USTYLEU MAG - 2012 FALL ISSUE by uStyleu Mag

FALL, 2012 ISSUE $5.99 ONLINE/DIGITAL

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

CHLOE FREE AT LAST? So I’m out on my own and making my own decisions. Chloe is doing her own thing…heyy! FAST FORWARD TO REALITY I never in a million years imagined while I was following the rules in the confines of home, I was actually gaining major principles that would shape (and limit) my new found freedom. Now before the “Awwws” and “How Sweets” kick in, I just want to let you know that I was not trying to do that! It just happened! CHOICE..NOW THAT I HAVE ONE I choose to set my own rules and surprisingly I do have rules. I have to admit however, I have ‘ahem’…eliminated some of the bothersome chores that plagued me at home. I have fun, (lots of it), but I do set boundaries. I remain focus on why I am in school. I’m not here to waste money or my time. I’m not here to prove to the world or to myself that I’m grown up. My actions and decisions will declare my level of growth. It is not easy having high standards, because someone is always there to call you a “prude”. They can call it what they want, but they don’t have to be me 24/7. I have to live the rest of my life with the decisions that I make right now. I like this FREEDOM thing. It helps me define my character. Thank you to so many people for subscribing to uStyleu Mag. Special shouts go out to Roseanne Ludwigson and Matthew Ambrosio and their amazing team out of New York City. Thank you to Kelli Svancarek of Silver Castle Photography for her awesome fashion cover and photo spread. A big thank you to everyone from coast to coast for making uStyleu Mag the leading Fashion/ Journalism magazine for teens and young adults. I’m eternally grateful for the support. Love,

Chloe Graham

On the cover

@ustyleumag

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

MODEL

PHOTOGRAPHER

Sriram Parthasarathy Email: Sriramp78@live.com Website: www.sriram.biz

Kelli Svancarek Silver Castle Studio Phone: 815-768-9903 Email: kelli@silvercastlestudio.com Website: www.silvercastlestudio.com

FASHION DESIGNER Aaron Dixon Email: Aaronjdixon12@yahoo.com

Contents | FALL

Table of Contents: 4-5 IN THis ISSUE 6 FLASH! SEAN CUNNINGHAM 7 STYLE? BY kevin 8-9 Fall in the city 10-11 fall fashion fun! 12 This one’s for you mom! 13 IN THE SPOT 14-15 at the bow: bulletPRoof? 16-17 nascar’s tia norfleet 18-19 ON THE RISE 20-21 the voice - de’borah garner 22 girl power!

uStyleu Advertisers M.I.C MADE IN CHICAGO 500 W. Cermak Chicago, Illinois 773 578-0008

16 18 Ustyleu Mag Staff Editor in Chief chloe graham CREATIVE CASTING DIRECTOR YVETTE BOUYE ROBERSON New Ad Media Manager Kim Smith Public Relations/Media Big Red Head Ideas, Inc.

Advisor/Mentor Maudlyne Ihejirika Jodie Blum Fashion Director Erika Bracey FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

IN THIS ISSUE Matthew Ambrosio Beauty Educator & Columnist/Pro Makeup Artist - CEO/Founder Matthew Ambrosio holds several roles in the beauty industry. His world extends to sharing his practices and tips to every day women from print to private consultations, to the executive of his own beauty biz and to the internal artist in him which is inspired by high fashion. For the uStyleu fall discovery shoot, Matthew chose a site close to home in eastern Long Island. A proud New Yorker from the incredible natural beauty that surrounded him and the distinct change of season in the air played a part in his inspiration for the looks. www.BeautyBLESS.com

Carlos Otero International Stylist & Makeup Artist/Beauty Educator CEO/Founder “The International Latino Makeup Show” Carlos Otero is a master with a passion for beauty. Born with an innate gift he makes women feel beautiful and confident. A native to Puerto Rico “La Isla del Encanto” he has worked with women and men of all types from top entertainers like Cuban legend, the late Celia Cruz to large groups at international expo’s and television. He recently founded the “The Intl. Latino Makeup Show” which will celebrate beauty in a very special and unique format. www.carlosoterostyle.com

Tony Ambrosio Pro Photographer/Artist/Craftsmen - Tony Ambrosio’s work includes mostly a portfolio which consists of surreal and sublime nature collections from lakes to lightening, yet you will also find excellent personal portraits and wow factor fashion presentations such as the one in this edition’s fall fashion spread. In addition to photography, Tony’s artistry skill expands to stain glass, oil paints, and carpentry, journalism and building computers. As a husband and father of five, all of these skills have become a priceless gift to his family.

Eva Pappas Eva Pappas – Fashion Stylist/Designer - Owner of “Eva of Sayville” a formal fashions boutique Eva comes from a very exciting place in the fast paced and colorful world of international fashion. Her clients included several celebrities and crown winning beauty queens. She is an expert at choosing the perfect style and dress for anyone and her style, class and taste have no limits however she makes it available to everyone at her fashion boutique in Sayville, NY. In addition to her business, Eva is also the founder of “The Cinderella Project” which provides clothing and beauty services to young ladies from families which cannot afford to purchase a prom dress. Eva embodies the very essence of generosity and is a true inspiration to many. www.EvaSayville.com

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

Aaron Dixon Aaron Dixon - Fashion Designer Aaron’s motto is, “It’s time to start living live instead of merely existing.” Inspired by the quality and unique clothing designed by his grandmother Lucille King, Aaron followed in her same footsteps. Coupled with strict design school training and natural talent, Aaron creates beautifully custom designed gowns and custom suits for men. Aaron Dixon Designs have graced the runways of the top Chicago fashion shows. Aaron’s designs are featured on the Cover and on pages 8 and 9 of this issue.

Kelli Svancarek Kelli Svancarek Owner of Silver Castle Photography It’s the beauty that keeps me passionate about photography. I am allowed to be a part of the happiest times of people’s lives -- the engagement, the wedding day, the new baby, the growing children and family, the graduations, and parties with friends. I get to share the day and moments and then get to relive them all over again when I present the images. Kelli’s incredible work was featured in the summer 2012 issue, “We Like to Party” so of course, we asked her to return and work her magic again on this issue’s cover and inside spread. www.silvercastlestudio.com Contact Kelli at 815.768.9903 or at kelli@silvercastlestudio.com

Michael Kostopoulos Photographer Michael Kostopoulos has been shooting hair, beauty, style and commercial images for over 34 years. He is called The Hairstyle Photographer because he shoots some of the top hair designers in the business and gets them in hairstyle magazines in the USA and in Europe. He is a former executive editor of two nationally distributed beauty magazines. uStyleu, can’t get enough of Michael’s work. His work has been featured on the spring 2012 cover of uStyleu, the summer 2012 spread “I’m All That” and this current issue “This One’s For You Mom” spread. His teamed up with Laura Janota-Davis Hair design for this shoot. His model discoveries have been seen on national television, runway, print and tradeshows. Catch him on www.facebook.com/mkostopoulos or call 630-842-6787.

Want your work featured in uStyleu? Email us at contact@ustyleu.com FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

FLASH! FEATURE Beauty Fashion Editiorial And Focus on the Positive

ean Cunningham, owner of Sean Cunningham | Photography, is a published New York based beauty, fashion, and editorial photographer who has been shooting professionally since 1998. In that time, he has traveled the country covering such events as NYC’s Fashion Week, The Magic Clothing Conference in Las Vegas, and the Tanqueray Soul Suite national tour featuring Raheem DaVaughn and Floetry. Sean’s work has appeared in prominent magazines such as People, Vibe, and The Source. His client list has included Atlantic Records, Corbis Imaging, The Magic Johnson Foundation, and Mercy Health Systems just to name a few.

Whether a large marketing campaign or working with up and coming talent, Sean’s ability to remain professional, enthusiastic, and amiable has earned him a strong reputation. He takes great pride in his high client referral rate, as it is evidence that his commitment to fostering a comfortable and productive atmosphere yielding quality results is valued. Known for his clean style, creativity, and technical acumen, Sean’s work displays true artistry; resulting in captivating, bold, and unique imagery. Comfortable working with an array of talent, a hallmark of his work is his ability to embraces and showcases variety. With a career that has withstood many changes in the industry, Sean is poised to be an even stronger voice in beauty, fashion, and editorial photography for many years to come. Sean Cunningham | Photography www.SeanCunninghamPhotography.com Sean@SeanCunninghamPhotography.com 516.967.1177

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

Style? By Kevin

don’t believe that I have style. I just wear whatever I think looks nice on me. I’m not into the big name brands or fancy clothes. I wear whatever looks good at the time. Also, I wear some things that may be a bit different from the norm. For example, one of my favorite T-shirts has drawstrings at the neck. You don’t see too many of those floating around do you? I take different styles and turn it into “Kevin’s Style” while remaining quite basic. A lot of people see me as a humble person, and I think my style reflects that.

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

Model Sriram Parthasarathy Email: Sriramp78@live.com Website: www.sriram.biz Rep: RMC Raven House Agent: Ron Corbin RCorbin@RMC足-RavenHouse.com 312.970.1792 Fashion Designer Aaron Dixon Aaronjdixon12@yahoo.com Photographer Kelli Svancarek Silver Castle Studio Phone: 815.768.9903 kelli@silvercastlestudio.com www.silvercastlestudio.com

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

FALL IN THE CITY

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

FALL FASHION FUN Beauty & Fashion Your Appearance or Attitude?

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

Model: Roseanne Ludwigson 917.601.2018 roseanneludwigson@yahoo.com Makeup Artistry: Matthew Ambrosio www.BeautyBLESS.com MUA Assistant Desiree Di Bartolo For Any Inquiries: Olga Maria Czarkowski Dreams in Heels PR Olga@dreamsinheelspr.com 917.727.1418 Hair & Styling: Carlos Otero www.carlosoterostyle.com Photography: Tony Ambrosio Fashion & Styling: Eva Pappas www.EvaSayville.com

By Matthew Ambrosio, National Beauty Educator & Professional Make Up Artist

If you wish to duplicate these looks, here is what I use and recommend as beauty favorites that are stimulus budget ready. Eyes: NYX “Nude Matte Shadows”- $5 Lips: Limecrime Opaque Lipsticks “Glamour 101” & “Coquette” - $16 Eye Liners: Limecrime Uniliners “Orchidaceous” & “Quill” - $14 Blush: Studio Gear “Natural” - $16 Mascara: Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes- $30

o what is this word we keep hearing mean, “fashion”? Most of us know it as what is hot and what is not. However, fashion is exceedingly more than just a trendy appearance. It can be a fun way to express who you are and try new things. For those of you who have been enjoying summer fashion hues, you must be excited for fall as well because the color is still there, but they have become deeper and richer as if they came from nature. What are these fall winning tones? They range from apple reds to deep blue shades that remind you of a night sky. Earthy dark greens and soft gold tones will compliment a pair of denim jeans with a belt or scarf and make for a fresh look. We all know here that fashion costs currency. There are several places you can pick up something inexpensive to get in on the celebration of color this fall. A favorite spot

to find original budget friendly clothing items are farmers markets and neighborhood fashion boutiques. Now we get into complimenting fashion with makeup. The word to remember is balance. For you makeup lovers, wearing a dress with strong tones such a brighter blue or red will be complimented beautifully with a natural eye look. Finish with black liner and mascara to add definition. If you are feeling extra fierce, use a pop color on the lid that matches the colors you are wearing or a luscious scarlet lip and take it to the next level with some gold or high sheen gloss on that pout. This can add boldness and an edge that will empower you and make a wow statement. Remember the one rule of makeup, there are NO rules. Never fear makeup. Always have fun exploring new things and every once in a while take a chance and try something out of the norm. FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

s George Washington once quoted, “All I am I owe to my mother.” This quotation is the very root of my personal being. If it was not for my mother, I would not be here, nor would I be able to write down the legacy of a woman who is beating the odds of science statistics. This woman is no ordinary person. This person is my mother. She is fighting the never ending battle of cancer. My mother has taught me to count by two’s and tie my shoes. She has taught me everything from 123’s to my ABC’s. My mother is the strongest person I know. Not only has she went through brain surgery, but she has completed thirty-five days of radiation as well as Chemotherapy for fifty days, and is still going through it now. Even when she starts to cry, she smiles, and reassures me, “I am just having a no hair day.” This woman is not just my mother, but my best friend. Yes, it shatters me to see her sick every other day, and going partially blind in her left eye, but I know she is my hero. She may not look like Wonder Woman, she may not have the cape Superman has, but she does have the strength of the Hulk. She is my Super Mom. The survival rate for a patient with Glioblastoma is three months. My mother was diagnosed on May 5, 2011 with stage four terminal brain cancer. Photography by Michael Kostopoulos www.facebook.com/mkostopoulos 630-842-6787 Model: Katelyn Hartsell katelyn.virginia.hartsell@gmail.com Hair by Laura Janota-Davis saganiki3@comcast.net 815-272-7159

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

a s i r a M Ferrara

in the spot

dorning New York City’s top DJ’s and new musicians, Marisa Ferrara is twirling into the Big Apple’s accessory design scene. Radiant, reflective, one of a kind and custom made pieces composed of found materials captivate the brave. Designer, artist, and stylist the Columbia College Chicago graduate finds inspirations around every corner while residing in New York City. Her passion for art in all aspects and the special sentiment of one of a kind accessories has given her a flair for creating unique individual looks to fall in love with. Currently working as a Costume Designer for T.V. and Film, she has worked with companies such as: HBO, NBC, CBS, and ABC, to name a few. In addition, she creates design concepts for independent feature films, all while pursuing her collection. To check out more about Marisa Ferrara, visit www.marisaferrara.com or to see current designs for sale, look no further than www.etsy.com/MarisaTherese.

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

Why Do I Have To Be Bulletproof? By Aaron Graham

un violence defined literally means to use a firearm to threaten or inflict harm on another. Although the statistics may vary, violence shows no regard for age, race, sex or social status which is evident in how the selfish and reckless act of violence has shattered the lives of wellknown names, as singer/actress, Jennifer Hudson, superstar fashion designer Gianni Versace, actor Bill Cosby and tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams to name a few. From time to time, these high-status crime statistics bring violence to the media’s forefront, however children and young adults daily are asking themselves, why they have to be “Bulletproof?” According to the Children’s Defense Fund there are over 280 million guns in civilian hands, the appalling truth reveals that there is no place to escape from the realization of gun violence. Children and teens are not secure from gun violence at school, at home or anywhere else in America, not even in places of worship or movie theaters.

What time is it?

Take the Phone!

A recent study published by Children’s Defense Fund shows that rural and urban children and teens are equally likely to die from firearm injuries. In these cases, young people in urban areas are more likely to be homicide victims while rural children and teens are more likely to be victims of suicide or accidental shootings. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly two million children live in homes with loaded and unlocked guns. Since 1979, gun violence has ended the lives of 110,645 children and teens in America. The latest data from the CDC show 3,042 children and teens died from gunfire in the United States in 2007. That’s one child or teen every three hours, eight every day and 58 every week. David L. Lawery, Jr. president of NAACP Chicago South Suburban Chapter, believes accountability should go back to the manufacturer. “All guns need to be accounted for and the buyers would be held accountable and create a better tracking system of deliveries. It’s our job as an organization to make sure we are talking to the kids who might want to pull the trigger. We need to mentor them and help them find more positive role models than what’s portrayed on TV.” he explained.

Michael – Atlanta, GA – I’m at an off campus party. There’s a scuffle. Doesn’t seem like a big deal, but I know what time it is when dude goes to his car. The shooting began five minutes after my exit.” “My bulletproof is knowing when to break.”

In Blacksburg, VA a Virginia Tech student killed 32 students and faculty and wounded 15 more at the University before killing himself.

Kim - San Francisco, CA – I was jogging on an early Wednesday morning before my classes started. A jogger ran in front of me, then turned to face me, pointed his gun and that’s all I remember. I only had a cell phone on me at the time. He shot me for my phone?” “My bulletproof is the reality of irrationality.”

Dodge Ball

Loura - Chicago, IL - “Have you ever played Dodge Ball? I’m forced to play Dodge Ball everyday, but in my neighborhood instead of dodging balls, we dodge bullets. With my 3-year-old son in the car, I had to weave in and out of traffic to avoid running over lifeless bodies in the street while attempting to distract my son from witnessing the carnage that surrounded him. “My bulletproof is running out and wearing thin.” In Washington, DC a 14-year-old and three men with an AK-47 assault rifle and two handguns open fire on a group of young adults gathered outside in the evening. Four teenagers were killed and five other people injured. Police believe the shooting stemmed from an incident involving a missing bracelet.

the

According to the Children’s Defense Fund, for the most part, the hard work of crafting comprehensive gun control legislation has been left to state and local governments. Federal firearm policy contains significant gaps and mostly focuses on issues of the sale and transfer of guns and only a Massachusetts and the District of Columbia actually have require that all firearms be stored using a locking devise to prevent accidental discharge.

bow

Stand Up and Take Action against gun violence! Thank you to contributors Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. – RainbowPUSH Coalition David L. Lawery, Jr – NAACP Chicago – South Suburban Virgie Bullie – Interviews/Reporting Brandon Foy – Model/College Student Children’s Defense Fund - childrensdefense.org

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

‘Who wakes up in the morning and says I’m going to make history? I just wanted to ride fast.’

ia Norfleet could by no means predict that her enthusiasm for excitement, her love for velocity and her unstoppable stamina would land her in the illustrious pages of our history books. “Who wakes up in the morning and says I’m going to make history? I just wanted to ride fast,” she explained. Tia, who had already made a name for herself in drag racing, says racing is in her blood so it was not a surprise when the 25-year-old followed in the footsteps of her father, Bobby Norfleet, also a professional racer. According to Bobby, Tia always wanted to race. “When she was five-years-old, her little Barbie car wasn’t fast enough for her, so I installed two car batteries and needless to say, Tia became the fastest kid in the neighborhood and hasn’t slowed down yet.”

PHOTO CREDIT: Anderson Smith In addition to racing, Tia is a spokes model and inspires to sing gospel music. “I love singing and would love to pursue a career in music.” Tia is deeply rooted in her faith and attributes her successes to her faith and having a strong family support system. Possessing beauty, talent and faith is a benefit especially when you don’t mind sharing your successes. Tia travels the nation to inspire her fans and youth to pursue their dreams by not setting limits because of their gender, race or background. “Reach for your dreams. I am” says Tia!”

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

go to www.ustyleu.com to comment on CLAYTON

On The

Rise Clayton Jones By Terri Sanchez

Engage and Impact: Two words that passionately sum up the goal of 21-year singer/songwriter, Clayton Jones as he approaches an audience. Based out of St. Louis, Clayton has spent the past seven years perfecting his craft of songwriting and performing, as well as putting feet to his songs and traveling from the Midwest to as far as Texas, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and South Dakota. Most of his time consisted of playing and traveling strictly as a solo artist until he met with guitarist, Phil Ortiz, bassist, Mitch Schrock, and drummer Tyler Ross to form the Pop/Rock band The Madison Letter, which he has been pursuing alongside his solo career.

Madison Letter’s self-titled EP, which hit the public this past summer on July 6th, 2012. Plans are currently being arranged for a new solo EP that Clayton would like to have out in April 2013, so stay tuned to his social networking sites listed below, to stay current with all the up to date news regarding upcoming concerts and new releases. facebook.com/claytonjonesmusic youtube.com/claytonjonesmusic twitter.com/claytonpatrickj For booking contact: claytonjonesmusic@gmail.com

Before forming The Madison Letter, Clayton released two solo CDs entitled “Volunteer” (2009) and “Hear Eye Go” (2009). TML recorded their debut EP, “Patience”, in Nashville, TN with producers Stephen Leiweke and Luke DeJaynes, released on April 15th, 2011. In the summer of 2011, Clayton teamed up with producers Luke DeJaynes and Dustin Burggraaf at Groove Kitchen Studio to record his full-length album “Why Don’t We?” which released on November 1st, 2011. His most recent release is The

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

The

De’borah Garner Voice A

n interview with De’Borah Garner from the hit TV Show, “The Voice” New and Exciting & Not the same ol’ thing!

uStyleu Mag: When you first stepped onto that big stage, what was going through your mind? De’Borah: “Stay calm De’Borah.” I was super nervous looking at the back of the chairs! (Laughter) We only have a little over a minute, and I’m like turn around!” uStyleu Mag: You seemed so energized and empowered on stage. It seemed as though your standpoint was, if they turn around, they turn around, if not, then someone out there will see me. Where did you draw that high energy from? De’Borah: I am an emotional optimist. I take everything to the max. Once I’m up there, it’s on! I sang in clubs for years and people are drinking or socializing, not really paying any attention to who is on stage, so I was accustomed to giving it all that I have, finishing the song and pushing on.” uStyleu Mag: How would you describe your singing style? Do you fit into one genre? De’Borah: “I’m very versatile. By me singing Gospel music, I most relate to Rock n Roll because of the high emotion level, but I think I’m going to create my own genre!” uStyleu Mag: That would actually be dope De’Borah. We’ll be waiting for that! Why did you choose Christina? What was the connection?

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

De’Borah: “Christina really touched me because Christina’s music was one of the very first that I heard outside of Gospel. It was just a good fit.” uStyleu Mag: uStyleu is all about inner strength, individualism and not allowing society or the media to define who we are. We have readers who perhaps can relate to you. What advise would you give our readers about just being cool with the skin that you were born in? De’Borah: “I would tell them, don’t stop believing in your dreams. Before “The Voice” happened, I was at a dead-end. I had given up and had not sung in three years. I just went to audition to kind of prove that no matter the talent, I would not make it because of my appearance. Well they proved me wrong, and I’m happy about that. Making it this far has proved to me that you cannot stop believing in who you are. My appearance kept me behind the scenes in church so I didn’t think the world was ready for me. I’m living proof that there is always a blessing to receive if you believe in yourself.” uStyleu Mag: Describe the place you are in right now? De’Borah: I’m in a good place. Since the show aired, I recognize the talent inside of me. I’m excited about my future, and I love how my new fans have reached out to me on social media. They are excited about what I’m doing, and I’m excited about them . I love where I am right now! Follow me on Twitter and I will follow you back!” Follow De’Borah on Twitter @musictrappa

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

t was just a ‘Girls Thang’ at the First Annual Girls Summit held on August 30 and September 1 at the House of Hope in Chicago.

Chloe Graham, Editor uStyleu Mag, co-hosted this event along with Kendra G., Author and Chicago Radio Personality and Grammy Award Winning Artist/ Broadway Actress, Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child). Over 400 girls ranging from ages 10 to 19 were motivated to embark upon the challenges of bullying, dating, peer pressure and the benefits of having a great attitude. “When selected for Destiny’s Child, I’m sure there were some girls who could sing circles around me, but having a great attitude and respect for the people I work with helped me land the spot. You can’t make it on talent alone.” Williams said. House of Hope’s Jenell Meeks lead the incredible twoday event that featured positive self esteem building, sportsmanship as well as a special Mom’s Workshop. The girls celebrated and shared their triumphs in life and formed lifelong principles.

Chloe and Jenell Meeks “pump up” the crowd!

Michelle Williams addressing the girls

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com

The three lucky girls after their makeovers by Bouye’ Designs, Beauty & Beats Hair and Infinity Hair Salons

GIVE A GIFT UNDER $40 GIVE THE GIFT OF READING Subscribe now and get billed for $36 for one year! For fast service, contact us at contact@ustyleu.com

Subscription includes a free digital copy of each issue!

FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com