is a youngblood j une 2015
53 RIP
SERVICE
54 RUN
FOR COVER
Distressed Jeans Hoodies
30
6 MASTHEAD 8 CONTRIBUTORS 10 STATUS MESSAGE
55 SOLE
56 SHINE
ARTS
STATUSPHERE
57 CROP
NOTCH
Metal Cuffs
Cropped Button-downs
13 THREADS 18 SETTING 19 BRICK & MORTAR 20 SCREEN 21 INK 22 BEATS
58 FLASH
FLOW
59 SNEAK
ATTACK
GADGETS
60 COSMIC
23 TECH
PACK: FULL DISCLOSURE
New is always better.
BEAUTY 24 FACE
PAINT: RED HERRING
Drop a cherry bomb.
25 25
VANITIES: DEFINING MOMENT
Keep balm and lash out.
BEAUTY BITE: HIDE2A SALON
FASHION
64
PURPOSE
Derbies
STREET STYLE
26 GO SEE 28 STYLE ID:
SOUL MODEL
Start from the bell-bottom and grab a good pair of flare.
VISION BOARD
30 VARSITY
BLUES
Score a touchdown with an edgy look that’ll help you go the whole nine yards. By Miguel Alomajan
40 OUT
OF BOUNDS
Step away from the sidelines and get in the zone sporting some athletic chicness. By Nicolas Le Forestier
SHOPPING GUIDE
51 SWAG: ISLAND FLING 52 DOUBLE CROSSED Woven Belts
Colored Wallets
Platform Flats
FEATURES MUSE
GIRL
Living in the space age, Sara Cummings makes us look twice with her celestial air, piercing us with her bright green eyes and speckled freckles, an alien before the camera. By Janroe Cabiles
MAESTRO
64 ONWARD
BOUND
Straight out of your computer screens, Londonbased singer-songwriter Lewis Watson is on a journey to live out his virtual reality as he travels from one continent to another. By Nicole Nequinto
66 IN
HOT PURSUIT
Striking while the iron is hot, Lion Babe takes no chill pill as the neo-soul tandem juggles between working with titans of the music industry while making a name for themselves. By Denise Mallabo
68 GATE
CRASHERS
Stepping inside a different home to discover a whole new comfort zone, indie rock group Colony House shares their newfound identity in their debut record, When I Was Younger. By Pola Beronilla
70 THE
NEXT EPISODE
Gearing up herself for the next chapter, Danish artist Kwamie Liv pulls inspiration from the countries that she has lived in, showcasing euphoric calmness as heard in Lost In The Girl. By Denise Mallabo
is a youngblood j u ne 2 0 1 5
MASTERMIND
72
STAY FLASHY
in the act. From giving some poetic justice to Shakespeare at Juilliard to entering Litchfield Penitentiary as Poussey Washington in Orange is the New Black, the actress is proving to be a true breakout.
Fearlessly clashing colors or cheeky designs, Australian designer Poppy Lissiman delivers eyecatching accessories that both scram siren and punk— flashy ain’t always trashy. By Olivia Estrada
74 UNPARALLELED
UNIVERSE
Color swatches isn’t that case for Spain-based artist Felipe Pantone. Embedding a look several light years ahead, his hypnotic 3D murals burst off the walls around the globe.
By Pola Beronilla
92
By Kush Obusan
76 FAST
AND FURIOUS
Trading pizza deliveries with fast-paced photoshoots, LA-based photographer Jared Thomas Kocka snaps his beautiful subjects with a simple, clean, and energetic aesthetic. By Olivia Estrada
THE FLEX ZONE
Brothers Khalif “Swae Lee” and Aaquil “Slim Jimmy” Brown might have no type, but they aren’t your typical millennial rappers that’s high on life. Rising from the crime-plagued streets of Tupelo and making a landmark debut on the Billboard 100, Rae Sremmurd welcomes you to the SremmLife. By Olivia Estrada
MORE
HEAVY HITTER
99 DIRECTORY
78
STATUS INVADES 100 BOTTLED YOUTH
PERFECT STORM
With a double-sided girlnext-door smile transformed to a darkness seen only in her eyes, Kendall Jenner has shown the world that she is a supermodel in her own right. Lithe and powerful in her own light, she makes everyone shiver as she goes down the runway. By Janroe Cabiles
86
76
102
KNOCKOUT PUNCH
Breaking free of her recurring character role, Samira Wiley is caught
Despite her busy schedule, a smile and laugh starts and ends the days of entrepreneur Ava Daza, proving that getting down to business is a breeze when you’re having fun.
JENNER-ATION K
Commonly abbreviated to Jen K, it is the generation that restlessly keeps up with those Kardashians (and Jenners).
about the cover Taking a pause from from focus of reality TV, Kendall Jenner breaks away from her small screen fame and runs into the catwalk. It’s only the beginning of her career, but this 19-yearold has already surpassed most fashion models’ career highs. Donning classic pieces from Penshoppe’s latest denim collection, Kendall captures the makings of a modern-day teenage icon.
100
statusmagonline.com
Blogsphere
the pulse of hip at your fingertips
go see
we’re all models off duty. smize!
FEATURES
there’s more to what’s in print
NightVision who’s spotted partying where
Photo Diary confessional for lensmen
Digital Magazine DOWNLOADS STATUS in pixels, not paper
free mixtapes and wallpapers
is a youngblood June 2015
editor-in-chief
Rosario Herrera @RosarioHerrera
managing editor
Denise Mallabo @denisemallabo
art director
Nyael David @nyaels
graphic designer
Tiff Ko @happeetiff
Carlo Nuñez @oycaloy
features editor
Pola Beronilla @HiMyNameIsPola
fashion assistant
Jill de Leon @orangetoenails
editorial assistants
Janroe Cabiles @janroetheboat
Olivia Estrada @MsOliviaSylvia
contributing writers
Nicole Nequinto
contributing artists
Miguel Alomajan, Crystal Boyce, Aya Cabauatan, Ian Castañares, Mayesa delos Santos, Baby Duka, Darius Fitzgerald, Nicolas le Forestier, Jordan Grossman, Jared Thomas Kocka, Tanner McGinty, Mhico Mizoguchi, Janno Novenario, Kush Obusan, Sophie Ostrowska, Antonio Papa, Floe Tapayan, Diwang Valdez
What’s your STATUS? tell us. editorial editorial@statusmagonline.com advertising advertise@statusmagonline.com marketing marketing@statusmagonline.com general inquiries info@statusmagonline.com read our digital version statusmagonline.com/digital-magazine
interns
Ida Aldana, Nicole Angeles, Isabella Argosino, Keeshia Felipe, Jade Gotera, Una Ilarde, Kush Obusan, Matt Panes, Carlo Saavedra, Jerold Sunga,
like us facebook.com/statusmagazine follow us twitter.com/statusmagazine instagram: statusmagazine STATUS is published by STATUS Media Group. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
c ontributors KUSH OBUSAN For a person who’s barely in her 20s, our intern Kush is quite a workaholic–and we ain’t complaining. “I continue to write and shoot because there is nothing more fulfilling than creating.” Aside from chatting with Spain-based artist Felipe Pantone (74), swipe your way though our Go-See (26) and discover how she captures street style at a local music fest.
AYA CABAUATAN
NICOLAS LE FORESTIER
Forget about wanting to be drawn like one of those French girls, Nicolas Le Forestier can snap you a portrait like one of his Parisian ladies. “I take pictures to show the way I see women and fashion,” says the French photographer. Developing his skill during his 20s as a studio assistant, he now adds an extra oomph in our fashion pages as he zooms in some athletic chicness in Out of Bounds (40).
This sixteen-year-old photographer has an impressive collection of stills on the Internet, Aya’s quick rise has opened so many doors for her—including ours as she captures a bottled youth in Ava Daza (100)—and she ain’t done knocking. “I want to inspire others by sharing my perspective through my photographs in seeing the beauty of life.”
MIGUEL ALOMAJAN Even though Miggy took pre-law at his University, he still pursued his passion for fashion while maintaining a day job at an online store. Looking back to a memory of winning a photography contest back in high school, his style has flawlessly evolved as you flip your pages to Varsity Blues (30).
JANNO NOVENARIO Going the whole nine yards, Janno scores a touchdown in the fashion editorial (30) he helped put together with photographer Miggy. With a fond memory of riding his bike or roller-skating with friends as a youngster, he continues to express a youthful touch in all the work he does.
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JARED THOMAS KOCKA
Jared has come a long way from delivering pizzas for Dominoes. Hustling his way through LA’s viciously competitive industry, he has already worked with brands like Gap, The Hundreds, and Brian Lichtenberg. Aside from framing Orange is the New Black’s Samira Wiley (86) within his lens, we just can’t help but feature him on our pages as well (76).
STATU S MESSAG E
is a youngblood N
owadays, it seems like the leaders of pop culture are getting younger and younger. All over your Instagram feeds, you’ll see teens and twenty -somethings dominate fashion, music, and television—but don’t let their age fool you. Our Youth Issue shows you that they are savvier about how the world (and World Wide Web) works. Getting a chance to interview one of the biggest phenomenons in the world seemed unreal, but sitting down with Kendall Jenner, you forget that she’s currently the most sought-after 19- year old model. At her shoot, she was polite, professional, and still sees herself as a normal teenage girl. During our interview with her in courtesy of Penshoppe, she spills the beans on her family, fashion career, and her competitive self. Being part of the hottest show on Netflix is one way to tell Hollywood that you have arrived—and we welcome Samira Wiley with arms wide open. Talking to Orange is the New Black’s breakout star, Samira shares with us why she’s proud to be starting a new revolution in television and the other roles she wants to pursue. Brothers Swae and Slim, better known as Rae Sremmurd, have been releasing one club-banger after another. Gone are the days of being homeless ‘cause now, they’re busy touring with hip- hop’s best. In contrast to their teenage partying lifestyle, they reveal to us their drive and focus for music and how they keep their audience plugged in their zone. The landscape has changed and the millennials are leading the way. Though the youth still encapsulates the essence of being “young, wild, and free,” they are now the ones setting the pace for the rest to follow.
Editor-in-chief
Kendall Jenner (78)
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FASHION
facebook.com/starstyleph
Beauty
Celebrity
@starstyleph
www.starstyle.ph
@starstyleph
L2 R2 Wing Greenbelt 5, Makati City greyonesocial.com
THREADS / setting / BRICK AND MORTAR / BEATS / SCREEN / INK june 2015
WAVE RIDERS
M
aking waves, HYPE is sure to get you in that summer mood with tie-dye and good vibrations. In their latest Summer 2015 collection, the UK-based brand brings the Cali lifestyle to you with tees and tanks in bold floral prints and a kaleidoscope of color. justhype.co.uk
PURE THING
F
MONUMENTAL PIECES
C
Blouse B1AW15041 Peace Silk
reated in 2012 by designer Adrienne Alaimo, AEA emphasizes femininity by contrasting it with subtle dark traces in its collections. Dawning an underlying tribal feel, the combination of abstract yet clean cuts create architectural pieces that compliment the body with its strong identity. aeajewelry.com
Dress D1AW15034 Cupro Coat C1AW15022 Virgin Wool
emininity is at its purest with familiar but classic silhouettes from up-andcoming Berlin designer PHILOMENA ZANETTI. The striking looks in monochrome inspired by the western industrial design of the ‘50s bring a fresh, tough edge to the female form with folded trousers, midi skirts, and dresses for the classic but modern woman. philomenazanetti.com
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THREADS
BRANDS TO KNOW
NATURAL WONDER
T
rust USE UNUSED and enter the deep dark woods in style and with confidence. Their Autumn/Winter 2015 collection gives tribute to the Gemenc forest’s shift of seasons with colors transitioning from earth tones to pastel hues. Fusing elements of plaid, camouflage, tweed, leather, and hiking embroidery into turtlenecks, peacoats, dresses, flared skirts, and culottes, the brand promises to bring evergreen to your wintry regalia. useunused.com
TAKE THE GRUNGE
T
aking inspiration from the grungy babe aesthetic as well as streetwear, travel, and music, be the ultimate ‘90s heartbreaker with OLIVE & FRANK. Hailing from the UK, the brand brings the nostalgia of adolescent troublemakers and first loves in understatedly cool graphic tops, shirts, and statement jackets that tug on the heartstrings. oliveandfrank.co.uk
YOUTH REVOLT
Y
ou’re never too young to cause some havoc in the streets wearing MIDNIGHT STUDIOS. Designed by Shane Gonzales at age 19, the American-based brand combines the vision of anti-establishment punk-meets-modern-daystreetwear with oversized graphic tees and jackets played with plaid and stripes in their latest collection. midnight-usa.com
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THREADS
UP AND COMING
I
nfusing Japanese fabrics with a homegrown Melbourne style, UP THERE’s first menswear collection offers a wide range of parkas and comfortable sweaters as well as basic must-have shirts and chino pants. It looks like they’ve mastered that laid-back yet still classy look, and it’s time to follow their lead. uptherestore.com
SAFe ZONE
N
o need to stay out of danger as Korean brand CRES. E DIM gears you up with full protection. Inspired by the stories of 33 miners in Chile, Treinta Y Tres fuses headlights, miner caps, and industrial tags into knits, winter coats, leather jackets, turtlenecks, and sportswear, having you covered from head to toe. cresedim.com
FOOT NOTES
G
ive your feet a much-needed break from stocky leather shoes and enjoy the leisure of walking with BEYENE CLASSIC. Timeless designs, superior craftsmanship, and utilitarian ideas make the brand enter the shoe game and stomp on the competition. With three color ways to choose from, the brand definitely makes for a walk in the park. beyeneclassic.com
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THREADS
BRANDS TO KNOW
WORKING GIRL
E
ven with only a year under its belt, London-based brand OTHO has already showed great promise with its menswearinspired pieces for ladies. They look past temporary trends and instead go for designs that will remain staples in closets for a long time. Not only is their clothing ideal for the workplace but they also manage to create pieces that work on the feminine silhouette. otholondon.co.uk
SPACE ODDITY
T
NEUTRAL TERRITORY
I
t’s never too late for a clean slate with DREWSKI BY HEENY. Fusing different elements of bold shapes, dynamic cuts, and raw aesthetics, everyday staples leave a strong impression in basic blacks and whites. With long oversized tanks, sleeveless panel hoodies, opaque sweaters, and drop shorts, every piece is strong yet subtle. drewskibyheeny.com
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Words by Ida Aldana, Una Ilarde, and Matt Panes
he space aged collection of up-andcoming designer MARIA PIANKOV is otherworldly. Inspired by the term Overview Effect used by astronauts and NASA, her latest collection features sleek, geometric shapes and three-dimensional silhouettes in a black and white palette with refreshing pops of color. mariapiankov.com
THREADS
FIRST CLASS
E
mbodying the characteristics of its homeland, Poland, as an overlooked but rising fashion powerhouse, EST BY ES displays timelessness with its classical prints and designs. Their discreet designs intrigue the eye and make it look like they have a secret to hide. Well, we are more than ready to find out. estbyes.com
GENTLEMEN’S AGREEMENT
B
e the urban gent in Danish brand MISMO’s Fall 2015 collection. Inspired by Iceland’s diverse landscape of chalky shores and volcanic soil to green flatlands and thin paved roads, look dapper than ever in dark hues of grays, blacks, and greens matched with sophisticated lines and brass hardware. mismo.dk
WHITE NOISE
L
ove knows no colors and I LOVE UGLY definitely has the same ideals with their third capsule. Washing out unnecessary details to give way to monochromatic color ways and more mature silhouettes, the collection ranges from denim jackets, extended bombers, longsleeved baseball shirts, linen shorts, distressed denims, and track pants that play along with the brand’s iconic bold streetwear attitude. iloveugly.net
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SETTING
PLACES TO GO
SUITE
HUMBLE HOUSE, TAIPEI T
here is much that HUMBLE HOUSE can boast about in the midst of the metropolitan Taipei. At pace with the rush of the East Asian capital, the hotel integrates different innovations with familiar comforts. Clean interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows that invite natural light set a calming tone as you enjoy services like their spa and fitness center. On the other hand, the Humble House also calls itself a gallery as it hosts over 600 artworks, cleverly installed all throughout their facilities. You can marvel at Italian artist Paolo Pavi’s “Crazy Ball,” a light fixture made out of miniature designer chairs, among many other art pieces that add to the charm of the hotel and make your stay worthwhile.
18 Songgao Road Xinyi District, Taipei, Taiwan humblehousehotels.com
grub
lurring the boundaries between culinary discipline and artistic innovation, NOBU RESTAURANT upgrades urban luxury dining to a level like no other. Enjoy the restaurant’s internationally-acclaimed dishes, crafted by master chef Nobu Matsuhisa, such as the Black Cod Den Miso, Nobu Tacos, and Toro Tartar, combining traditional Japanese techniques with North and South American influences. The same can be said of their signature cocktails such as the Matsuhisa Martini, Yamazaki Sidecar, and the Mia Margarita. Heighten the experience further in their cabana-style dining terrace and exclusive platform deck that provide a perfect and relaxing view of Nobu Hotel’s pool and resort area. From the first bite to the last sip, Nobu isn’t only about the food but also the grand experience.
City of Dreams Manila Aseana Boulevard cor. Macapagal Ave., Parañaque City noburestaurants.com
PLATE
SWEET INDULGENCE NOBU RESTAURANT doesn’t hold back on its continuing tradition of dining in class and style.
Black Cod Den Miso Alaskan black cod marinated in Nobu-style sweet saikyo broiled miso, topped with Hajikami
Rock Shrimp Tempura Tender rock shrimp lightly fried and tossed with shiitake mushrooms and Nobu spicy sauce
Yellowtail Jalapeno Thinly-sliced yellowtail in yuzu soy sauce, topped with cilantro and jalapeño slices
Miso Cappuccino Chilled miso custard topped with candied pecans, vanilla ice cream, and airy cappuccino foam
Words by Olivia Estrada, HUMBLE HOUSE is a member of Design Hotels™, SUITE photos courtesy of Design Hotels™
NOBU RESTAURANT, PARAÑAQUE B
BRICK AND MORTAR
STORES TO SHOP
WILD STYLE, Los angeles 7703 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90046 shop.wildstylela.com Dime to Drop: $100-$700 (P4,400-P30,800) Don’t leave the store without: One of their graphic tees or sweats
W
Words by Una Ilarde and Matt Panes Wild Style LA photos by Rosario Herrera
hen you stop and enjoy the ride through the hustle and bustle of the City of Angels, you’ll find a store with plastic palm trees, a little green house, and screaming neon lights. Bringing modern high-end street style to you in that vintage LA flavor, WILD STYLE LA is an electric high-end concept store with a retro twist. Founded by the eccentric minds of LA brand Joyrich, the urban style of the clothing mixes fashion, music, and art with a playful attitude that vibes well with the store’s old school LA interior. From button-ups to sweats and fly kicks to caps, the store has you covered from head to toe with brands that hang on the gold bellman’s carts, including Astrid Andersen, Raf Simons, HBA, adidas, and Versace.
MAN OF MOODS W
hen you’re unsure of your current state of mind and don’t know how to vent it out, let MAN OF MOODS take care of your options. With pieces fit for every style-savvy guy and an array of changing aesthetics, the brand specializes in weather and ski wear, including shirts, beanies, and bags that are ready for any emotion.
manofmoods.com
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SCREEN
SCENES TO SEE
RE M OTE CONTROL TIC K ET
ANOTHER PERIOD (COMEDY CENTRAL) Creating and starring in their own sitcom, Natasha Leggero and Riki Lindhome come together with stars Christina Hendricks (Mad Men) and David Koechner (The Office) as they deliver humor through 20th century spoofs of today’s reality shows, playing sisters who work hard to gain socialite fame by attending parties and following trends in 1902.
SCREAM (MTV) The big screen slasher film series makes its way to the small screen, starting with a viral YouTube video that becomes connected to a murder, which eventually sheds light on the hidden and disturbing history of the town of Lakewood. Stars of the series include Willa Fitzgerald (Royal Pains) and Bex Taylor-Klaus (Arrow) with a guest appearance by Bella Thorne (Blended).
DOPE After stirring a bidding war at Sundance, Richard Famuyiwa’s comedydrama hits the screens, seeing a group of responsible outcasts trapped in a drug dispute, with class acts from A$AP Rocky, Zoë Kravitz, and Blake Anderson.
TED 2 After asking his best friend John Bennet (Mark Wahlberg) to provide sperm for artificial insemination so that he and his new wife can have a baby, Ted has to prove in court that he is human enough to have custody of his child.
ENTOURAGE Taking its cues from the HBO series, this spin-off follows the career of movie star Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier) and his directorial debut as he and his entourage get back in business with Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven) as producer.
THE WOLFPACK Directed by Crystal Moselle, this documentary captures six eccentric siblings stepping foot out in New York City for the first time after being locked away in their apartment their whole lives with only films as a window to the real world.
JURASSIC WORLD The fourth installment to the sci-fi adventure series sees a fullyfunctioning dinosaur theme park but is put under threat again by a hybrid dinosaur that escapes, with only staff member Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) to contain it.
THE OVERNIGHT Alex (Adam Scott) and Emily (Taylor Schilling) set up a playdate for their son after meeting a couple in the park with a son too, but the night becomes a bit more exciting as the couples have their own version of a playdate.
P LAYBAC K MCCABE & MRS. MILLER (1971) I love the romance of it, their beauty, the way it’s shot, their perseverance, and the music.
OUT OF THE BLUE (1980) I can relate to so many things about a punk girl kicking around in suburbia. Linda Manz is cool, she’s punk.
BADLANDS (1973) I love this. Teen lovers on the run. Perfect music, great dialogue, great voice-overs.
OPENING NIGHT (1977) Gena Rowlands is my favorite actresses of all time. Now an aging actress myself, I get the trial she’s going through.
CHLOË SEVIGNY (Actress) THE BREAKFAST CLUB (1985) It’s this perfectly contained little movie with these different archetypes, great styling, and just great acting.
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Words by Ida Aldana
@OfficialChloeS
ink
BOOKS TO READ
BOO K M AR K
HOT O F F THE P RESS BABE By Petra Collins Photographer Petra Collins takes her empowered feminist collection from the click of a mouse to the turn of a page in her compilation book, collecting works of over 30 artists from around the world who give a new meaning to a women’s revolution that isn’t afraid to explore sexuality and the feminine identity.
THE FESTIVAL OF INSIGNIFICANCE By Milan Kundera Following the success of his criticallyacclaimed work, The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Milan Kundera enthralls readers once again in the summation of his life’s work. In this novel, he manages to explore substantial matters through seemingly arbitrary events that conspire among four young friends in Paris.
EVERY LAST WORD By Tamara Ireland Stone
Words by Ida Aldana
Offering a fresh take on the misunderstood high school girl, this novel delves into the mind of popular high schooler Samantha as she tries to keep her queen bee status while on secret meetings at the Poet’s Corner where misfits hang out, in addition to her weekly visit to the psychiatrist.
WOO! B
By Juergen Teller
eing able to balance his part in the industry of commercial photography and still participate in the art world is a unique feat managed by Juergen Teller. From launching his career by taking photos for album covers, Teller continued to be a part of fashion magazines as he shot celebrities that included Kurt Cobain, Kate Moss, and Vivienne Westwood. This compilation of Teller’s career also includes family portraits and landscapes, adding to the ongoing dynamic that his past and present works have complemented each other with.
• Sense the inevitable hangover through an all too familiar scene of a topless man passed out on a plate of food surrounded by shots of Jägermeister. • Get lucky with a photo of a half-naked girl in heels covered with a feather boa, sprawled out on a bed under flashing lights. • Be disturbingly enticed by a veiled woman sitting with her legs on top of another chair, barely clad in a black cape with an inner leopard print. • Feel unnerved by the contrast of an adorable but twitching kitten wearing red antlers, holding a cigarette beside offerings of flowers on a curb.
F OOTNOTES Author and staff photographer for Rookie, Petra Collins’ original online art collective called “The Ardorous” criticizes the role of the Internet as well as social media in forming the feminist idea.
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BEATS
MUSIC TO HEAR
P LAYLIST
LEWIS WATSON
lewiswatsonmusic.com
FAREWELL FAIR WEATHER Isagani Palabyab (Keyboards)
“The Love You’re Given” Jack Garratt It’s a banger. It’s an amazing song, and I can’t stop listening to it at the moment.
“Undo” The 1975 It’s a good song. I just didn’t realize it the first time I listened to it.
“Slow Motion” PHOX They did a “Tiny Desk Session” for South by South West, and I just love that version.
“No Room in Frame” Death Cab for Cutie It’s on their new album called Kintsugi, a Japanese art of remaking broken pottery.
“Here Comes the Sun” The Beatles This Beatles classic always reminds us of sunny skies. It brings endless good vibes.
“Singin’ in the Rain” Gene Kelly Whenever it’s raining really hard, no soul could ever resist not singing this happy song.
“Hot in Herre” Nelly Hot? Well, this song probably best sums that up.
“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan This is the first song that pops in my head thinking of a freezing snowstorm.
“Throwback” Glenn Astro He just released his album this May. It’s a very interesting debut from Glenn Astro.
“The Scarlet Tape” K15 Following up The Black Tape, the entire album is sick! It will kill speakers though!
“Climax (Girl Shit)” Slum Village It’s from 2000’s Fantastic Vol. 2. The entire album is an all time classic!
“Rarely Pure, Never Simple” Frits Wentink feat. Loes Jongerling His the new record shows new forms!
soundcloud.com/ farewellfairweather
SOULPARLOR Frank Jensen
soundcloud.com/ soulparlor
Releases
Rakim Mayer a.k.a. A$AP ROCKY won’t make us wait any longer as he finally releases At.Long.Last.A$AP. Paying tribute to A$AP Yams, the Harlem-bred rapper’s follow-up to his 2013 debut will include his latest drop with Rod Stewart, Miguel, and Mark Ronson entitled, “Everyday.”
After releasing their first EP ($) CoiNZ, SoCal funky foursome NEW BEAT FUND stacks up new sun-drenched tracks for a full-length G-Punk debut. Powered by Red Bull Records, Sponge Fingerz is soaked in surf rock tunes with elements of hip-hop, garage pop, and west-coast punk.
Roll over to Randall’s Island Park in NYC from June 5 to 7 for The Governor’s Ball Music Festival 2015 and experience live music from the likes of Drake, The Black Keys, Deadmau5, Lana Del Rey, Chromeo, Hot Chip, and many more.
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Bringing back four days of pure entertainment, The BET Experience returns to L.A. Live on June 2528 with performances from today’s hottest acts such as Kevin Hart, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, Miguel, and The Roots, among other superstars.
Stand proud and be one with some of the country’s prominent DJs with #OnePH2015 as Laidback Luke and DVBBS headlines the biggest pre-independence day party on June 11 at the SM Mall Of Asia Concert Grounds in Pasay City.
While his main band is on an indefinite break, NATE RUESS continues to have fun as he debuts his solo record, Grand Romantic. Released under Fueled by Ramen, the fun. front man wears his heart on his album sleeve producing tracks like “AhHa” and “Nothing Without Love.”
Words by Pola Beronilla Isagani Palabyab photo by Potchie Lazaro
M USIC NE W S
FULL DISCLOSURE
TECH PACK DO W NLOADS
Prepare to meet your new sidekicks.
AETHER CONE MULTI-ROOM SPEAKER • Tagged as an “intelligent” speaker that remembers your listening preferences through time • Supports Nuance’s voice recognition technology to switch through channels and playlists • Delivers premium sound through a 3-inch woofer, dual tweeters, and 20-watt amplifier SRP: PHP 17,657.94
POLAROID ZIP INSTANt PHOTOPRINTER
ARTIFACT - LOCAL ART GUIDE By Michael Benedicto Sneak a peek in the galleries’ backrooms to see what’s upcoming and get to you know your favorite artists better through their database.
• Prints wirelessly directly from your mobile device using Bluetooth technology • Uses ZINK paper for clear and smudge-proof printing • Built effortlessly mobile and lightweight at only 6.6 ounces SRP: PHP 5,752.43
ROKU 3 MEDIA HUB • Capable of streaming over 250,000 movies and TV shows through different web hosts • Equipped with voice search for hands-free browsing and navigation • Connects to any mobile device to project movies and shows wirelessly on your TV SRP: PHP 4,425.11
SONY CYBER-SHOT HX90V CAMERA • Equipped with the world’s smallest travel zoom lens for crisp and detailed images • Comes with a pop-up OLED Tru-Finder that can tilt 180° upwards for low angle shots • Has an integrated GPS for accurate geotagging
MOBILESHEETSPRO MUSIC READER By Zubersoft Access, adjust, and save thousands of music sheets in your library for easy references and on-thespot performances with this app.
SRP: PHP 19,029.86
SKULLCANDY GRIND OVER-EAR HEADPHONES • Controlled via TAPTECH™ for one-touch control to take calls, switch songs, and adjust volume levels • Built with SUPREME SOUND™ for quality bass and precise highs for quality sound • Designed with detachable cable and plush ear cups for maximum mobility and comfort SRP: PHP 2,654.89
MR JUMP By 1Button SARL A throwback to the 2D world, this game will keep you playing for hours as your try to help Mr Jump hop his way through different landscapes and tricky levels. statusmagonline.com - 23
FAC E PA IN T
JOUER Longwear Crème Mousse Eyeshadow in Starlight P1,428
RED HERRING GIORGIO ARMANI Lasting Silk UV Compact Foundation P2809
Catch everyone off guard with dewy eyelids and bold red lips. YVES SAINT LAURENT Full Metal Shadow in Onde Sable P1,428
DOLCE AND GABBANA Beauty Matte Lipstick in Dolce Fire P1,762 ESTÉE LAUDER Pure Color Stay-On Shadow Paint in Halo P1,028
nars Velvet Lip Liner in Nihiwatu P1,143
LAURA MERCIER Metallic Créme Eye Colour in Burnished Copper P1,028
LOUISE YOUNG COSMETICS LY26 Concealer Brush P761.79
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OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE COSMETICS Lip Tar: Matte in Stalker P771
ESTÉE LAUDER Sumptuous Two Tone Eye-opening Mascara P1,371
Runway photo from Zac Posen Spring/Summer 2015
MAYBELLINE Eye Studio Color Tatoo 24HR Gel Shadow in Bad to the Bronze P429
VAN I T IES E X F OLIATORS
Get deliciously flawless lips with BLISS FABULIPS SUGAR LIP SCRUB, which not only exfoliates and moisturizes but also gives you a trouble-free lipstick application that lasts for hours.
DEFINING MOMENT Bat your clump-free lashes with MAYBELLINE HYPERCURL VOLUME EXPRESS MASCARA. The mascara’s curl-lock formula keeps lashes perfectly in place for up to 18 hours, leaving you with a product that glides on smoothly. The customized brush gives you volume without going overboard for that natural look. Now, nothing can stop you from lashing out.
Your days under the sun no longer have to come with consequences. NARS DOUBLE REFINING EXFOLIATOR gently cleanses your pores with natural fruit acids paired with the perfect exfoliants.
Expert Advice
Dry skin is a thing of the past. THE BALM “TIMEBALM” gives you a cruelty-free almond microdermabrasion face exfoliating scrub that removes dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth and brand new.
Apply a small amount of mascara to your bottom lashes to make your eyes appear wider.
BEAUTY BITE
HIDE2A SALON
Words by Jill de Leon
O
ffering high quality services, embrace the Asian culture at HIDE2A SALON and get a perfect customized look. Not only are they experts in a variety of hair cuts fit for any personality, their selection ranging from hair coloring, permanent waves, and treatments to relaxing massages and mani-pedis will surely make you feel like a VIP inside their modern, beautifully lit space. Prudential Life Bldg., 843 Arnaiz Ave., Legaspi Village, Makati City (02) 779 8435 hide2a.com
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GO S E E Be festival ready with light fabrics, tasteful cutouts, and pops of color. Photos courtesy of Kush Obusan and lookbook.nu
@mikaelahook
@louisexinjonsson
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@trendencies
@bobbyraffin
@twohandsandtenfingers
@hopebi
idi
@brumaquenti
@danpandan
@sarahloven
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STYLE ID Model and blogger Tiffany Borland goes back to the trend’s roots with this retro ensemble. @tiffanyborland
Stylist Lucine Ayanian’s fresh color combo is a headturner. @lucine_a
SOUL MODEL
This red and blue combo sets the trend for those laid-back days. @taylorbalding
Journalist Claudia Villanueva keeps it simple but interesting with this monochromatic scheme. @trendencies
Street style photos courtesy of lookbook.nu
History repeats itself, and so do iconic trends. Get your style groove on with bellbottoms as seen on the Emilio Pucci Spring/Summer 2015 collection. Being in a funk isn’t always a bad thing.
A crisp white top with a clean silhouette is perfect for fashion girls on-the-go. @shallwesasa
Fashion designer Heba Ele gives off a youthful ‘90s vibe with an oversized denim jacket. @hebaele A cropped top and wide brim hat creates a modern, festival chic look. @ellenvlora
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FASHION
facebook.com/starstyleph
Beauty
Celebrity
@starstyleph
www.starstyle.ph
@starstyleph
v
Photographed by Miguel Alomajan Styled by Janno Novenario
top by Jessica Kairuz pants by Zalora accessories by SM Accessories
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top by Jessica Kairuz jumpskirt by Forever 21
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hat by Jessica Kairuz accessories by SM Accessories
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accessories by SM Accessories shoes by Timbaland
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top by Forever 21 skirt and hat by Jessica Kairuz bag by Fatima Guerrero
eyewear by Sunnies accessories by SM Accessories top by Jessica Kairuz
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hat by Jessica Kairuz earrings by SM Accesories
Makeup Floe Tapayan Hair Mhico Mizoguchi Model Iga Zajac
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Photographed by Nicolas Le Forestier Styled by Sophie Ostrowska
maillot by Lisa Marie Fernandez
maillot by Lisa Marie socks Fernandez by adidas socks by adidas sandals by Go Sport shoes by Go Sport
parka by Ostwald Helgason pants by No Ka‘Oi shoes by Nike
parka by Ostwald Helgason pants by No Ka ‘Oi shoes by Puma shoes by Nike
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maillot by Lisa Marie Fernandez socks by adidas snadals by Go Sport
jumpsuit by H&M
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jacket by adidas Originals shirt by Être Cécile
jacket by adidas Originals shirt by Être Cécile
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jumpsuit by H&M shoes by Nike
jumpsuit by H&M shoes by Nike
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jacket by adidas Originals bikini top by H&M shirt by Être Cécile jacket by adidas Originals socks bikini top by H&M by adidas shirt by Être Cécileby Go Sport sandals cape by Majestic
socks by adidas leather gloves by Majestic sandals by Go Sport
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jacket by adidas Originals bikini top by H&M shirt by ĂŠtre CĂŠcile socks by adidas sandals by Go Sport
Model Sophie Gordon of PremiumModels Models Paris Model Sophie Gordon of Premium Paris
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SWAG june
20 1 5
island fling Get ready for the rainy days with woven belts, distressed jeans, hoodies, derbies, metal cuffs, cropped button-downs, colored wallets, and platform flats. Product Photography by Ian Casta単ares Cover photo courtesy of The Quiet Life
jacket by The Quiet Life
W O V EN B EL T S
DOUBLE CROSSED
Keep your style in check with woven belts.
From top to bottom: Old Navy [P995] Penshoppe [P399] Penshoppe [P299] Penshoppe [P399] Penshoppe [P399]
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DI S T R E S S ED JE A N S
RIP SERVICE Distressed jeans add character to any casual outfit.
From left to right: Gap [P3,950] Penshoppe [P1,199] Gap [P4,550] Aeropostale [P2,250]
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H O O DIE S
RUN FOR COVER Keep your cool with these hoodies.
Clockwise: Penshoppe [P1,099] Marc by Marc Jacobs [P11,250] adidas [P3,095] Armani Exchange [P7,950]
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DE R B IE S
SOLE PURPOSE Rubber-soled derbies are the middle ground for fun and class.
From top to bottom: Call It Spring [P2,995] Call It Spring [P2,695] F&F [P2,850] F&F [P2,850]
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M e ta l C UFF S
SHINE ARTS Make a statement with metal cuffs.
From top to bottom: Suiteblanco [P649] Forever21 [P330] Cache Cache [P299] Sfera [P549] H&M [TBA] Forever 21 [P330]
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C R O P P ED B U T T O N - D O W N S
CROP NOTCH Cut to the chase and get yourself some cropped button-downs.
From top to bottom: Marc by Marc Jacobs [P13,750] Marc by Marc Jacobs [P13,750] F&F [P1,450] Forever 21 [P915]
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C O L O R ED W A LLE T S
FLASH FLOW
Colored wallets are a definite asset to your everyday essentials.
Clockwise: Dune [P2,250] Armani Exchange [P3,950] Marc by Marc Jacobs [P8,000] Tory Burch [P12,450]
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P L A T F O R M FL A T S
SNEAK ATTACK
Give yourself some leverage with platform flats.
From top to bottom: Charles & Keith [P1,999] Call It Spring [P1,755] Call It Spring [P1,755] F&F [P1,150]
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Landing on this planet, SARA CUMMINGS walks the earth with an eerie warmth to her stare, taking the world by her l’appel du vide. By Janroe Cabiles Special thanks to Teresa Pollman of IMD Modeling
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At
first glance, there is a flash of something celestial in Sara Cummings. With bright green eyes, speckled freckles, and an androgynous air, she sets up a good platform to prove that aliens can be muses. “I was discovered less than a year ago, then I competed at the International Model and Talent Association for IMD Modeling. Before modeling, I was more focused on styling hair for photo shoots and films.” With a growing résumé that consists of campaigns for Laced with Romance, Dolls Kill, Shiseido, Badlands 777, ANNDIRK IZM, ASOS, and Diesel, she has been featured in Chasseur Magazine, Oyster Magazine, SÝN Magazine, Spur Magazine, Madame Figaro Japan, Ginza Magazine, Perk Magazine, CREA Magazine, Elle Japan, Dazed Magazine, and has walked for Nigel Cabourn, Christian Dada, and Takeo Kikuchi. Moving from Austin to Los Angeles, she has traveled to Tokyo and New York for an array of projects–no doubt she’s been getting noticed for her style and her natural fluidity in front of a camera. “Traveling is my favorite part of modeling,” she shares. “My least is when a photographer asks for very specific poses but wants it to look totally natural and not forced.” Stuck in that space age, Sara exudes her own post-apocalyptic chic, immortalizing the ‘90s grated-T-shirt-andjeans spirit. “I’m a cartoon character with the way I dress,” she shares. “I only wear black, but I’ll play around with shapes and textures. If I find an outfit I love, I’ll wear it everyday until I find another outfit.” Inspired by the odd, eccentric, unconventional, and queer, she thrives off music, citing Nine Inch Nails, Fugazi, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Christian Death, and The Sisters of Mercy. Constantly answering the call of the void, the gothic muse seeks a thrill in the cure for art, from hair styling to channeling characters beyond her and translating them on film, wanting to discover what determines someone to look twice, or what it takes to elicit an emotional response. To whether she’s found the answer or not, she responds, “I’m still searching.”
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EVEN DEEPER
I tend to run through a range of emotion while doing a shoot until the photographer finds what works. It depends on the project, because you have to form a character for each individual project.
SUPERHERO
The most memorable project to me was working with Valerie Phillips on her zine Sara Superhero. She’s so incredible! I miss her everyday. I had the best time shooting with her, just driving around and talking around the coolest spots in Los Angeles.
BARE MINIMUM
I don’t find nipples to be offensive. I don’t think I should be punished or censored for having or not having body parts. And if I choose to decorate or show it, then that’s my choice.
ALIEN NATION
I’ve got a little alien on my middle finger, a ruler on my finger for cutting hair, a sad face on my thumb, a puzzle piece on my wrist, a gun with a cross in the end, which symbolizes both my favorite movie, Alejandro Jodorowsky’s The Holy Mountain and my favorite band, Nine Inch Nails, and finally, an infinity symbol on my neck, because my card in the tarot deck is a magician, and he has an infinity symbol above his head.
KIMONO CRAZE
Out of all the places I’ve been to, I love Tokyo–I feel at home there. I can’t wait to get back.
saracummings.net @saracummings
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MAESTRO
M A E S T R O
onward b o u n d Armed with an acoustic guitar and soulful vocals, LEWIS WATSON leaps from the World Wide Web to stages around the globe. His musical journey may have begun quietly, but the steady growth shows no indication of slowing down. By Nicole Nequinto Interview by Ida Aldana
L
ewis Watson’s career is a testament of the evolved musical platform belonging to the digital age. What began as a way to learn the guitar, the London-based singer-songwriter eventually ventured on uploading his own covers on YouTube. Through these covers, the young troubadour began to compose his own gentle, folk-pop songs, which soon led to the successful release of his EPs, beginning with It’s Got Four Sad Songs On It BTW. From starting out on a digital platform, Lewis has now moved on to bigger stages, playing at his favorite concert venue Shepherd’s Bush, and recently, at the Wanderland Music Festival in Manila. We caught up with the 21-year-old to talk about his latest album, The Morning, and the evolution of his music. Hi Lewis! How did you feel about performing at Wanderland? It’s my first time to perform in Asia, and we got an amazing slot playing at sunset. I’m really excited just to play another show, and for it to be in the Philippines is pretty nuts. How do think your first full-length album relates with your previous EPs? If you sat down and listened to the first EP to the fifth, then the album, you’d hear the journey of the sound. That was what I was going for. It’s a nice evolution from the earlier EPs without it being completely different. I wanted my full-length debut to be a step up or a bit of a growth from those. You said in a previous interview that a dream inspired you to write your song “Stay.” How else are you inspired to write your songs? That was probably the most interesting way that a song has kind of appeared in my head. I tend to just get inspired by the things I’ve experienced
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MAESTRO
and the things that people very close to me have gone through. I struggle with fabricating subjects for songs because I think you can tell straight away if somebody’s made up the subject matter, and I don’t want that with my songs. It’s mostly things that I’ve experienced, but this dream thing, it was strange. I was glad that I got to write a song out of it because it was a nice change for me to be pulling song ideas from something that I may forget and fall out of. Considering that your career is only beginning, how have you handled everything that’s happened to you so far? I think that I’ve handled myself quite well. I never really expected to get anywhere with this. It’s just something that I really enjoy doing. I initially just wanted to learn an instrument and to write songs, and if anybody listened to that, that would be amazing. But to be able to make an album, travel on a plane to the Philippines, and play music is nuts. Everything just happened in four years, so it’s crazy, and I do have to pinch myself a lot whenever something new comes in. I think that’s the right way of handling it, rather than to expect this kind of stuff to happen. We’ll see. What have you learned so far that you think will help you in the long run? Not getting too big for my boots. I wouldn’t blame somebody for just switching and being like, “Okay, this is what will happen everyday now, I may as well get used to it.” I don’t think I’ll be able to do that. I’ve never been an ambitious kind of person, which is quite weird because all of my ambitions have been ticked off and done now. It’s amazing. So I think that’s the lesson: Just don’t be too ambitious and everything will happen–the correct things will happen. I think that’s a good thing. Hopefully.
lewiswatsonmusic.com @levvis_
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MAESTRO
in hot pursuit
Fire,’ we signed a record deal six months later. That really pushed us to develop our sound and make more good songs,” shares Lucas. The duo have already worked with titans of the music industry such as Mark Ronson, Pharrell Williams, and Childish Gambino, and with their debut album coming around September, they’ve been doing more collaborations—trying to infuse new flavors and sounds to their present gamut and song-producing formula. If there’s anything, Lion Babe wants consistency and growth with how they create their music; it’s also vital that it’s their own voice, flow, and grind that represents them and not anybody else’s. “We definitely want a body of work to sit out there as a continuation of whatever happened to ‘Treat Me Like Fire,’ just that kind of feel,” says Lucas. “We want to make sure that was the first thing we pull out, that kind of represents us and then now, there’s room for this next level that we’re working on.” We caught up with the duo while hustling in an unfamiliar territory that they won over by their special blend of soul, talent, and charisma.
New York-based neo-soul tandem LION BABE is on a quest to be heard and will not rest until they’re reigning the airwaves in mammoth proportions. By Denise Mallabo
L
ion Babe had a long night in the UK, according to their songstress, Jillian Hervey, who’s a dead ringer of her mother, actress and singer Vanessa Williams. It wasn’t because she and Lion Babe’s other half Lucas Goodman (a.k.a. Astro Raw) were out and about, roaming the streets of London; they were busy preparing in the studio for their then UK tour. This is Lion Babe’s way of conquering the world with their soul-filled and heady tunes—one continent at a time. The idiom “strike while the iron is hot” is something that they’ve obviously been practicing and taking in by heart. “It’s been moving pretty fast for us. When we released our first song ‘Treat Me Like
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You’re currently on tour in the UK for your self-titled debut EP. How is the reception of your audience there so far? Lucas: It’s been great! We just put out our most recent single called “Wonder Woman,” which we collaborated on with Pharrell Williams, and it’s been doing really well. We just found out yesterday that the single got included on the B-List of BBC Radio 1, that’s amazing. Getting that push and everyone digging the track like that, it’s really nice over here. How do you make sure that your audience is having fun in your show? Jillian: Performing on stage is personally our kind of escape. The only way we can guarantee that other people are having fun is if we’re having fun. I just usually let it go and do what I feel is natural and make sure that the band is connected with everyone. I think that kind of energy is what people pick up from. It’s just being open to have the audience interact, and whenever they smile, I smile back. What has been the most surreal thing to happen to you guys due to this newfound success? J: When I look back this past year alone, one of the biggest experiences for us would be opening for The Roots in a series of tours. That was really exciting.
MAESTRO Outside of your life as the duo Lion Babe, what’s your life like? Do you still find time to do other things that aren’t music related? J: Right now, not really, but it’s totally fine. We understand. We’re hardworking people, we spend a lot of time thinking about what we’re making. But that being said, it’s summer, and yes, I wish I can be chilling at a BBQ with my friends in Brooklyn, but we gotta work. If I’m not being Lion Babe, most likely I’d be making some tea, sitting outside with my dog, or trying to see my family. I love art, I like going to museums, and I love going to performances to see my other friends perform. I definitely miss that because scheduling has been tough, but I think it’s also important that you have to keep feeding your brain with what other people are making. Luckily, there’s internet for that, but a lot of times, it doesn’t satisfy you as much as actually seeing and watching a performance. Whenever we have the moment, it’s really good to have some R n’ R and take some time off. Besides touring, what’s next for Lion Babe? J: We’re currently preparing for our tour here in the UK, that’s super exciting. We’ll be releasing more music, just really trying to grow musically. People have singles and EPs to live with, but I think that they would love more music and more content, so that they can really be more excited. It’s fun to make something and we really want to share it to everybody. It’s just really doing that and growing as a band, and I’m sure we’ll be traveling more.
lionbabe.com @LionBabe
“Performing on stage is personally our kind of escape. The only way we can guarantee that other people are having fun is if we’re having fun.”
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MAESTRO
gate Furnished with a summertime innocence and bright instrumentation, indie rock trio COLONY HOUSE opens their doors to a whole new sound of possibilities. By Pola Beronilla Photographed by Darius Fitzgerald and Leah McEachern
T
he moment Scott Mills met brothers Caleb and Will Chapman for the first time at their younger sister’s birthday party, Colony House was a text away from happening. “A few weeks later, I got the classic ‘You wanna jam some time?’ text from Caleb, and the rest is history,” recalls Scott of how the band came together. “Right place, right time, you know?” With Caleb on vocal duties, Will on drum chores, and Scott on guitar charges, the band formed together in 2009 to create an anthemic mix of folk-pop and indie rock. Formerly known as Caleb, the trio had to enter a new home to uncover a comfort zone. “Colony House comes from the apartment complex we lived in around the time we were starting out,” Scott
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explains of the band’s significant name switch. “I remember the first time we all played together. Caleb sent me some demos to learn. After jamming for the first time together, Will stood up and just started slow-clapping,” says Scott. “Though it’s been a long time since I got a slow clap,” quips the guitarist. Previously self-releasing three EPs before finalizing a full-length debut in 2014, it only took a few knocks before Colony House got their foot out the door. “With the new record, it felt like a fresh start would be nice, since we were deciding on a sound and a direction,” shares Scott. “The content has taken a different, lighter turn and is continuing to do that while still balancing real issues and themes we believe in. Musically, there’s a focus and identity that we’ve discovered. I think we now know a little more about what makes a Colony House song a Colony House song.” This newfound identity could clearly be heard in their debut record, When I Was Younger. From the warm breeze brought by “Silhouttes” to the emotional delight given by “Second Guessing Games” and the indie-movie-soundtrack vibe of “Waiting
MAESTRO
“There’s romanticism with overnight success in the music industry. It’s the same as any job: it takes a lot of work.”
for My Time to Come,” the band houses tight harmonies and a killer falsetto and plays it with a confessional songwriting style that empowers anyone who enters their territory. Influenced by the likes of alt-rock titans U2 and contemporary indie rockers Cold War Kids, the evolution of their sound inspires them to grow deeper. “We are individually pushing ourselves and each other to be the best writers, performers, and players we can be. It’s a healthy competitive atmosphere that makes each of us want to bring out our best,” shares Scott. “It’s fun and exciting to push the limit and do things you’ve never done before,” he adds. So far, the lead single off their album, “Silhouettes,” has received alternative rock airplay and was the most downloaded song on SiriusXM Alt Nation. The band also had their television debut last September, performing at NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers. Currently, they’re on tour with Southern Rockers NEEDTOBREATHE along with Ben Rector, Switchfoot, and Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors for the Tour De Compadres 2015. As an emerging band themselves, they do have some piece of advice for aspiring musicians that’s out and about: “There’s romanticism with overnight success in the music industry. It’s the same as any job: it takes a lot of work. Some people rise quickly—and some slowly. Refine your craft and work as hard as you can to share it with people.”
colonyhousemusic.com @ColonyHouseBand
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MAESTRO
the next episode D
anish musician Kwamie Liv’s festival debut at the Pitchfork Music Festival in Paris last year was such a revelation, making her one of the crowd favorites during the show. With her breathy, sultry voice, almost a cross between Lana Del Rey and M.I.A., mixed with a trip-hop vibe, Kwamie’s music elevates you to an almost euphoric calmness— it’s drowning, but in a good way. Late last year, she released her seven-track EP Lost In The Girl, a project in which she claims happened very organically in a pretty low-key-DIY way. “I started with recording a couple of songs with one of my co-producers Baby Duka and feeling this enormous urge to put them out there, so I did. A lot of the songs were created in the studio and released shortly afterwards. Of course, there was some sort of structure to it, and it took a lot of work, especially being an independent artist, but the process itself felt very free and taught me so much,” shares Kwamie. By this time, her first single, entitled “Higher,” from her upcoming second EP is probably doing its rounds in the airwaves. “The making of each project has its own unique feel to it. It keeps it interesting,” adds Kwamie. Working really hard on this new release, as well as starting her own label Fame Bear, between traveling for performances and studio time, Kwamie’s geared up for this new chapter of her career. Your singing style is very unique and powerful. Who are your inspirations in music? There are so many artists that I love, it’s impossible for me to name them all. Leonard Cohen, Nina Simone, Chet Baker, Miriam Makeba, Tracy Chapman, Joni Mitchell, Antony Hegarty, Kendrick Lamar, Fiona Apple, Tom Waits, Stromae, Frank Ocean. I could go on, but those are a few off the bat. I admire their voices for different reasons, but I experience a powerful vulnerability and truth in all of their work. I’m very inspired by that. You’re often compared to Lana Del Rey. How do you feel about that? I feel good about it. I always take it as a compliment to be compared to strong female artists.
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Having lived in different countries, musician KWAMIE LIV uses this aspect to evolve as a singer and songwriter. By Denise Mallabo Photographed by Baby Duka
MAESTRO
“One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is how powerful language, music, and art in general can be.”
What’s the first song you wrote? What was it about? The first song I wrote came to me in a dream when I was eight. I remember waking up and recording it into a little machine. I can’t remember it fully anymore, but it was something about coffee and cigarettes. Right now, you’re based in Denmark. Describe to us a typical day for you. To be honest, I feel like everyday is different these days. Most of my team is located outside of Denmark, so communicating with them is an everyday thing. I also travel quite a bit. I’m currently gearing up to play a bunch of summer festivals, so there’ll be an intense rehearsal period starting up soon. Other than that, I spend a lot of time playing and writing music. If I’m away from the creative process for too long, I get extremely restless. You’ve previously lived in Turkey, Sweden, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Zambia to name a few. Do you think your location affects your creative process? Moving around has definitely helped shape the way I write and think about music. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is how powerful language, music, and art in general can be. They have a unique ability, more often than not, to transcend physical and cultural borders. Even though I pull inspiration from all the places I’ve been, I’m fascinated by the universality of the human experience and the different forms it takes.
soundcloud.com/kwamieliv @kwamieliv
What You Need
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M A S T E R M I N D
S TAY FLASHY Australian designer POPPY LISSIMAN isn’t afraid of clashing colors or cheeky designs. As you lose yourself to the psychedelia of neon color and the swirl of irreverence, her eye-catching creations are a wonder to be fixated upon. By Olivia Estrada
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I
n the haze of trend and turnover, Poppy Lissiman’s label stands out with that rebellious, can’t-be-tamed streak. Making new bag silhouettes with a quarter moon and a cartoon sun, choosing pop art and ‘90s designs over the basics, and shying away from subtle colors, it’s easy to think that these pieces are but a passing novelty. Poppy tells us, “I love designing pieces that are bright conversation-starters. I don’t do anything that would fall into the staple spectrum.” In truth, Poppy Lissiman, the brand name and the designer, has been around for seven years. “I started off with dressy womenswear before opening my own store. Soon, my aesthetic became a little less dressy and more street-oriented. I took a pause from doing womenswear at the end of 2012, and I restarted my label doing accessories only at the beginning of 2014.” From the time she decided to start out on her own at the age of 19, having finishing her internship at a shoe label, Poppy has checked off items in a fashion girl’s dream to-do list faster than you can double-tap that next big thing on your mobiles. Recently, she collaborated with fashion illustrator Hattie Stewart for a line of clutchworthy bags and opened a store in Claremont, West Australia called Poppy Lissiman Addition. Fashion magazines, trendspotting websites, and celebrities like Jessica Alba and Gwen Stefani have been caught copping these man-repeller pieces. “I never aimed to please the mass market, especially men,” Poppy shares bluntly. “I think trends like this are just
MAstermind
a step towards women feeling good about purchasing something that’s entirely their taste or something they want without thinking about what their boyfriend or anyone else will think of it.” The rebelliousness isn’t without cause nor caution. Poppy speaks of the energy that permeates from her homeland of Australia. “The Australian fashion scene is very unique but multi-faceted at the same time. The fashion in Melbourne is totally different to Sydney, which is different again to the fashion in Perth. Generally, Australian fashion is very bright, sometimes very left off-center, and a little on the casual side because of our isolation to the rest of the world and the fact that we have opposite seasons.” Not content with the uniqueness of the scene around her, Poppy also looks at other capitals that fuel today’s worldview for ideas. “I love Hong Kong more than any other city because of the energy, the people, the food, and the fashion. I have always been obsessed with Asian fashion. Whenever I am there, I get so much inspiration.”
Browsing through Poppy’s collection, one is filled with the adrenaline of being in the moment. Her label brings in sunglasses that compete more with the shine than the shade, chokers that scream both siren and punk, and bags that are the main piece rather than a complementary accessory. All of these carry a personality behind it that’s at par with Poppy’s main subject: the woman who isn’t afraid of color and clashing prints to stand out in the crowd. She shares, “I like to think that something about the designs I do will bring a smile to the face of the person wearing it.”
poppylissiman.com @poppylissiman
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MASTERMIND
UNPARALLED UNIVERSE Traversing through space, Spain-based artist FELIPE PANTONE uses his travels to his advantage in his knack for crafting hypnotic illusions that burst off walls around the globe. By Kush Obusan
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antones have been around since the ‘60s, but color swatching isn’t the case for Felipe. Ever since discovering grafitti at age 12, he’s gone to art school and participated in exhibitions at Delimbo Gallery, HK Walls, Constant Hong Kong and with the Ultra Boyz from Belgium. In his trailblazing career, however, he explains, “I’m not especially proud of anything really, I’m just happy I’m lucky enough to be able to develop my work and to be able to grow with it. The fun is on the way, not at the end of the line.”
With a quick glance at his walls, there’s a psychedelic quality that teleports audiences into a parallel universe. Straddling between the lines of unstructured geometry and an ultracontemporary aesthetic, his eye candy of a mural plays with universality and omnipresence. He fills the unconventional
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letterforms with outlandish neon and metallic colors which is a reflection of the issues that the digital age surfaces; one that treads the lines of internet, communication, and speed. Beneath the spray paint, Felipe embeds a look several light years ahead through the effect of his 3D murals. This unique tone he’s established is a product of his development as an artist. “I really try not to settle, in any terms. I try to go with the flow. Art changes just like how a person does.” From this, Felipe has produced an arsenal of work deeply rooted on today’s digital age to project an iridescent and ultrasonic future.
MASTERMIND
“I really try not to settle, in any terms. I try to go with the flow. Art changes just like a person changes.”
The 3D effect your artworks really feels like we’re stepping into another world. What kind of world do you think this is? I’m pretty comfortable with the work I’m doing at the moment, it really represents me and the way I see the world. I feel we’re living in very exciting times, where information is available immediately, where you can move very quickly and where great things will happen. You mentioned in an interview with Global Street Art that location affects the work you do. What locations do you favor the most? The truth is, my work is not intended for everyone. I try to speak about speed, connections, universality, the importance of the Internet, flights, and technology. If I paint in a small town in the middle of nowhere, I certainly don’t try to get the local vibe and include it in the work. I think it only makes sense from a global perspective. But if I paint in Tokyo, for instance, it also makes sense locally, since even the way the city works says a lot about these things.
What is your most recent artwork? Can you describe what was your process like making it? I just finished a couple of paintings before coming to Hong Kong. They’re enamel on wood panel. I use some stencils and a lot of masking tape, and I paint mostly with spray paint, even though later I retouch with brush and markers. What’s next for Felipe Pantone? After this few trips, I’m going back to Valencia and stay for a month to finish the work for my next solo show in Sevilla at Delimbo Gallery.
felipepantone.com
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F A S T and FURIOUS When the flash goes off, the sparks are sure to fly as photographer JARED THOMAS KOCKA holds the vibe of the in-your-face culture in his frame. Seeing how his images make us take a second look at our daily feed, his actions are more than justified. By Olivia Estrada
Jade of Wilhelmina LA
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tuck somewhere in the past is a version of Jared serving up pizza orders instead of looking into a viewfinder. It’s a good thing that it didn’t take long for him to escape that fate as he is now within the fast-paced present, working with brands like Gap, The Hundreds, and Brian Lichtenberg plus publications such as Nylon, C-Heads, and Galore. Jared has also dropped by companies like Interscope Records and Sony Records to capture photos that tell us what’s hot right now. It’s neither mess nor method that helps Jared out in his works. He takes photographs with an unapologetic license to what he prefers. “My aesthetic is just what I like to do. I remember looking at Terry Richardson’s work before I had even thought about seriously picking up a camera, and I always loved how candid it felt,” Jared tells us. “I love the fact that my photos are simple, clean, and energetic.” As much as he plainly describes his photographs, achieving them takes a little bit more than a few clicks and a few adjustments in the angles. “The photos are only as good and exciting as the person is, so I always try to get the best out of my subject. I create an environment that allows for people to do fun stuff,” explains Jared. From lying down on empty roads to playing around with sweets and treats in PJs and undergarments, his photos focus on the runaways of today and on those who fear to find themselves in a state of repetition.
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Scarlett of Wilhelmina LA
MAstermind
Maggie Duran of IMG
Jared himself should know what it’s like to be engulfed by a desire to get away from the norm and find one’s place. When he started his career, he decided to move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles to try out his luck. “I needed a life change, so I figured I should move,” he says as he recalls his early days when he supported himself as a pizza deliveryman. “There are no lazy days when you’re in LA, so it allows you to get a lot done. Not only that, but LA is a very motivated city. People don’t come here to just ‘hang out.’ I find most people who come here try to make something of themselves or do something significant. Everyone comes out here is motivated to do something. That really fuels me.” His hustle has earned him a place in the city and even a citation from Complex in their list, “The Top 25 Young Photographers To Keep Your Eye On.” However, Jared sees that these things serve as signs to move on rather than indications that he’s already made it. “It’s amazing when people like my stuff and when they want to feature me, but I don’t take it all too seriously or let it affect what I am doing. It’s great and I feel really fortunate, but I still feel like I’m just getting started and have a long way to go.” All these directions that pull Jared to more endeavors doesn’t mean that he doesn’t have steady gaze at what it all means. “I think all good photographers have to be able to direct and communicate their vision. An aimless or a shy photographer will make it really hard to create a cohesive image.”
Pyper of NEXT LA
jaredthomasphotography.com @jajajaredthomas Daniela Lopez of Wilhelmina Miami
Every nod and blink of an eye caught on the rolling cameras to the squares of our screens teased the supermodel KENDALL JENNER was born to be. Lithe and lean in the fashion scene, one look at her and you won't ever have to think twice to decide her status as a runway phenomenon. by Janroe Cabiles Photos from Penshoppe
"One of the most beautiful things about this career is being surrounded by the most beautiful people, people who make the most beautiful clothing and designs."
A little teasing and you're left uneasy with the way Kendall Jenner turns her gaze on you. With her face pasted on fashion pages and on billboards from Sunset to SoHo, you'd never blink away from her dominating stare. Even when she throws her head back in laughter with her hair in a knot, as many might have seen on television, you're left with the same disbelief at how someone could have that kind of dichotomy. There is a dainty darkness to her girl-next-door smile, and as soon as the light touches her, what was a free-spirited, doe-eyed girl a second ago transforms into a muse standing before you–lithe, strong, all angles and eyelashes, with raven hair. From grain-filled home videos to set-up gear and camera men around the house, Kendall grew up around multiple lenses focused on her and her family for their show Keeping Up with the Kardashians (in case you haven't heard of it). But from a young age, it was the antithesis of reality stardom that became a dream of hers. "Modeling was always something I wanted to do. [I started] at 14, but I was pretty young, so I was more into the smiley, happy, catalogue feel," she shares. "Then when I turned 17, I told myself, 'Alright, I'm going to step it up a notch.' I really wanted
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to turn it into a career." Carrying around the stereotype of being a reality star in a cutthroat business might connote an automatic path to being a model due to her popularity, but this turned out to be the opposite. Revealing that this actually worked against her and that doors have been closed because of her last name, there was only one way to go ahead with her dream. "My whole life, I've watched my parents and sisters working. I naturally grew up to be a workaholic." After a slew of covers for Teen Vogue, Harper's Bazaar Arabia, and Kurv Magazine in 2012 and 2013, her steady rise anointed her as the new contender, walking for Marc Jacobs Fall/Winter 2014 in New York. Entering the final casting without Marc knowing who she was, the designer took a chance on her solely for her performance and sent her out in a sheer top, bleached eyebrows, and a bob, breaking the internet with her runway debut. She went on to walk for high-end names such as Givenchy and Chanel during her first Fashion Week, then Diane von Furstenberg, Tommy Hilfiger, Balmain, and Bottega Veneta for the Spring/Summer 2015 Fashion Week, including being hand-picked by Karl Lagerfeld for the unique Chanel Couture feminine protest. Also gracing the covers of Love Magazine, Dazed, Interview, Garage, Allure, and GQ, she proved to be the newest model phenomenon with her campaigns for Estée Lauder, Calvin Klein, Penshoppe, and Balmain × H&M, announced alongside creative director Olivier Rousteing and fellow model Jourdan Dunn. Being reborn as model of the moment, Kendall has slowly leaked into the fashion world's consciousness, drawn onto everyone's mind like slender and innocent lines on paper. With hands that are never cold, her presence comes as something natural to her. "I don't get anxious [for shoots or shows]. I get more excited than nervous, like having an adrenaline rush." A Los Angeles native bringing California air to the
"Sure, I have my hard days, but what job doesn't come with rough days?"
"I think the point when I'll be close to telling myself I've made it is when I'm 40 years old and still killing it."
Parisian streets almost sounds unreal, but it's been Kendall's obsession ever since she first deemed supermodels to be her superheroes as a young girl. But at the moment, her serene composure and violent passion prove that she belongs to the scene. "One of the most beautiful things about this career is being surrounded by the most beautiful people, people who make the most beautiful clothing and designs." True enough, anyone who follows Kendall anywhere can tell that she's found a homeaway-from-home in friends and fellow models Cara Delevingne, Gigi Hadid, and Hailey Baldwin, who are all changing the role social media has in the industry as a marketing tool. "Social media is huge in this generation. Keeping a following is a really big deal, but at the same time, you have to keep your mystery. Keep people wanting more." Despite having a consistently-growing following, haters are a daily constant in the life of Kendall Jenner. Even with her coveted status in the fashion industry in only three years, people are still doubting her cemented title as a model. In the 2014 Winter Issue of Dazed, Kendall is seen in a Mean Girls-inspired video, where she reads typical comments about herself from a Burn Book. A moment captured by the camera sees her read the two words, "She's ugly," as she looks straight into the lens, past her long lashes, almost begging the viewer to look at her a second longer. Despite the slack she gets for her background, she says, "I think everything has its pros and cons, but I haven't found anything I don't like about modeling. I feel very blessed to be in the position I'm in. Sure, I have my hard days, but what job doesn't come with rough days?" It can never be said if Kendall Jenner would make her mark on fashion the same way had she come from a different background, but something about the way she makes her audience shiver as she walks down the runway like a perfect storm makes us believe her already stunning resume will only be added to. When asked what dream brand she would
like to work with, she answers, "I used to always say Chanel, but the wild part is that I did Chanel in my first Fashion Week. I'm already working with these amazing people and brands, I just hope to continue it. I'm excited for what else is to come." One glance at the muse leaves no room for doubt that she would be a supermodel in her own right anyway. "I don't think I'll ever say I've made it in fashion. I'm really competitive with myself. I think the point when I'll be close to telling myself I've made it is when I'm 40 years old and still killing it." @KendallJenner
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Entering Litchfield Penitentiary, SAMIRA WILEY turned in a mere wisecracking sidekick in the form of Poussey Washington on Neflix’s Orange is the New Black. Escaping the recurring character trope, she raises the bar in the second season and proves to be a legitimate breakout. By Pola Beronilla Photographed by Jared Thomas Kocka Styled by Jordan Grossman Makeup Crystal Boyce Special Thanks to Scott Boute & Austin Evans of Serge PR
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HEAVY HITTER
“I’m just so far from a criminal,”
confesses Samira Wiley when asked on what crime she’d most likely be imprisoned for. “It would probably be such a crazy thing like, I’d be at a sports event where they’d tell you not to smile and clap and I wouldn’t be able to help myself so I’d go to jail or something like that.” With her cheerful grin and buoyant laugh that’s as bright as her persona, no one would think any different. The only thing she’s guilty of is leaving the audience in a daze after her character on Orange is the New Black took a turn as the show’s tragic heroine. When asked on what triggered her curiosity for acting, she bluntly
relates, “I was one of those weird kids who knew what they wanted to be at a young age.” From investing this interest early on in a performing arts program at Howard University in D.C. to charging her potential, doing as much Shakespeare as she could at Julliard School in New York, Samira was fully trained to step into a bigger stage as she turned in herself as Poussey Washington on Netflix’s binge-watching phenomenon. “It’s been this journey that started since I was like nine or ten years old, and now, everything’s sort of lined up. But it took a little while,” she admits. “I actually bartended the entire first season while we were filming. I just didn’t know if it was going to work out.” But from being behind one bar to many others, Samira found a new comfort in Litchfield Penitentiary. “As an actor, you have so many auditions and almost-jobs, you know where they kill your character off or all these things. There was just a part of me
that didn’t believe it was real.” Entering the second season of the show, Samira was as clueless as the audience on what was in store for Poussey Washington. In the episode “You Also Have Pizza,” viewers had a slice of Poussey’s painful past in Germany before arriving at the correctional facility. As the series progressed, her beloved character went from Taystee’s comical sidekick to the show’s belittled moral compass. Backed up by Samira’s acting chops, people were taken through an entire spectrum of emotion as Poussey was isolated from the makeshift family she had in prison, rejected by her best friend, and ultimately, helplessly assaulted. “She’s such a good and loyal friend, and I think that’s where her heart lies. She’s able to stand up for her friend and stand up for her morals, even when everyone else isn’t doing that,” shares Samira of her character. It’s because of this performance that swiftly tagged her character as the fan favorite. But that’s not to say that the rest of the cast isn’t commendable. One of the first few of the bingewatching format, the series has been nominated for a People’s Choice Award and several Writers Guild of America Awards. It has also won a Peabody Award in 2013, and recently,
“When you take risks as an actor, that’s the sweet spot, and then you start getting things that no one would ever think to see.”
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HEAVY HITTER
shorts and top by H&M heels by Nine West
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HEAVY HITTER
“It’s go such a but I so
top by H&M necklace by H&M jeans by Hudson
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HEAVY HITTER
onna sound weird because Poussey has been an amazing, almost-perfect role in my life, ort of want to do anything that’s different from that.”
a Screen Actors Guild Award for an “Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.” An unexpected hit, the show found the perfect formula with the cast’s undeniable chemistry. “So many of the girls cast in the show have never done anything prior to this, and being with the same people for three years, you create genuine relationships. When you have genuine relationships in life, it’s only natural that it translates to the screen,” Samira relays. “To be able to be onset and learn together, it feels so comfortable. Comfortable in a way that all of us are a little bit more willing to take risks. When you take risks as an actor, that’s the sweet spot, and then you start getting things that no one would ever think to see.”
With the lack of female-driven shows in the world of television, Samira is more than delighted to see how the hit show is igniting a revolution. “I just think that now is the time where the world is ready for this. I don’t think the show would ever be received in the same way that it is now with such an outpour of love from fans, even if it came out five years earlier,” Samira explains. “If we look at the history of television, there was such an idealized portrayal of what human life is and what the human experience is. Before, we’d look at television and say, ‘Oh gosh, I wish my life was like that.’ But we’ve gotten away from that.” As the fictional series show the reality on TV, it sets a new standard in the scene. “I believe society is just ready to see themselves on the screen because none of us are perfect, and we have these imperfect characters on television that people are able to identify with.” Created by Jenji Kohan and adapted from the memoir by Piper Kerman, the show not only shines on the diversity of women on the small screen but also sheds a bright light on life in prison. “It’s relevant to people who have
connections with family members or even themselves being in prison, but even more so, it’s relevant to people who have no interactions with that just because these are real human people. They have three dimensional character arcs and that’s not some perfect person, that’s a real person. That’s why society has embraced this show the way they have.” With great gratitude to the prison bars set up by Orange is the New Black, Samira broke free from the restraints of the world of acting. “To be honest, it’s gonna sound weird because Poussey has been such an amazing, almost-perfect role in my life, but I sort of want to do anything that’s different from that,” she confesses. “Just to sort of be able to exercise all of the different parts of my instrument as an actor.” Apart from hoping to do Shakespeare again, she’s also interested in challenging herself on a bigger screen. “Whatever it is, I just want to be working with good material; good writers, good story lines, and things that help me grow and help me learn things about the business and about myself as a person.” However, playing a character on the unlawful side for so long somehow sparked a crime-fighting interest. “I want to play a superhero, I want to go on screen and do a bunch of action sequences–and learn how to kick someone’s butt.” Regardless of whether Pennsatucky or Vee’s behind is part of her hit list, who wouldn’t want to see her rock a supersuit?
@samirawiley
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THE
Some came from the bottom of the bottom and went to the top of the pops, some started from the bottom and now, they’re everywhere. For brothers Khalif “Swae Lee” and Aaquil “Slim Jimmy” Brown, collectively known as RAE SREMMURD, they rose from the crime-plagued streets of Tupelo to be taken under the wing of Mike Will Made It and make a landmark debut on the Billboard Hot 100. Welcome to the Sremm Life. By Olivia Estrada Photographed by Diwang Valdez
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T
rue to what they say about the best rappers in the industry today, we caught Swae and Slim in transit. As they make their rounds in various radio and television interviews where they teach people how they do their signature whip dance, joke around about their newly-heightened popularity with the ladies, and break out into impromptu performances, it’s easy to think these millennials are your typical rappers, high on the high life. On the contrary, the duo means serious business when it comes to their music. If you look at their scorecard, you’ll notice how in the past year, they had owned the clubs with anthems like the infectious and fun “No Flex Zone” and have taken over the stage both at SXSW and the Black Entertainment Television Awards. Their first album Sremm Life, released last January, ranked number five in the Billboard Top 10 Albums of the Week, solidifying their status as being more than a one-hit wonder. Their debut is a mix of what they want to put out their as an initial impression from a myriad of possible hits. “The creative process focused more on what would go in this album because we had more songs than we needed. We asked ourselves which songs would sound good together. We had a whole bunch of them, so we just listened to them a lot while we were traveling.” Right now, they are in the middle of their tour with 2 Chainz, a warm-up to their stint as Nicki Minaj’s front act on her ongoing The Pinkprint Tour. “We’re really excited because we get to
wake the crowd up. It’s a big responsibility, but it’s what we do. We’re just really excited to go to different cities, and be in front of millions of people.” Beyond that, Rae Sremmurd’s impending takeover tells a story unique to this breed of millennials. It’s easy to be distracted by how they are throwing money all night and dancing ‘til the dawn comes knocking, but anyone who is really paying attention won’t be fooled. “You can’t ever get comfortable,” they warn us about the music industry, despite rising the charts at an adrenalinefueled pace. “We don’t really look to other artists for our style. We try to be original because we don’t wanna sound like anybody else.” Rae Sremmurd is determined to change the conversation of today’s scene as hinted by their now famous but often mispronounced name (it’s their home label’s name spelled backwards). As they had made bad bitches their types, they explain what they mean with a refreshing perspective. “She has to be honest,” they say as they begin to describe the muse of their hit, “No Type.” The duo further explains, “She has to have a good
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personality, and she has to know how to have a good time. It doesn’t matter if she’s got red or brown hair, she just has to have her own style. As long as she has a good personality, she’s a bad bitch to us.” On top of those sincere thoughts are beats that capture their taste that is in tune with the sound of this generation, long before they know it. “We just go to the studio and try to figure out what’s gonna be banging.” Despite making their way out of the homeless and hopeless life they had in Tupelo, Mississippi via music, Rae Sremmurd doesn’t bring in indulgent anecdotes of their journey. They do bring in something that they believe only they can, amidst the giants that exist in rap and hip-hop today. They connect to audience they’ve hooked in. “Our music is always going to be crazy and turned up, but we can do different genres. We can talk about anything, but we choose to talk about parties and good vibes,” they share. In this, they have found a lot of people who have similar ideals like recent collaborators Nicki Minaj and Young Thug. “It’s cool working with them. They’re our homies. We all knew where everyone was coming from.” On the rise and tide of their sweeping career so far, the pair may be jumping all over the place like school kids let off early amid the playground dominated by crossculture moguls that is the current hip-hop scene. Still, they remain unfazed and ready to show what they’ve got across the barrier as they share what everything that has happened to them is all about: “Just stay true to yourself. Just be the coolest you can be and make the most of it.”
raesremmurd.com @raesremmurd
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DIRECTORY BRANDS ADIDAS Greenbelt 3, Makati City AÉROPOSTALE Glorietta 2, Makati City ARMANI EXCHANGE Glorietta 4, Makati City CACHE CACHE Glorietta 4, Makati City CALL IT SPRING Greenbelt 3, Makati City CHARLES AND KEITH Glorietta 3, Makati City DOLCE AND GABBANA dolcegabbana.com DUNE Greenbelt 5, Makati City ESTÉE LAUDER esteelauder.com.ph ÊTRE CECILE etrececile.com F&F Glorietta 3, Makati City FATIMA GUERRERO facebook.com/fatimaguerrerodesigner FOREVER 21 SM Makati, Makati City GAP Glorietta 4, Makati City GIORGIO ARMANI armanibeauty.com GO SPORT go-sport.com H&M SM Makati, Makati City HUDSON hudsonjeans.com
JESSICA KAIRUZ facebook.com/jessicamaekairuz JOUER jouercosmetics.com LAURA MERCIER lauramercier.com LISA MARIE FERNANDEZ lisamariefernandez.com LOUISE YOUNG COSMETICS louiseyoungcosmetics.com MARC BY MARC JACOBS Greenbelt 5, Makati City MAYBELLINE maybelline.com.ph NARS narscosmetics.com NIKE nike.com NINE WEST ninewest.com OCC occmakeup.com OLD NAVY Glorietta 3, Makati City OSTWALD HELGASON ostwaldhelgason.com PENSHOPPE Glorietta 3, Makati City PUMA puma.com SFERA SM Makati, Makati City SM ACCESSORIES SM Makati, Makati City SUITEBLANCO SM Makati, Makati City
SUNNIES Glorietta 2, Makati City THE QUIET LIFE thequietlife.com TIMBERLAND timberland.com TORY BURCH Greenbelt 5, Makati City YVES SAINT LAURENT yslbeautyus.com ZALORA zalora.com.ph ARTISTS Miguel Alomajan (Photographer) miguelalomajan.wordpress.com Crystal Boyce (Makeup) crystalboyce.com Aya Cabauatan (Photographer) facebook.com/ayacabauatanphotography Ian Castañares (Photographer) thestilllifephotographer.tumblr.com Mayesa delos Santos (Makeup) instagram.com/mayesaofficial Baby Duka (Photographer) babyduka.com Darius Fitzgerald (Photographer) dariusfitzgerald.tumblr.com Jordan Grossman (Stylist) jordanstyling.com Jared Thomas Kocka (Photographer) jaredthomasphotography.com Nicolas Le Forestier (Photographer) nicolasleforestier.net
Potchie Lazaro (Photographer) potchielazaro.com Mhico Mizoguchi (Hair) facebook.com/mhico.mizoguchi20 Janno Novenario (Stylist) facebook.com/stylistjanno.novenario Kush Obusan (Photographer) acushlaobusan.wordpress.com Sophie Ostrowska (Stylist) theparisiansite.com Antonio Papa (Hair) instagram.com/iamantoniopapa Floe Tapayan (Makeup) instagram.com/floetapayan Diwang Valdez (Photographer) diwangvaldez.com
STATUS INVADES
BOTTLED YOUTH Shifting gears between production design, taking care of business while making mini gourmet sandwiches for her brainchild Baguettini, and constantly having a laugh, AVA DAZA makes it look easy.
@avaddaza Portrait by Aya Cabauatan
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PENCIL CASE
I love all my arts and crafts materials because I’m such a DIY girl.
CALMING THE FEARFUL MIND BY THICH NHAT HANH
I’ve been into self-discovery books lately because it gives me better insight about other types of characters, especially my current read as it talks about the importance of mindfulness.
SUNNIES
Of course, you need to have your go-to sunnies, because you never know when you’re going to need them.
RUBBER SHOES
It’s always an inner struggle for me to get myself to workout, so it doesn’t hurt to sport shoes that are comfy and cute.
argan oil
Argan oil has become my new obsession because I’ve recently read about all its benefits. It’s great for both the skin and hair.
LIP TINT AND EYELASH CURLER
If you ask me to choose two things from my makeup kit, I’d say these two are the most important. Curled lashes and full pink lips everyday.
BELO SUNBLOCK
I’ve always loved being under the sun, and as a kid, my mom’s only condition for me was to wear sunblock. Seriously, everyone should use sunblock.
Makeup Mayesa de los Santos Hair Anton Papa
FAMILY PHOTO
My family is a big part of who I am. My sister and cousins play a crucial role in pretty much all my life decisions.
MINI SURFBOARD
I bought this when I was in Laguna Beach in 2013. I was able to surf there and my companion owned this store that sold a lot of souvenirs.
BOOK OF MAPS
I love discovering new places to go to. This serves as my guide when I plan trips, so I keep it as inspiration for my next adventure.
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