Twenty Something July 2011
July 2011
Fashion
Features
This month is inspired by the one and only, Marilyn Monroe
Bored? No more excuses - check out our calendar.
Flashback 006
4th of July 060
We channeled our inner patriotic spirit for this one. Red, White & Blue!
Kleinfeld 068
Calendar 026
Sno Cone City 032
Find the best stand to cool you off this summer.
Hairspray 034
Bringing you inside wedding dress fashion information from the one and only, Kleinfeld New York.
Lyric Theatre’s production is debuting at the Civic Center this month check out our interviews with two of the leads.
Meg Guess 070
Shannon Miller 038
Oklahoma native, creating custom couture wedding dresses for brides in the heart land.
Resort Runway 078
The latest and greatest, straight from the runway.
America’s Sweetheart was first Oklahoma’s Sweetheart. Shannon has won all the competitions that matter - including her most recent.
Gotta Lotta Motivation 054
Summer Heat 092
Workout tunes, fitness apparel and the best ways to stay in shape this summer.
Kelsey’s Must Haves 106
Who doesn’t love a good slider? Burger Joint is bringing you some of the most inventive sliders around.
Personal Style 108
Cody Thomson - 3rd generation interior designer.
We traveled all the way to the desert for this one - we’re still finding sand in our shoes. Our Fashion Director reveals her online shopping secrets. The decades of the past are easily recognized in the fashion world - but how will this decade be identified?
Under the Sea 110 Lights. Camera. Water!
KSBI 122
Find out what JaNiece and Kealey think are your 10 fashion essentials.
Electric Daisy Carnival 124 Check out the crazy fashion that was present at this traveling carnival.
OK Restaurant 056 OK Career 080
Sherree Chamberlain 082 Find out why this song bird isn’t flying so high this summer.
Twenty Something Guy 084 Meet Michael Hitsman - an up and coming fashion designer.
Luke Stephens 090
Our very own relationship columnist - Carrie Bradshaw has nothing on Luke.
On the Cover: Styling: Kelsey Self; Photography: Bethany Young; Model: Alyssa Bland; Bathing Suit: Old Navy; Necklaces: Blue Seven
Music
What We’re Listening To 020 Bon Iver, Cults & Jamie XX
Miranda Lambert 022
Texas born and now Oklahoma resident - we love this fire ball of a woman, and know that you will too!
Lincoln Durham 028
Film
Clayton Graham Fike 126
Oklahoma! 044
Looking for a sound that you can’t quite put into a specific category? Lincoln is your man. Clayton Graham Fike is taking over Nashville with his latest venture - the new band, Church Mice.
July Movies 042
This month is full of films we are dying to see - get your popcorn popping. This month’s movie inspired shoot is one that hits close to home.
Meagan Owen - Feature Writer
Sherree Chamberlain - Feature Writer
h t 4 y p Hap
Meredith Foerster - Feature Writer
Kelsey Self
Fashion Director, Co-Creative Director, Stylist Jamy Green - Hair & Makeup (405)302-6499
Special thank you to our incredible Summer Interns: Daniel Whitfield & Jordan Skinner
Lil Doescher
! y l u J f ho
Hair & Makeup - Salon 9309 (405)607-4247
Grace Davis - Feature Writer
Sarah Ethridge - Feature Writer
Bethany Young
Editor-in-Chief, Co-Creative Director, Photographer
Luke Stephens - Feature Writer
Fashion
“Imperfection is beauty, madness is genious, and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.” -Marilyn Monroe
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Hair and Makeup: Lil Doescher Model: Morgan Woolard Clothing Provided by Bad Granny’s
“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the word.”
“I’m not interested in money, I ju
just want to be wonderful.�
“All I want is to be loved, for myself and for my talent.�
Marilyn Monroe
is an icon that everyone recognizes. She had the style, beauty and personality that captured the world - and still continues to do so today. On the silver screen she dazzled us all with her fashion that has inspired generations to come. Through her haunted smile that told of her troubled life, Marilyn Monroe won the hearts of all she gazed upon.
Music
What we’re listening Song of the Month: “You Know What I Mean” by Cults
This song is simple and retro. That’s why I like it. Being raised by parents who listened to nothing but oldies, I’ve learned to appreciate the music from decades past, and it’s always nice when it’s brought back every once and a while. The Cults are an indie band formed in 2010 by two students from NYU. Apparently, they know what they’re doing despite their age. “You Know What I Mean” belongs to their self-titled album that came out June 7, and “Go Outside” is another song that is making this band buzz-worthy. This song has a 1950’s sound, but it’s refreshingly current at the same time. I’m thinking their album is just as good.
Album of the Month: Bon Iver by Bon Iver
Justin Vernon, the lead singer of this band, is a very vulnerable musician and that is precisely how I would describe his latest creation released June 21.
Vernon and his fellow band-mates released For Emma, Forever Ago in 2007, and have waited four years to make another album. Some things are just worth waiting for. Melancholy, raw, and emotional describe Bon Iver with high-pitched vocals and downtempo rhythms, but it’s strategically offset by their use of horns, percussion and even a little electric guitar. For those of you who know Bon Iver, you know their music is far from aggressive, but thoughtful, heart-felt and is songwriting at its best. “Skinny Love” is a song that y’all might know from a couple years back and if you’re a fan of that, you must listen to this album. Written by Sarah Ethridge
to...
Artist of the Month: Jamie XX
I’m a little bit obsessed with this guy. His real name is Jamie Smith and is a member of the London-based band The XX. On his own though, he is a music producer and can remix pretty much anything into a masterpiece. You don’t have to be a raging techno-geek to like him, he just makes ordinary songs even more awesome. “You’ve Got The Love,” by Florence + The Machine, our featured artist last month, is a prime example. I actually heard the remix before I heard the original track and fell in love. His other work isn’t always as commercial, but his latest feat was remixing an entire album previously recorded by Gil Scott-Heron, a jazz poet and musician. We’re New Here has gotten incredible reviews ever since its release last February. He’s so talented and every track he produces turns to gold. His solo endeavors as well as his work in The XX are truly worth listening to and are talent in every way shape and form.
Music
Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert is one incredible woman. Whether it’s her pure and raw writing, her one-of-a-kind knockout voice, or her fun-loving persona - one thing is for sure. This twenty-something lady has won the favor of music lovers, far and wide.
How is married life? Great! We spent about a week together after the wedding and then it was back to work for both of us! Of all of your amazing songs, which one is your favorite and why. I can’t pick a favorite ... They are all my babies, I love them all for different reasons.
knows he is one of my favorite songwriters. If you weren’t a singer, what would you want to be? It’s no surprise that I love animals so I’m sure I would be doing something with animals. I started MuttNation Foundation which raises funds for abandoned and abused animals and I’m working on building a shelter in Oklahoma where I have a farm. I started raising money several years back for the Humane Society of East Texas, which is the shelter I used to go to and hang out and walk the dogs.
Of all the amazing things that have happened to you, what would you say is the one that stands out among the rest? You are known to be very The one that truly stood out was the award grounded in who you are, what for Female vocalist I got at the CMA’s last do you attribute that to? When I get home and I see my dogs and my November, receiving the Award from my farm animals and just hang out, it reminds hero Loretta Lynn was amazing and I know I will never forget it. Also, winning the alme of what matters, and that if the fame goes away I will still have people that I love bum of the year for Revolution by both the CMA’s and the ACM’s was a milestone for and that love me back in my life. me. It showed that I created something that people liked and spent their hard earned On the stage you seem to take money on on a more wild persona - who is the woman on the stage as If you could collaborate with opposed to the woman off the anyone on a song, who would it stage? Being a born Texan I guess means I’ve got a be? fiery personality as part of my heritage! I’ve Beyonce! learned to stand up for myself and not take any crap, so I suppose that self-assertiveness Where do you draw inspiration for your songs? holds true on and off the stage. I love singing about real life, and it’s also where I draw my inspiration. Sometimes If you were on a stranded it’s something that happened in my past or island with one mix CD - what something a friend or family member expesongs would be on it? I would definitely want to have “The House rienced. Sometimes it’s something I see or a That Built Me” since it has been such a life- story I hear, and one thing leads to another. changing song for me. I’ve had a strong Do you get nervous before you emotional attachment since the first time I perform? heard it. I also would probably take some I don’t get nervous, I get excited. Merle Haggard tunes along as everyone
What’s your routine after finishing a show? Hanging out with my band , play with my dogs that travel with me and relax and you might have guessed it, listen to some music. Tell us about Pistol Annies. Ashley Monroe and I were writing together and she told me about Angaleena Presley, insisting I had to meet her. When I heard a few of the songs Angaleena had written, I just felt we were kindred spirits, she is an amazing story teller. We all started hanging out more in late 2009 and just wrote music together and sang together. Ashley is truly a word smith and has the voice of an angel. It felt natural and I got very inspired musically, so we started singing and it was fun. The next natural progression was recording music and now we can’t seem to stop.. We’ll see what the fans think and take it from there. What is next for you - can we expect another album in the near future? I have recorded a new album and we are working on some more details. I have written some tunes that will be on this new record and selected some from other writers that I love and that have inspired me. If all goes well there will be a new Miranda album by the end of 2011.
Any inside info you would like to share with your fans? My Fans will have to wait a little while longer! Favorite movie: “Under the Tuscan Sun” Top 5 favorite musicians: Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Beyonce, Brandi Carlile and Audioslave Favorite meal: Chicken Fried Steak from Petty’s Restaurant in Lindale Favorite place to perform: This is tough, but if I could only name one its Joe’s in Chicago Favorite thing about Blake Shelton: Everything Favorite Oklahoma spot: My farm Favorite pair of boots: Vintage cowboy boots
Music
Lincoln Durham Styling: Bethany Young & Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Written by Meredith Foerster
Lincoln Durham walks to the beat of his own
drum, or whichever instrument this multidimensional artist chooses to play.
Raised in Itasca, Texas, this small town Texas boy started playing the fiddle at four years old. “I didn’t like it too much, but I did love music,” Lincoln said. His love of music is exactly what has propelled him to his status today. A self-proclaimed “outlaw country fan” as a kid, Lincoln’s music is hardly categorical. When asked about his EP, available now, he said, “I don’t really know how to explain it other than the fact that nothing is standard. Anything that you would think might go on a song like [mine]; it’s kind of the opposite.” A fiddle may seem like a throwback instrument, but Lincoln and his band take unconventional a few steps further. “We have weird stuff being played. We all banged on a refrigerator box at one point, and the drummer at one point was using a bird feeder.” He explained that if someone cannot find one word to describe his music, then he is doing his job. Lincoln is not afraid to give credit where credit is due. Besides the influence of his father and grandpa, who introduced him to the fiddle, Lincoln boasts on the influence of another musician/lyricist, Ray Wylie Hubbard. “He put me on the track that I am on now,” Lincoln explained. “Ray has been super influential in both my lyrics and my style.” Another source of inspiration – “Books. I read a lot of books. I got rid of my TV, and my creative juices started to flow.” Those creative juices are what allow Lincoln to write his own songs. The method to his craft is music, then lyrics. “What I’ll do is get an idea of a groove in my head and start playing around with it and then just sing randomness, whatever comes to my head, and then eventually something I say creates a song.” Graphic artist by day and musician by night, Lincoln’s talents are both skill and passion. “No matter who you are and no matter what musician you talk to, there is as many times that you
are just ready to quit as there are when you love it.” His advice for other aspiring artists rings true for all of life’s goals. “Instead of getting discouraged, try to make something that [the audience] can’t look away from.” To experience the sounds of Lincoln Durham, check out www.lincolndurham.com, and stay tuned for the release of his full album out in January.
Sno Cone Summer Summer is in full force - extreme heat and all. So, we took it upon ourselves to travel all around the metro area to bring you the best sno cone stands and the flavors that make them unique. Yes, we sampled every single one - it’s a rough job here at TSM. In fact, Kelsey tried her ultimate favorite (Banana with Cream) at each stand to find the best one in the area. So, we are proud to announce that Kelsey’s winner is: Summer Snow! Bethany’s favorite was a close call, but ultimately she chose: Strawberry Margarita (with real lime) from Eskimo Sno. Try them all, and see which is your favorite!
Shimmers
39th & May North OKC Miami Vice
Bahama Ice
Danforth & Kelley Edmond Thunder Up
Island Sno 2nd & Littler Edmond
Cookie Monster
Sno Shack
104th & S. Western South OKC Pink Cotton Candy
Hawaiian Mike’s Sno Balls 119th & S. Penn South OKC Polar Punch
Summer Sno 12th & Janeway Moore
F1 Barbie Tornado
Much Moore Sno 134th & Telephone Moore Hurricane
Eskimo Sno
Lindsey between 12th & Berry Norman Strawberry Margarita
Hairspray is debuting on the Civic Center
stage this month, and we are eagerly awaiting opening night! We had the opportunity to interview two of the leads, Liz Froio and Erick Devine. Check out what they have to say about theatre life and their performance in Lyric Theatre’s production of Hairspray.
“Annie,” got the lead role, and haven’t stopped loving theatre ever since! What is it about the theatre that inspires you? I am just so happy to be doing what I love to do for work. Taking an audience through an emotional experience is so gratifying... I also love the feeling that I get when I take a bow at the end of a performance. Of all the experiences you have had in the theatre world, what has been the one that outshines the rest? I would have to say starring alongside Tony-Nominated actor Christopher Sieber in my last production of HAIRSPRAY. I was a little bit star-struck at first! Definitely a special time in my life so far. Tell us about your involvement with Hairspray here in Oklahoma. I am having the BEST time. Making such wonderful friends, working with such brilliant minds as Lyn Cramer and David Andrews Rogers, and most importantly playing my dream role yet again... I could go on all day!
Liz Froio Tell us about yourself I was born and raised in New Jersey, have been playing piano since I was four years old so music and performing in general has been a big part of my life. I studied Musical Theatre at Pace University where I received my BFA, and I’ve been in New York auditioning ever since! How long have you been involved in theatre? I first sparked an interest in theatre when I was 8 or 9 years old. I auditioned for a local production of
What should patrons expect out of this show? Expect to have the most fun you can possibly have while sitting in a seat! Hairspray is so honest and uplifting - without fluffing over important issues in our history. It truly will be a great night at the theatre for patrons! What advice would you give aspiring artists? Practice makes perfect. If you love performing, do it as often as you can and keep constantly working and learning!
either. The same physical experience happens at a concert, and even in a lot of worship services. The human connection is what thrills and inspires me.
Erick Devine Tell us about yourself I grew up in Oklahoma, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Arkansas so I say I was raised in the central time zone. I have my BFA in acting from Tulsa University and my MFA in acting from Wayne State in Detroit. I’ve been in New York City since 1979 (except for 2 or so years back here teaching at OCU). I own my home in New Jersey, about 35 minutes from Times Square. This fall in NJ will mark the longest time I’ve lived in one place without moving. So far, it’s still Brooklyn, when I first moved to NYC. How long have you been involved in theatre? I’ve always been drawn to the theatre, but the 9th grade was my first school play, and I’ve been doing it all through high school, and ever since. So, 41 years now? Yikes. What is it about the theatre that inspires you? Besides dealing with questions of being human that have always been debated by civilization, live theatre is an actual physical, visceral experience. It’s shared not only with everyone else in the audience, but by the performers themselves. The energy created by the show itself and by the actors onstage influences an audience both collectively and individually. That energy we impart to an audience is processed and sent back to us on stage; we take that energy and send it back. This transfer between the stage and the audience goes on all evening long. It is a physical experience. That’s not New Age stuff
Of all the experiences you have had in the theatre world, what has been the one that outshines the rest? The production of Big River (the musical of Huckleberry Finn) I did that toured the US and Tokyo, and was produced by Deaf West Theatre in LA. The show was simultaneously spoken, sung, and signed by the characters from the stage. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to learn, but consequently was the most rewarding. But the best was being able to bring a musical to the deaf community in a new way that really effected them. There are stories like the young teenage girl in Houston who is going deaf, and whose brother was fighting learning sign language until he saw our show. Or the deaf boy in Sacramento whose parents were so intent on “mainstreaming” him that he’d never been around deaf adults to talk with them; his uncle brought him to the show, and to see him (and other deaf people) animatedly talking to our cast members still moves me today. Live theatre is a very powerful medium. All that energy transfer... You have played many roles, what would you say has been your favorite character to play? Oh my. Pseudolus in Forum was hard work, but making people laugh that much is rewarding beyond imagination. Playing Matthew in Anne of Green Gables was a delight, because of the show and the cast, and the goodness of Matthew - and who doesn’t love a good death scene on stage? Actually, rehearsing Edna in Hairspray is an education every day. Playing a woman, a sensitive, scared, funny real woman is not an opportunity that comes along.... well, EVER, so I’m relishing it all. You are credited with directing the very talented Kristin Chenoweth. What was she like as a student, and how does it make you feel to see all that she has accomplished now. Kristin is and always has been amazing, and amazingly talented. My standard one-liner is “I wish I could take any credit for how good she is, but Kristin sprang fully grown from the head of Zeus.” When I saw her concert at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, I looked around at the sold-out opera house, and shed a few tears, moved at how far my little Kristi had come, and how true to herself she’s
stayed all this time. I love her unequivocally. Tell us about your involvement with Hairspray here in Oklahoma. The director Lyn Cramer and I have known each other since 1989, and I was intensely flattered she invited me to do Edna here. My only qualm was that I haven’t seen my upper lip (ever-present mustache) since 1980. I avoid mirrors now, but we suffer for our art, right? As I said before, it’s an education rehearsing her. Playing a woman (I’m not being a drag queen, I’m playing a real woman!) is challenging emotionally, physically, and gesturally. The show winks occasionally at the fact that the role is being played by a man, but it’s just that Edna has a very large vocal range, especially in the lower registers. The cast here is spectacular, as is Lyn’s staging. I know OKC is going to be blown away by the show. What should patrons expect out of this show? A ridiculously, riotously, joyously good time. C
What advice would you give aspiring artists? Keep training, keep doing shows, and go to school! The variety of subjects dealt with in theatrical literature is vast. The more you know about the world, history, psychology, politics, human behavior and culture can only make you a better actor. However, one of my standard lines is “I love the Show, I hate the Biz.” It’s a hard life, full of hearing “no,” and subject to economic uncertainty, to put it delicately. If there’s something else you love to do, do that. But if you have to do theatre (you know who you are), do it!
at the CIVIC CEN 6/21/11-6/25/ 6/21/11-6/25
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at the CIVIC CEN 7/19/11-7/23/ FOR TICKETS (405) 524-9312 phone www.LyricTheatreOKC.com Photos by Keith Rinearson
OK
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at the CIVIC CENTER 7/5/11-7/9/11
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at the CIVIC CENTER 8/2/11-8/6/11
KLAHOMA’S LEADING PROFESSIONAL THEATRE
Shannon Miller
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Hair and Makeup: Lil Doescher Written by Meredith Foerster Clothing Provided by Cayman’s
At just 15 years old, Shannon competed in the 1992 Olympics. “I didn’t really know what to expect. I had never seen the Olympics before because I couldn’t sit still to watch it.” That healthy dose of naivety helped her keep mind over matter. “I feel like the mental game was there for me. I wasn’t the most talented or strongest by any means, but I had that mental game where I could just block out the audience and truly focus on what I was doing.” Shannon finished the 1992 Olympics with five medals and says that is when her life changed.
A
s an Olympic gold medalist, Shannon Miller has crossed a significant amount of competition. Her strongest competitor to date – cancer. Shannon Miller, now 34 years old, recently completed chemotherapy after being diagnosed with a rare, aggressive type of ovarian cancer called ovarian germ cell malignancy. “I had two choices,” Shannon said, “I could either observe and hope it [the cancer] didn’t come back, or do the chemo and observe it.” With a 95 to 100 percent chance of no reoccurrence, Shannon seems to have won this battle.
Although she lost her hair, Shannon sees the positive and has hopes her hair will grow back a different texture. “I already had that curly, frizzy, can’t fix it hair, so I want straight hair,” she says laughing. “I’ll tell you though, I’m not opposed to throwing on a wig if I have a bad hair day because I can get ready in five minutes.” This encouraging outlook has propelled her to successes throughout her career. Before she became an Olympian, Shannon was a 5-year-old girl in Edmond, Oklahoma begging her parents to enroll her in gymnastics classes with her older sister. A few years later, Shannon joined the competitive team at Dynamo Gymnastics in Oklahoma City. There, she was reunited with Steve Nunno, a gymnastics coach she met in Russia during a training camp. “The most amazing thing is you can have an Olympic coach, but if the athlete doesn’t click, if there’s not a partnership there, then it can’t work successfully,” Shannon explained. “To be able to find him [Steve] 45 minutes away, it was kind of fate.” They formed a bond and Steve went on to coach Shannon during her road to the Olympics.
Four years later during the 1996 Olympics, Shannon was at the top of her game winning two gold medals – one team and one individual. “Gymnastics isn’t a team sport and to get the gold in team was incredible.” She says the individual gold was special because she had a rocky performance. “I called my mother that night and she reminded me that there were a million little girls who would give anything to fall off a beam at the Olympics, so I thought about that and the next day it was my first time to let the audience in and not block them out.” She says winning the gold was bittersweet. “There is nothing like the silence of 40,000 people. There’s that realization that everyone is looking at you. That gold medal is great, but it’s a symbol of that moment my feet hit the floor…all that training and hard work is over.” Although her career as a gymnast has come to a close, Shannon advises us all to “Have a dream. Find what you’re passionate about because you’re going to be successful at something you have a passion for. It’s so important to have goals, something that’s achievable in small increments so you have that success along the way.” Shannon Miller is a household name as an Olympic gymnast, but what this gold medalist wants twenty something, and all, women to know is the importance of screenings and early detection. “You need to get checked in your college years, don’t delay, don’t put it [screenings] off, because it can save your life.” She adds, “You may think you don’t have time to wait around two hours at a doctor appointment, but what you really don’t have time for is chemotherapy and radiation.” With paramount resilience, Shannon Miller reminds us all to keep dreaming and never give up hope.
Film
July Movie s
Film
Oklahoma!
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Models: Luke Cramer & Kendall Harris Hair and Makeup: Jamy Green Clothing Provided by Bad Granny’s
“Every night my honey lamb and I, sit alone and talk, and watch a hawk making lazy circles in the sky.�
Gotta Lotta Motivation
Spring break is over and so might be your
motivation for a rockin’ swimsuit body, but it doesn’t have to be! Often times I have had a bag packed ready to hit the gym and didn’t go solely because I didn’t have the motivation to go. But over time I have found several motivating factors to get active climb the hill of procrastination and get to working out!
Have a plan! When you walk aimlessly into the gym and you have no plan or focus, you wander around looking for open machines or open weights and have no goal to hit. If it is strength you are trying to tackle, look up workouts that target the areas you want and put them all on paper. List out your goal weights and reps for each one and don’t leave until you have completed them. Up your weights or reps each week you go back until 4-6 weeks have passed and switch up the exercises. Make a killer playlist! If it is cardio you are looking to do, make a playlist and set a goal for your target machine. It can be minutes, miles, strides or whatever you like to measure in. Often times I can push myself in cardio if I can just find the right song. I think to myself, “You can get to the end of this song!” Check out my favorite plays for each of my cardio favorites. Treadmill Running: “Highway to the Danger Zone” from the Top Gun Soundtrack. Cheesy as it is, this song has a great running beat and can really push you those last four minutes in your run or the last leg in a race! Treadmill Brisk Walking: “Wait a Minute” by the Pussycat Dolls. Try this brisk walk with an incline and really sweat it out! Just be careful about dancing on the treadmill. Elliptical: “King of the Rodeo” by Kings of Leon. Choose one of your favorite songs so you are sure to stick with it until the end!
Stairs: “Give up the Funk” from the Glee: The Music, Volume 3. An oldie but goodie sang by a new crew! Make it to the last minute of this song and spike up your level for a good sprint. Bike: “Storm in a Teacup” by Red Hot Chili Peppers. Get ready to go double time during this song! Overall: “Feeling This” by Blink 182. This is my favorite song to start out any race in and a go-to on all my workout playlists. The tempo is fast, the song is loud and who wouldn’t want to be…feeling this. Join a class! If you are not good at keeping up with your own plan, the solution is just as easy - join a class! An instructor can keep the pace, show you the exercises as well as shake up the variety! Plus, if you join with friends the accountability factor will help you to keep up with the classes. Set a short-term goal! When training for periods or seasons at a time, it doesn’t make the future look so daunting. Sign up for a local race or a sporting event and work towards that goal and once it is completed, stick with it and try to beat your previous record or pick a completely different one and start a different training regimen! Last but not least, invest in some new workout gear! As much as we hate to admit it, sometimes the best motivator is buying some new running shoes or workout clothes. Check out these duds I found while trying to get in the workout mood. Whatever it is that you decide to do, just get moving! Keep it local and check into facilities in your area to get started. Written by Meagan Owen
OK Restaurant
Written by Meredith Foerster Photography: Bethany Young
Nothing says July like fresh off the grill
burgers. If you are looking for that taste of summer, find your way to S & B’s Burger Joint in Oklahoma City. The Burger Joint is owned by Shannon Roper and Bryan Neel, two friends interested in matching quality food with a fun atmosphere. The rocker feel inside the restaurant unites music and burgers with a unique menu. “We decided to do something a little different and do the sliders instead of just full size burgers,” Shannon said. “You can come in and try more than one.” These are not your average burgers. With names like The Lava and The Frenchman, variety and taste is what fuels this duo’s fire. “We’ll look on the Internet and watch The Food Network channel and if we see some great Italian restaurant or Mexican restaurant that has a great dish, we’ll turn that into a burger,” Shannon explained. Though not an easy task, when Shannon was asked to choose his favorite, he chose the Chili Lime burger and suggests pairing it with a Mexican beer. The menu also offers several different types of fries and takes the guess work out of ordering by pairing drinks that suit a particular item. For those wanting something different, the Burger Joint has a “build-your-own” option with a multitude of toppings to satisfy any craving. The Burger Joint is all about straying from the norm. “If you want to do something a little differently, do it. Don’t let people dictate or change your way of thinking on how you want to do it,” advises Shannon. This has proved successful for the restaurant owning duo. Another reason to visit the Burger Joint is Pay-It-Forward Tuesdays. Every week a different organization or individual is chosen and receives 10% of the restaurant’s sales. Giving back to the community combined with food that is full of flavor, the Burger Joint is not a place to miss!
Fashion
Styling, Hair & Makeup: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Model: Alyssa Bland Clothing Provided by Blue Seven
You Look Like the 4th of July!
Fashion Summer is wedding season, and who else to give you advice on what to wear than Mara Urshel, owner of Kleinfeld in New York City.
Mara Urshel has more than 30 years of unparalleled experience developing and marketing luxury merchandise, and is one of the bestknown and respected executives in the retail apparel industry. During her 20-year tenure with Saks Fifth Avenue, she was Senior Vice President and General Merchandise Manager. Recognized as an innovator in her field, Ms. Urshel is credited with pioneering the development of Saks’ successful women’s private label brands, Real Clothes and The Works, and with identifying and introducing many designers such as Isaac Mizrahi, Donna Karan, Perry Ellis, Michael Kors and others. In high demand for her unique ability to develop original retail programs that consistently generated high sales and profits, Ms. Urshel was subsequently employed by Casual Corner Group and Geoffrey
Beene Company in executive management positions, and served as the only American on the Merchandising Board of Japanese retail giant Seibu Department Stores. After 30 years in the luxury retail industry, Ms. Urshel extended her illustrious career to include ownership and management of Kleinfeld Bridal. Since purchasing the famed bridal store with Ronald Rothstein and Wayne Rogers, Kleinfeld has enjoyed surging sales and success under Ms. Urshel’s hands-on management, which emphasizes unparalleled customer service. How is Kleinfeld different from other Bridal stores? Kleinfeld is the largest bridal salon in the US offering the largest selection of designer bridal gowns. The one-on-one service a bride receives from our staff is unsurpassed. Our artisan fitters and sewers will sculpt the gown to ensure the perfect fit. We are with the bride from the day she selects the gown until she walks down the aisle. Why did you decide to allow TLC to film your store behind the scenes? Has it changed your company? We were approached by many TV networks to do a reality show but we felt that TLC and Half Yard Productions was the best choice to sign with because they understand our brand integrity and allow us to have our own producer
who approves the tapes before they air. The show has given us even more exposure nationally. We’ve always had brides travel to Kleinfeld from all over the United States but after the show aired, the number of brides traveling from the US, Canada and internationally, increased. We are currently in our 6th Season of Say Yes to the Dress and now shooting for Season 7. We are also in our 2nd Season of Say Yes to the Dress Big Bliss. Have you seen brides recently been inspired by the Royal Wedding? Has it had an impact on the Bridal world in America? Although Kate Middleton wore a gorgeous long sleeved bridal gown, strapless is still the number one neckline. It allows for more mobility at your wedding. One trend that came from Kate is Lace. Lace is making a come back. From Chantilly to Alencon, we are getting more requests for lace. Also, bolero’s are a great way to create the Kate look with a strapless gown. What are three things a Bride should look for in a wedding dress? Brides should consider the following: 1) Your wedding Venue. (Would not suggest a straight sheath for St. Patrick’s Cathedral) 2) What style flatters your body (Let our consultants guide you) 3) The style should reflect you. Try not to select a gown that you will see in photos years later and ask, what was I thinking? In your opinion, who do you think should be with the Bride when she shops for her dress? Bring 2-4 people who’s opinions you value and who have your best interest in mind. What is the one mistake you see Brides make in dress shopping? Bringing an entourage of friends and family with big opinions. This will only confuse you and you will not be able to make the best of your time. Make sure they have YOU in mind, not themselves.
Are there any tricks Kleinfeld has to selecting dresses for their clients? Listening skills! Our consultants are trained to listen to the brides needs and ideas and than select the most flattering gown that fits the brides request. It is the most important skill for a bridal consultant. The 2nd most important is…knowing all the stock. Kleinfeld has over 1000 gowns to choose from. Since we shop the world (Italy, France, Israel, Turkey, NY, etc) we receive new gowns every single day. Our dedicate staff must take the time to look thru the new gowns daily. What is your advice to a Bride on finding her perfect dress? Start with researching shapes and designers you like and keep an open mind. Let your bridal consultant suggest various shapes and designers. Also start shopping 12 – 9 months ahead so your selection is not limited. Most designers need 9-6 months minimum to make a brand new gown. What are the main fashion trends for brides this summer?
Bridal Gown Trends
Three dimensional embellishments Bling/sparkle Corset bodices (lined or illusion) Laser cut raw edges Flowers Fit and Flair – the modified mermaid Natural waist ball gowns – 50’s inspired
Accessory Trends
Embellished belts Ribbon Headbands Colored Shoes Bird-cage veils/netted veils
Groom Trends
Slim fitting Suits & Tuxedo’s Double breasted tuxedos Custom shirts Colored Socks Embroidered messages on ties, suit/tux lining (not just initials anymore!)
Fashion
Dresses by Meg Guess Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Hair and Makeup: Lil Doescher Model: Jessica Bohne
For most young girls, Barbie is an escape into a different world. For designer Meg Guess, her plastic pal served as a mannequin and a reflection of her aspirations. Meg Guess is the owner of Meg Guess Couture, an exclusive bridal salon in Oklahoma City. The bridal shop offers designer wedding gowns as well as one-of-a-kind creations by Meg Guess herself. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Meg is the second of nine children. She taught herself how to sew when she was just four years old. “I learned to sew out of necessity,” Meg explained. “I would have ideas, but couldn’t afford to go out and get it so I’d just make it.” While growing up, the designer had one Barbie and used her as a platform for her creativity. “I would take my socks and cut them into tube tops and dresses for her, or cut up a shirt I had. I was always cutting things and taping them to make outfits. Though one would never guess, she says she was a tomboy during her childhood. “Most of my friends were guys. I worked on cars, roofed houses. I was very much a tomboy, but when I wanted to be a girl I’d go sew and make things and create things.” As a teenager, Meg turned her hobby into a profitable one. “I’ve always been an entrepreneur. In seventh grade I was making earrings and selling them for a dollar at school to get money for the Coke machines.” At 13 years old, she made her first wedding dress. Complete with sleeves, lace appliqués, and made of polyester, Meg claims the dress was “very 80s.” When she entered college, her friends and peers requested her designs. “My business came out of the natural things I cultivated over the years. It wasn’t something I plotted and planned.” Proving that sometimes life’s greatest things are uncalculated. Meg is currently working on her ultimate goal and creating her own wedding gown collection. “They are dresses that other people have continually requested,” and she is also incorporating some new pieces. “We’re taking it to the New York market next October or the October after that, depending on how fast we can work, and then hopefully we’ll see them across the country in stores and maybe
Europe eventually.” Though the plan is to launch nationally, Meg does not plan on leaving her Oklahoma roots. “I gave up a scholarship to FIT [Fashion Institute of Technology] several years ago to marry my husband, so it was a big decision to stay here but it was the greatest decision I’ve ever made.” We are sure her clients would agree. “I am a firm believer that goals and dreams are what motivate us. They’re not always our eventual destiny, but it’s what brought me to meet him [her husband] and to do this [design dresses].” When it comes to design inspiration, Meg looks to none other than the bride. “That’s why I like to stay local,” Meg described. “My brides’ personalities, tastes, influences, and elements they bring to their wedding and statements they make to me. All those things inspire me.” The accessories in Meg Guess Couture are also products of her innovative skill. “If we don’t make them from scratch, we put some type of a spin on it to make it our own.” Despite making jaw-dropping gowns, Meg does not live with her head in the clouds. “I think having perspective goes a long way in realizing that money and accolades are great, but they don’t make you happy. It’s quality of life and people you’re around and it’s the things you do that give back to you.” Meg says watching people grow is what makes her happy. “Whether I make it big or not, to be able to help other girls feel great about themselves and grow and reach for their dreams, I think that’s inspiring.” The Meg Guess Couture tagline reads, “It’s no ordinary day, this is not your ordinary boutique,” but it is also true that Meg Guess is not your ordinary designer. She puts the bride first and turns bridal gown shopping into an experience. Want more? Visit www.megguess.com for a look into Meg Guess Couture Bridal. Written by Meredith Foerster
Fashion
Resort Runway
Hold on to your hats, or should I say, visors! The Resort 2012 collections are nothing shy of bright, bold, and utterly assertive. From Chanel’s monochromatic yellow suits to Alexander Wang’s cutout swimsuits, the styling spoke of a much more audacious woman than years past. If fashion is a direct reflection of society, women today are ready to have some fun! Several trends continued on from the Spring and Fall 2011 collections, in particular the 70’sesque vibe. Lanvin’s entire collection seemed to jump right out of 1970, with his famously draped gowns, full-length jumpsuits complete with turban, and glittering metallic fringe frocks. Gold didn’t stop there. It made is mark on several collections from haute couture gowns at Alexander McQueen to miniskirts at Gucci. Rachel Zoe’s second collection continued to exude her effortless L.A. girl-meets-Stevie Nicks style. However, the rich bright hues and animal prints added a touch of unexpected flair for her fans. Jumpsuits continued to walk the runway, not just in solids, but also in another trend, full on floral.
2011 Res
Designers played with prints of every type in their collections, including even ethnic-influenced and fruits. Patterns were paired together, as well as textures, seen by Tory Burch and Diane von Furstenberg. Even DVF’s backdrop was graffitied! Another surprise of the season was Michael Kors scuba-inspired pieces in acidneon hues. Kors worked three major trends with his sportswear looks, bright hues, and animal print. Visors, cutouts, and nylon jackets played a part in collections. Orange made a steady return to the runways, however this time in a deeper hue than it’s cousin coral. Yellow was another surprise among collections. Even Karl Lagerfeld dedicated a section of his classic Chanel suits to the sunny color. Among other hot trends were ankle-skimming pants and leather. As-per-usual crisp white was a hot color for many pieces, although minimalism already seems to be “so last season”. From the view of the runways, it looks like the upcoming year yields a lot of festive and ultra over-the-top fashion.
sort Runway
By Grace Davis
OK Career
Born into a family with such an overwhelming abundance of talent, creativity, and success, it’s no surprise that Cody Thomson has transpired into the incredible woman she is today.
As a 3rd generation interior designer, Cody had some big shoes to fill. It all began with her grandfather, Ron Thomson, who was one of the first members of Oklahoma’s chapter of the Association of Interior Designers, pioneering the American Society of Interior Designers. Once her father, Cam Thomson, obtained an interior design degree, he joined the family business, Thomson+Thomson Designs. “I was raised watching my father and grandfather design, draw, and install these amazing spaces. They expressed such a command within their field and I witnessed their ability to elevate a room to such an elegant, sophisticated level,” she tells us. While studying photography at the Savannah College of Art and Design, Cody never considered majoring in interior design. She couldn’t comprehend how one could be taught to design. Her college roommate, an interior design major, frequently consulted her opinion on projects, which sparked a competitive side in Cody. “I kept thinking, if this was my project, I’d own it.” This led her to switch majors and apply her photographic knowledge of composition to interior space. As a child, Cody remembers constantly converting her bedroom into a studio-like apartment with separate sitting areas. “My mom would always laugh because I’d avoid chores and act like I couldn’t lift a finger, but when it came to rearranging my furniture, I had super human strength.” She’s always been inspired by the work of both Philip Johnson and Philipe Stark, but her true inspiration lies within the expertise of both of her grandfathers. “One was a technical-minded, Yale graduate, who practiced engineering and law, while the other was a right-brained, talented and creative artist and designer. I like to think to think I fall in the middle and inherited a few qualities from each of them,” she tells us. The first time Cody stepped up to the plate, as a designer was when she was given the task of completing a design that her grandfather began before he passed away in 2006. “It was bittersweet. I took his drawings and used them as road maps to pull the space together and ensure that the room was completed.”
Upon acquiring a BFA in Interior Design with a Minor in Architecture from SCAD, Cody decided to move back to Oklahoma City and continue on with her architectural studies at the University of Oklahoma. While beginning her studies at OU, her father became overwhelmed with projects and needed a partner to assist in maintaining his business. Cody then made the difficult decision of postponing her graduate studies to work full-time for the family business, which she’ll never regret. “I’m so happy with my decision. There is no guarantee as to how long my dad’s knowledge will be accessible to me, and I feel fortunate for the information I gain everyday by working with him.” When asked what it was like working alongside her father, Cody stated,” I’ve learned more than I ever expected within these last few years. I underestimated what a genius that man is, until I had the opportunity to work with him. I think we compliment each other well. He is a complete artist with old-school techniques. I try to encourage him to maintain that essence while introducing some of the new technology available within our field.” When it comes to her design aesthetic, Cody loves working with clean, modern lines and utilizing the knowledge she’s gained from working alongside her father, who maintains a strong appreciation for more traditional furniture and architecture. Ultimately, Cody strives to create timeless designs that avoid short-lived trends. As individuals, both Cody and her father are incredible designers who heighten any room into an immaculate space, but as a team, they are absolutely brilliant. If you’re looking to revamp your house, apartment, or business, Thomson+Thomson Designs is the place to call. Check out their website at www.thomsondesigns.com, where you will find samples of their work, as well as contact information. You certainly won’t be disappointed.
Written by Daniel Whitfield
Summer and I Broke Up: It’s Complicated In short: summer will slap a soft, white, pasty spare tire on your once tan, taut washboard abs faster than you can ask “what’s a 401k again?”
Ladies and Gentlemen, summer is upon us. I
always get nostalgic thinking about summer. I can specifically remember the summer I turned 16, driving around with all of my friends; ruling the world. We used to terrorize late night Walmarts by hiding one of our friends underneath a pile of clothes in a shopping cart, pushing it around until the secret signal was given, and they would proceed to jump out at an unsuspecting soccer mom. Our greatest concerns consisted of who “made out” with whom in the hot tub, and how long we could hang out at the mall before getting kicked out. The rare event of parents leaving town was pure bliss and getting grounded was a death sentence. Regardless of location, gender, or social circle, we all have distinct memories of summer we hold close to our heart. It is a season we can claim as our own. One where we can bask in last year’s accomplishments and knowingly start fresh again in the fall. Fast-forward to the lives of a post college grad: Welcome to adulthood. Now let me lay down some wicked truth... Summer is a skank. Summer is not your friend. Summer will CUT you. Summer will not remember why the two of you were ever in love and will leave you for a younger model.
For the first time in your life, your summer days will consist of sweaty legs sticking to faux leather office chairs while devising ways to conceal the sweat rings forming in the netherregions of your uncomfortable, ill-fitting work wardrobe. After hours of staring longingly out the office window, dreaming of sprinklers, snow cones, and bottle rockets, you shift your eyes back to your computer screen, sigh, and give yourself a pep talk. You have a real job. You’re an adult now – this is what we’re supposed to do right? Yet don’t become too disheartened busy worker bees. Even if you had the summers off, it will never be the same. As a teacher, I fall into the “summers off ” category, but I quickly discovered it was a sham. At first, a tiny trickle of friends get lost to real jobs, which quickly turns into a steady stream. By the time you’re almost 25, that steady stream has dried up and left you alone a desolate, barren wasteland. Summer broke up with me, AND took away all my friends. Here’s a first hand account of a typical day of my “free summer”.
-Wake up to your alarm clock. -For real wake up 2 hours later. -Impress yourself with your extreme bedhead and morning breath. Stare loathingly into the mirror. -Promise to be productive today. -Desperate for human contact - decide to “work” at a coffee shop. -Get there and search desperately for anyone you know to distract you from said “work” . (“Oh heeeeyy ex-boyfriend from 9th grade! How are your wife and new baby? oh? Tell me more! No really-please do!”) -Go home. Take a nap simply because you can’t think of a reason not to. -Wonder if your gums are receding. -Google “are my gums receding?” -Call your mom. She’s too busy to talk. -Clean your house. -Mess it up again. -Text all your friends at work. No response. -Consider a second nap but resort to celebrity gossip blogs. -Drop an ibuprofen in the toilet bowl to see how it dissolves (not that cool). -Strike some model poses in the mirror. -Pinch your love handles. -Stare at the clock and wait for it to turn 6.
So take a minute. Pat yourself on the back for making it through the summer solstice without flipping out. Plan a pool party this weekend that takes advantage of all the cool, adult pleasures we couldn’t partake in during our 16 year old summers, and make a toast to that awesome retirement fund you are now officially saving up for. I’m proud of you. Oh... and invite me to your party- because this girl has nothing to do. N.o.t.h.i.n.g. :)
I’m sure at some point things will get easier. Somewhere along the road summer will be just another season lumped in with the rest; not the magical 3 month oasis that we all once knew. In 6 years when I’m writing for “30 something mag” I’ll be sure to give you guys all kinds of great “summer bbq tips” and “weekend getaway” plans. But for now, you can find me walking aimlessly around Target, waiting for all my friends to get off work, and wondering why summer’s steamy love affair with me has grown cold. Summer as a 20 something is a huge growth period for all of us. For the first time in our lives there is no real “end”. No sense of accomplishment. No more advancing titles (oh my gee - we’re JUNIORS!!!). No more certificates of achievement. No grades. No stage to walk across, and no hand to shake to commemorate all of your hard work. It’s just another day and by golly, it’s hard! Written by Sherree Chamberlain
Twenty Something Guy Written by Meredith Foerster Photography: Bethany Young Styling: Lucas Westendorf Clothing Provided by Spencer Stone
While most 22 year olds are searching for a
career, Michael Hitsman created one. Michael is the man behind the tie company, Hitsman, and is July’s Twenty Something Guy.
Founded in 2010, Michael began making ties around Christmas of 2009 to satisfy his need for a holiday pattern. “I made about 20 ties over Christmas break and took them back to my fraternity and sold them to people to get a feel for how well they would be received,” Michael said. “I had the interest and decided I might as well do something with it.” Michael made his first collection earlier this year. Hitsman ties are made in the USA, something that Michael was determined to have when creating his business. “We used to have a lot of things made in America of good quality, from building materials to clothing, and there was a whole garment district in New York that kind of almost died in a sense, but so many people picked it up so it’s me wanting to be part of that.” This young designer travels to Dallas and New York to purchase fabrics for his timeless collection. When asked where he draws his inspiration, Michael looks to none other than himself. “I always feel like my taste is changing a little bit. It’s not really one place, it’s a lot of a look I’ll want to have.” From his collection, it is easy to see that Michael has a unique style. Michael can add “as seen in” to his résumé since the release of the March 2011 issue of GQ Magazine. Philip Dudley, of the television show Modern Family, wore a Hitsman tie in one of the magazine’s spreads. His ties are also featured in Bearings magazine. Who else does Michael want to see in his ties? – “I don’t know, anybody really. As long as someone is wearing one I’m happy,” Michael said modestly. With medical school in the future, Michael shows no signs of slowing down on his business. “I want to be in a lot more stores,” Michael explained. “I don’t necessarily want a clothing empire, but I would like to have some pants, jackets, and shirts here and there.” With
talent and ambition, it would not be a surprise if Michael Hitsman became a household name in the fashion industry. The Hitsman collection is currently available online at www.hitsmanusa.com where the ties are matched with different looks to get a visual of the product. The ties are also sold at Cayman’s, Spencer Stone Company, and Travers Mahan throughout Oklahoma.
By Luke Stephens
I hate to admit it, but it has become very apparent. I kiss and tell. And it all started with an argument. The argument took place during a thirteen-hour car ride to Colorado over spring break 2010. How many girls from the same Oklahoma State University sorority had I kissed? The debate was livelier than you’d expect. My friend Robert was sure it was seven, while I maintained it was six. You’d think, since I was the person who had kissed these girls, I would know. However, Robert and I started to list them all and, sure enough, there were seven. This naturally led to Robert and I recalling hilarious stories about how each kiss happened. And a seed was planted in my mind. Flash forward three months and I was sitting, bored to death in summer school. Instead of focus-
ing on what the professor had to say, my mind began to wander. Inspired by my argument months before, I spent the hour making a list on my iPhone of all the girls I had ever kissed*. If I had forgotten/ intentionally-blocked-out the one girl during my argument with Robert, it was quite possible I might have forgotten others. I didn’t want to forget any of the girls I had kissed. It seemed rude almost. Flash forward another four months. I was in Stillwater, enjoying a weekend of football and generally pretending like I was still an undergrad, when, at the end of a long Saturday, I kissed a girl outside of her sorority house. When I awoke the next day, I told the story of how I kissed this girl to a friend. And it was a good story. Then I told another friend, and another. After getting good reactions from the people I talked to, I started to think of all of the
Most of the stories are funny. A few are poignant. None are meant to offend or hurt. But, fair warning, some are sad, some are awkward, some are kind of mean, and several are completely delusional. It’s just that I’ve been all of those things in my relationships with girls, and I want to re-tell everything, exactly how it happened, exactly how I remember feeling. What I am really wanting is to have a relationship with you, the reader. And I’ve learned (mostly through television) that you have to be completely honest in a relationship, or else you’ll end up in Hawaii, staying in a hotel room next door to your ex and her new rock star boyfriend, and Mila Kunis is mad at you (note to self: don’t watch a movie before writing a magazine article).
other stories I’d told about the girls I’d kissed. I realized that my romantic life had been pretty hilarious up to this point, full of awkward and strange moments, and I had been telling these stories to people throughout college. I love talking about relationships. People are always interested in other people’s love lives. This is because no one really knows what he or she is doing, and they want in on the secret, or alternatively, to find out that there really is no secret to learn. I had an idea. I would start a blog. A blog about every girl I’ve ever kissed. It would be another three months before I actually found the time/courage (or in reality, lost all good judgement) to create the blog and show it to the world. Thus, www.everygirliveeverkissed.com was born.
Anyway, www.everygirliveeverkissed.com has been updated every Wednesday for almost six months now. I am up to girl #21, and there are still many more to come. Please check it out! I’ll also be contributing a monthly article here at Twenty Something Magazine. Sometimes it will be about relationships, cause I love talking about them. Sometimes it will be discussing whatever I am fired up about at the moment. Sometimes it just might be random thoughts/ideas/crazy talk/incoherent ramblings that may or may not be the plot to Forgetting Sarah Marshall. And I guess this was just my first one. See you next month!
Fashion
Summ
mer Heat
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Hair and Makeup: Lil Doescher Model: Maci Cameron Clothing Provided by Royce Clothing, EXIT Fashion Boutique, Hot Topic
Fashion
Kelsey’s Must Haves
This month is all about online shopping. If you are anything like me, you enjoy those unique items every one else isn’t going to have. The mall is a great place for shopping, and we have tons of adorable boutiques too but when you just need that something special, the world wide web can be your very best friend. Here are some of my favorite online shopping sites and a few items they have right now that I have already added to my shopping cart. Besides, that package waiting for you on your door step after work, full of your new goodies makes it that much better. (I can’t believe I’m revealing all of my secrets.)
Novus Shoes I have come to terms with the fact that I am addicted to shoes. This web site provides plenty of fuel for that fire to stay brightly lit. There are tons and tons of shoes for every occasion imaginable and the range in prices will suit most everyone. I turn here when I’m looking for something I haven’t seen anywhere else and I am always impressed with the selection. www.NovusShoes.com
Solestruck At this moment I am mildly obsessed with the ‘Lita’ by Jeffrey Campbell (I already have four pairs, and still want more!) It’s definitely a shoe that earns very mixed opinions. Some people love them and some will say “What are you wearing?” But if you’re like me, you don’t care much what people think of your outfits, you just wear what you like! This web site has one of the largest selections of not only this shoe, but all Jeffery Campbell’s as well as a ton of other interesting shoe designs. You can check them all out at www.Solestruck.com
Nasty Gal Clothing Right now, this is my favorite place to shop online. I always find my shopping cart way too full, that I have to go back and remove items. They have clothing, shoes and accessories and are great for those of you out there who enjoy a more interesting, less put together look. I think these shorts are so fun, and while I’m not certain they would look as cute on me, I know a few friends who would rock them!! visit www.ShopNastyGal.com
Mod Cloth One of my favorite era’s to style is the 1950’s. I love the dress, hats and gloves and all of the combinations of the patterns. This web site has such a great selection of vintage inspired clothing that it makes me wish just a little bit that I was born in that era... or most definitely that I had more places to go to wear looks such as these. The also have a huge selection of clothing of today’s style as well. It’s really a fun site, but things sell out quickly so if you see something you like, snatch it up. www.modcloth.com
Lulu’s Fashion Lounge When I am in the mood for something girly or fun to wear for a night out, I love looking at the dresses from Lulus. They have a variety of shapes, styles, and colors. A few times I have noticed they have some items that stores around town also carry, but for the most part you will be the only one wearing it on the night of your choice. Lulus has a ton of really great items in addition to dresses too. www.Lulus.com
Fashion 60’s
80’s
70’s
90’s
Personal Style
If you’re up-to-date on the latest runway
shows, and you religiously follow fashion week, then you’ve probably detected a plethora of recurring trends. Season after season, we continue to witness collections utilizing the same military, punk, biker, and vintage inspired trends. Despite my love for all things vintage, I think I may gouge my eyes out if I see another Seventies inspired collection. With the exception of a few designers, I feel as though the fashion industry has depleted itself of all creativity. Through innovation and imagination, each decade can be easily characterized by it’s own unique and specific style. Rising trends and themes such as, optical art, space age, psychedelic color palettes, mini-skirts, and the popularity of the Mod and Hippie subcultures helped distinguish fashion in the Sixties. Music inspired fashion throughout the Eighties and Nineties, establishing iconic Punk and Grunge styles. But what about the 21st century? Aside from short-lived fads, are there any distinct trends or styles that define us as a generation? David Wolfe, from the trend forecasting company, the Doneger Group, simply proclaimed, “There are no more trends. Everything is in style.” After contemplating Wolfe’s bold statement, I realized that he hit the nail on the head. Fashion is in a current state in which personal style prevails over mass merchandise. Being on-trend in the 21st century doesn’t require a wardrobe filled with the most recent collections. It’s about exploring the infinite art of fashion and discovering who you are as an individual. Experiment by mixing together diverse looks and styles. Dress yourself in high and low-end garments, vintage and brand new, grungy and preppy. Fashion holds no boundaries, so get creative and develop a personal style that defines who you are. After all, isn’t that a trend in and of itself? By Daniel Whitfield
Fashion
Under the Sea
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Model: Lauren Lundeen
Fashion
Top 10 Wardrobe Essentials By KSBI’s All About You
While you may not be able to run out and buy every piece on this list, you can purchase something every month or maybe each paycheck. Stop buying the cheap stuff that looks good for two minutes and get pieces that are reliable and look good any time of the year. #1 LBD The classic Little Black Dress is a staple for style on any figure or body type. Choose your strap, style and length, but just make sure it’s above the knees, hugs your curves and is BLACK! #2 Oxford White Button Down A clean, well fitted, and pressed Oxford button down brightens up any wardrobe. Brooks Brothers offers a variety of collar types and spices up the traditional white with colored barrel cuffs. #3 Quality Stilettos Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all afford Christian Louboutin! Get real! For an elongated leg that won’t break the bank try Kennith Cole’s 925 Technology in style City Ring. Four inch pump made of black leather and guess what…you can last all day in these for less than $200! #4 Great Fitting Jeans Dark wash preferred because of their slimming effect. For under $70 you can grab a quality pair that will cover your bum and move with your curves from the Gap, style Long & Lean. #5 Pencil Skirt A darker color seems to go with more seasons and the pinstripe adds a kick to the plain color. The high waist gives the illusion of longer legs and shows off the backside, which guys love. #6 Wrap Dress Go with a print for this must have. Not something crazy like tie-dye, but something classic and flattering in a bold color. Look for a v-neck and a hemline just at the knee with a ¾ length sleeve. #7 Stylish Flats Go for the wow factor with this one. Add a pop of color or bling to turn this somewhat boring essential into a cherry-on-top kind of piece. The main reason for purchase is of coarse comfort, but make a statement too. #8 Lingerie Your welcome guys! No matter what your size, style or type just make sure you have something that when you put it on you feel as sexy as when you take it off. Think color, lace and va-va-voom! #9 Black Blazer Throw on your Great Fitting Jeans, step into your Quality Stilettos and button up your Oxford White Button Down and what finishes the look? A black blazer pulls everything together and makes the appearance more sophisticated. Express has many styles and great price points. #10 Trendy Top Try to buy one high ticket, trendy item per season. Something that will last in your closet and welcome compliments. We all know trends come full circle and having that one top will be versatile with your jeans and pencil shirt.
Next month we’ll give you the top 5 accessories to finish your new wardrobe. We’ll see you at 11:00 on All About You on KSBI.
Fashion
Electric Daisy: Carnival Fashion The electronic dance music festival Electric Daisy Carnival made its way to Dallas, TX on June 18th at Fair Park. This festival is unlike any other with their combination of five different stages, talent, carnival rides and art instillations.
The fashion at the festival was nothing less than outrageous. The concertgoers are all dressed completely different. Many dressed for a rave sporting neon attire, furry boots and tons of glow sticks. Others chose to wear body paint, bathing suits and glitter. Fanny packs and sports jerseys also seemed to be popular items at the concert. It seemed that no two people were dressed alike. Just walking around the festival is an experience because of the sights you will see. Dancers with crazy masks and clowns on stilts walk around the grounds and would come on the stages during the performances. There were also various carnival rides that were located by the large outdoor stage that attracted many causing long lines. Four of the five stages were located inside different buildings at Fair Park. The talent at this year’s EDC included big names such as Manufactured Superstars, Dirtyphonics and Skrillex. At every stage there was always huge crowds of people dancing and enjoying the music. The festival also included various art instillations such as a light tunnel and light bubbles that changed colors when people sat or stepped on them. The whole atmosphere seemed to be all about light, sound and having an unforgettable time. The Electric Daisy Carnival is a fun and bizarre experience. It is definitely a great summer music festival for everyone to enjoy. The EDC party continues on in Orlando, Denver, Las Vegas and Puerto Rico. To learn more about the electronic festival check out their website: www.electricdaisycarnival.com
By Jordan Skinner
Music
Clayton Graham Fike
Photography: Bethany Young
Meet Clayton Graham Fike - Nashville’s
latest up and coming musician. With a new single to be released this month, we can’t help but jump on the bandwagon. But careful ladies - this man is taken.
Tell us about yourself I am a people person. I am a music person. I love people and music, especially in the company of each other. They are the only two things that have ever been able to reach a part of my soul that nothing else will ever be able to touch. If there were one thing that I love more than my wife and music, it would be the fact that I have been freely and undeservedly given the opportunity to have a relationship with a God who is absolutely crazy about me, regardless of my insufficiencies. How did you first get into music? My dad started me on the guitar when I was 9. I started my first band, Alpha Dog (an exclusively Weezer tribute) at around 12 or 13 and got serious about writing my own material at around 15. The rest is history. You have been a solo performer and are now going the band route. Tell us about that transition, and about Church Mice. I released my first ever solo album in January 2010 literally the day before I moved to Nashville. It was an exciting time, and the EP did surprisingly well, but due to stress in the studio and the rush to get it done, it had been robbed of the heart it needed for me to be content with promoting it. I spent a long, cold winter in solitude in a 20’x20’ (no joke) shack-of-ahouse eating ramen and writing music; which I believe to be one of the most transformative times of my life. It was in this time that I made friends with Graham Bechler (drummer of Church Mice) and Jeremy Clark (keys) who immediately took interest in the songs I had been working on. So, we began to collaborate and before we knew it, we were in my good buddy Rob Clark’s (www.clarkacoustics.com) home studio recording what we thought were just demos of our songs. The sounds we were getting were too good to not take seriously,
so we decided to make a record. Thirteen months, countless studio hours and eight songs later, Church Mice is born. Do you write all of your songs? If so, where do you get your inspiration from? I do. In Church Mice, I write the songs and then we all come together to produce, orchestrate and rearrange them to fit the image of our sound. I draw inspiration from trials of life, good/bad, former/current relationships, music, God, and of course my lovely wife, Whitney Fike. How would you describe your style of music? We like to call ourselves an ‘indie-pop-rock’ band. We’ll see what iTunes has to say about that. Tell us about your upcoming single. We couldn’t be more excited about our debut single. We’ve put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into the crafting of every song on this album, and we are confident that “Feel The Same” will be not only a good representation of who we are, but a fun way for Church Mice to say ‘hello, let’s be friends’ to the world. What artists do you admire and draw inspiration from? We all come from very different musical backgrounds, so the list goes on and on. But for me, James Taylor, Imogen Heap, Justin Vernon and David Bazan are just a few of the magnificent artists that I draw inspiration from. I think I could listen to these guys everyday for the rest of my life and not be sick of them. When will your new CD be available? Ah, good question. Depending on the amount of help we receive from our Kickstarter campaign and by the good grace of God, we are hoping to have a release-show on the books and a physical copy of the debut album in hand by mid-late September. Fingers crossed.
Do you have plans to tour? I think we all realize that we will have to be on the road at some point, but right now it’s not a priority. Between Jeremy and I finishing up school, Graham traveling with Andrew Belle and other artists, and trying to pay the bills and spending time with loved ones, touring is on the back burner. Luckily, we are all firm believers in the utilization of free social-marketing/ networking and plan to take full advantage of those sites while they are still free. Not to mention, we are blessed to live in a city that doesn’t require us to travel in order to be seen on stage by somebody ‘important’ or whatever. Being from Texas, how is it living in Nashville, one of the best music hubs in America. Surprisingly, Texas and Tennessee are not all that different. A common misconception about Nashville (mainly from people who have never spent time here aside from the tourist traps) is that it’s all country and Christian. It is without question the epicenter of both genres, but buried beneath the omnipresence of honkytonks and churches is a rapidly growing, very vast melting pot of different styles. Much like Austin, TX, Nashville has room for the indietrendy weird guys who only care about playing and nothing else. The only difference is Nashville is conveniently located within a few hours of many other big music cities, making it much easier to do last minute one-off ’s to Memphis, Cincinnati or even Chicago. You just don’t get that in Texas. If you were on a stranded island with a mix CD of only 10 songs, what songs would you want on it? Bon Iver – “Re: Stacks” Imogen Heap – “Speeding Cars” Sigur Rós – “Glósóli” James Taylor – “You Can Close Your Eyes” Vampire Weekend – “The Kids Don’t Stand a Chance” Madi Diaz – “Ten Gun Salute” Pedro The Lion – “The Longer I Lay Here” Ben Kweller – “In Other Words” Band of Horses – “No One’s Gonna Love You” Copeland – “Priceless”
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