solution that brings crime down and offers new possibilities to youth at risk for violence and gang involvement. It is a division of North American Family Institute (NAFI) currently operating in ten cities including Hartford, Providence, Indianapolis and Boston.

Over the past two years:

• Over 1000 youth and 700 officers have graduated from Youth Link programs.

• Youth Link has assisted keeping kids in school or, when necessary, obtaining GEDs.

• Youth crime has fallen by as much as 40% in neighborhoods where

Youth Link has been active.

• Hundreds of Youth Link participants have obtained part-time employment.

• Dozens of youth have completed our Culinary Arts Program in Boston and have taken part in a profit-sharing catering business.

• Youth and police have replaced feelings of animosity and distrust with mutual respect and understanding, creating sustainable relationships.

• Many graduates have steered from gangs and attended local colleges, camps and sports academies.

• Gang life has been deglamorized. College has become a reality and the kids who were once prime candidates for gang recruitment now want and expect more out of life than what was previously thought possible. They are dreaming big and it is working.

• Today Youth Link operates in ten cities, including Hartford, Providence, Yonkers, NY and Indianapolis and Boston.

For more information, contact: Jay Paris, Director • jayparis@nafi.com 617.480.8238 • www.youthlinkusa.org

www.my cul turemagaz i ne.com 3

485 TENTH AVENUE

CLYDE FRAZIER’S WINE AND DINE

NEW YORK CITY 10018

IS EXCITED TO BE “BOUNDING AND ASTOUNDING”

PHONE 212.842.1110 COME SHOOT HOOPS IN OUR HALF COURT LOCATED INSIDE THE RESTAURANT NEXT TO THE LOUNGE KITCHEN AND BAR OPEN LATE MONDAY - SUNDAY DAILY HAPPY HOUR AT BAR FROM 5 TO 10 PM DAILY SPECIALS AVAILABLE Visit our web site www.clydefraziers.com WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CLYDEFRAZIERS

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WITH CLYDE FRAZIER, A CLASSIC NEW YORK ICON’ AS IT’S INSPIRATION.

Le tte r Fr om Th e E di tor

F

or this issue, I was inspired by style, not fashion. Recently, my thoughts have been circulating around the late editrix Diana Vreeland, the editor in chief of Vogue before Anna Wintour.

Without this unfathomably brilliant woman, there would be no fashion industry, as we know it today.

She single handedly cultivated the American (and global) fashion viewpoint.

With the recent release of the book-tofilm documentary Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel, an intimate look into one of the more influential fashion editors of the 20th century, if not the most, I was able to revisit her extraordinary style. (A truly stunning book and film you all must check out.)

Part of the reason I believe people were captivated by Mrs. Vreeland was her uncanny ability to celebrate beauty, even in ugly situations. If someone had a fault, she wanted to draw attention toward this and make it beautiful, fashionable and, yes, stylish. I think this philosophy and editorial vision played a role in the modernization of New York style, where New Yorkers incorporated bravery and personal convictions into their daily wardrobes. Whether you have a big nose or freckles, I’m sure it undeniably pairs perfectly with that dress you’ve been eyeing.

Ultimately, for me, this issue celebrates style in the city.

“

Without this unfathomably brilliant woman, there would be no fashion industry, as we know it today. She single handedly cultivated the American (and global) fashion viewpoint.

“

Brent Ramsey Editor-in-Chief, myCULTURE Magazine

C or r e c ti ons: myCulture Magazine strives to publish accurate information and to acknowledge and correct errors. In our previous issue, there were a few mistakes made. We humbly ask that you forgive our blunders, and we’d like to take a moment to detail them below.

Join the elite with myCULTURE. For advertising information please call 212.213.0601 or email info@myculturemagazine.com To secure a complimentary subscription please email info@myculturemagazine.com

Letter Fr o m Th e E d it o r Welcome to my Culture Magazine, where we celebrate culture united in fashion and lifestyle in New York City, including arts, health, beauty and travel. From the brownstones of Harlem to the restaurants of Little India, culture drenches the streets of Manhattan and the boroughs, demonstrating the beauty of its various ethnicities and nationalities. And it cumulates here at my Culture.

Over the past few months, the magazine staff has been writing and rewriting, shooting and reshooting and now here’s the product. Take a flip through our pages, explore our words and, especially, experience our images. All thanks must be given to the models of KB1111 Agency, as well as the writers, photographers, stylists and everyone else at the magazine: Thank you for all of your hard work; without you, this publication wouldn’t be possible.

From finding an adventure throughout the neighborhoods to mixing up your own homemade beauty concoctions, I hope we’ve managed to satisfy your taste buds and fulfill your various needs. This magazine and I look forward to supplying you with the information and content you deserve.

On behalf of the entire magazine, welcome to the inaugural issue of my Culture Magazine!

“

From the brownstones of Harlem to the restaurants of Little India, culture drenches the streets of Manhattan and the boroughs, demonstrating the beauty of its various ethnicities and nationalities

Brent Ramsey Editor, myCulture Magazine

w w w. my cu l t u re ma g a z i n e . co m 5

• Page 5: The Letter from the Editor, our Editor-in-Chief’s title states “President/CEO KB1111Inc.” It should read “Brent Ramsey/Editor-in-Chief.”

DIY Beauty Secrets

“It Doesn’t Take Much to Look This Good!”

• Page 10: “DYI Beauty Secrets” should read “DIY Beauty Secrets.”

By Alisha Rajpal Finding the right salon challenges us all. And much like finding the perfect diamond, salons should fulfill the requirements of the four C’s — Cut, Color, Clarity and Credit card-friendliness.

While life is easier for the fortunate few who are lucky enough to have their own personal hair stylists or a list of high-end salons they can depend on, if you belong to the majority of us who have tried at least a 100 different salons, a variety hair stylists and a countless array of hair products continuously failing to deliver, do not fret for here are some Do-It-Yourself techniques to help tame those tresses.

Hair masks are an easy, nourishing way for effective taming, and sometimes the best hair masks can be whipped up in the kitchen -- in less than four hours!

For instance, almond and olive oils moisturizes both hair and skin. Apply the oil into your hair, allow it to absorb overnight then rinse off in the morning for healthy, shiny hair. But remember, be sure to wrap those soaking locks in a towel (or place the towel over the pillow) to prevent the oils from seeping into your pillows and linens.

This next mask is another quick and simple technique for your face and includes two ingredients that lend their ultra restorative properties to some of the best facial masks and treatments in the world -- avocado and honey. To make the “Avocado and Honey Face Mask,”blend avocado and honey in a bowl and spread a layer on your face, focusing on those trouble spots or imperfections you wish to improve. Allow the mask to harden over the next 10 minutes while the natural oils and enzymes repair the skin (and please, no touching), then rinse off with warm water in circular motions. Do this routine as often as you would like, from daily to a couple times a week, and you will find your skin revitalized and moisturized with improved texture and an unmistakable radiant glow. Simple, isn’t it?

Aside from the Avocado and Honey Face Mask, there are many other natural products and produce we use every day that can help moisturize your skin, such as milk to soften the skin, tomatoes to shrink pores and brown sugar or salt to exfoliate the skin. Mix brown sugar and honey to make body scrubs great for dry skin in need of some tough love. For those with oily skin, blend a concoction of strawberries, honey and bananas with a hint of lemon to make face mask to soak up some of those natural (and super annoying) oils that leave your skin looking greasy and shiny, especially on that wretched T-zone area including your forehead and nose.

Before exhausting yourself, your money and your time with all the chemical treatments and various over-the-counter skincare products on the market, be sure to try out these easy, household suggestions and see how they work.You can still have great skin without having to subject your hair or skin to chemicals and unnatural ingredients. Just find some of these ingredients in your kitchen, or at your local market, along with a big mixing bowl and watch your skin as it takes the time and nutrition it needs to glisten. These techniques will leave your skin looking incredible while keeping you and your bank account happy.

B

SP BAR Y O G A

B E A U T Y

Get the same unique Ayurvedic glow (The Ayurvedic treatment completely detoxifies your skin by removing waste from your facial lymph nodes, giving you vital, healthy skin! Special Ayurvedic herbs and essential oils are used to reduce inflammation and help heal the skin. The results from this facial include restoration of new collagen and elastin, balance of skin’s pH and a natural glow. in express time with an addition of yoga acupressure points on the facial muscles (‘because how often do we work the facial muscles?’) and includes an Organic Ayurvedic Chocolate Tamarind Mask.

Benefits: Detoxifying, Healing, Illuminating and Re-balancing. ideal for Sensitive, Dry, Dehydrated, Mature and Pre/Post-Op

“

Instead of a one-size fits all spa menu, our spa offers clientele a customized skincare program based on their individual skin type and needs. B Spa uses an impeccable line of facial cocktail treatments, the latest advanced skin therapies and other services to nourish your body and preserve your skin. We strive to maintain and prolong a vital healthy glow for each individual.

“

myCULTURE caters to our “one percent”: the affluent, fashion-forward select few who can call New York City home. In a city where we are privileged to be surrounded by the finest luxuries this world has to offer; therefore, as New Yorkers we are granted access to the melting pot of beauty, culture, lifestyle and, of course, various forms of fashion.

“

myCULTURE Magazine explores and celebrates the rich cultural diversity shaping fashion and our lives in the great metropolis we call New York City and (better yet) our home.

-Diana Seo, B Spa Bar creator

310 W. Broadway, New York, NY, 10013 • 212.274.8888 • www.bspabar.com 1031 Boston Post Rd Rye, NY 10580 • 914.921.0880 • www.bspasalon.com

1 0 m y CULTUR E

• In“Shears to Shining Shears,”the wrong jewelry designers were credited.

Page 21 & 27: For “Africa: The land of Plenty” and “The Spanish Lands: Vivaciously Sensual,” the earrings were provided by Juicy Jewels by Lanee Robertson, not Sobe Kelly.

Africa: The Land of Plenty India and the subcontinent have always been rich in colors and accessoThe rich lands of Africa brought deep and rich colors, their environmentally based lifestyle. Fascination has grown around the concept of the Safari and, of course, pelts. Animal prints have been a staple in the industry for centuries. All of us have formed opinions about the slew of animal print patterns out there. From antelope to zebra, we have either asked people to take these prints out of their closets or collected it in our own. One thing is certain: We are surrounded.

And from furry finds to essential accessories, African culture has truly impacted our styles. Bangles of wood and metal can be found in bazaars and street markets throughout the continent – and in shops across the globe today. The women of African have helped bring this fashion to our attention. As the mix of various materials and sizes of bangles allow the wearer to project how they are not afraid to make a statement, they have become a staple in most every fashionista’s accessories collection.

The Spanish Lands: Vivaciously Sensual Adding a little flair and a pinch of an unadulterated, sensual sex appeal perfectly epitomizes the idea of increasing the spice and excitement in our lives. A bit more skin here and form-fitting top there is just enough to entice the eyes of any victim drifting their eyes over our way. From Bolero jackets to the fiery movements of a flamenco dress, women have adapted traditional Spanish attire into eveningwear. (Although probably not as bright and loud as the Boleros the strong, bull-fighting Matadors were known to wear.) After all, why would we let a chill in the air ruin the look of a dress with a chunky jacket? Boleros are more portable and much, much cuter. Summer dresses (like the high-low dress) reminisce the staple outfit of the flamenco dancer, fiercely gliding across the dance floor and into our warmer-weathered closets.

• Dress: Loga and Maya • Headpiece: Sobe Kelly • Earrings: Earrings: Juicy Jewels

by Lanee Robertson • Handpiece: Sobe Kelly

• Dress: Sheri Bodell • Fascinator: Sobe Kelly • Earrings: Juicy Jewels

by Lanee Robertson • Shoes: Bakers w w w. my cu l t u re ma g a z i n e . co m 21

w w w. my cu l t u re ma g a z i n e . co m 27

www.my cul turemagaz i ne.com 5

Publisher

President & CEO

KB1111 Inc. Karem Belalcazar

Chairman/ Irvin Ajes

Creative Director

Editor In Chief

Artistic Director

Brent Ramsey Tony Iatridis

Editorial Models Arin Edgerton Alisa Brooke Eloho

Min Young Writers Jessica Bren

T. Elizabeth Jackson

Elizabeth Lilly

Sean Morrow

Xhiljola Nano

Felix Quinonez

Brent Ramsey

Photography Steve Benisty

Julio Coral

Mara Cozar

Caryn La Greca Imaxtree

Jasmine Kim

Spencer Kohn

Andrew Lawrence

Movember and Sons

Olivia Solomon

Stephen Paul

Brent Ramsey Production Asssistants

Gregory Heald - Mejia Leah Cyrus Chelsea Almanzar

Stylists

Blair Berisha Alisha Crutchfield

Hair & Make Up

Tena Ramoodit Danielle Crawford Anthony J. Williams Ana Sequeira

Account Executive

Deshawn Colbert

Public Relations myCULTURE

Public Relations Sales

On the cover

myCULTURE marketing Arin Edgerton (Photographed by Spencer Kohn)

MyCulture magazine 381 Fifth Avenue 3rd Floor, New York,NY 10016 212.213.0601 myculturemagazine.com • info@myculturemagazine.com ©2012 myCULTURE Magazine. All rights regarding the printed edition of myCULTURE and www.myculturemagazine.com are reserved.

Reproduction of any part of Capacity and/or this associated web site without the written permission of publisher is prohibited.

All views and comments expressed in myCULTURE are solely the opinions of the writers and contributors. myCULTURE reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertising content or materials submitted to it.

6 m y CULTURE

32 COMPLEX SHADES

The Styles of NYC

magazine

Oct • Nov 2012 www.myculturemagazine.com

departments:

2

5

11

53

56

president’s letter

editor’s letter

tasty trends

Credits

backstage & launch party

features: Model Maintenance Staying Lean by Eating Clean

‘Staching Style for the Movember Challenge

The Perfect Accessory: Compassion

10 12 16

Fashion community supports breast cancer awareness

Bold Beauty Trends for Diving Temps

Beauty Guard: How to Winterize Your Skin

Accessories for the Modern Man

19 21 22

Sophistication tailored with a hint of stylish masculinity

The favorites from NYFW Spring/Summer

24

48

Collections worthy your attention

New York’s Most Stylish A few special women who stand out

Unentitled Fashion: The Styles of a City

Catching Up With Jubilee Riot’s Jewel Lee

28 34 48

Post-modern architectural and industrial designs

Beauty 411 IOMA Skincare

Fall Fates Tools to Help Conquer the Season

51 54

24

28 www.my cul turemagaz i ne.com 7

B

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B E A U T Y

Get the same unique Ayurvedic glow (The Ayurvedic treatment completely detoxifies your skin by removing waste from your facial lymph nodes, giving you vital, healthy skin! Special Ayurvedic herbs and essential oils are used to reduce inflammation and help heal the skin. The results from this facial include restoration of new collagen and elastin, balance of skin’s pH and a natural glow. in express time with an addition of yoga acupressure points on the facial muscles (‘because how often do we work the facial muscles?’) and includes an Organic Ayurvedic Chocolate Tamarind Mask.

Benefits: Detoxifying, Healing, Illuminating and Re-balancing. ideal for Sensitive, Dry, Dehydrated, Mature and Pre/Post-Op

“

Instead of a one-size fits all spa menu, our spa offers clientele a customized skincare program based on their individual skin type and needs. B Spa uses an impeccable line of facial cocktail treatments, the latest advanced skin therapies and other services to nourish your body and preserve your skin. We strive to maintain and prolong a vital healthy glow for each individual.

“

-Diana Seo, B Spa Bar creator

310 W. Broadway, New York, NY, 10013 • 212.274.8888 • www.bspabar.com 1031 Boston Post Rd Rye, NY 10580 • 914.921.0880 • www.bspasalon.com 8 m y CULTURE

www.my cul turemagaz i ne.com 9

Heal t h & F i t ness

Model Maintenance: Staying Lean by Eating Clean B y J e s s i c a B re e n

In the modeling industry, there is a constant pressure to fit a certain ideal body type. However, crash diets wreck the metabolism, neglecting nutrients critical to health and leaving the dieter physically and emotionally depleted. Therefore, it’s important for us, when looking for a way to maintain a healthy weight, to respect our overall well being. The key to staying energized and beating stress is to remember how the quality of the food we eat is just as vital as the quantity.

Below are five tips for keeping your metabolism up and your weight in check while ensuring a steady supply of energizing, mood-enhancing nutrients.

fitness tip: Buy a 24 oz. BPAfree stainless steel water container and aim to fill it up at least three times daily. Star ting your day of f with a tall glass of water with lemon boosts metabolism and energizes better t han cof fee.

l 1 Drink more water — a lot more.

Most of us are walking around dehydrated, and the effect worsens when we replace water with caffeinated beverages (like coffee, tea and soda) or alcohol. By flushing out toxins (which are created every time we burn calories) and keeping us energized, water is essential to a balanced metabolism because dehydration can actually inhibit fat burning — not to mention it causes fatigue, keeping us from working out and carrying on with our day. The next time you’re feeling hungry, stop and ask how much water you drank that day -- more often than not, your body is actually craving water. l 2 Meal replacements don’t replace everything.

Protein and energy bars are fine as occasional on-the-go meal replacements, but frequent dependence on them crowds out fresh, whole foods. The difference between a processed, likely-high-insugar energy bar and a meal full of energizing whole foods is akin to the difference between taking a vitamin C tablet and eating an orange. All of the nutrients in a whole food work synergistically to carry out their functions, and a tablet can’t mimic that.

The next time you’re running around and hunger hits, reach for a handful of your favorite nuts or seeds, or a piece of fruit to tie you over until mealtime. If all else fails, there are some minimally processed energy and protein bars sourced from whole ingredients, including LÄRABAR, Organic Food Bar and Pure Bar.

l 3 Respect the power Photo: Victor Cucart Model: Genesis

1 0 m y C ULTURE

of fiber.

On the quest to manage your weight, fiber is a reli-

able friend. Fiber-containing plant foods take longer to digest than highly processed foods, causing us to feel full faster and for a longer period of time. Fiber also moves fat through our digestive system more quickly so less of it is absorbed. Huge bonus: Fiber-rich foods are also usually chock-full of vitamins, antioxidants and other powerful phytonutrients.

In contrast, refined flour products such as white bread, white rice, pastries and other processed foods have had most of their fiber removed, along with any significant nutritional value. These foods are quickly digested as sugar, causing a spike in insulin and then a fatiguecausing crash. On top of that, the rise in insulin tells our body that there is plenty of glucose, or energy, available – a signal to stop burning fat and start storing it.

Aim to consume at least 30g of fiber daily. Be nutritionally efficient with your fiber intake by choosing fiber-rich foods also high in protein, such as whole grain pasta, beans and quinoa, antioxidants, such as broccoli, blueberries and kale, and Omega-3 fatty acids (discussed below), such as almonds, flax seeds and chia seeds. For a quick fix, add a tablespoon of ground flax seeds or whole chia seeds to your cereal, smoothie or salad each day.

l 4 You Need to Eat Fatty Foods – The Right Kind.

Avoiding fat in order to lose weight is so 1990’s.

While it’s true fat has more calories per gram than carbohydrates or protein, eating healthy fats in moderation will not wreck your diet. On the contrary, fat provides faster satisfaction at mealtime, helping you eat less, and unlike saturated and trans fats that promote belly fat, the Omega-3 in monounsaturated fats reduces insulin levels, promoting weight loss. The additional, much-buzzed-about health benefits of Omega-3 include: glowing skin, hair and nails, improved mood and mental focus and — continues on next page

Ta s t y

Tr e n d s

B y T. E l i z a b e t h J a c k s o n

reduced inflammation throughout the body. Get your Omega-3s from avocado, olive oil, nuts, flax and chia seeds and cold-water fatty fish such as salmon, halibut, sardines and tuna.

l 5 Relax.

Stress can easily dismantle your best-laid plans to eat clean and stay lean. When you’re frustrated, a stress hormone called cortisol is released that puts a lock on belly fat and promotes cravings for feel-good foods high in saturated fat and sugar. Fortunately, there are plenty of proven stress-busting practices, such as: keeping a gratitude journal to help you focus on the positive in your life; deep, mindful breathing; physical exercise, whether yoga, running or kickboxing – pick what you love and do it regularly; and eating foods containing calming neurotransmitters and vitamins such as bananas, chickpeas, and whole grains.

It’s worth noting that occasional consumption of alcohol isn’t a deal breaker – frequent party invites are inevitable in this industry, and sometimes having a drink with friends is a great way to relax. Just avoid sugary mixed drinks and don’t go overboard – more than 2 drinks can deplete vitamin reserves and impair your judgment when hunger hits and you’re browsing the buffet. • Jessica Breen is a health writer and a certified Holistic Nutrition Counselor by the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.

Not only is New York a fashion capital, but it’s also the birth of culinary techniques, the greatest restaurants in the country and, therefore, the most famous chefs. It is where food trends begin and where people migrate to earn their accolades in the culinary industry. Restaurants are continuously pushing the creative envelope in order to attract people from all over the world. No matter where you come from, you will be able to find authentic restaurants with some of the most flavorful food you can imagine. Just think about what type of competition a restaurant endures in this city, when the bistro around the corner just got mentioned in the Zagat? Needless to say, when in this type of environment, owners and chefs continuously strive to step it up and “BAM,” here we are with some mouthwatering trends to taste.

The Beef When in NYC, you have to first determine what your budget is and this will give you an idea of what type of palate you might enjoy. For example, the Meatpacking District is where you will find gorgeously dressed women walking the street in Louboutins, which seems a bit hard to do on these cobblestone streets, but they manage very well. And though you can sit for hours and watch these women and their nicely tailored men walk by, you must try the amazing food! Here is where you will find the most tender beef short rib with carrot butterscotch sauce or the delicious skirt steak with chimichurri sauce at STK on 26 Little West 12th Street.

The Mini If this is your first time in the city, more likely you will unknowingly stay to the touristy route within Time Square. Here, new restaurants are always popping up to satisfy the buzzing nightlife of the vibrant city. And let’s not forget the lavish bars with their endless plethora of drink options.

Some bars showcasing drinks selections so large, that trying all of them would probably require an entire year! Or traveling to SoHo where, if you are not tired from shopping, you can try a popular spin on a few American mainstay dishes, such as sliders. But it’s not the mini burger you might think. You can choose your favorite meat – or lobster, pork, chicken or veggie! Visit Stanton Social at 99 Stanton Street.

The Jazzy While most tourists do not typically make it as far uptown as Harlem, here is one the residents must try. Over the past few years, the neighborhood has gradually gone under a massive renovation; the culture stays rich and amazing. Here, you can try authentic Caribbean dishes such as rice n’ peas and stew chicken at Elsie’s Caribbean Café at 2291 7th Avenue. A fun Southern restaurant celebrities love to visit, in hopes of having a dish created in their name for the menu is Ruth’s on 113 West 116th Street. In restaurants far from the islands or the South, Harlem is the happening trend and the birthplace of New York jazz and the Harlem Renaissance.

Here are only a few of the currently trending restaurants in this culinary Mecca. The best way to find new places is to strike up a conversation at a bar with a local, compare and contrast. If you notice the neighborhood locals mentioning the same restaurant, then you definitely know where to go. Either way, each year there will be some talented chef formulating the “Next Best Culinary Trend” New York has ever seen. While you are taking a walk in Central Park, stop by the food-truck Wafels & Dinges where they tweet their location of the day. Just like this, restaurants are always popping up everywhere, and you never know when or where you’ll find your next favorite spot to eat. But remember: Bon Appétit! • Photo: Andrew Lawrence, Model: Sara

www.myc ul turemagaz i ne.com 1 1

Pe r s o n al Style

‘Staching Style for the Movember Challenge B y S e a n M o r ro w

D

ogmatic growth of facial hair and disciplined sacrifice both factor heavily into many of the world’s religions. In Islam, it is requisite to fast during Ramadan, and facial hair growth has deep meaning. In Jewish culture, many also fast and grow beards. The Christian church has Lent.

Sacrifice and beard growth are used to show dedication, repentance, discipline, mourning or charity.

Movember is an annual charity challenge where supporters grow a moustache - or ‘Mo’ - to raise money and awareness for men’s health issues.

Opposite page: Adam Garone, CEO of Movember.

1 2 m y C ULTURE

The mustache growth is done with purpose: With the intention of raising money for“men’s health issues”— the organization raises awareness and funds for issues, such as prostate cancer and depression. (Good stuff!) And this extremely important because health issues, including prostate and testicular cancers, could turn out quite differently is caught early; therefore, early detection is vital. Much effort, awareness and funding is put into breast cancer awareness, but so little into men’s cancers.

Movember is a fun way to raise money for awareness and research, much like a breast cancer charity might host a walk or run. But here’s the thing, if you’re participating in growing a mustache for charity — if for you, mustache growth must be governed by rules and considered a“challenge”— does that not make mustache growth a sacrifice?

This was a question for someone well versed in the world of facial hair and monthlong facial hair growth. Jacob Nathan, the founder and former president of the Clark University Beard Enthusiasts, a society dedicated to the appreciation and growth of facial hair.

CUBE held an event very similar to Movember for charity:“We did a fundraiser ‘Octobeard,’”said Nathan,“where we had everyone grow the mightiest facial hair that they could, and we developed a voting system where you could donate then vote for your favorite beard, and the winner got to choose where all of the money went to.”

Photos Courtesy of Movember Org. The Movember movement inspired What happens when you combine facial hair and tempoOctobeard, which you could assume took place in Octorary discipline? ber and simply expanded the event across the face. Like The Movember Foundation is not a religion. Sure, Movember, women (Movember calls their women ‘Mo they’re a not-for-profit organization with the express Sisters,’) were not excluded. goal of helping people and doing kind things, but “A girl actually won the competition. She cut her own they’re not a religion. The foundation, founded in 2004, hair off and fashioned it into a beard,”explained Nathan. hosts yearly events in November dedicated to the grow“We were pleased with that because the school was giving ing of mustaches, charity mustaches. They outline their me some sh*t because they thought a beard club excluded rules as follows: women. I assured them that our club’s constitution said that anyone could join regardless of gender as long as they 1. Once registered at movember.com each mo bro must begin said they were trying to grow a beard.” the 1st of Movember with a clean-shaven face.

Nathan wasn’t sure just where the concept of grow2. For the entire month of Movember each mo bro must grow ing facial hair for charity came from, but he remembers and groom a mustache. it from his youth,“I had heard of hockey players growing 3. There is to be no joining of the mo to [one’s] sideburns. playoff beards, and even doing charity playoff beard (That’s considered a beard.) growing things.”

4. There is to be no joining of the handlebars to [one’s] chin.

CUBE came about during the recent resurgence in the (That’s considered a goatee.) popularity of mustaches, when they were popping up on 5. Each mo bro must conduct himself like a true upper lips everywhere, and Nathan noticed.“It does sort of country gentleman.

— continues on p. 14...

“

“

An obvious inspiration is the Fu Manchu.

If you have a whole style of facial hair named after you, that probably means you rocked it.

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E d i t o r ’s Note: On Beards B y B re n t R a m s e y

B

eards. In the ancient world, they held the power of expressing knowledge, class and wisdom, and all the great philosophers had one — Socrates, Marcus Aurelius and Hadrian.

Even William Shakespeare grew a set of whiskers.

In the land of the ancient Egyptians, beards were dyed and plaited with gold thread (both trends which are horribly looked over in modern society). However, in modern-day civilization, beards express polar opposites: laziness or distinct style. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a beard over three inches.

Movember is a fabulous time to try something new; in the case, the mustache. Or beard. You might even like it! No matter what you choose to grow, a beard or moustache, keep up a healthy spirit of growth and charity while growing out that stubble. Maybe challenge your male co-workers to a good game of who can grow the best facial hair – or the most awkward.

Set up a donation gathering for a particular charity for the office to contribute to and whoever has the best (or worst) facial hair gets to choose the charity. Isn’t that fun?

Me? I’m going for the beard.

(But I’ve been doing the beard thing for a while now.)

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— continued from p. 12... seem like there’s a renaissance of mustaches. I’ve heard the whole notion of ironic hipster mustaches which is kind of unfortunate because I think people who might otherwise thrive with a mustache might avoid it, but if you go back in American history there’s some really bad dudes, really cool dudes that had some really crazy facial hair going on.”

Mustaches can emanate masculinity, class, attentionto-facial-detail or a sense of irony. Facial hair also allows a man to present himself to those around him. Nathan brought up a good example in Rasputin,“His giant beard is kind of cool, and that’s kind of an epic feat. He had the whole wizard beard going on.”And Rasputin was all vibe, all charisma; he was a man that created power entirely through his massive presence.“That’s a great example of using your facial hair to project what you want on the world.”

“An obvious inspiration is the Fu Manchu. If you have a whole style of facial hair named after you, that probably means you rocked it,” said Nathan, bringing up the ever unfortunate Charlie Chaplin stache: “Charlie Chaplin, I’ve never had one of those. And I probably never will because the context has kind of been ruined for that style. The thing is, it’s all about changing the context” So if there are some mustaches that are unacceptable, does growing a mustache eventually become a sacrifice?

“I would dispute that growing it is a sacrifice or risk, unless you’re trying a new kind of facial hair growth. I’m firmly in the corner that any facial hair is better than none, almost without exception. Everyone has their optimal beard or mustache they’re capable of growing, and someone might make a sacrifice in the sense that they won’t maintain their facial hair in the way that they’re used to, they’re gonna switch it off as a sacrifice, that I can get behind.

But I hate that sort of self-pitying facial hair.”

For something to be a challenge, or to be a commitment or tithing or discipline sacrifice, it doesn’t need to be undesirable, and it doesn’t need to make you suffer.

Movember is about growing a mustache you can take pride in and ultimately enjoy having. Nathan said,“You see a lot of that pointy curly mustache these days, but you don’t see the big bushy cover your mouth sort of mustache. That is sort of a sacrifice, when it’s all up in your face and preventing you from drinking coffee, eating food or kissing; it’s like in your face. In that sense that’s a total sacrifice. But, you know? I could see those burly ones coming back.”

Nathan left me with this: “A good thing to learn from Movember is that people sometimes are subjected to some pretty harsh scrutiny because of facial hair choices.

It’s important to not prejudge someone just because of what kind of facial hair they have. So you know, Movember might be a good time to try something new or make what you consider to be a sacrifice in how you groom your facial hair, just to put yourself in a new context and see what its like and how people treat you differently.”

A mustache is a definite style commitment. It’s your face, your main advertisement of self to the world, and a misstep can be disastrous. By doing Movember, you’re wearing your dedication to charity and awareness on your upper lip, declaring the importance of men’s health to the world.

It is a sacrifice and a boon. One goes through stages of facial hair growth in Movember, from wispy bit of nothingness, to hopeful majestic upper lip ‘do. Be it No-Shave November or Movember, at the end of it all, one has reached the enlightenment of the mustache, the noble path of the beard.

Who says you can’t have religion without religion? •

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The Perfect Accessory:

fashion community supports breast cancer awareness

By Xhiljola Nano

Learn how to get involved at: http://cfda.com/programs/ fashion-targets-breast-cancer

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October calls for heightened awareness of breast cancer and its effect on the women in our world today. The American Cancer Society estimates about one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer, making it the second leading cause of death among female cancer patients.

Raising breast cancer awareness and supporting programs active in the fight against breast cancer can lead to breast cancer prevention and improve patient care.

The fashion industry does not fall behind in its movement to raise breast cancer awareness. Top designers such as Vera Bradley and Tommy Hilfiger (among many others) are creating and promoting foundations to donate money, contributing to breast cancer research and treatment.

The Vera Bradley Foundation began in 1998 and has since raised about $15 million, making it one of the more prominent nationally recognized organizations committed to finding the cure for breast cancer.

Co-founders Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller were initially moved to start the foundation following the loss of one of their close friends. The foundation was found on courage, compassion and commitment with a mission to save lives and put an end to the disease that took their dear friend.

They began to raise funds for breast cancer awareness in 1993 and have gone above and beyond their expectations since. Anyone who wants to support the foundation can submit donations on the website, verabradley.org.

However, fashion against breast cancer movements do not end there. The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) recently announced the launch of the 2012 Fashion Targets Breast Cancer International T-Shirt Campaign. The t-shirt logo was designed by Ralph Lauren with supermodel Karolina Kurkova featured as the face of the campaign. The t-shirt is available for $34.99 at fashiontargetsbreastcancer.com. All purchases made in the United States will be donated to Fashion Targets Breast Cancer at the New York Community Trust and all

outside purchases will be donated to the international FTBC charity partners. The FTBC launched in 1994 and has become the most successful response to breast cancer in the fashion industry worldwide. It has raised over $50 million to support public awareness, education, screening and patient care.

Designer Carolina Herrera supports the cause by designing a t-shirt for Saks Fifth Avenue’s Key to the Cure campaign. The t-shirt went on sale October 1 during Saks’ annual charity shopping week for $35. All the proceeds will be donated to the Entertainment Industry Foundation Women’s Cancer Research Fund. Herrera was quoted by In Style, saying she had drawn a tree with a map of the world as the design for the t-shirt, in order to send the message of how cancer is a global health issue, affecting everyone.

Another designer touched by the cause, Tommy Hilfiger has also launched a bag to raise funds for the cause, which went on sale October 1 as well. Priced at $298, $100 of every purchase will go to Fund for Living, a global initiative of Breast Health International. BHI, a leading non-profit foundation, promotes breast cancer research and treatment. The bag will be available at all Tommy Hilfiger stores and online at Tommy.com.

Although designers and foundations aren’t the only ones to be making cancer-related collaborations, fashion companies are also pairing up with various organizations to host fundraising events. Mahogany Chic has paired up with Fashion for the Cure’s Fourth Annual 2012 Fashion for the Cure runway show, honoring the women who have fought against breast cancer and all donations will be given to local charities, including Komen for the Cure. This year’s theme was “Pink Passion in the City” and took place Sunday, October 6 at Lounge 201 in Washington, D.C. Fashion for the Cure was created in memory of Nancy C. Speed who passed away due to breast cancer.

The fashion industry has been raising funds and supporting global awareness for breast cancer for many years, making it easier for the general public to support the cause. Every Breast Cancer Awareness Month, these charities, brands and designers, which are just a few of the charities out there, reminds us how important it is to keep an ear out and shopping hands open for any special ways to benefit the women of the world, whether they might be our mothers, wives, daughters, sisters or friends. Saving lives and giving hope with fashion, beauty and style. •

“

These charities, brands and designers, which are just a few of the charities out there, reminds us how important it is to keep an ear out and shopping hands open for any special ways to benefit the women of the world, whether they might be our mothers, wives, daughters, sisters or friends.

“

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Be a u t y Tr e n ds

photog: Rick Day

Bold Beauty Trends for Diving Temps As soon as the layers begin to pile on—whether or not the temperatures accommodate them—we yearn for saturated beauty looks to stand out while we’re all wrapped up. On particularly gloomy days, a rich lip peeking out from a tightly wound scarf, or a glint of nail polish flashing from fingerless gloves can make for a sufficient pick-me-up. These inspiring beauty trends, however, are well worth the application before the dead of winter.

By Elizabeth Lilly

Crushed Berry: Bold Lips A glance at runway snaps from NYFW Fall 2012 demonstrates the standout fall lip trend, saturated berry hues.

Perhaps a byproduct of the vampire beauty trend that’s been fading over the past few years, this trend complements all skin tones and most occasions. For a buildable, sheer hue appropriate for all occasions, try the cult beauty favorite Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Sugar Plum.

Shining Stunners: Metallic Nails Nail adornment can speak tomes. Reflective nails elicit descriptions like “modern,”“luxe” and many other chic words. No matter the words, they’re versatile and know no age. (And who wouldn’t want to use their nails as a mirror?) Polish technology isn’t quite there yet, but we have our fingers crossed that it will be next season. For now, Essie’s Mirror Metallics collection provides a close second.

Soft Focus: Matte Velvet Nails OPI came out with a velvet effect nail polish what seems like ages ago. But Ciaté followed up their Caviar Manicure with a Velvet Manicure. Velvet, a major fall staple, is bottled up (or at least crushed velvet fuzz) and paired with a matching nail polish. A little black brush and plastic tray assist in application. Between Butter London, Nails Inc., and this brand, the Brits are truly leading innovation within the nail polish industry, so perhaps we’ll have a new material to apply to our nails next fall from these brands.

Beyond Ombré: Rainbow Gradient Locks Beauty icons have been tinting their hair with rainbow hues for a few seasons now. Dakota Fanning had pink, and Kelly Osborne has found her perfect shade with purple. Alison Mosshart—the other half of Kate Moss’s husband’s garage rock band, The Kills—has upped the unnatural hair color game with a rainbow ombré look.

Her hair identity was long-based upon her eye-obscuring raven locks. The blonde roots to pink to black ends light up her face and give her long mane more movement.

There are sure to be lots of bold copycats who are tired of the ombré look vying for that pop of color against a dark winter coat.

Flashy Extras for Crops: Adorned Faux Bobs A bob can be quite the commitment and starlets like Rachel Bilson opt for faux bobs when the red carpet calls for new hair looks.

The easily achieved turned-under ponytail messy style requires lots of bobby pins and therefore, opens up the possibility for additional hair accessories.

Rodarte’s star cluster pins and Oscar de la Renta’s silk brooch headbands grounded the messy NYFW runway looks and leave no argument for a bare faux bob. Consider jewels, metallics and anything costume-y to pin in your locks.

Grungy Eyes: The Imperfect Smoky Eyes The smoky eye is a staid seasonal favorite for fall/winter with a new twist each year.

This year, born of the I-slept-in-this makeup look, is one for the younger set. A cross between rock ‘n’ roll and bohemian, it appeared on many fall runways, including Rachel Zoe. This look will toughen up any chiffon or floral print. Draw a bold line of black liquid eyeliner and fill in with a deep powder up to the crease. Smoky gazes are normally reserved for nights out but will be breathtaking for those upcoming wintry days, too. •

photog: Mara Cozar

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H e a lt h & F it n e s s

Beauty Guard: How to WinterizeYour Skin

By Elizabeth Lilly

O

nce the winter chill sets in and whipping winds threaten to separate us from our hats, it’s tough to find someone who isn’t battling dry skin. Even those who swear by blotting papers to sop up oil slicks in the summer begin to complain about the effects of the harsh wind and bitter cold. New Yorkers have it worse than many, as skyscrapers transform streets into wind tunnels to beat relentless gusts upon faces for dull, thirsty complexions.

While dry heat in subways and office buildings only worsen damage.

With such a dramatic climatic change, an update in your skincare routine becomes just as essential as a wardrobe renovation. So push those lightweight summer skincare products to the back of the medicine cabinet and ready that shelf—or makeshift beauty setup of your choice in your tiny apartment bathroom—for potent products that will make your skin feel supple, even under all those layers of clothing.

to remember skin produces more oil to compensate for a lack of moisture. So don’t mistake dropping mercury as an opportunity for a season sans blotting papers.

Picking a more moisturizing formula that feels lightweight is key. Shiseido’s Pureness Moisturizing GelCream is sheer and absorbs immediately, so as to avoid a sticky feeling while the product does its job. Available at shiseido.com, $33.

For the Occasionally Dry A skincare product with an inspirational—albeit a bit gimmicky—name and message is always worth a second look, especially when dry indoor heat and wool coats cause irregular flare-ups. Philosophy’s Miracle

Keep Your Lips Supple Never is there a time to search out a top lip product than impending winter weather. Subterranean temps and biting gusts are harsh to lips and the easiest way to prevent chapping is keeping a great lip product in your arsenal.

A Few Products Meant for All: A nourishing lotion should already be a mainstay in your arsenal. But it’s easy to forget the skin on places other than your face dehydrates until it starts flaking. Stock up now on luxe Kiehl’s Crème de Corps body moisturizer for hydration that seriously sticks with you all day.

Available at kiehls.com, $11-75. The bestselling Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion is the next best thing at a drugstore price. Available at drugstore.com, $7.

Any responsible skin owner makes a habit of using eye cream daily. (For optimal results, start using it religiously in your 20s!) The sensitive skin around your eyes can take even more of a beating during winter, so switching to a heavier eye cream is ideal. If you’re one of the few who hasn’t given your undereye circles over to eye cream, Clinique’s All About Eyes Rich is a great starter product for the season. Use it in conjunction with Clinique’s new Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector for peepers as radiant as pre-plowed snow. Available at clinique.com, $30-50 and $40, respectively.

For the Seasonally Dry It can be frustrating for those with oily skin to experience the other side of saturation. However, it’s integral

Korres Lip Butter: This Greek brand is still relatively new to the States, but its lip butter is already a cult beauty favorite. The pot of sheer product is best for indoor application, as it requires a brush or finger. Pomegranate is a bright pop of cheery color to brighten winter blues. But Plum and Wild Rose are ripe for picking up the berry-hued lip trend from the New York Fashion Week 2012 runways. Available at korresusa. com, $12.

Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Moisturizer has resveratrol to brighten and guard against environmental irritants. Available at philosophy.com, $22-57.

For the Constantly Dry Additional moisturizing products are essential for tight, irritated skin yearning to be quenched. Use the excuse to get your required rest by investing in a concentrated nighttime product, like Dior’s Capture Totale Intensive Night Restorative Crème. Skipping product before bedtime is a huge faux pas because that’s the best time to repair damage. This treatment uses stem cells to help skin regenerate and fade dark spots. Available at dior. com, $150. •

Fresh Lip Sugar: Another beauty favorite brand, you’d be hard pressed to find a beauty obsessionista across the city who doesn’t carry at least one at all times. Part balm, part tint and SPF 15 to boot, these little beauties do it all. Perfect for pulling out of a bag with gloved application while waiting to cross a busy avenue, this treatment rolls up out of a tough case. Try the Passion or Rose for a flush to brighten winter skin.

Available at fresh.com, $22.50.

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Fa s hi o n & L i f es t y le

Accessories for the Modern Man Every day, we wake up, we get dressed. We head to the subway and we begin to live. Among a city of blinding beauty, articulate architecture and femme fashion. But being fashionable isn’t only for the women. The “modern man” embraces trends with sophistication tailored with a hint of stylish masculinity. This guy reads Ernest Hemingway, or some other member of the “Lost Generation,” during his morning commute. Believe style isn’t just the clothes we wear but the life we celebrate. We all have our accessories of choice, but here are a few ways I would accessorize the life of the modern, urban man.

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Socks by Richer Poorer I’ve known about this new menswear brand for quite some time now, but I’ve been hit with an immense desire to spread the word.

The brand: Richer Poorer. Their mission: To make “socks for the man who is as versatile as the American landscape,” as their website says.

Ranging from classic patterns to bold prints, with these socks, your shoes have never looked better. And with a personality as vibrant as their designs, a pair (or five, six, seven… you get the picture!) should belong to you. Throw some of the brand’s affordable socks on for an instantly classic look.

Made with a light and durable cotton blend, they’re comfy and strong, and priced at either $12 or $20 they’re also a steal. Check out the entire collection at Richer-Poorer.com.

Beaded Basics by Adesso Bracelets, the Men’s Collection I don’t know what it is about the beaded bracelet that lends itself to forming an effortless yet stylish statement, but it works.

Introducing Adesso, one of my more recent wrist-bound obsessions. Created by Samantha Goldstone, an artist in Santa Barbara, the men and women’s jewelry line includes necklaces, earrings and bracelets where she incorporates vintage and ethnic beads, semi-precious and precious stones and metals, such as silver, gold, bronze and pewter. The men’s collection, although it only consists of bracelets, features 19th century Venetian glass, vintage Thai, Bali and Ethiopian silver, vintage glass and recycled paper beads. (Now, that’s an international mix of cool style — and a lot vintage.)

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Goldstone’s aesthetic for combining neutral palettes of browns and blacks with these metals, jewels and various artifacts results in an ultimately unique and seasonless accessory without minimizing the wearer’s masculinity. Prices range from $55 to $95 at AdessoShop.com.

The Sartorialist: Closer by Scott Schuman No man captures true style quite like the original street style blogger, Scott Schuman, known for his cult site The Sartorialist. This visionary photographer recently curated and released a collection of magnificent and decisively lensed images, embracing his recognizable well-honed sense of style and an assortment of his subjects’ personal style all over the world, from London to Japan. Within this book, Schuman carries your attention to editorial viewpoint of beauty, style, grace and energy in every shot. Definitely a must-have accessory for any modern man’s bookshelf.

Closer is available for $30 at MrPorter.com. •

docheî Źe

custom creations

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t h e fa v o r i t e s f ro m

NYFW SPRING/SUMMER B y B re n t R a m s e y

Fashion Week. It’s a glorious time of fellowship and industrialization for designers, buyers, editors and influencers – and of course, the clothes and agenda of events is simply diving. The collections presented during this time decisively dictate everything that will take place for the season ahead. In September, we gather for spring and summer and in February for fall and winter.

Last month, I visited the shows at Lincoln Center and Milk Studios, as well as a few other locations. Here are a few collections I believe are worth your attention.

Harnessing the Season: BCBG Max Azria

All photos by: Imaxtree

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For their Spring/Summer 2013 collection, Max and Lubov Azria were inspired by Helmut Newton’s black-and-white photographs. Although the line strayed from shades of grey — and black and white, of course — with a muted palette of talc, coral, cream and a vintage-washed chambray blue, the Mr. and Mrs. Azria introduced harnesses to our warm-weathered wardrobes — definitely a surprising inclusion for a spring/summer lineup, in my opinion.

With all reservations concerning leather bindings aside, the delicate lace and silk crepe dresses sprinkled throughout the collection balanced beautifully with the leather, rather edgy, harnesses and aprons. This combination of elements transformed the couple’s vision and inspiration into a form of sophisticated sexiness and sensuality, accentuating a feminine silhouette with strength, modesty and a touch of flirtation.

While the hemlines remained around mid-calf or floor-length (remember what I just said about modesty?), lace-covered peek-aboo cutouts exposed glimpses of the model’s bare backs.

Overall, the pieces could be classified as ethereal, edgy and sensual. And wearable. Separately, as you’ll see in the images below, the workwear components stand out clearly from behind their leather restraints: Chambray blouses and oversize jackets in silk cotton canvas. And the harnesses…. Are harnesses even permitted in the office? Well, let’s hope so. Because they’re definitely having a moment.

“We have day harnesses, we have night harnesses,” Lubov Azria said backstage, as reported by Style.com.

The Debutante: Marissa Webb If I were ever asked to choose one womenswear collection of Spring/Summer 2013 that truly embodied my style aesthetic, it would most certainly be Marissa Webb‘s debut lineup. In fact, after viewing the presentation, I don’t know a single girl who wouldn’t take her pick from this awesome loot, whether for a first date or night out on the town. It’s even workplace appropriate! (Which is a huge factor for aspiring fashionistas when wanting to buy designer pieces. They must be able to be worn for several occasions.)

Throughout the collection, Webb flaunts her ability to master an effortless “woke up and threw this on and still look amazing” aesthetic while maintaining an overall semi-flirtatious and figure flattering yet sophisticated, mature and well-styled look. (No doubt perfected during her tenure as the former head of womenswear at J. Crew.) And the pieces, either separate or suited, were enough to brew up a hankering sensation.

Take the image above for example. Would you not wear that??

To sum it up, the collection encompasses a more mature and refined customer than what Webb was accustomed to at the mega retailer. The palette mainly consisted of black and white with pops of bright red, pale pink, that stunning turquoise abstract print and the neon pieces. And the dresses and suits were tailored impeccably.

• Must-have Looks: The printed jumpsuit

and the color-blocked blouse and skirt combo.

Hosted at the box at Lincoln Center, Webb’s low-key presentation was a reprieve from the typical manic frenzied lovely day of covering shows and the perfect celebration for this debutante’s grand debut.

• Must-do Beauty Looks: The loose pony hairdo, the rosy cheeks and the faint pink-stained lip.

Introducing: Erin Barr For her debut collection, Erin Barr was inspired by Marilyn Monroe. But while looking at the Wisconsin-born designer‘s Spring/Summer 2013 presentation, you won’t find the media-adored, glammed-up version of Monroe.

Instead, you’ll discover the iconic bombshell as she is off the set and in her own clothes.

Photo by: Jasmin Kim

duo’s relatively eclectic artistry.

Sculptural, clean and distinctly 60’s and menswear inspired.

Throughout the lineup, Gabier and Peters tweaked menswear-inspired silhouettes with a preppy vibe and a smidge of punk. Structured blazers and boxy shortsleeve tops were styled with knee-length skirts and slim fit trousers. Pastel tones added femininity – and of course there’s that cute pink and green check pattern.

When the darker, more dramatic pieces appeared, full skirts, cropped jackets with pockets and floor-length dresses with intricate layering and ruffle detailing joined this manifest. Perfect for nighttime soirées. With a metallic finale, Creatures of the Wind secured their place as my “Most Improved Player” for Spring/Summer 2013.

Photo by: Imaxtree

2013

East Meets West [Coasts]: Charlotte Ronson Barr’s springtime lineup played with a well-balanced take on hard and soft around a vintage furnished stage.

Starring opposite the great blonde, American painter Frank Stella became the muse for the edgier, flatter, bolder — and yes, harder — side. While, on the softer side of the spectrum, the vulnerability evoked by Monroe’s private life. Throughout the images below, you’ll find this equilibrium mirrored in the light poplin, shrunken cardigans and tailored dresses, which revealed glimpses of skin showcased by leather slits and deep-V harness backs. The presentation and set looked like they could have come right from the Mad Men studios, but Barr stated the show didn’t play a role in her designs — and hasn’t even watched a single episode. Nevertheless, couldn’t you see the Mad women wearing these showstopping ’50s-flawless pieces?

The Season’s Most Improved Player: Creatures of the Wind After many seasons of hosting presentations, Shane Gabier and Chris Peters, the masterminds behind Creatures of the Wind, have taken their Spring/Summer 2012 collection to the runway. And it seems, as evident in the images below, that a sense of maturity has entered the

Charlotte Ronson was inspired by the ocean for her Spring/Summer 2013 collection. As such, the lineup was full of color and energy, featuring many fun prints with an array of soft neutrals and electrifying blues and greens.

Her signature cool-girl-withedge vibe presented itself in minidresses with cutouts, curve-hugging knit pencil skirts, sheer blouses, crop tops and slim jumpsuits.

Along with these pieces, Ronson demonstrated her ability to balance downtown edge with uptown chic, resulting in an overall polished and ladylike look. Embracing feminine versatility the max. Within Ronson’s runway lineup, we found sexy strength and flirty femininity. A stunning mix L.A. attitude with New York sensibility.

Photo by: Imaxtree

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Beading Brazil: Farah Angsana Inspired by Brazil, Farah Angsana allowed her Spring/Summer 2013 collection to transition from black and white to long chiffon gowns in an array of colors, like sky blue, green and orange, also featuring a coral and turquoise beading (which was used on two of my favorite pieces found three and four looks before the finale).

Ultimately resulting in a lineup of pieces worthy of the type of quality Angsana’s known for.

Her Latin-inspired romanticism found a bit of restriction this season, however. Even down to the final look, which didn’t seem to trump Photo by: Olivia Solomon the finale at last season‘s show. The final look choreographed crystal embroidery with braided, frayed strips of dancing multi-color ribbons on top of a sheer skirt.

The Sinister Side of Spring: Rochambeau

• Must-have Looks:

The harem pants, the printed jumpsuits and the draw-stringed wind coats.

When my invitation to Rochambeau‘s Spring/Summer 2013 presentation arrived in the mail, I was ecstatic. Ever since I review their fall/winter collection, I have been greatly anticipating what was in store for the menswear brand’s take on spring and summer. The duo behind the label, Laurence Chandler and Joshua Cooper, presented their ever-moody masterpieces at Milk Studios in New York, along with a few other menswear labels, including Public School, Antonio Azzuolo and Carlos Campos.

The season’s lineup was an instantaneous hit — at least I know it was for me. The very second I entered the room where the presentation was taking place, the models were revealed to be fully enveloped in a green light. After the initial sense of understanding how it felt to live in Emerald City, a comfortable mainstay in the line’s aesthetic kicked in and brought me back to Earth.

Dark colors, like black and dark grays, and neutral tones, like cream and silver, mingled with the occasional pop of coral or pink (after all, it is spring, isn’t it?).

The inspiration for this collection was a “sinister” approach to our typical spring/summer aesthetics, the designers explained: “Summer is usually associated with the beach and is synonymous with fun, youthful energy and bright, flashy colors. However, mythologically speaking, bodies of water have always symbolized passage to the afterlife, departed spirits, and the mysteries of death. The collection plays off of this dark flip side of the idyllic, sunny and bright beach. Spring/Summer 2013 was specifically Courtesy of Rochambeau

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inspired by an image of a beach on the southern coast of Iceland, where in place of light and soft sand, they have black beaches darkened from volcanic ash. In place of the common seaside landscape, this beach is surrounded by otherworldly and somewhat sinister looking Basalt rock formations.”

Courtesy of Rochambeau

Structured Rebellion: Public School After dealing with the stresses of the world this morning (i.e. my upstairs neighbor’s radiator bursting, adding a heavy rain to the NYFW-induced hurricane state of my studio apartment), I realized how nice it is to be in an industry where I’m completely happy and my work — like reviewing Spring/Summer 2013 collections at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week — takes my mind off of all the bad in the world. Especially when I visit presentations of talented brands like Public School, a New York-based contemporary menswear brand.

Their presentation on Sunday at Milk Studios combined edge with tailoring and structure. After all, for their spring/summer line,“structure” was their main reference of inspiration. And let’s not forget to point out their mainstay of cool undertones of rebellion dead-on to make any Lower East Side guy swoon. Altogether the line is very “prep school meets party boy” and a successful turnout for the brand’s sophomore show at NYFW. •

• Must-have Looks: The boxy, black buttonup jacket paired with super skinny jeans, the white tuxedo jacket and the leather-sleeved denim trucker jacket.

Swwooonnn.

Photo by: Brent Ramsey

3 8 1 5 t h A v e 3 r d F l o o r, N e w Yo r k , N Y 1 0 0 1 6 www.kb1111.com H Office:212.213.0601 Photographed by: Victor Cucart, Model : Genesis

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B y F e l i x Q u i n o n e z J r.

The streets of New York City are filled with culture and fashion from all over the world. In the city we call home these styles not only coexist, but they also intermix with one another. Because of this, New York exudes style while creating its own for the rest of the world to take note.

But even in a city this fashionable, there are a few special women who stand out. Here are five of our favorite leading ladies.

Anna Wintour

Occupation: Editor-in-Chief at Vogue

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ngland bred but forever a New Yorker at heart, Anna Wintour has been a headstrong trendsetter since before she were probably allowed to wear makeup. As a schoolgirl, she rebelled against the stifling dress code and, at the age of 14, she chopped off her tresses into what would eventually become her trademark bob.

When she made her move to New York in 1975, she became a junior fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar before then migrating over to publications Viva and New York. Through the years, she obtained an impressive amount of work, more notably as the creative director for American Vogue and later the Editor-in-Chief of British Vogue.

But in 1988, all of aspirations were realized when she was asked to be the Editor-in-Chief at American Vogue, where she’s been employed ever since while revolutionizing the face of fashion of a commercially and fame-driven generation.

Her personal style, immaculately cut bob, impenetrably dark sunglasses are iconic, recognized—and imitated—all over the world. Her influence has even reached the big screen. In the film adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada Meryl Streep played the ice queen Miranda Priestly, a character inspired by “Nuclear Wintour,” a nickname Wintour has acquired during her tenure as editor. In a somewhat nice representation, R.J. Cutler’s documentary The September Issue focuses on the real editorial vision and character of Wintour. Ultimately, Wintour has ascended into her place as Supreme Goddess of Fashion.

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Jen Kao

Occupation: Designer at Jen Kao

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or Jen Kao, fashion courses through her veins. Daughter of Min Kao, the co-founder of Garmin Corporation, she grew up in Kansas but moved to New York City to study at New York University and eventually Parson’s School of Design. In 2007, she presented her debut collection at Spring/ Summer New York Fashion Week.

Her eclectic style finds foundation in her art school background. Elle describes her designs as “art-inspired, intellectually approached and meticulously executed.” Since her first show, Kao began leaving her mark on the industry – and the red carpet. Some of her famous fans include M.I.A., Elettra Wiedemann and Rachel McAdams.

Pamela Love

Occupation: Jewelry Designer at Pamela Love

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rom working out of her Brooklyn basement to providing jewelry for celebrities like Lenny Kravitz and Kim Kardashian, Pamela Love has certainly come a long way.

The New York native studied at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. After graduating, she worked as a painting assistant for artist Francesco Clemente until 2010, and started designing her own jewelry in 2006.

These days she’s on her own as Pamela Love Jewelry, which is sold in notable mega-retailers like Barney’s New York and has graced the pages of various magazines, such as Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Purple Fashion. But it’s not only her jewelry that has heads turning. Her personal style might be just as eye catching as the jewelry she creates. Complex described Pamela’s style as “a mash-up between biker babe and hippie chick.”

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Jenna Lyons Occupation: Creative Director at J. Crew

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here aren’t many brands in the fashion world more recognizable than J. Crew and Jenna Lyons has been at the forefront of the company for over two decades. Lyons, a California native, moved to New York in 1987 to attend Parsons.

When Lyons began working at J. Crew in 1990, the company was small, but over the years she has shaped the retailer to represent her own style. In 2008, J. Crew introduced the “Jenna’s Picks” online and in the brand’s catalogue, which is distributed 14 times a year. Notable life experiences have included giving Oprah a tour of her closet, sharing style tips with Lucky, Glamour, Details and In Style, and covering the late Domino.

Hanneli Mustaparta Occupation: Stylist, Photographer, Fashion Blogger at Hanneli

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he term “jack of all trades” may have been coined far before this stylish woman’s birth, but there has never been a more perfect definition to the phrase than Hanneli Mustaparta. The Norway native was discovered at the age of 17 by the fashion photographer Per Heimly in 1999. Since then she has added more terms to life: Model, photographer, fashion blogger and stylist.

In 2004 she moved to New York where she lived for a year. Now she splits her time between New York and Norway. Although it was never her dream to be a model, she worked very hard and gave it her all. Mustaparta credits modeling for giving her “amazing work ethics.”

Although she’s been represented by the best agencies, including Supreme and later Ford, Mustaparta eventually became of aware of how much time modeling began to consume. To be able to start a career in something else she had to quit modeling completely, which was a smart move for the young model-turn-photographer-turn-fashion-extraordinaire. She went on to create the beautiful fashion blog Hanneli and contribute to magazines, including Vogue and Glamour. •

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• fashion model • clothing designer • accessory designer • fashion photographer • hair stylist • make-up artist

information: facebook.com/pages/My-Culture-Magazine

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Mirela Nurce, Modalistas, (Alisha styled), Lotus M designed by Michael Mui, Min-Young- Lotus M designed

by Michael Mui, All Accessories provided by Modalistas 3 2 m y C ULTURE

The Styles of NYC www.myc ul turemagaz i ne.com 3 3

The Styles of a City B y B re n t R a m s e y • P h o t o g r a p h e d b y S p e n c e r K o h n Styled by : Blair Berisha and Alisha Crutchfield

“

According to Diana Vreeland, the former editor of Vogue and one of the greatest fashion editors this world has ever seen, “You gotta have style. It helps you get up in the morning. It’s a way of life.

Without it you’re nobody. And I’m not talking about a lot of clothes.”

“

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ew York City has so much to offer. Discovering the first fallen leaves in Central Park, spotting the first springtime flowers while walking down Fifth to Washington Square Park or shopping the latest trends in Soho.

After all, New York City has been the most fashionable place to be for quite some time, and a must-visit destination for tourists around the world. The men and women who journey here to eat, explore, watch shows on Broadway, shop, live, work and express themselves.

The first time I visited New York City was shortly before the tragedy of 9/11. I was young and naïve… and I believe I was wearing at least one article of clothing from Old Navy. (Don’t judge. I might have been a husky child.)

But whatever I was wearing, or doing, or seeing as a tourist, there was one thing I remember — and it still stands out clearly in my memories to this day. It has held an obvious impression on my life, as I moved to the city years later to join the fashion industry as a writer and editor.

It was style.

According to Diana Vreeland, the former editor of Vogue and one of the greatest fashion editors this world has ever seen,“You gotta have style. It helps you get up in the morning. It’s a way of life. Without it you’re nobody.

And I’m not talking about a lot of clothes.”

Mrs. Vreeland was referring to the power of original style, and this city reeks of it like a strong perfume emitted from the petals of an orchid.

Whether you’re walking around among the suits on Wall Street or with the cool kids in Hipsterland (a.k.a.

Williamsburg), shopping with the Fifth Avenue princesses on the Upper East Side or chilling with the trendy chic in Soho. But after all of the shopping and the chillin’, we have to ask ourselves: What’s the ticket to being stylish in the city? That answer, in my opinion: It’s pursuing a style identity, and that identity will serve you wonders in this dog-eat-dog metropolis with absolutely no closet space.

Take a second to look at how the city is organized.

Separated into ultimately distinct boroughs and neighborhoods, as distinct as the people who live there and the buildings adorning every street. Imagine each resident‘s style as he or she commutes to work or strolls a park and sips a latte in the local coffee shop on a day off from work.

In this city, style is everywhere, casual or formal, trendy or behind the times. It’s as distinct as our urban boundaries and as outspoken as, well, New Yorkers.

Williamsburg, Brooklyn: the land of hipsters

Up until the end of the 20th century, Brooklyn was not the place it is today. Thanks to former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, the city has been cleaned up tremendously over the past couple decades and crime dwindled into an all-time low, making the great borough of “Crooklyn” a bit more appealing to the New Yorker looking to move out of the constant bustle of Manhattan.

Cleanliness and lower crime rate weren’t the only factors in this Brooklyn-directed manifest destiny, but a great part of the allure of this area is its style. Filled by the hundreds (or more realistically thousands) with artists, designers, performers, or whatever else you might think of, the BK quickly became not only the most affordable destination for aspiringistas (a term I use for a person aspiring to be something, no matter what the field), but it also became the one of the trendier places to live in New York City. Fear not, with all the newcomers packing up U-hauls and making the trip across the river into town, the security of the cultural mainstay of this multi-neighborhood borough is ironclad.

Yes, we’re talking about the hipster here — the renowned specimen of Williamsburg.

Hipsters are like the godchild of hippies in the ‘60s.

Carefree, artistic, socially aware. And stylish. Like their predecessors, this subculture of men and women has started an entire movement within the fashion industry. Hipsters oppose the culturally ignorant attitudes of anything deemed “mainstream.” Often, their personal style includes vintage and thrift store-inspired apparel, particularly tight-fitting jeans, old-school sneakers and thick-rimmed glasses. Not to mention the hair. Cue in messy shag cuts or asymmetric side-swept bangs.

There’s a reason the L train is supposedly the trendiest train on the grid, and the hipster is that reason.

Ultimately, what truly encompasses the hipster is his or her evocation of an effortlessly cool vibe — an urban bohemian. And it totally works.

Shop like a hipster at thrift or vintage stores, Urban Outfitters, Brooklyn Industries, American Apparel, TOMS and of course, don’t forget the plaid.

— continues on page 37

Dress- Lotus M designed

by Michael Mui, Jacket-Accessories provided

by Modalistas

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Middle- Top- Modalistas, Bottom- Mirela Nurce All Accessories provided by Modalistas

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Financial District:

the style of business

On the other side of the spectrum from the hipsters in Brooklyn, we have the suit-clad Financial District, where the financiers, stockbrokers, investment analysts and the operators of the nation’s stock market gather. Where the high-rolling men and women of Wall Street have perfected the practice of dressing business appropriate in an atmosphere jeans, t-shirts and even some dresses have no place.

During the summer, it is unfathomable how these stately yet fashionable individuals manage through the intolerable heat, but their perseverance reminds all of us the dedication it takes to maintaining personal style.“Stick to your guns.”

(Of course, it helps when you’re required to dress a certain way in order to secure employment.)

When choosing an outfit for work, no matter what the industry, ask yourself: How does my supervisor typically dress? Is this look complementary to his or her daily attire? Do I look like I could be the supervisor? Remember this: Dress like the person (or the position) you’d like to become.

Shop like a financier (or your boss) at Brooks Brothers, Hermès and Thomas Pink.

And don’t forget the professionalism.

— continues on page 39

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Accessories provided

by Modalistas

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Soho:

the trendy chic Life below 14th Street, particularly in Soho (“South of Houston”), epitomizes the lifestyle of New York City and is a prime example of downtown living while Upper East Side exemplifies uptown existence. And with this obvious change of geography and scenery, comes an alteration in the way residents dress.

Many years ago, before Soho was even the urbanite’s mecca it is today, there arrived a form a dress called Bohemian Chic, or Boho Chic for short. Although this style originated in the West Village, I’ve come to believe it’s place of residence has been transferred to somewhere around West Broadway and Broome Street, in the heart of Soho. Equal parts clean and grunge; equal parts high-end designer and emerging designer. Then add in some of

that hipster vintage flare and there it is: Trendy chic, as I am calling it.

Eventually, if you’ve seen it on the runway or on the pages of another magazine, this would be the ideal place to see it in the walking way (real life). Soho might be the epitome of downtown living, but it’s also the destination for any true shopping experience. Leave Fifth Avenue to the tourists. In short, this is style of Soho: Trendy, effortless, edgy yet classic, tailored and modern.

Shop like the trendy chic at Oliver Peoples, Opening Ceremony, Saturdays, Alexander Wang, Helmut Lang, Topshop/ Topman and All Saints Spitalfields; and don’t forget the black.

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Middle - Lotus M designed by Michael Mui Second from right - Top Modalistas Bottom- Mirela Nurce All Accessories provided by Modalistas

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All Shoes provided by Chinese Laundry All Accessories Provided by Modalistas

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Upper East Side:

the elegant classics

Uptown from the business-appropriate Financial District, the Upper East Side maintains a persona of elegance, class and, well, wealth.

The neighborhood has become the mecca for young professionals, families and people of old money and new money alike. With its quiet and safe streets, the area has collected a demographic of a wide age bracket, but there are definitely a lot of children and elderly. And dogs are everywhere. (But we won’t discuss that in this article.) This gap doesn’t alter the possibilities of this neighborhood in the least, constantly supplying an opportunity for aspiring style to mingle with its mature counterparts. This is a treasure of the UES. When walking the streets of this beautifully quaint area, it’s easy to stereotype the people living here as yuppies. Like every time in the Upper East dictates the playing of “Put on Your Sunday Clothes” from Hello, Dolly! But we all know stereotyping is bad.

However, let us stereotype for just a second: As the area has been traditionally a place of affluence, the Upper East woman is, in her essence, classic and elegant — a modern sophisticate. These ladies could be Charlotte from Sex and the City or Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Traditionally (and you should notice I’m using that word quite loosely to refer to the past standards), this area is known for wearing social class on a sleeve. The sleeve of a classic cardigan or blazer over a little black dress. (Or a maybe a shawl draped over a Carolina Herrera.)

If social class were on the sleeve, then Madison Avenue would be at the heart. The shops along Madison are internationally known and constantly fuel this area with a beating pulse of fashion. As you’re walking down, you’ll find the mainstays in retail: Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Ave. and Bloomingdales on Lexington Ave. and Barney’s on Madison Ave. These high-end opportunities allow personal style to be defined, or articulate, and refined.

Shop like an upper east sider at Chanel, Henri Bendel, Prada, Hermès, and Marc Jacobs or at practically any of those mainstays mentioned before. (Really, buy from any high-end designer with classic tailoring and you’ll be set.)

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Separately, these boroughs and neighborhoods embrace personal style. Together, they become a united statement of New York fashion. Surely this is just a sampling of what the city has to offer, but altogether they are a positive representation. From Williamsburg, Brooklyn to the Upper East Side and back down to the mysteries of life below 14th Street, the men and women of this magnificent metropolis may be entitled to a grand life in the city that never sleeps, but when it comes to style there is no such thing. Personal style is unentitled.

When contemplating on developing personal style or picking out an outfit for an occasion, remember that, according to French author, playwright and filmmaker Jean Cocteau,“Style is a simple way of saying complicated things.�

Therefore, think on this: What are you trying to say? •

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Catching Up With J u b i l e e R i o t ’s

b y B re n t R a m s e y • p h o t o g r a p h e d b y S t e p h e n P a u l

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o outfit is complete without jewelry. It would be as if walking out of the house wearing no shoes or makeup — or more precisely, pants! Accessories, like clothing, endow the wearer with certain profound institutions: An air of strength, a sense of independence or a bold indication of style intellect to a passerby.

Jubilee Riot, a new brand spearheaded by accessories and handbag designer Jewel Lee, supplies just that. Her post-modern architectural and industrial designs contain the prowess to conjure the risk taker in all of us.

I had the chance to sit down with this remarkably talented young woman one afternoon, where we discussed her design aesthetics and what inspired her to begin Jubilee Riot — and we got to play with some of her recent collection!

BR: Your pieces are stunning. What inspires you to design?

JL: Thanks for your kind words, Brent! The ideas that inspire me most when I design are post-modern architecture, city living, lucid dreams, traveling and the emotional connection that people have toward objects they love and places they admire. Through my jewelry, I am incorporating these ideas into a wearable form.

How would you describe your particular design aesthetics?

Architectural and industrial with a mischievous twist. In terms of aesthetic, I try to not take myself too seriously. I believe this is an important mindset to be in while designing. I enjoy playfully incorporating different shapes, textures and patterns.

Who would you say your customer is, and what do you think her story would be?

The Jubilee Riot individual is strong, independent, intellectual, and loves to experiment with her sense of style. She is a risk taker and enjoys being bold with her accessory choices.

What gave you the idea to launch Jubilee Riot?

I initially launched Jubilee Riot as a contemporary handbag line in 2008. I have always loved to work with leathers, textures and exotic skins. While designing the handbag line, I realized I was immediately drawn to the intricate details of creating handbag hardware. This when I decided to switch gears and focus on jewelry.

Do you remember your first design? What about your style has changed since then?

My first design was a series of stacking bangles featuring the constellation bracelet. I was in the mindset of “building” my line and I thought it would be fun to incorporate this process also into the design aesthetic. Initially, I was completely focused on working with sculpted metal in

matte metal finishes—I was obsessed! For the followup collection, I introduced a series of exotic skins and leathers textures into several of the designs. Currently for Spring/ Summer 2013, I am incorporating semi-precious stones in smoky quartz, aquamarine, and amethyst into the mix. Also, earrings will be introduced. Jubilee Riot’s styles has been an evolutionary process while still maintaining a post-modern, polished, and rebellious point-ofview. All pieces are made by hand in our atelier in New York City.

What were you doing before the launch of JR? I was formally trained as a textile and handbag designer, so prior to launching my own line I was designing textiles and various accessories behind the scenes for several private label and contemporary lines. I had the fortunate opportunity to travel overseas for product development and trend shopping. Although, it was a rewarding experience, I felt that I had to strike out on my own.

The artisan quality and independent spirit of the Jubilee Riot aesthetic was missing in the market.

Is there something you›re looking forward to in the upcoming months for JR? We will be showing the new jewelry collection in Los Angeles this October for the first time. This is exciting because I was actually born and raised in the LA area so it is bit like a homecoming and returning to my roots!

Jewel Lee wearing some of her amazing creations.

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What’s the most recent accomplishment for the brand? Any recent press coverage or retail deal you’re especially excited about?

We are working on a few new up-coming collaborations for next spring — stay tuned!

Your pieces are bold, architectural and, of course, stylish. I definitely think they’re an oncein-a-lifetime purchase (or a fate item, as I like to call them). What’s your favorite piece?

My recent favorite pieces are the Mandalay necklace inspired by ancient architecture ruins of the Aztec empire and Angkor Wat. I also love the Adonis bracelet and the “Sirus A” ring, as they are fun to stack while the styling possibilities are endless! The names of the pieces are inspired by my travels and city living.

And just a couple more questions: Who are your favorite style icons?

I admire the carefree and effortless style of French musicians such as Françoise Hardy and Serge Gainsbourg.

What about your favorite designers?

I like the work of Phoebe Philo by Celine and of course I love Karl Lagerfeld. Both designers are timeless and have a strong design aesthetic. •

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H e a lt h & F it n e s s

Beauty 411: IOMA Skincare B y T. E l i z a b e t h J a c k s o n

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ave you ever looked in the mirror and immediately felt there was room for improvement? Whether we find fine lines or puffy eyes on dry or oily skin, a solution to our skin concerns is only a department store away. IOMA skincare product line is just that solution and has been designed specifically for each individual’s skin type (since no two people are the same). Cynthia Greenberg found her solution to troubled skin with this brand. A hard working career-oriented woman who has been caring for her skin since her teens, noticed that, as we age, how dramatically our skin changes. That what we do as a teenager, or even as a late 20 year old, won’t cut it in the skincare routine of 30 year old.

We sat down with Greenberg to talk about her personal experience with using IOMA and how this product changed her outlook on skincare. (Just in time for her upcoming wedding, too.) And how IOMA deserves a place in every woman’s regimen.

T.J.: What inspired you to begin seeking facial products?

C.G.: I’ve always been very interested in different facial products. My mom was very good with my sisters and I about teaching us, starting in our teen years, to take care of our skin. I think I was a freshman in high school when I got my first eye cream! I recognized about a year ago that it was time for a new skin regimen. I’m in my late 30s and noticed what I was using in my early 30s wasn’t enough.

How did you first hear about IOMA skincare?

IOMA was a major donor at a fundraising event that I’m chair for through the New York Junior League called Bags and Bubbles. It is a handbag auction benefiting women’s cancer prevention in NYC. We have a VIP area where VIP ticket holders are treated to a number of spa services. IOMA was there and it was love at first sample!

They evaluated my skin with their skin analysis machine and I picked up a few sample products that lasted a week or so.

If you were to evaluate the high-tech machines used in the store to scan the condition your skin is in, would you say it is effective?

Very effective. It was so interesting to look at my skin from the perspective of a high tech analysis. You are able to see what is happening below the surface. I knew I had sun damage from growing up in sunny California, but what I saw on the surface was only a fraction of what was really happening. The analysis helped to align my real skin needs with products, not just what I thought I needed.

What were the results of your skin at the time?

After spending a week with the sample eye cream and face serum, my face just looked and felt better than it had with the products I had been using previously. I immediately went in and bought full size bottles. Within a month there was a noticeable continues next page... www.myc ul turemagaz i ne.com 5 1

difference in my fine lines. My skin looked fresher…. So of course I went back and got the toner and day lotion.

It’s been about six months since I’ve been using a variety of IOMA skin care products, and I couldn’t be happier. Recently, a coworker asked me what I use — and she said she noticed how fresh my skin has been looking!

That’s never happened before.

Is using IOMA skincare products easy to incorporate in your daily routine?

So easy to incorporate! My daily morning IOMA routine takes a total of two minutes: Wash face, use toner, apply serum, apply eye cream, apply lotion with sunscreen and voila – I’m done! In the evening, I swap out the day lotion for a night cream.

When did you first notice a change in your skin? Did others notice the change in appearance? What did they say?

Within a month there was a noticeable difference in my fine lines and my skin looked fresher.

What are the differences between IOMA skincare products and other beauty products you have used in the past?

IOMA isn’t heavy. It is light and smooth. It feels fresh and doesn’t make my skin feel greasy. It also doesn’t feel like makeup. There are no perfumes.

Would you recommend this product line to anyone else?

Most definitely! I’ve been raving about IOMA to all of my friends. Once they try it they are hooked as well.

Seeing any form of improvements in selfappearance can boost self-confidence, in what ways has this happened for you?

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I don’t look as tired as I did before. And trust me, it’s not like work has gotten lighter and I’m getting more sleep.

My skin looks fresher. There are less fine lines around my eyes and lips. I’m also starting to see a more even skin tone. I definitely feel it is helping me to take a couple years off my face!

Would you continue using IOMA products in the future?

Yes! When looking in the mirror now, in one word, how do you feel?

Fresh!

Check out the entire lineup at IOMAparisusa.com or shop the brand at SaksFifthAvenue.com or in any Saks Fifth location.

Prices range from $60 to $205. •

CREDITS: President & CEO Karem Belalcazar karem@kb1111.com www.kb1111.com Creative Director/Chairman Irvin Ajes irvin@kb1111.com irvin@myculturemagazine.com www.myculturemagazine.com Editor in Chief Brent Ramsey brenttaalur@gmail.com www.theaspiringfashionista.com Artistic Director Tony Iaridis design@myculturemagazine.com www.mindofid.com MODELS PROVIDED BY KB1111 Model Agency: Arin E., Alisa, Brooke, Eloho Fenton Moon: Min-Young Writers: Jessica Breen jessica.e.breen@gmail.com

T. Elizabeth Jackson tmackey07@hotmail.com Elizabeth Lilly elilly1@gmail.com Sean Morrow snmrrw@gmail.com Xhiljola Nano xhiljola.nanobaruchmail.cuny.edu Felix Quinonez fquinonezjr@gmail.com Photography: Spencer Kohn www.spencerkohn.com Steve Benisty Julio Coral julio_coral@hotmail.com Mara Cozar maracozar.com Caryn La Greca www.carynlagreca.com Imaxtree IOMA-Paris www.iomaparisusa.com Jasmine Kim Movember and Sons www.movember.com Andrew Lawrence andrewlawrencephoto@gmail.com

Stephen Paul brighteie@hotmail.com Olivia Solomon Aaron Kohn www.spencerkohn.com Caryn La Greca www.carynlagreca.com Movember and Sons movember.com Stephen Paul brighteie@hotmail.com Aaron Kohn www.spencerkohn.com IOMA-Paris www.iomaparisusa.com Production Assistants: Gregory Heald - Mejia gregory.mejia112@gmail.com Chealsea Almanzar glitterave@gmail.com

Stylists:

Tena Ramoodit Info@tEnaNewYork.com www.tEnaNewYork.com Ana Siqueira Contact@anasiqueira.com Www.anasiqueira.com A.J. Will ajwillcre8@hotmail.com www.ajwill.com Danielle Crawford dncrawford@gmail.com Location Credits *Thanks to MWilds studiog myCULTURE magazine 381 Fifth Avenue 3rd Floor New York,NY 10016 212.213.0601 www.myculturemagazine.com info@myculturemagazine.com

Blair Berisha berishablair@gmail.com Alisha Crutchfield alisha@style-wise.com Hair & Make up:

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Fa s hi o n Ti p s

Fall Fates —Tools to Help Conquer the Season B y B re n t R a m s e y

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hen it comes to shopping for fall and winter wardrobes, it becomes a challenge for any level of fashionista to escape the typical (and simpler to buy) monochromatic greys and blacks. Of course, I’m not denying anyone his or her right to purchase these secure frocks; I’ve definitely found safety in the reliability of the darker-deemed essentials. However, as seasons change, it gives us (and our wardrobes) a sense of revitalization.

This vigorous change in the winds calls for a reconstruction of sorts. It’s time to build personal style and transform currently existing collections of clothes into an essential fall wardrobe. By paying close attention to the color palette of the season and keeping an eye out for a few of these following fate items (my label for any spectacularly must-have piece), any shopper can build a season-perfect ensemble of outfits for the months ahead.

THE COLOR PALETTE Hues like blush, tangerine, oxblood and various jewel tones (deep purples, greens and blues) are perfectly on trend for the season ahead. Designers were pushing out look after look of these shades on the runways in February.

When shopping, you become the maestro to an orchestra of colors. Remember, with fall clothing it’s easy to rush back to the black, but a tangerine blouse paired with oxblood trousers makes for a more satisfying statement.

And it’s a statement we’re looking to make.

THE FATE ITEMS A Brocade Dress Versatile and exquisitely glam, a brocade dress is sure to be a mainstay in your seasonal findings. Sleeveless? Pair it over a long-sleeved tee for a look that can go from the office to the date after. Shop for it at ASOS.com.

Bejweled collars

A Peplum Softly ruffled and delicately feminine, this look transitions effortlessly from casual to elegant. Try a peplum top with sleek trousers for work, a peplum skirt with a chunky sweater and booties for a perfect fall outfit, a figureflattering sheath dress with peplum detailing for stunning curves or a peplum jacket for a topper to an array of combinations of pants, skirts, shorts, dresses… or whatever else you’d like. Shop for it at ASOS.com, Topshop or Urban Outfitters.

A High-Shine Blazer Aspire for effortless style by adding jacquard, sequined or organza blazers into your fall and winter outings.

Whether paired with leather pants or a classic pencil skirt, these beautiful, shimmering jackets will capture all of the

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spotlight at your next soiree. Shop for it at Roberto Cavalli or Zara.

A Leather Jacket If a closet were to have a king, it would most certainly be the leather jacket. Versatile, sturdy, flattering and zippered.

Runways have been graced by them for years, paired with every from leggings to gowns. But leave the boxy, unflattering jackets to the bikers. Shop for it at Gucci, Hermes, Guess, Zadig & Voltaire or DKNY. A Bright Chunky Knit Weaved from hot colors for a cozy knit, a bright chunky sweater pairs perfectly with a subtle but elegant trouser.

Remember, with all this delicious texture on top, we’ve got to keep your overall image looking tailored. Not frumpy. Shop for it at Madewell or Topshop.

A Leather A-line Skirt Add texture and freshness to your wardrobe by trying this little leather number in a caramel brown for extra crispness. Pair it with a fall-colored blouse (maybe in one of the colors mentioned earlier) for a season-friendly combo.

Shop for it at DKNY or Alice & Olivia.

A Coated Jean Take your night from casual to casually chic by adding edge with waxed or coated denim jeans. Perfectly paired with a contrasting top, such as a sheer blouse or tee. Shop for it at Rag & Bone or Topshop.

A Bejeweled Collar Intensifying the standard blouse, bejeweled collars were a huge trend from couture fashion week in the summer, and it’s here to stay. Elegant, textural and, yes, sparkly.

They are offered in many ways: If it doesn’t come along with the blouse, buy a snap-on collar or create one yourself – it’s an easy DIY project. Have fun with the trend by accessorizing your next gown with the standalone, jewelcovered collar. Shop for it at Kate Spade or JewelMint.com.

A Chelsea Boot Classic and charming, this ankle-high boot was built for more than walking. With a versatility of being paired with leggings, jeans or a skirt, it’s certainly a fate item for your fall shoe collection. Shop for it at 3.1 Phillip Lim, Michael Kors, Alexander Wang or Balenciaga.

A Winged Tote This structured tote epitomizes the latest trends in big bags and has become the latest classic in handbags.

The expandable sides might even make Mary Poppins envious. Pair it with your loose sportswear or oversize or loose fit garments. Shop for it at Fendi or Saks Fifth and Nordstrom stores. •

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It’s time to build personal style and transform currently existing collections of clothes into an essential fall wardrobe.

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• • Photos by:J ulio Cora • Photos by: Caryn La Greca 5 6 m y C ULTURE

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