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fêteure “A Celebration of Emerging Talent”
Press Package 2013
READ.SHOP.STYLE.
OUR STORY
Advertisement sample
004 CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAMPLE MATERIAL 012 JustFAB or JustBAD?: product review of the popular e-commerce site, JustFab.com 016 Precious Stones: accessorizing with fine jeweler, Couture Rocks ON THE COVER
009 Read.Shop.Style: “Our Story”
020 fêteureD: showcasing designs by Emmanuel Tobias, Couture Rocks, and Amanda Sterett 025 Global Fashion Report: No Sugar Added 026 Style of art: a look inside the W.A.A.S. Gallery and the amazing talent behind it. 030 Picture Perfect: featuring work by photographer TJ Rogers 036 The Perfect Partnership: Amrel Revilo Productions 042 london bridge: an editorial interpretation of the popular nursery rhyme “London Bridge is falling down.” 056 The Face: featuring up and coming models Loren Kovo and Ilia Negarestan 058 Designer Cover: Fashion Designer and Stylist, Devin White 073 Thrive at 35: how one woman reminds us to set our sights high and never be afraid of a challenge! 076 Sole to Soul: The Society of Women Who Loves Shoes; making a difference through fashion, “saving one SOLE at a time”
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EDIE MIDDLETON
Founder/Editor-in-Chief Creative Director Executive Consultant EDITH MIDDLETON, Ph.D. Contributing Writers LOREN KAVONIAN, TYLER KERBYSON, LINNÉA RÖNNQUIST, TONAYA WRIGHT Contributing Photographers ASHLEY CHIMAL, KELSEY NEWKHAM, AMANDA C. WILLIAMS, DINA AWAD Advertising Account Manager AMANDA MATANGA, EMA Advertising Group www.thestylemedaily.com facebook.com/stylemedaily twitter.com/stylemedaily pinterest.com/stylemedaily instagram.com/thestylemedaily To purchase fêteure Magazine visit: www.magcloud.com/user/stylemedaily CONTACT US advertising@thestylemedaily.com feteures@thestylemedaily.com jobs@thestylemedaily.com info@thestylemedaily.com MAILING ADDRESS Style Me Daily, LLC P.O Box 8149 Fort Worth, TX 76124
*Special thanks to our sponsor TC American Business Links Additional photos and words credited where applicable. Disclaimer: Please note that the information used in this publication may be outdated or no longer available. Material in this publication serve as examples of the type of content fêteure Magazine plans to produce in future issues. Style Me Daily, LLC and all those associated with this publicaion assume no finacial liability for any misinformation within the content and advertisements. Please view all content as examples and sample material. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied by any method, electronically or otherwise, without written permission from the publishing company.
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006 EDITOR’S NOTE
Business 101: Never Make the Same Mistake Twice
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have a confession. I never knew starting a business would be this difficult.
I just thought I’ll start a really cool magazine targeted to up and coming young professionals, take a few pictures, do a few interviews, and of course it would turn out epic. Though, I never thought the word “fail” would quickly follow.Yep, it was an “epic fail.” [Laughs] I laugh as I type this note. It’s ok. I can laugh about it now. Having come through to the other side I can now see that my whole experience happened for a reason. It taught me patience, made me a stronger person, and a better business woman. Wait. Let me back up, I’m getting a little ahead of myself. I have to tell you how my journey started. Back in 2011, following my graduation from college, I made a decision. I wasn’t going to work for anybody. Ever. Punching a clock was just not an option, so I set out to turn my blog, Style Me Daily, into “Style Me Daily Magazine.” I created a Facebook and Twitter page and began the creative process. I shot the cover, a couple editorial spreads, did some interviews, and brainstormed concepts and layouts. The content flowed to me so easily that I just knew I was on the right path to success. With content in hand, it was now time to produce the actual finished product and that’s where it all fell apart. My dream, that was flowing so perfectly, had now come
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to a screeching halt. In my eagerness to create I didn’t think with a business mind. I found out quickly that fashion is fun and exciting but without a strong business foundation in an industry such as this, you won’t get very far. I hadn’t really sat down and created a business plan. I hadn’t thought about my marketing strategy, operational plan, calculated costs, or created a budget. I was executing my dream on a whim that I would be smart enough and savvy enough to figure everything out as I went along. I have to admit I was D.U.M.B. I Didn’t Understand My Business. If there was a “what not to do when starting a business” organization, I would have been the C.E.O. and “Style Me Daily Magazine” would have been the handbook. I was just so unprepared and hadn’t realized it until that very moment when things didn’t go as planned. After I cried, stomped, screamed, yelled, and threw myself a pity party, I decided I could do one of two things. I could accept defeat and give up on my dream, or I could pick myself up accept my mistakes and move forward. Luckily, I went with the second option. I decided to take the next year off and completely refocus myself and my business. I had to really think about what I wanted for myself and create a concrete plan of how I was going to get there.
EDITOR’S NOTE 007
So, I got a “regular” job (insert sad face here) and enrolled in the continuing education program at a nearby college where I began to learn graphics design and desktop publishing for myself. Getting a job and taking college courses turned out to be the best decisions I could have made. I got a job working at a cosmetics counter, something I had always wanted to do, so it was fun for me and flexible enough to still allow me to pursue my dream. Over the course of 6 months I learned so much. I learned what a pixel was and what made a great photograph. I learned typography and different layout styles. I learned Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, all major programs in the design industry. I got to network with my peers and with teachers who had 20+ years in the industry. I walked away equipped with the foundation I needed to propel my dream forward. This brings me to present day, roughly a year and a half later. I never thought it would take this amount of time to get to this point but I’m also realizing you can’t rush your vision. If I had not went through everything I have within the last year and a half and had not really took my time, Style Me Daily would not be what it is today. With the knowledge I gained, I completely revamped my vision and now Style Me Daily is an umbrella company that includes fêteure Magazine, House on 1404 boutique, and SMD The Wardrobe, three distinct businesses catering to the young professional. My experience seemed befitting to tell in the “Editor’s Note” portion of this preview issue and press package to prove that anybody with a dream, a plan, and the correct execution can achieve their goals. Style Me Daily’s success is so important because to me it embodies perseverance, hard work, and above all, faith. I realize that many of my readers and future readers may be just like me; a 20-something, recent graduate with nothing but a dream.You’re at the point in your life where you have all the aspiration and motivation in the world.You just need a chance to prove yourself and your abilities, that quintessential “foot-in-thedoor” we’re all searching for. I’m here to tell you, IT IS POSSIBLE, even if you have to you use your own foot! Don’t wait for someone to give you a chance, if necessary you have to be prepared to go out and create your own and Style Me Daily wants to be a resource to help you do just that.
We are here to support you, empower you, and uplift you. Emerging designers, Fashion stylists, Makeup artists, Models, Hairstylists. Bloggers, Writers, Photographers, etc., we’re here to give you the platform that your creativity deserves. Our goal is to build a community of like-minded individuals to support and promote one another’s distinct talents thus creating an on-going dialogue and opportunity for one another. Throughout this preview issue and press package, I’ve included the articles, pictures, and interviews that were originally intended for the debut issue. The content is a collection of all the amazing people that I met and interviewed who are just like you, getting out there and making their dreams a reality. They are awesome examples of the direction we’re headed and the type of content we will produce in the future. I’ll end this note by saying, so many nights I would sit around thinking that I would never see my dream through to fruition but something inside me wouldn’t let me quit. I kept pushing through adversity, kept pushing those discouraging voices out of my head, and I kept praying. And I encourage you to do the same. Never quit, even if you have to start over again or ten times. Even if people don’t believe in you, you have to believe in yourself. But, make sure you never make the same mistake twice. Learn from your setbacks and failures, build on them, and don’t ever look back. The mere fact that you are reading the words on this page are proof that dreams can and will come true, and for that, I thank you. I’m excited for the next chapter in this journey and I’m so happy that I have you to share it with! It’s going to be a fun ride, so stay connected through our website and social media sites! So, until the debut issue… With Love through Fashion,
Edie Middleton* Edie Middleton Style Me Daily, Founder fêteure, Editor-in-Chief
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008 Press Package/ Content contributors
Linnéa Rönnquist
After completing tasks such as working with wardrobe consultant Rosemary Gladwell and writing her former blog LinneaAfterTheUS.devote.se., Linnéa Rönnquist is now back in Sweden. In her article “No Sugar Added” (p.025) she gives us her insight into the differences between American and Swedish style.
Loren Kavonian
Loren Kavonian is a writer and model with a love of design and pastels. fêteure was lucky to have her sit down with the owners of the W.A.A.S Gallery (p.026) and get an inside look into the art gallery and the amazing talent behind it. We also highlight Loren as an up and coming model who is signed with the Campbell Agency in Dallas TX (p.056).
Jamie Johnson & Frank Christon Stylists Jamie Johnson and Frank Christon team up to bring us their modern-day interepretation on the traditional nursery rhyme, London Bridge is Falling Down (p. 042). A fashion editorial packed full of style, it won’t disappoint!
Tyler Kerbyson
Tyler is a freelance blogger, writer, and well known socialite in Dallas,TX. “Thrive at 35” (p.073), tells a story about a young woman overcoming her circumstances to take control of her life and advance her career with perseverance, and, of course, a keen sense of fashion!
Tonaya Wright
Tonaya Wright, a fashionista at the University of North Texas in Denton, TX, is pursuing her Bachelors in Fashion Merchandising and Digital Retailing. Her love for fashion and e-retail brought her to give us a review of the online retailer JustFAB.com. She bears all telling us the good, bad, and ugly of her experience with this popular site (p.012). www.thestylemedaily.com
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Read.Shop.Style: Our Story
tyle Me Daily™ was originally created as a blog in February 2009 while attending college studying fashion merchandising. I wanted to find a way to get involved in the fashion community and express myself in a fun creative way. Not really taking my blog seriously I began to slack off until I would get an internship that would change everything.
requirement just the ambition and motivation to succeed.
In September 2010 I landed my first fashion internship with Runway Ready, wardrobe styling company for the independent film Blissful Lies. It was there that I met other interns that shared my passion for wardrobe styling. I told them that I had a fashion blog that I hadn’t really done much with and asked them if they would like to help me by contributing to the blog. Their enthusiasm was overwhelming! From there they started contributing and together we began to build a modest following. Based on my blogs’ analytics Style Me Daily had reached countries as far as the Ukraine, Germany, Russia, France, and Japan.
From November 2011 to May 2013 I decided to take time off to really learn the industry, gain more education, and refocus my business strategy. And now, I have completely re-branded the company to include fêteure Magazine (Read), House on 1404 boutique (Shop), SMD The Wardrobe (Style), and an update blog site at thestylemedaily.com.
I had an epiphany; a spiritual revelation. I wanted to use fashion as a platform to help people reach their goals and career aspirations. So, I decided to create a company that catered to an overlooked demographic, the 20-something recent grad with major talent but no platform; where “2-5 years of previous experience” isn’t a
I aspired to create a community of like minded individuals that wanted to network, collaborate, and promote one another’s talents and so in June 2011 following my graduation from college I began to work towards bringing that vision to life.
READ: fêteure Magazine [fête: a celebration. feature: to give prominence to.] fêteure Magazine (pronounced “Feature”) is a fashion and style publication highlighting the up and coming in fashion, design, and business. It’s a celebration of emerging talent; offering a new, fresh, and innovative take on fashion and style.
Mission Statement: to provide young professionals the opportunity to develop their skills and gain exposure within the fashion, design, and business industries. www.thestylemedaily.com
010 Read.Shop.Style: Our Story SHOP: House on 1404 Boutique Many nights I would sit home on 1404 Barron Lane and dream about what could be. House on 1404 represents the pursuit of a dream. We buy independent designer collections which not only aids in the development of emerging designer brands but also provides the consumer with one-of-a-kind pieces to add to their wardrobe! STYLE: SMD The Wardrobe SMD The Wardrobe specializes in styling young professionals between the ages of 18-35. We know that this is a unique time in their lives, from establishing their own personal style, to graduation from college, to finding their dream career. We help them grace through life’s milestones with tons of confidence and a wardrobe to match! Target Readership: •The “young professional” in design and business; men and women ages 18 to 35. •They are fashion forward and trend conscious. •They are either in the beginning stages of their career or in the process of starting a new venture. •They seek more knowledge and insight about opportunities within the fashion industry. Target Market Our target market is one of the most promising in the industry. They have unique purchasing power as they represent the innovators and risk takers in society. Publication Cycle We will offer our publication each season. Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer. Distribution Strategy Our magazine will be available to be purchased online and in-print through a self-serving publishing platform called HP MagCloud. “Invented by HP Labs, MagCloud is a self-service publishing platform that empowers businesses and magazine publishers alike to easily turn targeted content into professional quality www.thestylemedaily.com
publications, printed on-demand, shipped globally and available in both print and digital format. All content is printed to order using HP Indigo technology, delivering professional print quality with no waste or over-runs, while reducing the impact on the environment (http://blog.magcloud. com/about/).” We will also implement a strong social media campaign utilizing our website, ISSUU, Facebook, Twitter, and other popular social blogging sites including Instagram and Pinterest. We also intend on disseminating our content through email campaigns and direct-mailings. By providing a variety of platforms to view and purchase our magazine, our publication will cater to the growing evolution and demands of print media and new technology. Community Initiative Giving back to our community is the heart of our company. We want to reward and support individuals and non-profit corporations that make a difference through fashion, design, and business. We plan to achieve this through partnerships with charitable organizations in an effort to raise money for their respective cause. It is our hope that as our magazine develops and grows we will be able to incorporate several community initiatives including scholarships to college students and sponsorships to aid entrepreneurs. Corporate Sponsorships We are seeking corporate sponsorships to aid in the development of Style Me Daily and fêteure Magazine. If you believe in our vision and have an interest in partnering with us, please contact us at edie@thestylemedaily.com. Advertising If you would like to advertise with us and utilize our distinct target market, contact us to view our media kit and competitive advertising prices at advertising@thestylemedaily.com To receive Style Me Daily’s complete business information packet please email us at: edie@thestylemedaily.com or call our office at 817-455-3930.
fêteure Magazine will offer our readers the most fashion-forward, up to date content online and in-print. Whether it be fashion editorials, wardrobe or makeup tips, industry information, trend forecasts, product reviews, or who the hottest up and comer’s are, we want to be your number one resource for what’s new and fresh.
012 press package/sample article
JUSTFAB or JUSTBAD? Our accesories contibutor Tonaya Wright, gives us the good, bad, and fab of her experience with the popular e-commerce site, JUSTFAB.COM
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photo credit:Tonaya Wright
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s an investment shopper, I like my items saturated with quality, aesthetic appeal, and flexibility. So its of no surprise that when the straps of my cross-over bag broke, I was on the search for my next “it” bag a.k.a “the bag.” That same week, I received an email from JUSTFAB.com with a 20% off coupon and instantly fell in love and ordered this Birkin impersonation titled “The Law” in midnight blue. After 2 weeks of waiting, I received nothing but an email stating that my order was cancelled due to workmanship issues and offered a complimentary 50% off credit towards my next order. My heart ached, yet I decided to let the incident slide and quickly re-ordered “The Law” in its next best color, beige. Twenty-four hours later, I recieved an email with a tracking number stating that my package had shipped. I was estatic! Yet, a week later nothing was delivered and the details under my tracking number were still blank. I called customer service who suggested I wait another week. When that week passed, I remained stuck with the same issue and no assistance from a clueless customer service rep. This cycle persisted for 5 more weeks until I opted for store credit. One week later, to my surprise, I received a package from JUSTFAB. My heart fluttered hoping that it was my lost bag and to my delight it was. It was so beautiful and so well made that I almost developed amnesia on the entire mishap.
Final verdict? The website’s personal
stylists, customer service, delivery time, and communication duration was JUSTBAD. Yet, their item quality and appeal was JUSTFABULOUS! But, after I use my credit towards another JUSTFAB item, unfortunately, I’ll be cancelling my subscription.•
As a company, Style Me Daily’s goal is to encourage and motivate young profesionals in design and business, offering them real world insight on what it takes to make it in this competitive industry.
Photographer Ashley Chimal Model Megan Lucas HMUA Brandon Peevyhouse Stylist Juan Lerma Styling Assistants Veronica Cortes & Josh Baker jewelry Couture Rocks
016 Press Package/ Sample Interview
Carinthia Kishaba is a believer in dreams and for this entrepreneur dreams have come true. Following a chance opportunity and advice from her father, Couture Rocks has become a reality.
Couture Rocks
Couture Rocks Pictued Carinthia Kishaba Stylist Juan Lerma dress Tootsies jewelry
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018 Press Package/ Sample Interview
fêteure: How did your company get its start? Carinthia: I had a diamond vendor come to me about a family jewelry company in the Dallas Market that wanted to retire and sell their business. My mother, Lynn, and I met with the couple who owned Fan Designs [Vic & Nancy Ladd] and knew it would be a great opportunity to buy them out and start our own jewelry business. f: I love the name of your company, how did you come up with the name Couture Rocks? What’s the story behind it? C: I’m a dreamer and things come to me in my dreams, the names of my Children, and the name of our Company. It’s [the name] especially fun because of the play on words. f: Have you always been a jeweler or did you start off in another career? C: When I was little my parents told me I had the jewelry gift, I found lost jewelry everywhere! At the beach, in swimming pools, or just walking to school, I always loved it. Anything that sparkled caught my eye. I started working in jewelry after the birth of my first son about 10 years ago. I worked for corporate and family owned companies and learned so much. Not just about gems and designs, but about how to and not to run a business. My mother always told me we should run our own business, she is very gifted in administration and organization. f: What are the typical types of pieces you carry? C: Our company, Couture Rocks, is more of a fine contemporary jewelry boutique. We carry designer lines not everyone else has that are unusual, mostly limited pieces or one-of-a-kind. We do design some pieces but mainly leave it up to our amazing collection of designers. f: Do you have a formal education in design? C: No, I actually majored in English and minored in law. But I knew I was just too social and free spirited to be tied down to a desk. f: Do you think a formal education is necessary to www.thestylemedaily.com
be successful in the fashion industry or can talent alone carry you? C: I’m sure education helps in some areas, but if you are passionate and focused I think you can do anything. I always remember a few things my father say’s--one, if you truly want to succeed and be happy in life you cannot be a perfectionist, they are held back by their fear of failure and most millionaires have lost their millions a few times over; dedication and perseverance are what it takes. And two, keep your ears open and your mouth shut, you’ll learn more and stay out of trouble [laughs]. f: What is a typical day like at the Couture Rocks office? C: Our days are fun; we play with jewels all day. We deal with customers who once they buy with us become our friends and family. Just because we are Couture does not mean we are stuffy and we always want people to feel welcome and at home with us. We also have a busy online site and Facebook page that keeps everyone in the know about sales and gem facts. f: What do you think sets Couture Rocks apart from other jewelers? C: We strive for excellence by hand picking each piece in our jewelry collection for its fine quality and unique design, being personable and professional, and always remembering luxury is a privilege. I don’t sell a need, I sell a desire. f: What is one piece of jewelry that you think everyone should have in their jewelry box? C: I will try and stick to a few. One, studs, every girl-or rock star guy--should have a go to pair of studs. Two, diamond hoops, when you want something a bit more than the stud; they dress up and down. Three, an everyday necklace, the yellow gold link chain that goes with everything, a diamond solitaire pendant, or that sweet necklace your grandmother passed down to you. We all have that one piece. And four, the ring. We love our rings, big and bold or sweet and simple, as long as you love it, wear it!
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“I don’t sell a need, I sell a desire.”
“Don’t get too caught up in the trend! Mixing that one new stunning necklace with a simple pair of studs is always a good decisonand layering is good, but wearing a ring on every finger is not!”-Carinthia f: Besides jewelry, what is something you enjoy to indulge in and can’t be without? C: Well like everyone my phone! Love that little EVO, it does everything I need it to do. My Chanel wallet, it holds my Neiman’s card [laughs], and a great lip gloss. f: If you could give one piece of advice to an upcoming entrepreneur who wanted to be a jeweler or jewelry designer, what would it be? C: Study up! Intern under different designers and surround yourself with positive people who want you to succeed! Get involved in your community and network, it’s an amazing tool!•
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020 Press Package/Sample Editorial Feature
fĂŞteureD
showcasing designs by Emmanuel Tobias, Amanda Sterett, and Couture Rocks
Photographer Ashley Chimal Stylist Juan Lerma Styling Assistants Veronica Cortes, Josh Baker Model Kit Johnston, The Campbell Agency HMUA Brandon Peevyhouse wardrobe Emmanuel Tobias jewelry Amanda Sterett, Couture Rocks
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Press Package/Sample Article 025
No Sugar Added Just how different is Swedish and American Style? Our international contributor, Linnéa Rönnquist Takes us into her world were less means so much more.
T
ake away the super size, the XXL, the extra everything, and all the sweeteners and what you’re left is Sweden. Sweden is a XS sized country in the northern part of Europe, called Scandinavia, where the scones don’t contain sugar and the car isn’t your second home. It is also a piece of land where the fashion air is rolling down all the streets and filling up all the corners. Swedish habits and procedures are, compared to America, habits with no sugar. It has affected the Swedish designer’s work and made Swedish design known for its minimalism. You don’t have to pull out your magnifying glass to spot the patterns among the shows of Swedish fashion designers--literally. Lines and cuts are graphic, simple, or only accent the model’s very straight body. It doesn’t take twenty-five years of making patterns to understand that the patterns behind the creations are carefully made to make the clothes look simple but elegant. Brands like Pucci and Sonyia Rykel would be like a red couch put in a white room if you compared them with most of the Swedish designers. Instead of saying “look at me” by using bright colors and prints,
textures and high quality fabrics fill up Swedish designers’ studios. Sweden is one country where every street is filled with fashion-interested people.Yet the names of our brands are still not names that you find commonly all over the world. One example would be the fashion model/blogger/fashion director/designer/stylist Elin Kling. Her closet is filled with Swedish design and if you look at her blog, stylebykling.nowmanifest.com, you will have an excellent example of Swedish clothes, where no sugar is added. Brands that take up big parts of Elin’s wardrobe include Google Acne studios or Whyired. If you are looking for a minimalistic look these are two hot brands to check out. Sweden’s world of fashion is simply without all the extras. Just like we prefer to fill our mouths with a cup of coffee instead of a glazed doughnut, we prefer to dress ourselves in an unadulterated look. Linnéa Rönnquist
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026 Press Package/Sample Interview
Style of Art While visiting the W.A.A.S Gallery you feel as if you have been transported into an updated version of Andy Warhol’s Factory. W.A.A.S has that warm retro vibe. There is a talent and light attached to owner Brandy Adams (curator is Mark Hanson). She is exactly what Dallas needs. I was lucky enough to throw some questions her way.
Photographs Courtesy of W.A.A.S. Gallery
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027
fêteure: What inspired you to open W.A.A.S? Brandy: It was a childhood dream that I turned into a reality! I was sexually abused emotionally and had Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. I want to show others how to heal from art and creating. I was tired of the stop and start in the hair and makeup industry and wanted to see others’ visions and dreams come alive. f: A well known make-up artist and hairstylist, also a professionally trained dancer and painter; how did you pick up so many interests? Brandy: I, myself, have always been an artist and creator. I have healed thru creativity and individual expression. I have many interests because they help define me and help me be the light worker I was sent here to be. It allows me to connect on so many organic levels. I believe in the freedom to express ourselves other than when we are altered. f: When selecting upcoming artists, what do you look for? How do you determine which artists to work with? Brandy: I look for craftsmanship, commitment, and the love for art that I have and showing it to an audience like they have never seen. f: Who is your favorite artist? Why? Brandy: Picasso! I have a true connection with one of his pieces I bought years ago – Dora Maar. If you look at her with L shape views you see the distortion that Picasso imposed on her as a woman do to jealousy. I see things with the eyes of a child and so did he. I believe his spirit is with me often when creating. I have a wicked mind. f: What’s your favorite color and why? Brandy: My favorite color is Violet which represents your third eye or 6th chakra which represents Spirit. This is the color where we connect to our spirit. When I have just enough
“There is no definition of good art. Art is in the eye of the beholder. I can tell you I am tired of artists just producing to produce with no true meaning of craftsmanship or purpose.”Brandy
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028 Press Package/Sample Interview
“...I am charismatic and connected to spirit, connected to the infinite wisdom, connected to cosmic consciousness, not attracted to material things, and unafraid of death.”
violet I am charismatic and connected to spirit, connected to the infinite wisdom, connected to cosmic consciousness, not attracted to material things, and unafraid of death. f: Are there any notable artists whose work you are drawn to? Brandy: Edward Ruiz and Shane Pennington. We are cosmic beings on this earth trying to connect and bring the art of light to the eyes. I am a cosmic child, indigo if you like. I feel completely connected with these two incredible men and they inspire me to continue my quest in unveiling my own art and potential. f: What type or era of art is your favorite? When you look at a painting, what do you see? Brandy: I really love the days where you had to do all the work by hand and not just with the click of a computer. I see what others can’t, so I tend to see it all. f: What advice do you have for artists who have had a hard time finding gallery representation? Should they just wait to be discovered or try to self-market their work? Brandy: Don’t give up, there is one out there for you. Be self-sustaining and believe in yourself. If you want to create, create. Even if you have to have several jobs. Don’t stop believing. It will be if you want it! f: How do you plan to expand W.A.A.S?
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owner Brandy pictured above (left)
Starting a blog about the artists? Online purchasing? Brandy: We will do workshops, yoga, and projection parties. We will develop a creative center for artist. We will have a non-profit that helps kids get art supplies. We will do on-line sales, interviews, videos of the process, newsletters, and sponsorship levels. We are doing our best to do it all. But we all are artists helping artists and maintain full time jobs. The process isn’t as fast as I would like but we are right where we should be. • Loren Kavonian
Style Me Daily and fĂŞteure Magazine are here to support, empower, and uplift emerging designers, fashion stylists, make-up artists, models, hair stylists, bloggers, writers, photographers, etc. We want to give you the platform and visibility that your creativity deserves.
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Picture Perfect
At a young age, TJ knew his trail in life, photography. At age nine he learned to develop film while attending the Boys and Girls Club and has never looked back. He purchased his first DSLR camera in 2007 and hit the ground running networking and shooting anytime, anyplace, and anywhere. Initially, portfolio building was slow; however, dedication and perseverance has paid off and TJ Rogers is living his dream.
PhotographS Provided by TJ Rogers
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036 Press Package/ Sample Interview
The Perfect Partnership Amrel Revilo Productions
After working for the likes of famed fashion show producer Jan Strimple and others, Juan Lerma and Eric Oliver decided to venture out on their own. The two met while working various fashion events and as a part of THE FASHIONISTAS. The pair became fast friends as well as business partners and developed their own company, Amrel Revilo Productions. fĂŞteure got a chance to sit down with this dynamic team to find out how it all came together.
Photographed by Amanda C. Williams
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038 Press Package/ Sample Interview
fêteure: How did your company get started?
passion, persistence, and LUCK!
Juan: Our company was started when Eric and I decided we did not want to do this for anyone else anymore. We both had previous fashion production experience from our positions with The FASHIONISTAS, as well as other producers around town, and it just felt right to take a chance and do fashion event production for ourselves.
f: How did you get your start in the fashion industry?
f: Amrel Revilo is a unique name for your company, how did it come about?
Eric: I started pretty young volunteering here, interning there, and even doing a bit of freelance wardrobe consultation. By doing these things, it opened the door for me to be able to utilize my skills and get to know who I needed to know and determine what direction I wanted to take my career.
Juan: Amrel Revilo is actually just our last names spelled backwards. Lerma-Amrel, Oliver-Revilo. There is a deeper story as to why our company is named what it is but that is a little detail we want to keep to ourselves.
Juan: I started working in fashion following a brief stint with Jan Strimple Productions. Then I was elected to the Vice President position of the FASHIONISTAS F2 organization.
f: Do you think it’s beneficial to intern?
f: Do you have a formal education in fashion?
Eric & Juan: ABSOLUTELY!
Juan: I do not have a formal education in fashion. I studied Communications at The University of North Texas. However, it [my education] is still relevant and I apply many of the lessons I learned in college to our business.
Juan: I think it is beneficial to intern. The real world work experience and the networking opportunities alone make an internship worth its weight in gold.
Eric: I actually went through the Fashion Marketing Program at El Centro College, so I would say that qualifies [laughs]. f: Do you think that a formal education is necessary or can talent alone carry you? Eric: I wouldn’t say necessary; however, it can prove to be very beneficial when it comes down to credentials. Most industries, even outside of fashion, work on a network of people. So I would say that being able to speak with people and get outside of yourself is of equal if not greater importance. Juan: Obviously, I do not believe a formal education in fashion is necessary, but it definitely helps. Also, it takes a lot more than just talent to be successful in this industry.You also have to have social skills, www.thestylemedaily.com
Eric: I agree with Juan. If it wasn’t for internships most people in the fashion industry would not be where they are today. And internships are a great way for people to really figure out what they want to do or don’t want to do. f: What are the main skills and traits someone needs in order to be successful as a fashion show producer? Eric:You have to be meticulous and organized, but creative at the same time. All the while being able to keep a firm grasp on what people want to see next. f: Does Amrel Revilo Productions produce any other type of events besides fashion shows?
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Juan: Amrel Revilo Productions produces fashion events. This does not necessarily mean runway presentations, even if that is the bulk of our business. (In the past they’ve even worked on a movie premier.) f: I think it’s amazing that you guys are so young, your company relatively new, and you’ve already began to make a name for yourselves in the industry. Has it been hard to prove yourself to the fashion elite in Dallas? Juan: I would only say it was hard to prove ourselves in the sheer amount of work we had to put in. We had to impress people that have been around the world and seen some of the best fashion productions on the planet. It was definitely a lot of pressure to compete on that level. We wanted to be taken seriously, so we had to make sure every detail of every one of our performances was perfect. I would say however, that the networking aspect of this industry came very easy for us. I am a total social butterfly and our positions with The FASHIONISTAS allowed us to network with Dallas’ “fashion elite.”
“Well, you are only as good as your last performance. So there is definitely pressure to be innovative and fresh in our productions. We certainly do not want to be forgotten.”
Eric: I agree with Juan regarding the amount of work that it has taken to “prove” ourselves to those that have been in the industry for a couple more years than us. The ability to network has come in quite handy and it is of the utmost importance to know whom you allow yourself to be associated with. f: Being that you are so young and people often times expect failure, do you feel pressure to always be on your toes and produce even better shows than your competitors? Eric: Well, you are only as good as your last performance. So there is definitely pressure to be innovative and fresh in our productions. We certainly do not want to be forgotten.
Juan Lerma (L), Eric Oliver (R)
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“My advice would be to market yourself. You are the most valuable asset you have and no one else can promote you as well as you do.” f: Out of the shows you have produced which one has been the most rewarding? Juan: My most rewarding show, thus far, still has to be Children’s Miracle Network. This was our first production as a new company. We were involved with this project for months and to see it all come together in that magnitude was amazing. I believe there were over 500 guests, a ton of cameras, press, media, and all these eyes. Not to mention the gigantic undertaking of a fashion show with seven designers, over 150 looks, 52 models, hair and makeup teams that together totaled about another 40 people. Oh yea, and a giant corporate charity affiliate. No pressure! The evening turned out to be an overall success though and it was one of my proudest moments to walk out on that stage when it was all over. Eric: I don’t know that any of them have particularly been more or less rewarding than another. However, I will say that I thoroughly enjoy being able to successfully produce an event and see that I have made another client happy, all while doing what I love. f: Do you enjoy being a part of the fashion industry in Dallas? Would you ever consider packing up and moving your business anywhere else? Juan: I do enjoy being a part of the fashion industry in Dallas. Dallas has a very welcoming sense of hospitality. We have encountered so much support from the fashion industry here and that makes this city unique. It is much more difficult to receive said
support in larger markets. Dallas will always be our home. I would like to eventually think a little bigger though, New York, Paris. Who knows what the future may hold... f: When not working, what’s a typical day off like? Juan: My typical days off consist of mainly one thing, sleep! I am so fine with turning off my phone and sleeping an entire day away. Then my evenings are spent with friends either painting the town “Louboutin red” or just relaxing with a good movie and a bottle of wine. Eric: As for me, I really enjoy booking my days off with friends and hanging out. There is always time for shopping, even if it is from online. f: What is one piece of advice you would give an entrepreneur who wanted to start a business in fashion show production? Juan: My advice for someone interested in fashion production-start talking to everyone! As a producer, it is your job to know the obvious people that would make a fashion show come together such as fashion designers, stylists, models, makeup artists, hair stylists, magazine editors, retail buyers, etc. It is also your job as a producer to know lighting technicians, electricians, contractors, and fire marshals. So many details! You can never really know enough people. Eric: My advice would be to market yourself.You are the most valuable asset you have and no one else can promote you as well as you do.• www.thestylemedaily.com
Photographer Kelsey Newkham Stylists Jamie Johnson & Frank Christon HMUA Jamie Johnson Models Kezia Warner, The campbell agency & Stephen Hanks Wardrobe Stylists’ own
LondonBridge
Photographed By TJ Rogers
ON THE HOR
Name: Loren Kavo Height: 5’11 Bust: 32 Waist: 23 Hips: 34 Dress size: 0/2 Shoe size:8 1/2-9 Hair color: Dark Blonde Eye color: Blue/Green Ethnicity: 50% Persian
Armenian/50% Norwegian Signed: The Campbell
Agency
What’s one thing you can’t live without? Laughter
IZON: THE FACE
Photo Courtesy of Ilia Negarestan
Name: Ilia Negarestan Height: 6’1 1/2 Waist:30 Suit:38 Shirt:14 Inseam:33 Shoe size: 9 Hair color: Black Eye Color: Brown Ethnicity: Persian Signed:Quatre Modeling
Agency
Favorite thing to do when not modeling?
Hanging out with family and friends, studying, [and bieng a] car mechanic.
058 Press Package/Sample Cover Feature
Designer Cover
Featuring Devin White
W
hen looking for a rising star in fashion, begin with Devin White, Wardrobe Stylist and Head Designer of his own up-and-coming label, Alon’dria by Devin White. A self-trained fashion designer, Devin has been creating and styling garments for friends and family in his home town of Waco, Texas since 2004. After moving to Dallas, Texas in 2007 to begin new and exciting endeavors in the fashion world, White made the decision to apply his gift of crafting innovative, edgy styles and sharp tailoring to the industry by launching the energetic and stylish Alon’dria label. Recently, his label has helped make him one of the most coveted wardrobe stylists in Texas with several requests for services coming from New York, LA, and even London. White has worked with dozens of reputable models and agencies including Kim Dawson, The Campbell Agency, Paige Parkes, and Wallflower plus a multitude of actors, photographers, and journalists throughout Dallas and beyond. Some of the photographers that have tapped White for his skills include James Hoff, Stephen Wallace, Amanda Williams, TJ Rogers, Marcus Lopez, and Tina Wong. fêteure was honored to have his designs grace our Preview Issue’s cover!
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Cover Photography Amanda C. Williams Styling/Creative Direction Devin White HMUA Devon R. Williams Models Julia Vastano & Loren Kavo, The Campbell Agency Wardrobe Alon’Dria by Devin White
“Bohemian Getaway” Editorial Submission Devin White
HAIR: Ashley Oliver MUA: Adrian Gonzales FASHION RAT: Loren Kavo STYLIST: Devin White PHOTOGRAPHER: Amanda C. Williams
umbrella Vintage tunic Alon’Dria pants Michael Kors boots Dolce Vita necklace Publik Empire
umbrella Vintage,
scarf worn as Turban
umbrella Vintage glasses Betsy Johnson scarf worn as Turban
hat Alon’Dria romper amp boots Dolce Vita necklace Alondria Online bangles Alondria Online scarves Stylists’ Own camera Diana Ft at www.lomography.com
hat Alon’Dria bangles Alondria Online romper amp boots Dolce Vita scarves Stylists’ Own
hat Alondria Online
hat Alondria Online sunglasses Dita Supa Dupa, 80’spurple.com necklaces Alondria Online bangles Alondria Online shift dress Vintage tumbler Pier1 Imports
Here at fĂŞteure Magazine we want to be more than a fashion and style publication, we want to support positivity in our community. As a whole, Style Me Daily wants to encourage individuals and businesses that make a positive impact on the community in the areas of fashion, design, and business. We will achieve this by partnering with non-profit organizations to raise funds to aid with their various causes as well as supporting entrepreneurs in the development and growth of their businesses.
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Thrive at 35 How one woman reminds us to Always set your sights high and never be afraid of a challenge!
A
ll the time we talk about fashion and how it affects the world as a whole, yet rarely do we see its affects first hand, which is the main focus of this story. Priscilla, a single mother of three living in the DFW metroplex, has let fashion and business sense help take her career to the next level. Born and raised in Midland, Texas, Priscilla was more of a tom-boy growing up involved in sports and other competitive activities. Never really the type to get dressed up or wear makeup, she was swept along letting life happen to her. After her first child was born, she began working for Darden restaurants. During this time she had an epiphany and realized that life could be so much more than what she had been living. Through two more pregnancies and working her way up the corporate ladder, Priscilla used fashion, in addition to her feminine wiles and business mind, to secure a position as one the most respected women in the company. Always
exploring new ways to dress or accessorize, her style keeps evolving and growing. Going from businesswoman to mother can be stressful and challenging, yet with effort she manages to do so with what seems like ease. Structured for work in a man’s environment and free flowing and feminine the rest of the time, she expresses the seasons and the trends as only a woman can. Her story reminds you to set your sights high and never be afraid of taking on a challenge! Tyler Kerbyson
Photography PWRD Photography Direction/Styling Tyler K. Make-Up Sylvia Espino
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076 Press Package/Sample Community Interview
THE POWER OF SHOES:
SOCIETY OF WOMEN WHO LOVE SHOES Diane Samoff, creator of the Society of Women Who Love Shoes (SWWLS), has overcome some very dark days. After being in an abusive marriage for 10 years, she finally got the courage to leave for her and her four children. With strength from God, help from family and friends, and a pair of donated red high heels, she found a new life for herself. Now with the founding of her non-profit organization, The Power of Shoes, her goal is to aid women, children, and families in finding their own inner courage and to “have every woman feel the way [her] Heavenly Father intended for us to feel, like a woman!” fêteure Magazine got a chance to sit down with Loni Phillips, SWWLS Pr Volunteer, to talk about relationships, overcoming abuse, and plans for the future. Photographer Dina Awad
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Loni Phillips (above)
fêteure: Tell us a little more about how you got involved with the Society of Women Who Love Shoes. Loni : Diane and I had a special connection when setting up my wedding and we spent a lot of time just talking about life experiences.We talked a little bit about her past relationships and we talked about some of my past relationships and the one thing we had in common was that we both experienced abuse. [After first starting the organization in Houston] she had an opportunity because of her husband’s job transfer to come to Dallas and start the organization here. She asked me if I would be a part of it with her, and so the role that I play is that I’m her public relations volunteer. f: So, how many other people are involved in the organization? Is it just you and her? Loni: Oh, gosh no.
f: Are there other volunteers? Loni: Yes, there is a team of volunteers. I would say approximately 20 plus volunteers right now that help support her through this process and they do everything from helping her with her event planning to public relations to marketing. She also has support through an active board. f: When starting this organization who were you aiming to help? Was it just women of domestic violence? Children? Men? Who are the people that you’re really hoping to target? Loni: Our mission is simple in that we support women and families of abuse by touching on something that’s important to most women and that’s shoes and fashion [laughs]. But, it’s also important to note that a lot of men are also victims of domestic violence and it’s not limited to just the heterosexual community but to the homosexual community as well. www.thestylemedaily.com
078 Press Package/Sample Community Interview
f: Ok, so I know you all are known for your fabulous events, is it monthly? How do your events work? Loni: The Society of Women Who Love Shoes and fashion do host a monthly event, it’s usually a happy hour. The happy hour is designed really to drive awareness and to have fun around the event. [During the event] we we also have a shoe contest… f: That’s what I’m excited about! Loni: [Laughs] That’s what a lot of the women are excited about! [The shoe contest judges on the] highest heel, the sexiest, and the most interesting shoe. And then we also do a tie contest. But it’s really just a fun event. We usually have one shelter for each event to make sure we continue to drive awareness. But it really is all about supporting this important cause and having a little fun with it. f: What are your goals for the future? Loni: Some of our long-term goals of this organization are centered on leading and driving awareness, action, and change. We will increase awareness by evangelizing support for the needs of the domestic violence centers and be resources for families that experience abuse. We will also take awareness to an even deeper level through education focused on changing the cycles of abuse through activities supporting positive solutions and perspectives. We will also support parents in getting better prepared to get back in the job market with help on resume writing and interviewing skills. And, we’re also going to work with corporate America, because in corporate America they really could use some best practices around policies to support employees and their families who are experiencing domestic violence. Keep in mind the cost of health care associated with domestic violence in this country is measured at 5.8 billion dollars a year, and this is only the reported cases of women and children out there that will say “I ran into a door” or “I fell down,” think of all the cases that haven’t been reported. This loss of productivity is staggering so www.thestylemedaily.com
Reality TV Star, Connie Deb, of Big Rich Texas pictured above (right)
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“This crosses all racial boundaries, I think in every community there’s some form of abuse happening.”
we definitely have to up our game with corporate America as well. f: How can people get involved? Loni: Well, it takes a village ok! [Laughs] because this crosses all racial boundaries, I think in every community there’s some form of abuse happening so the one thing I would have everyone do is go to our website which is “societyofwomenwholoveshoes.com” and also friend us on Facebook, which is the “Society of Women Who Loves Shoes and Fashion”. If you reach out to us through our website or Facebook you can get in contact with our founder, Dianne Samoff, and she would be glad to connect with anyone who has an interest in being a part of the Society of Women Who Love Shoes.
f: I’ve met her, she is very very nice! Loni: She is a lovely women, she mothers every one! f: Well, thank you Loni so much for your time. It was a pleasure to sit down with you and learn more about this awesome organization. We here at fêteure Magazine wish you ladies continued success! Loni: [Smiles] Thank you!•
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