Spring 2014 by uStyleu Mag

spring, 2014 ISSUE $5.99 ONLINE/DIGITAL

Be Random!

Random acTs of kindness

chi city's best Gives Back

common ground foundation

spring Style Spontaneity!

arriving in

obama

Hot Spring Fashions

Volume 4 â&#x20AC;˘ Number 2 Editor-In-Chief Chloe Graham

Creative Casting Director Yvette Bouye Roberson

Entertainment Editor Erika Bracey

Entertainment Correspondent Timothy Newson

Copy Editor/Writer Hannah McEwen

Copy Editor/Feature Writer Terri S. Harris

Marketing Specialist Brianna Towers

Advisors

Maudlyne Ihejirika Jodie Blum

Media Consultants Big Red Head Ideas Debbie McEwen

Intern

Aronna Wynne

Creative Media Executive Drew Diesel

Style Consultant Patrick Niles

Creative Assistant Dominique Larue

Check out our advertisers at www.ustyleu.com 2

spring 2014 Issue | uStyleu.com

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Random Acts of Kindness

try to do something kind once a day. Nothing earth shattering, but just an impulsive smile or devoting an extra five seconds of my day to hold the door open for someone behind me at the train station. It doesn’t cost much to be thoughtful. As a matter of fact, that extra smile or allowing someone to pass in the lane in front of me is totally free. I had the honor of being the keynote speaker at an amazing event back in March called the Girlz on Purpose Tour, organized by Project Compassion NFP, a non-profit organization based out of O’Fallon, Illinois. Two hundred extraordinary girls gathered to learn about self-esteem, the effects of bullying, confidence and respect. Project Compassion’s Executive Director, Rachel R. Jackson-Bramwell and her team did not do this for selfgratification, but dedicated hours for the empowerment of young girls. As I walked into the event, I observed the careful planning and how the volunteers were devoted to ensure the event went flawlessly. But more meaningful to me, I watched as the young girls strolled into the event so excited of what the day would bring. It was at that moment that I realized Project Compassion’s selecting me to speak to these young ladies meant they trusted me to represent myself genuinely and respectfully. Just grasping that fact revealed the absolute blessing and honor it was to speak in front of that audience. It is difficult to chronicle how important it was to me to express the right words and to dig deep and share my sentiments as fluently as possible. I wanted to make an impression with my words and be a role model that they could reflect on when they were challenged. I look up to Rachel as a mentor, a leader and a trail blazer. I look up to the young ladies at this event as future leaders and innovators. I will forever be grateful that you chose USTYLEU Magazine. Rachel and Angela (not Angie—insider : ) Thank you!

Hair by Gina Rene Mini Top Hat: MoNay’s Closet

This issue is dedicated to the Random Acts of Kindness organizations and people like us display effortlessly every day. The Asian Fusion cover was inspired by my courageous cousin Brittani. She moved to Japan this year and inspired me to expand and live out my fondest dreams. Love,

Chloe Graham

On the cover

@ustyleumag

Photographer: Lori Sapio Photography 312.972.3483 sapiosis@yahoo.com www.lorisapio.com Fashion Designer: Yvette Bouye – Bouye Designs bouye41design@live.com Phone 800.635.6201 Ext 802 Facebook: sylviayvette www.ustyleu.com

Hair Design: Anastasia Lyubimova 847.660.3572 Jewelry and Accessories: Diane Kay Kafka - of Design IT by “Diana - diane.kafka@aim.com or 630.785.3166 www.designitbydiana.com Make-up Artist: Gianna Carpanzano 837.254.7366 Facebook.com/GiannaMiaMakeUp giannacarp@me.com

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Table of Contents: 5 FLASH – LORI SAPIO PHOTOGRAPHY 6-7

In This Issue

STYLE? BY AARON

IN THE SPOT with J-NA COUTURE

uStyleu 2014

Spring

10 ON! Featuring ISAISA PEREZ 11-13 Spring Spontaneity! 14-15 SPRING FUSION CENTERFOLD 16-17 SPRING FUSION COVER SPREAD 18-19 OBAMA STYLIN 20-21 CHI’S FINEST: COMMON GROUND FOUNDATION 22-23 Couture Living Freedom by Cal G 24-25 ON THE RISE with Lithium Films

9 20

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FLASH! FEATURE

“I discovered photography at the age of 13 and have not looked back.”

ori Sapio received her BFA in photography from NIU in 1997, and had the pleasure to work under some of the Masters of photography shortly after. Her work has been shown in over 15 galleries in the Midwest and has been featured in numerous publications. She began photographing architecture then discovered the enjoyment of photographing the urban music scene. Throughout her extensive travels, she has taken every opportunity to fulfill her need to capture a moment in time from inanimate objects, landscapes, architecture and portraits. She is a purist when it comes to photography and still shoots film. She can also be found in the darkroom from time to time. Her style has been described as photojournalistic because she likes to document and capture the creation of a moment. She also enjoys having to direct or produce it.

“I feel my body of work is eclectic, and I’m able to adapt to any environment or situation with enjoyment because every snap of the shutter I take captures a single moment in time,” Lori states. Lori’s photography work is featured on the cover of this issue as well as the inside cover spread. Contact her at 312.972.3483 Email: sapiosis@yahoo.com Website: www.lorisapio.com

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IN THIS ISSUE Diane Kay Kafka

Diane Kay Kafka is owner of Design IT by “Diana” studio-at-home business of jewelry design, classes and consulting. She has worked with numerous charities to design jewelry in order to provide for those less fortunate. Diane was inspired by her childhood vacation spot among the American Indians, specifically the Ojibwa Tribe in Northern Wisconsin where she recognized the cause for jewelry design as being the heart of our country’s wealth. Diane’s pieces are featured on the cover of this issue as well as the inside and centerfold spreads. Contact her at diane.kafka@aim.com or 630.785.3166. Website: www.designitbydiana.com

Anastasia Lyubimova

Anastasia Lyubimova, is a Chicago hair stylist with an international flare. Besides doing hair at Capriciosa Spa located at 3715 West Montrose Avenue, she also writes a column for a Russian newspaper. She enjoys singing, dancing and being happy. “I really enjoy what I do!” Anastasia work is feature on this issue’s cover and inside spreads. Contact Anastasia at 847.660.3572.

Gianna Carpanzano

Gianna Carpanzano is a make-up artist based in Elmhurst, Illinois. She has been doing make-up for two year. Her passion is to bring out her client’s natural beauty and confidence before each photo shoot. She specializes in print work for photographers. Gianna’s work is feature on this issue’s cover and inside spreads. Contact Gianna at giannacarp@icloud.com.

Yvette Bouye

BOUYE' DESIGN is one of Chicago's premier design and fashion marketing businesses specializing in Bohemian Chic styles and is led by fashion designer Yvette Bouye Roberson. Her eye for fashion began long before receiving a degree at Columbia College Chicago. She comes from a family of seamstresses with a long line of talented artists, and musicians. She has years of experience and exposure including costume, retail, and fashion marketing. Yvette’s “Asian Fusion” Kimono custom design is highlighted on the cover of this issue as well as the inside cover spreads. Contact Yvette Bouye at bouye41design@live.com; Phone: 800.635.6201 Ext 802; Facebook: sylviayvette; www.ustyleu.com.

Cal G

Cal G is a designer on a mission. That mission is to inspire each person to attain what he calls “Couture Living Freedom!” This is a fashion philosophy that holds true to the old world eco-friendly principles of haute couture. His vehicle to help others reach this coveted place of freedom often includes his own two hands, two knitting needles, texturized compassionate real fur neck ties, bamboo silk, hemp silk, fine wools, and yarns. Cal’s Designs are featured on pages 9, 22-23 of this issue. Contact Cal G at Cal G of GSb Men’s Couture at 815.513.2667, Email: cal@j-nacustomgsb.com Website: www.j-nacustomgsb.com.

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Patrick Niles

Patrick Niles is a Chicago based Fashion Stylist, specializing in transforming Men’s and Women’s wardrobes’ from drab to luxurious. Change Patrick is also the Style Consultant for USTYLEU Magazine and work is featured on pages 11-13 of this issue. Contact Patrick to transform not only your closet, but your lifestyle and the way you see yourself and you in your fashion at patrick@patrickniles.com, 312.477.9022, www.patrickniles.com

Dominique Larue

Dominique Larue is the Owner of Da Boutique Couture and House of Consignment. Da Boutique specializes in Da Latest Collection of Designer’s Custom made and Vintage Women’s Jewelry and Fashion. Ms. Larue caters to Women of all varies bringing a Creative Artistic Enhancement to Transform The inner Beauty into Reality. Ms. Larue’s Passion for Beauty and Fashion Creates an Atmosphere in Discovering the Inner Beauty of Every Woman. Dominique is also the Creative Assistant for USTYLEU Magazine. Her work is featured on pages 11-13 of this issue.

Marlon Cordero

Marlon Cordero is a Chicago photographer specializing in high fashion, glamour and boudoir. He has been in the business for six years and is very passionate about his craft. Marlon’s artistic work is featured on pages 11-13 and 22-23 in this issue. Contact Marlon at 630.618.1993, Tryka24@yahoo.com or on Facebook at MCordero Photography.

Karen Anne Torres

Karen Anne Torres is a State board licensed Cosmetologist for almost 20 years. She specializes in hair makeup and skincare needs. She also performs a great amount of community service in order to acquire further development towards her passion and love for beauty, health and wellness. Her extraordinary love for art and science inspired Karen to launch her natural handmade beauty line. To be the essential element, “If you look good you feel better.” Karen’s work can be seen on pages 11-13 of this issue. Contact Karen on Facebook at Katshairstudio1, Cell 630.890.4513 or at Katshairstudio@gmail.com

Sheena Marie Glam Squad

Sheena Marie Glam Squad is Chicago’s leading beauty team. Their extensive range of treatments and services are performed by qualified, highly professional hair stylist, makeup artist, fashion stylist, photographers and esthetician’s who aim only for the best results. At Sheena Marie Beauty Studios, they are dedicated to helping you Look and Feel Gorgeous. Sheena Marie Glam Squad’s work is featured on pages 22-23 of this issue. 1.800.935.7218 www.sheenamariemakeup.com Want your work featured in uStyleu? Email us at contact@ustyleu.com spring 2014 Issue | uStyleu.com

Style? By Aaron

think my style is different but Recognizable; Classic, yet comfortable.

My style represents my personality, laid back, but dignified and always changing.

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a n J-

Couture

in the spot

-na’s passion for design, creative drive, and inspiration developed from a tragic childhood accident that resulted in the lower half of her body being dreadfully scared. Her boundless spirit and energy made her more determined not to allow the disfigurement on her legs scar her heart and soul.

Photographer: Marlon Cordero M Cordero Photography (630) 618-1993 tryka24@yahoo.com Hair: Victoria King (312) 217-5596 vickydumahairs@gmail.com Makeup Artist: (630) 888-0014 Anna Yakimchuk a.yakimchuk@yahoo.com

“When I was six years old, I climb up on the stove to get the cereal out of the upper cupboard for my little sisters and me. The pilot light caught my nightgown, and I went up in flames! Panicking, I ran upstairs to my parent’s room burning my body all the way. On the way to the emergency room, I noticed black ashes all over my legs, and I said, “Daddy, am I going to die?” J-na stated. In an effort to rebuild her fragile adolescent self-esteem, J-na taught herself at the age of nine to sew by using Vogue’s patterns as a guide to fit her unique style. By high-school, J-na was an expert seamstress and was conquering new mediums of

self-expression in fashion. What began as a creative way to distract her from her scars, quickly turned into a very liberating and fascinating empowerment undertaking. “As a haute couture designer, I travel the world and meet dozens of women, many who have shared very intimate pieces of their lives with me. I am struck at how connected many of us are in overcoming major obstacles and trauma in our quest for our dreams,” J-na stated. “These trials, if we do not let them crush us, can sharpen our intense appreciation for life and freedom and give us such passion and drive that life takes on a completely different hue, new intoxicating fragrance and an even deeper spiritual meaning!” She is passionate about women and children emerging as caring, compassionate, yet powerful adults, who can leave an unforgettable mark on this world and has devoted her life to empowering others and sharing the passion for life, health and exuberant joy with all who cross her path.

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By Isaias Perez On Purpose: At 17 years old, I began to discover I had a purpose here on earth. Always a dreamer, I had a passion for the arts, particularly theater and film. I remember passing by the posters at the movies and almost crying from the excitement I felt. We have to prove to each and every judge that we have talent. Perhaps the most difficult and challenging audition and judges are our parents. It took me years to prove that I was born for this because my parents feared that I would get lost in the world of Hollywood. At one point, I began to believe that I wouldn’t accomplish anything, until an artistic group in Puerto Rico inspired me. On Giving Back: The summer of 2002, I became a part of an artistic Christian camp called “Youth with a Mission.” That camp changed my life and inspired me to realize my purpose was not just to be an artist, but also to be a servant to give hope, compassion, mercy, and love to others. For several years, I was able to bless the youth, children and teenagers in various countries of the world through the arts. Being able to provide an act of mercy and love to cities in countries like Asia, the Middle East, South America, the Caribbean and the United States, made me a better person. I also acquired a deeper love and purpose when I allowed Jesus into my life. I can say that knowing Him helped me to love and care more about the needs of others. On Challenges: I fell off course in route to my purpose. I got wrapped up in uncontainable parties and alcohol. I reached a point in my life were I felt alone and without the support and encouragement I needed to accomplish my dreams. My dad noticed that I was a little lost. He would take me out to eat every Monday and give me valuable advice. One day, I got the news that my parents were moving to Chicago, and I had no intention of relocating with them until my dad said, “Isaias, you should come with us to Chicago. I believe God has a purpose for you in that city.” That day, I decided to begin a new journey in my life. On Focus: In Chicago, I refocused on my purpose, and I finished my studies at Northeastern Illinois University. I began to write and direct musical works at my local church and worked for three years at Driven and Empowered Youth as a director of arts and as a mentor for high schools students. I worked with teens that had considered suicide and were involved in substance abuse. This program helped many teens distance themselves from the drugs and the streets.

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On Kindness: I realized that my talent was not for my own glory or fame, but to bless and inspire others through the arts. After one of the performances I directed at my local church on Christmas, my father told me he was proud of me. I know my parents were happy to see the results of my efforts, but above all, they saw that what I was doing had a greater purpose. Today I have my parent’s unconditional support in everything I do. I was blessed and transformed by God through the arts, and now it’s my turn to bless and inspire others. This is my act of kindness through my passion.

Models: Erin Elle East dragonstriangle.east@aol.com Francois Bosseau (Frankie French) djfrankie091@gmail.com Photography: Marlon Cordero MCordero Photography 630.618.1993 Tryka24@yahoo.com Stylist: Patrick Niles 312.477.9022 www.patrickniles.com patrick@patrickniles.com Accessories: Dominique Larue Da Boutique Couture and House of Consignment Facebook @ Dominique Larue Dominiquelarue39@gmail.com Hair and Make-up: Karen Anne Torres Facebook @Katshairstudio1 630.890.4513 Katshairstudio@gmail.com

Spring

Spontaneity! Spontaneous Spring Fashion 2014

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Spring Spontaneity!

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Photographer: Lori Sapio Photography 312.972.3483 sapiosis@yahoo.com www.lorisapio.com Fashion Designer: Yvette Bouye â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bouye Designs bouye41design@live.com 800.635.6201 Ext 802 Facebook: sylviayvette www.ustyleu.com Jewelry and Accessories: Diane Kay Kafka - of Design IT by â&#x20AC;&#x153;Diana diane.kafka@aim.com 630.785.3166 www.designitbydiana.com Hair Design: Anastasia Lyubimova 847.660.3572 Make-up Artist: Gianna Carpanzano 837.254.7366 giannacarp@me.com Facebook.com/GiannaMiaMakeUp

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Next Assignment in

Fashion

by Matthew Ambrosio

n my field, I receive calls for various assignments to cover from make-up to high fashion events, however when USTYLEU’s Magazine Editor Chloe Graham contacted me for this assignment, I have to admit I was thrilled, but the thought of mixing the words “politics” and “style” in the same sentence was susceptible to create a degree of friction. Style is relative and sometimes more experienced than overrated opinions, especially when your accessories include a sky blue Boeing 777, an entourage of armed dark tone tailored suits and an entrance which rivals any Hollywood red carpet grand arrival. Covering the arrival of Air Force One commuting the most powerful man in the world was a style revelation. It is fair to say, witnessing the president’s arrival in his flying luxury fortress made it difficult to stay grounded. No pun intended. President Obama, from the first step out of the plane until the moment he departed for his speech in Manhattan, was completely down to earth and incredibly welcoming. It was not just him but his staff as well. To be within feet of him and the First Lady required a “bit” of screening, searching, dog sniffing and pat downs.

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The staff’s handling of security was nothing like you would experience at the average airport. They were considerate, very professional and even cracked a few jokes despite the seriousness of it all. Of course, my trained eye was interested to see what everyone was wearing. To no surprise, the only colors were in the uniforms of heavily decorated military officers there to welcome the President and First Lady to New York. After the arrival, a classic phrase came to mind, “It’s not the clothes that make the man or woman.” At this event, style was represented in uniformity. It was represented with strength and authority. Imported fabrics, labels or vivid colors were not needed to give “style” meaning as the tailored black and navy suits were finishing touches to a presentation.

The Ultimate

Arrival

President Obama and his staff represent a cohesive machine of effortless style that does not require embellishing. Pride and love for the United States was the only trend anyone was following, including me.

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d n u o r G n o n m o i m o C oundat F

ommon rolled out the red carpet for over 500 guests at his annual Common Ground Foundation gala. Distinguished guest and honorees lined the walls of the fabulous Fairmont Chicago hotel waiting to get a glimpse of actor, philanthropist, rapper and author Common. This year’s honorees included the legendary actor Danny Glover; Seaway Bank and Trust Company Jacoby Dickens and Veranda Dickens; former NFL athlete and chairman of the Asomugha Foundation, Nuamdi Asomugha and professional skateboarder and community activist Nyjah Huston. This year’s MASTERPIECE/ MASTERPEACE theme reflects on the present and potential possibilities that are awaiting youth if lead in the right direction. Growing up in the inner city, Common saw firsthand the trial and tribulations that kids face on a daily bases. Although his experiences were prompted by choice, it does not diminish the injection of peer pressure and the need for acceptance by others.

In 1998, Common and his mother launched Common Ground Foundation in an effort to give back to the youth in the community. Since then, the organization whose mission is to use the creative arts to expose youth to new experiences has created a village of opportunities for high school students in the Chicagoland area. In 2012, Common Ground launched its first annual Dreamers and Believers Summer Youth Camp. Twentyfive youth, ages 13-15, were selected to attend the program in Wisconsin. The curriculum for this week-long experience focused on “developing the whole child” which included character development, healthy lifestyle choices, high school readiness, and careers in the creative arts and beyond. Upon completion of the camp, each student is automatically enrolled in a year-round mentoring program, which pairs

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y e c a r B a k By Eri

students with a coach and mentor for on-going coaching over the next three years, preparing them for a college preparatory program. The mentoring program meets monthly at the Ray & Joan Kroc Center on Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s south side. In September of 2014 Common, will bring the AAHH Fest to the south side of Chicago in an effort to address the violence issues that are currently driving up mortality rates in the city. The Urban League as well as other organizations and corporations stand in support of Common's efforts and have since agreed to lend their time and resources in order to create year round jobs for our youth.

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Models: Michelle Wilferd Claudius Dre Photography: Marlon Cordero MCordero Photography 630.618.1993 Tryka24@yahoo.com Designer: Cal G - GSb Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Couture 815.513.2667 cal@j-nacustomgsb.com www.j-nacustomgsb.com. Hair and Makeup Design: Sheena Marie Glam Squad 1.800.935.7218 www.sheenamariemakeup.com

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On The

Rise lithium films

ndre Johnson, brilliant screenplay writer, director, filmmaker, always had a passion for film dating back to when he was adopted at the age of five-years-old. A true “started from the bottom” testimony, he credits his courage and determination to a promise he made to his adopted mother while in the hospital on her death bed. Johnson first started to seriously write back in 2005, when his younger brother suggested he write a book about his life not for monetary gain, but for the many kids living a life of poverty, violence and for those extremely high number of orphans that do not have someone they can relate to and look up to for hope. Johnson wrote his first unpublished book in 2004. Currently, Johnson is in the initial stages of crowd funding to launch his independent film production company, Lithium Films in Dallas, Texas. He surrounded himself with his incredibly talented production staff, Sheila Seale, production manager; Shanda Riley, production accountant and fiancée; Kendra Pipkin, director of photography and set director; Jo Jones, casting director; Briana Britt, make-up artist; KL Young, script supervisor and wardrobe director; LaTonya McGee, set coordinator and Erikka Jones, director’s assistant. Johnson states without God bringing them all together, he wouldn’t feel he would quite fully understand his purpose.

Both films are filled with romance, comedy, love and relationship advice. “Sire's of Dallas” highlights five men from different races, backgrounds and spiritual beliefs, balance the day-to-day extreme challenges of relationship, business, children, family, friends, money while warding off their enemies plotting their demise. Check out exclusive airing at www.lithiumfilms.net and visit www.gofundme.com/msmm1 to find out how to get listed in the movie credits. www.lithiumfilms.net LithiumFilms@Gmail.Com www.blogtalkradio.com/lithiumfilms www.linkedin.com/pub/dir/Andre/Johnson Facebook LIKE page Movie Murder Saved My Marriage http://www.juntoboxfilms.com/projects/murder-saved-mymarriage

First in development film written by Johnson promises to deliver high drama, thrilling suspense and a thought provoking piece in “Murder Saved My Marriage.” This is a story of how spouses change their lying, cheating and unfaithful ways with the help of a little murder motivation. This film has become so intensely anticipated that hundreds of movie enthusiasts have been pouring in donations towards the production to complete the film. Johnson has already begun writing “Murder Saved My Marriage II.” Other movie productions slated by Lithium Films: “Just Not Used to a Good Woman” written by Johnson. In addition, he promises a sequel to this film “Just Not Used to a Good Man.”

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