LETTERS CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Inspired by the electric hues featured on the Fall/Winter 18/19 runways, I decided to make them the focal point of this issue. In contrast to past issues, where bold settings served as the backdrop of our editorial photoshoots, this issue features vibrant color as the centerpiece. The editorial, “Primarily,” calls attention to the styling and challenges conventional ideas of fall fashion. As creative director, my personal goal is to produce a cohesive body of work. I love the creativity the graphic design team achieved while staying true to the overarching theme of the issue. The editorial concept heavily influenced the entire magazine, and we were able to create a colorful, geometric theme that is carried throughout the issue. This spring, I will be taking a hiatus from POLISHED, as I study abroad at the London College of Fashion. Our incredible art director, Ashley Burke, will spend her last semester on the POLISHED staff as creative director. I am eager to see the beautiful issue she creates this spring and would not want to leave the magazine in anyone else's hands.
CONTRIBUTORS Publisher Lasell College Founder Richard Bath Creative Director Cassandra Moisan Managing Editor Kelsey Fagan Associate Managing Editor Aine Hawthorne Art Director Ashley Burke Associate Art Directors Daisy Bocanegra Taylor Smith Art Editor Margaret Brochu Editors Alexa Madeiros Hannah Amorello Skylar Diamond Lead Stylist Eunice Bruno Stylists Emma Pereira Mattias Voltmer
MANAGING EDITOR
This issue of POLISHED Magazine acts as an exploration of enterprise rooted in innovation and community outreach. Like the editorial use of bold color as an expression of forward thinking, the issue itself combines continuity and modernity. My objective was to curate a collection of features reflective of Boston’s diverse and contemporary cultural backdrop. Features like “Boston’s Style Angles” and “Building A Fashion Network” highlight the progressive nature of the Boston fashion scene and give a nod to local women pioneering the industry. “Calling All Creatives” and “Beauty in the Brushstrokes” expose the raw power of art to embolden and to heal. Pieces like these contribute to the unified voice of the magazine and elevate it as something more meaningful than an assortment of articles. With this issue, I say goodbye to my POLISHED family. I take pride in knowing that together, we pushed limits, embraced challenges, and redefined the landscape of POLISHED Magazine. While I am sad to go, I am incredibly proud of the work I am leaving behind. To close, I would like to welcome Aine Hawthorne as the next managing editor. I wish her luck, and I’m confident that she will do an amazing job.
1844 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton, MA 02466 | lasell.edu polishedfashion.com | polishedblogger.wordpress.com Polished Magazine | @bostonpolished @bostonpolished |
bostonpolished
Editorial Photographer Margaret Brochu Editorial Makeup Marissa Spagnoli Models Erik Caci - Model Club Inc Siobhan Kealohi - Model Club Inc Lillie Harrison - Model Club Inc Media Directors Grace Dubovick Karlianne Wilson Blog Editor Mattias Voltmer Blog Team Francesca Carr Mary Nightingale-Gray Faculty Advisors Lynn Blake Stephen Fischer Becky Kennedy
POLISHED Magazine is produced by the Lasell College Fashion Department with graphic design support from the Graphic Design League at Lasell College. Visit us at graphicdesignleague.com POLISHED Magazine is printed by Wing Press - beau@wingpress.com
Table of CONTENTS EDITORIAL
4
January/February 2019
Writer: Jami Pelosi Graphic Designer: Ashley Burke Illustrations by Emma Helstrom
FASHION
6 Trend Report
Writer: Kelsey Fagan Graphic Designer: Margaret Brochu
8 Building a Fashion Network Writer: Lily Westney Stevens Graphic Designer: Ashley Burke
Writer: Skylar Diamond
Graphic Designer: Taylor Smith
12 Acquiring an Aesthetic Lola’s Urban Vintage
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24 Calling All Creatives
Writer: Alexa Madeiros Graphic Designers: Victoria Capone and Anna King
Writer: Pavel Zlatin and Kelsey Fagan Graphic Designer: Abby Detrick
Retailers: Cured Collection, Madison Ave, NATHALIAJMAG, Revolve Boutiques Makeup: Marissa Spagnoli Photography: Margaret Brochu
LIFESTYLE
10 Boston’s Style Angles
Writer: Hannah Amorello Graphic Designer: Hunter Spencer
PRIMARILY
CALENDAR
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ON THE COVER
Siobhan (Left) Sweater: Our own Jacket: Revolve Boutiques Erik (Right) Jacket: Our own Top: Our own Photography: Margaret Brochu
26 A Flash from the Past Writer: Noor Lobad
Graphic Designer: Daisy Bocanegra
28 GoSpacing: Yoga Reimagined
Writer: Victoria Capone
Graphic Designer: Nicolas Brown
Beauty in the Brushstrokes
30
Writer: Gregg Casazza Graphic Designer: Nicole Solano
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of POLISHED Magazine is to promote and highlight the diverse and vibrant culture and fashion scene of Boston and the surrounding area.
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R A D N E L CA
JanuaryFebruaryJanuaryFebruary JanuaryFebruaryJanuaryFebruary JanuaryFebruaryJanuaryFebruary JanuaryFebruaryJanuaryFebruary JanuaryFebruaryJanuaryFebruary JanuaryFebruaryJanuaryFebruary
JANUARY............................
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First Night First Day
A tradition since 1975, First Night First Day is an annual two-day celebration. Attractions include ice sculptures, parades, light shows, art exhibits, and musical performances. The Copley countdown begins at midnight, followed by a firework show to bring in the new year.
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Pasta Making Great Gatsby Ball
Participants learn the art of handmaking fresh pasta from Law of Pasta founder Chef Avery at the Boston Public Market’s The KITCHEN. While perfecting their own skills, guests will sample dishes made by the renowned chef from local ingredients supplied by Boston Public Market.
Be transported back to the 1920s for a night of Gatsby-inspired dancing and fun at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. Enjoy live music from the Wolverine Jazz Band and performances by professional dancers. Indulge in hors d’oeuvres and drinks, and party like Jay Gatsby himself.
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Beautiful: The Carole King Musical The Tony and Grammy Award-winning show “Beautiful,” an inspiring story about young Carole King and her journey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is coming to the Boston Opera House. While “Beautiful” reveals the tenacity of the female spirit, it is not just for women. The narrative is uniformly empowering, and the music is sure to have audience members dancing in their seats.
........................ FEBRUARY
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North End Pizza Tour
The North End is one of the best dining hotspots that Boston has to offer. Meet with a local guide and tour the historic neighborhood, one pizzeria at a time. Explore Little Italy, Beacon Hill, the Blackstone Block, and more. Indulge in various samples of authentic Italian cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture.
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Your Terrible Ex
Illustrations by Emma Helstrom
“Your Terrible Ex,” by Naffy Improv exposes the hilarious truths behind failed relationships. Boston’s top improvisors use stories from audience members to craft scenarios that will have attendees howling at their own cringeworthy experiences. This is a reoccurring show that debuts on the first Thursday of every month at the Somerville Media Center.
Glass Fridays
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All are invited to gain introductory exposure to the artistry behind glassblowing. Glass Fridays, offered by Diablo Glass School in Boston, encourages participants to release creative energy and to embrace new forms of expression. Each class concludes with wine and conversation and is the perfect end to a long week. Classes are held on the last Friday of every month.
Jami Pelosi
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trends Clothing courtesy of AllSaints and Revolve Boutiques Photography by Christopher Bretti and Corinne Ciraldo Models: Sam Betti, Kathy Burke, Matthew Searth, and Mattias Voltmer
Fashion
T
he A/W 18/19 fashion forecast revolves around fluid expressions of gender-related style. Women’s silhouettes involve structured angles, oversized proportions, and loose fits. The men’s trend direction gains embellishment by progressing toward expressive layering and playful use of pattern. Plaid designs and animal-inspired prints are reimagined in the context of contemporary separates and accessories, inspiring an air of frivolity and welcoming personalized interpretation.
Kelsey Fagan
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OOTD B O S T O N
BUILDING A FASHION NETWORK
O
OTD Boston is a newly established fashion blog inspiring viewers and satisfying their appetite for original ensembles. Utilizing Instagram as a platform for content sharing and community building, the blog aggregates user-generated content featuring outfits that communicate creativity, uniqueness, and an understanding of current trends. Local Instagram users and fashion enthusiasts post pictures of their daily outfits and hashtag “ootdbostonian” for a chance to be featured. The team scans this content and hand-selects key images to share, curating a consistent yet varied feed. Founder Gabriella Glady Sanda built the network to showcase local style and diversity. “All photos are viewer submitted. We created our own hashtag and there are already more than 5,000 posts on Instagram with it. The Boston market responds very positively towards OOTD Boston…It’s a platform for Boston bloggers where you can share your own style with emphasis on different cultures… Boston is very diverse. International students bring their culture, the way they dress, and it’s a platform where they can connect with each other and share their unique styles,” said Sanda.
Sanda works alongside cofounder Raissa Anasthasia Talehata and journalist Irene Ireeuw. The team has expanded the reach of OOTD Boston since its inception in December 2017, attributing a large portion of the blog’s success to consistency and post frequency. “I have to post with the right timing, and I learned how to read data in order to get information,” said Sanda.
"YOU HAVE TO HAVE YOUR OWN STYLE AND KNOW WHAT LOOKS GOOD ON YOU. THIS IS HOW YOU INFLUENCE. FASHION BLOGGING IS ALL ABOUT INFLUENCING OTHER PEOPLE."
Originally from Indonesia, Sanda moved to Boston a few years ago with the purpose of obtaining her master’s degree. Her educational background in business and finance equipped her with the skills to target an audience, successfully market through social media, and connect with others in the industry. “You have to target a very niche market, especially with the Boston fashion industry. I was trying to reach out to local designers, local brands, and bloggers because at first, I didn’t know anyone…These days, it’s not about door-to-door sales; it’s about how you strategize yourself and put your brand in front of the right person,” said Sanda.
Still in its exploratory phase, the blog has garnered an overwhelmingly positive response from the greater Boston area. Sanda and Talehata discovered a remarkably effective tactic for gaining recognition: boosting follower engagement through events and competitions. The OOTD Boston team first challenged their followers to incorporate the color red into their outfit of the day. Another competition, titled the Mannequin Challenge, asked teams of two to dress a mannequin with pieces from their own closet and pair the image with a background story. These quirky contests inspire participation and provide followers with a sense of community. While digital sharing is at the forefront of the OOTD Boston operation, special events allow its followers to connect beyond the screens of their devices.
“Every time I go to an event I get to place a lot of names to faces. After doing an event, I love to hear people ask when we are going to do another and show interest in collaboration. It’s very exciting to get good responses from the public,” said Sanda. While these events act as networking opportunities, they are often elevated by collaborative, philanthropic initiatives. For its You Do You event, OOTD Boston partnered with Ten Thousand Villages, a nonprofit
organization marketing fair-trade products fashioned by underprivileged artisans from different parts of the globe. The event brought local bloggers, fashion lovers, and photographers together for idea sharing and an interactive photo session. OOTD Boston also partnered with Dress for Success Boston to style disadvantaged women seeking employment. “I like to collaborate with organizations that involve empowering women and raising awareness because we don’t want to do an event for nothing. We want to tell a story. That’s how we market. You have to tell a story and answer the question, what are we going to achieve from this event?” said Sanda. Commitment, consistency, and collaboration have been the keys to OOTD Boston’s success. For bloggers looking to build their own following, Sanda recommends creating content that is authentic and unique. “Be creative and be confident in yourself. Being a blogger isn’t about copying someone else’s style. You have to have your own style and know what looks good on you. This is how you influence. Fashion blogging is all about influencing other people. Don’t copy others because you’ll push yourself to become someone you’re not. It’s easiest to just be yourself,” said Sanda. Sanda and her team at OOTD Boston are working hard to lay the foundation for a lasting business. Utilizing the power of collaboration and strategic planning, they are coming up with ways to expand their network and to bring their online presence to life. @ootdbostonian; www.ootdbostonian.wixsite.com
Lily Westney Stevens
Photos by Margaret Brochu
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BOSTON’S STYLE ANGLES WITH PATRICE VINCI P
atrice Vinci Salon is a local hair and beauty hotspot owned and operated by stylist and colorist Patrice Vinci. The salon, located on Newbury Street, is housed in an all-white, skylit penthouse. The contemporary, airy aesthetic is a direct representation of Vinci’s aim to cultivate an experience for her clientele that is professional and inviting, but not pretentious. She has nurtured an atmosphere where customers feel accommodated and comfortable.
Early exposure to the industry inspired Vinci to move throughout the Boston salon scene as a stylist for Dellaria Salon, EcoCentrix— now known as Salon Marc Harris— and Avanti Salon. Ultimately, Vinci transitioned into New York City and Los Angeles-based freelancing opportunities in the entertainment industry. Fueled by the desire to grow her personal enterprise by building on connections in and outside of Boston, she then transitioned from stylist to business owner.
The salon, which opened its doors in 2008, has garnered an impressive reputation as a source for trend-forward, quality service. With ten years under her belt, Vinci has been recognized, along with her salon, in publications including Elle, Allure, and Boston Magazine. The success of Vinci’s enterprise is rooted in family influence, years of diverse experience, and a genuine appreciation for the artistry of hair styling.
“I worked for NBC and on a bunch of movies. That’s where my background is. I needed the freedom to do that kind of work. Then, I got to a point where I knew I wanted to own a business, so I had to decide between here and Los Angeles. At the time, I was spending a lot more time in Los Angeles and I liked it, but when I opened the business, I wanted to open it here in Boston because it’s my hometown,” said Vinci.
“When I was young, I spent a lot of time in hair salons because my family had salons. Obviously, I didn’t do hair because I was too young, but I spent a lot of time sweeping the floors and answering the telephone. I loved being in a hair salon. I love the community…When I started to work in the city, I really started to feel the artistry of it,” said Vinci.
Since its inception, the operation has grown to include a talented team of experts and an array of concentrated services. Her established lineup of 30 beauty professionals, who continue to be her biggest supporters, contributes an array of specialties to the salon’s repertoire.
“I’ve trained my staff on my version of balayage, because there are many different versions. We do a very natural, supermodel-y balayage; we specialize in that. There’s a girl in my store, Keisha Galloway, that’s unbelievable with hair extensions….We have Frank Xavier, who’s the most famous hairdresser in Boston…We do a lot of finish work, we do a lot of haircuts, and we do a lot of red-carpet styling. We have Nestor Cruz, who’s an incredible makeup artist, and of course we do Brazilian blowouts, and all the other standard things. I would say that coloring, cutting, and styling are our main services,” said Vinci. While their service assortment is extensive, Patrice Vinci team members are united by a common goal. Together, they work to make each client feel empowered, confident, and cared for. “We try to make people be the best versions of themselves, and I know that’s been used, but it’s really the truth. It’s definitely a warm environment and a friendly environment. When we work on people, we want them to look great, and we want to educate them on what looks good on them,” said Vinci. Educating her clientele is important to Vinci, but she also takes pride in maintaining her own industry knowledge. “I still work for NBC in New York. I do three big press events for them a year… working for NBC; I go to New York all the time. That keeps me in the game. We’re fortunate enough when we go down there that there’s top hair and makeup people working on other talent, so we’re able to see all the red-carpet looks on all these top people…We do a lot of regional and national training…I follow everything online, all the fashion magazines. That’s what keeps me relevant and keeps me in the game, putting myself where things are happening,” said Vinci. With her extensive background and bicoastal experience, Vinci applies a uniquely dynamic perspective to the Boston style scene. She feels Boston represents a commingling of the trendy styles of Los Angeles and the fashion-forward styles of New York City. “LA is a lot of fashion colors: a lot of pinks, a lot of block colors, bigger panels. The blondes in California are very, very blonde, while the East Coast is more of a gentler approach to blonde; it’s a more natural blonde. Both are equally beautiful, just different looks…In LA, the hair is trendy; In New York, the hair is more natural, and it’s more fashion. That’s the difference. I think in Boston I see both… I have to say, and again being a native person here, the fashion scene here, even in the last five to ten years, has grown so much,” said Vinci. Vinci has married dedication to her craft with an entrepreneurial spirit. Her passion has catapulted her salon, a five-time Best of Boston recipient, to the forefront of the local industry. Patrice Vinci Salon is a reflection of how maintaining a positive atmosphere and a strong network can elevate a business to the next level. @patricevincisalon; www.patricevinci.com Photos by Julia Dinoia and Lauren Hughes
Alexa Madeiros
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ACQUIRING AN AESTHETIC with Nicole Otchy
F
inding individual style can take years of careful cultivation and self-reflection. As one grows, internal shifts and realizations inspire external metamorphosis. As identity evolves, so does one’s wardrobe. Boston-based personal stylist and branding expert Nicole Otchy has built a career off understanding this relationship between self and style. Otchy did not begin her career in fashion. After attending college in New Hampshire, majoring in public relations, and receiving a master’s degree in philosophy, Otchy moved on to jobs in various spheres: public relations, business, and academia. Otchy’s experience with career transitions helped her realize that an individual’s strengths are both valuable and transferable. “I think it’s easy for people to think, you’re going to change careers and be a new person, but you’re the only common denominator in your life. I wish I realized that when I changed industries...Whatever makes you thrive in one environment will make you thrive in another, and you can always figure something out,” said Otchy. Otchy’s experiences in different professional settings not only made her adaptable but also inspired her current endeavor.
“I realized that there’s a lot of moments of vulnerability before someone’s about to step into something big. I’m meeting someone as a stylist and entering their home, or getting on a call with them and asking, ‘How can I help you?’ and they share what’s going on…It’s typically something in their life that acts as the catalyst for them to start thinking of themselves in a different way,” said Otchy. A woman’s closet can house her most personal belongings. Allowing a third party to enter this domain can be intimidating. While she recognizes that clients may initially feel guarded, Otchy also understands that it often takes a second pair of eyes to find the perfect look.
“People need to give themselves permission to play. No one is judging you as badly as you’re judging yourself."
“The reason I’m a stylist is that I worked alongside all these women in academia and finance that would shrink from opportunities when they had to be in the spotlight – often because they didn’t feel good in their bodies, and they didn’t have clothes that made them feel awesome,” said Otchy. Since she gained this insight, Otchy has dedicated her time to helping women curate wardrobes that represent their identity and exude self-confidence. Having developed a keen ability to identify with her clients, Otchy embarks on a personalized path with each customer. She recognizes the intimate relationship she shares with her clientele and the role she plays in fostering change.
“People wonder, why should I have to reach out to someone else to figure out my personal style if it’s personal? And it’s because you can only see so much of yourself. We all have blind spots,” said Otchy. Focusing on detail is what makes Otchy’s services so personal and provides her clients with a sense of comfort. Her unwavering attention to each and every factor allows her to produce styling that is thoughtful and intentional.
“My clients will be like, ‘You think of things so intricately,’ when I’m styling them for something. I’m always looking for context, like who is going to be there, do you feel good about them, or do you like these people? My clients will say, ‘It’s just an outfit,’ but then I tell them that it is actually related to what they’re wearing,” said Otchy. Otchy recognizes that fashion is personal and that most women need assistance cultivating a style that represents the best version of themselves. Her personal styling business offers a variety of packages to steer women in the right direction. The general process includes a closet walkthrough, the creation of a wish list, shopping, and a styling session.
“We always start with the closet. I’ll ask, ‘What do you like and what don’t you like?’ That is because a client’s willingness to look inward is really indicated in their willingness to take a look in their own closets, even when they’re overwhelming,” said Otchy. Given the way people shop these days, especially with fast fashion, most have closets that are cluttered with things that still have price tags or have only been worn once. The closet walkthrough allows Otchy to take in her clients’ personal preferences and work from there. She understands the hidden language that fashion communicates with the world and uses that to her advantage. Otchy asks her clients to look for inspiration that will help them on their style journey by creating a dream wish list of items, sans budget. This step helps Otchy get a sense of who her clients are and what they are looking for. The wish list goes on to act as a guiding tool for the subsequent shopping trip and styling session. “The shopping trip, or several shopping trips depending on time and budget, is next, and then a styling session. The styling session might be the most important part because if they can’t integrate what they have now with what they bought with me, it sometimes might not feel like them,” said Otchy. Otchy’s goal is not to flip her clients’ world upside down but to help them navigate their own style. She encourages her clients to play around with fashion and to try new things. “People need to give themselves permission to play. No one is judging you as badly as you’re judging yourself. Yeah, you will change, thank God,” said Otchy. Above all, Otchy emphasizes the near-tangible relationship between individualized style and self-confidence. She strives to remind people that they are who they are and that is something to be proud of. Taking risks and crafting a personal brand through fashion can help communicate that to the world. @nicoleotchy; www.nicoleotchy.com
Hannah Amorello
Photos by Margaret Brochu
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Lola’s Urban Vintage:
ANTIQUATED EXPRESSIONS
F
ounded by Nicoletta Lyons in 2000, Lola’s Urban Vintage is an eclectic Boston-based boutique specializing in vintage-inspired and handmade fashions. Lyons, a designer, stylist, and entrepreneur, built her career off artistic inclination and a technical background. Through schooling and hands-on development of her craft, she forged her way in the fashion industry. “I majored in theatre arts at UMass Boston with a desire to act and design. I was quickly noticed for my creative eye and design aesthetic. I costumed "Macbeth" as my first show and never turned back. I became a costume designer, then took some classes in metalsmith at the Museum School in Boston. Since I was designing a lot of jewelry after that, I went and took my costume designing to another place and went to New York’s FIT for styling,” said Lyons. Years of diverse experience and training opened the doors for Lyons to pioneer her own operation. The enterprise is a reflection of her lifelong passion and youthful ambition. Ties to her past are so important to her that she drew inspiration for the name of her business from her upbringing. “Lola was my childhood nickname. This business represents my childhood dreams and my adult reality,” said Lyons. This near-tangible relationship between past and present is a core theme tying together Lyons’ brand and her aesthetic. The inventory is an assortment of antiquated, contemporary, and original pieces. Each item is personally curated or created by Lyons herself. “Lola’s is a mindset where you can reveal your identity through the shadow of the past and the lens of the future…The store is a mix of vintage, new, and handmade. I curate everything and make about 50 percent,” said Lyons. Lola’s Urban Vintage stands out from other local retailers by cultivating a unique lifestyle-oriented experience and by challenging conventional trend patterns. Lyons is dedicated to providing shoppers with a local oasis for creativity and self-expression. “Boston is a conservative city, so I push that away, especially with my business. My pieces are one of a kind and bold…I just want Lola’s to be the place to go if you want something that makes you stand out from the crowd…It’s an experience store; we give you a feeling as well as something tangible,” said Lyons. Dedication to providing customers with unique options is of the utmost importance. According to Lyons, Lola’s Urban Vintage not only provides her with a fulfilling design outlet but also helps her express her artistic aptitudes. “Lola’s also serves as a platform for my styling business. I provide styling services for music videos and editorial photography,” said Lyons.
Photos coutesy of Feda Eid
Lyons’ ability to marry her one-of-a-kind designs with her passion for styling gives her a competitive edge in the industry. As she gradually breaks into the entertainment sector, Lyons hopes to capitalize on this opportunity for growth. “Right now, I’ve been providing pieces to Erykah Badu, so I’d like to develop that and maybe get some more people who I respect in the industry to wear my designs. I’ve also been providing wardrobe and styling music videos a lot more lately, which has been a great expansion,” said Lyons.
While Lola’s Urban Vintage has proved to be successful for eighteen years and continues to grow, it hasn’t always been easy to maintain. As a born creative turned self-taught entrepreneur, Lyons has had to find a balance between artistic intuition and strategic planning. “I kind of taught myself to do absolutely everything, so running the business financially was the hardest part. Because I grew up as an artist, business sense was never my top priority, but obviously, running my own business has taught me the importance of the other side,” said Lyons. The success of Lola’s Urban Vintage is a testament to Lyons’ authentic approach. She is devoted to cultivating both an experience and an assortment rooted in vintage reminiscence and modern flair. Her passion for her craft and dedication to her aesthetic propel her brand to a onestop shop for all things out of the box. @lolasurbanvintage; www.lolasurbanvintage.net
Pavel Zlatin
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Model: Lillie Sweater: Madison Ave
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Model: Siobhan Beret: Our own Shirt Dress: NATHALIAJMAG Skirt: Our own Boots: Model’s own
Model: Erik Sweater: Revolve Boutiques Turtleneck: Our own Jeans: Revolve Boutiques Socks: Model’s own Sneakers: Model's own
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Model: Lillie Sweater: Madison Ave Trousers: Madison Ave Fanny Pack: Revolve Boutiques Scarf: Emilio Pucci via Madison Ave
Model: Siobhan Turtleneck: NATHALIAJMAG Pants: Our own Coat: NATHALIAJMAG Shoes: Christian Louboutin via Madison Ave
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Model: Siobhan Sweater: Our own Jacket: Revolve Boutiques Skirt: Our own Shoes: Christian Louboutin via Madison Ave Scarf: Our own
Model: Lillie Visor: Our own Sweatshirt: Cured Collection Skirt: Revolve Boutiques Sneakers: Our own
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CALLING ALL T
he notion of the “1 percent” comes with connotations of being unattainable or too challenging to reach. Patrick and Don Kimble, founders of 1 Percent Gallery, decided to transform 1 percent status into something more inclusive. The two brothers merged their expertise to develop an online platform that dismantles conventional perceptions of art. Founded in 2012, the gallery acts as a representation of their combined passions. “My brother was a fine arts minor at Providence College, so he always had an arts background, and I was a business guy from Bentley. We said, ‘You know what? Maybe we start this concept of a gallery, because we know the barriers of entry to just essentially get creatives featured.’ It’s very tough to just get into a gallery on Newbury Street, so we said, ‘Let’s find a way to tip that on its head and break down the perception of what fine art is,’” said co-founder Patrick Kimble. As part of its all-inclusive, unconventional approach, 1 Percent Gallery features a variety of different contemporary works. While it accepts traditional pieces like paintings, sculptures, and photographs, the gallery also dives into music, spoken word, and other outlets fueled by creative energy. “We try to find that perfect balance where anyone who may not be very much into the art world or doesn’t know much about art can come and feel comfortable and also start to immerse themselves and learn. We try to find a happy medium with what we show every time. We always try to think outside of the box, and think about what would be cool to experience if you were to come in for your first time,” said Don Kimble.
While the duo is dedicated to showcasing diverse content, the brothers are also invested in cementing relationships with local talent. Attuned to the limited associations with the term artist, the brothers invented their own label: Creatives. “The term artist is great; it’s classic, but people operate under so many different mediums. The term Creatives was a bit better fitting, so that’s how we like to approach things. Some people will box themselves out from even reaching out to us if they don’t consider themselves an artist, but they will say, ‘I am creative,’” said Patrick Kimble. While functioning primarily within the digital landscape, 1 Percent Gallery also converts physical spaces in the Boston area. Their mantra—redefining undefined space—propels them to showcase art in unexpected contexts. Showings behave in a pop-up fashion, switching frequently and allowing for fluidity of content. Whether held in a sneaker store or in a loft-style setting, 1 Percent Gallery showings reimagine the presentation of art. “To add an additional twist, because you have to experience art firsthand, we said, ‘We’re going to do pop-ups throughout the city, and we’re going to go activate spaces that aren’t normally activated with artwork’... From exclusive sneaker shops like Bodega or Concepts, to young artists like Rashad Nelson or Not Your Muse, we really get people involved in the fabric of the creative scene in Boston,” said Patrick Kimble.
lifestyle
In the gallery’s most recent showing, featured Creatives included Don Kimble, Not Your Muse, Rashad Nelson, Dirt Lux, Ian Lantz, Steve Dicecco, and Kevin Angulo. Each contributed diverse works and helped to elevate the experience for visitors. While empowered by the success of recent showings, the brothers continue to pursue improvement. “The challenge is trying to do better than the next. Every time we challenge ourselves to do better. So when you have a successful show and another successful show— whether that be dollars, people who came in, or the overall vibe of it all, you’re always challenging yourself in every area to do better,” said Don Kimble. 1 Percent Gallery isn’t limiting its mission to the confines of Boston. With out-of-state collaborations, and relationships in Toronto, the brothers hope to expand their reach and to build on opportunities for future growth. “The plan is to continue moving around from city to city, because that’s how you capture the wide scope of Creatives, artists, viewers, buyers, and other folks that are interested in the art world,” said Don Kimble.
community and cultivate unique, immersive experiences. The brothers plan to build on their momentum and to elevate their operation to an international common ground for budding talent. “We’re here to stay. We want to continue to grow this thing, and we want to essentially be the hub for Creatives at a certain level throughout the world; we want 1 Percent Gallery to be that home,” said Patrick Kimble. Patrick and Don Kimble exemplify the power of innovative thinking and collaborative effort. Their gallery transcends physical barriers and utilizes technology to promote inclusion and community. Through this unique initiative, it is clear that all creative energy can be fruitful. @1percentgallery; www.1percentgallery.com
Skylar Diamond
Photos courtesy of Patrick Kimble
1 Percent Gallery is here for those who want to push themselves artistically and expand their understanding of contemporary art. This boundless approach helps them reach into the core of the local art
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rt, science, and passion. According to Matthew Rowe, founder of online vintage camera shop Forward Cameras, these are the basic elements of film photography. In 2016, through Rowe’s lifelong love and appreciation for antiques and film photography, Forward Cameras was born. Today, the company specializes in selling vintage cameras and antique photographic equipment to customers all over the United States. On the Forward Cameras website, visitors can find a wide variety of historic cameras as well as photography handbooks, camera straps, and more. Forward Cameras strives to cater to the needs of photographers of all skill levels, whether they be experienced professionals or beginners looking to pick up a new hobby.
Rowe recognizes his father, a fellow photographer, as a huge inspiration for him in his line of work. Rowe finds that his love for film photography— a love that he hopes to share with his own children someday— provides him with a connection to his father. “I found my father’s camera and started taking film photos once I was older, after I graduated college, and I just fell in love with the process. It just felt like it ran in the family. It was something very natural to me,” said Rowe. As is the case with most startup businesses, the company’s growth was not immediate. Nevertheless, Rowe largely attributes to social media his ultimate success in finding a market for his cameras.
Having studied optics and laser research as an undergraduate student at Carnegie Mellon University, Rowe developed an interest in the science behind light and lenses. This curiosity, combined with his love for antiques and all things mechanical, launched Rowe into the world of film photography.
“In the 21st century, when you don’t have any form of social media, it’s almost impossible to spread the word. Social media allows you to get live feedback from your customers and really improve your business based on that,” said Rowe.
“I like seeing the process from the very beginning, from when you’re actually learning about aperture and shutter speed, all the way through to the printing stage…In terms of the mechanics, I love taking apart cameras. I love understanding how the shutters work, how the apertures work, the combination of science, and the fact that my dad was really interested in photography,” said Rowe.
Forward Cameras has active Instagram and Twitter pages that allow Rowe to interact with customers and send announcements as quickly as possible. The brand also has a YouTube channel that provides tutorials on the care and use of specific models. These tutorials demonstrate that Rowe’s mission isn’t merely to sell camera equipment, but to truly encourage a passion for film photography.
For Rowe, acquiring the cameras he is going to sell is the fun part. He has traveled from coast to coast, hopping from one estate sale to another to grow his collection. Over the years, he has established contacts all over the country who inform him of any cameras that can be added to the store, keeping Forward Cameras’ stock fresh and varied. “I really love the excitement of getting a camera that I’ve never seen before and using it because, for me, using a camera that hasn’t been used for 70 years and then taking a photo right now is a really magical experience… Who knows what sort of stories cameras have told in the past? For me, to be the next person after 50 to 60 years to press the shutter and capture one of my life moments is amazing,” said Rowe. Many of the cameras Rowe picks up are not in pristine or even functioning condition. Repairing the cameras and understanding how to get them fully operating again is a challenge. But, for a lover of mechanics like Rowe, the process is rewarding. “It’s not like we’re back in the 1960s where there might be a repair person you could talk to. You kind of have to play around with it yourself and tinker with it until you figure out what part works where, so it’s a bit of reverse engineering at
“You can’t let setbacks get in your way if you really love what you’re doing.”
times…Not every camera ends up working, but it’s a great feeling of success if you can get something working that was completely dead at one point,” said Rowe. Rowe’s triumph in turning raw passion into fruitful enterprise is an impressive feat. While he has experienced success, his current position is the result of hard work and perseverance. “You need to be consistent and you need to persist. You can’t let setbacks get in your way if you really love what you’re doing. No matter what, always try your hardest. Sometimes things don’t necessarily end up the way you want them to, but as long as you try hard, that’s all that really matters, and that will take you far,” said Rowe.
Photos courtesy of Forward Cameras
The recent growth of Forward Cameras is a testament to Rowe’s spirited approach. While the brand operates primarily as an online retailer, plans to extend into the brick-and-mortar environment are not off the table. For now, Rowe is focused on building his brand and sharing his passion of merging the past with the present. @forwardcameras; forwardcameras.com
Noor Lobad 27
goSpacing: YOGA REIMAGINED
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n response to the ever-growing importance of both sustainability and self-care, one man is blending the two together and shaking up the traditional yoga studio model. GoSpacing, founded by Harrison Bramhall, is making yoga more accessible and customizable. Through partnerships with local sustainable retailers, GoSpacing takes over shop spaces after hours and converts them into functioning studio spaces. “I saw a massive inefficiency in the yoga studio model. Yoga studios were spending a lot of money on rent and only really filling classes during a couple of short periods throughout the day, either before work starts or after work ends. It doesn’t make sense to own a yoga studio if I can find other spaces that will work with me,” said Bramhall. These retail partnerships are chosen carefully. Working to unite each store’s aesthetic and brand with those of his own operation, Bramhall cultivates client relationships and communities that rest on similar values. GoSpacing promotes the selected business’s mission statement so that clients can choose locations they connect with and believe in. “Every retail store is creating a brand. Any time someone is creating a brand, they have a vision of a community they want to service. I tried to meticulously connect these classes with the retail stores so that you’re truly building communities of like kinds,” said Bramhall. Bramhall was drawn to yoga after graduating from college and facing the daily stressors of the professional world. Through his practice, Bramhall discovered a contemporary sense of mindfulness that he promotes in his classes.
“I think one of the biggest benefits I’ve experienced from yoga is coming to the awareness that today is going to feel a lot different than yesterday, and you cannot compare them; you can’t build expectation around them. Even this minute can be completely different than the last minute,” said Bramhall. Taking this concept of ever-changing states of mind and body, Bramhall found an opportunity to create a yoga brand that allows for customization. “Something that’s really great about the type of work that I am hoping to do is that every one of these spaces is different…The idea is that this platform will eventually allow you to be able to pick and choose,” said Bramhall. Along with the inefficiency of operating an immobile studio, Bramhall found that yoga practice has become extremely costly, with drop-in rates of around 30 dollars. By working with small businesses, GoSpacing is able to reduce the cost of each class by over 50 percent. “Yoga should be affordable, and it’s not right now. It’s great to have a leader and have somebody guide you through practice, but it’s something that you just have to roll out your mat to do. My platform facilitates more affordability and accessibility. I think it just matches the simplicity of the practice in general,” said Bramhall. The philosophies of GoSpacing are rooted in Bramhall’s personal values. Rather than attempting to maximize the number of classes held in a day or the attendance, GoSpacing focuses on the community it is building. The host retailer works with Bramhall to curate a special experience that
bonds class members with the business they are practicing in. “What I’m seeing with a lot of hosts is that they want to meet the people; they want to build the community, so they’ll offer things like wine or cheese and crackers at the events afterwards to just help people feel comfortable and relaxed,” said Bramhall. Periodically, GoSpacing offers a special type of class known as Yoga Art Sound. In these unique sessions, live music and artwork are incorporated to further ground participants. These added sensory elements help clients remain present, ultimately fulfilling one of the basic objectives of yoga. “Yoga is a practice for training your mind and your body to be in the present moment as much as possible, and by integrating these different senses, our goal was to create what we’re calling a multisensory experience,” said Bramhall. Bramhall’s involvement in both corporate and small business settings has influenced his management style. He admires the organizational structure and company culture from his corporate experience, as well as the flexibility that a small business can offer. Combining both, he is able to pioneer GoSpacing as an agile and strategic operation. Though Bramhall’s company is fairly new, GoSpacing is challenging the local industry. Bramhall dreams of making yoga accessible to everyone by providing a variety of class options, locations, and reasonable price points. The fresh approach reinvents the traditional yoga model and elevates client experiences. @gospacing; www.gospacing.com
Victoria Capone
Photos by Sarah Lano
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eauty
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ommon Art, a program offered by Common Cathedral, gives an opportunity for artistic expression to members of the unhoused community. What started as something very simple— a few markers, crayons, and coloring pages— has grown into a proactive advocacy program. This philanthropic initiative, which offers guests an array of artistic mediums, fosters confidence through creative expression. Since its inception in 1999, the goal of Common Art has remained the same. This program acts as a means for uniting the community by providing both resources and opportunities for the disadvantaged to engage in artistic outlets. Common Art, which meets every Wednesday at Emmanuel Episcopal Church on Newbury Street, recognizes the benefits of the creative process and promotes the belief that everybody should be able to participate. For some, Common Art presents an opportunity to try art for the first time. For others, it is a way to continue artistic careers that were put on hold due to homelessness. Heidi Lee, the artistic director of Common Art, emphasizes the capacity of the program to empower participants. “Common Art is a community, not so much just a program. The members take ownership of it,” said Lee. Lee, a former high school art teacher of 12 years, found her place in Common Art after the birth of her son left her with serious postpartum depression. Common Art welcomed her, as it welcomes everyone in search of a place to fit in. Inspired by this level of acceptance and inclusivity, she joined the team and now works to facilitate healing through art. Regarded as a safe place by those who live their lives on the streets of Boston, Common Art helps guests momentarily forget their homeless circumstance and integrate into an accepting network of artists. Members return to the program to be alongside those they trust, and to apply their energy toward something productive and creative. “You can find a lot of healing from the process. You can release anxiety or process things that you can’t process in words. You can have artwork that is healing but you can make it, well technically, so that they are happy when they sit down with their own piece,” said Lee. Members of Common Art have the opportunity to sell their work and to showcase their own artistic merit at monthly art shows throughout the year. These shows are held at local churches as well as at the Prudential Center in Boston. Not all artists think of themselves as creative professionals, but Lee and the other staff members at Common Art believe that everyone can benefit from the opportunities the organization offers.
“If you decide you want me to bring you a canvas, and you want to paint the canvas purple, even though it isn’t a masterpiece, even though it’s not the Mona Lisa, it’s creative. You made something from nothing. You don’t need to make something that people like or want to buy,” said Lee. According to Lee, the greater part of the Common Art population comes from traumatic backgrounds and includes members with histories of PTSD, schizophrenia, or multiple personality disorder, oftentimes in a dual diagnosis with substance abuse. “We are a dysfunctional family, but I believe that anything that is beautiful has a brokenness,” said Lee. People are invited to come as they are, to express themselves, and to share their personal creations with the world. Part of the core ethos of Common Art, as well as Common Cathedral, is a notion of service that does not discriminate. “My friend has pretty severe multiple personality disorder, and one of the things I love is that Common Art still serves her. She has outbursts and has her bad days. Her condition really impacts how she interacts, but she makes the most beautiful art. Common Art is not just for the put-togethers. We are for everyone. You don’t have to earn love here, and that is something that is really beautiful about our program,” said Lee. Common Art tends to the emotional, spiritual, and physical needs of its members in its programming. Reverends and volunteers listen to and interact with members, hearing their stories and making them feel loved and important. At a recent paint-night fundraiser, one of the members of Common Art gave a speech about the impact of the program. The guest relayed a story about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. This psychological theory is represented by a pyramid with the base being fundamental necessities such as clothing, shelter, and nourishment. Subsequent levels in the pyramid bring in the needs for belonging and for self-realization. For this member, Common Art did not just address base needs but also fulfilled the need to feel loved, to belong, and to connect. “That’s what family is— we process together, we cry, we walk through this journey together,” said Lee. Common Art is a close-knit community where healing is facilitated by wonderful workers and volunteers like Lee, who see the members of Common Art as companions deserving of love and acceptance. @commonartboston; www.commoncathedral.org
Gregg Casazza
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Siobhan (Left) Beret: Our own Blazer: Vintage Erik (Center) Jacket: Revolve Boutiques Shirt: Vintage Lillie (Right) Puffer: Our own Tank Top: Revolve Boutiques Trouser: rag&bone via Madison Ave