winter, 2013 ISSUE $5.99 ONLINE/DIGITAL
Sooo READY!
Breaking Out This Winter
winter on the Down-Low
Style Network’s Glam Fairy
Way down low!
Alexa Prisco Gives Advice!
IN THE SPOT With Fashion’s New Hot Talent: Bouye’ Designs!
ON THE RISE
Chi’s
Hot Young D.J.s Girls Nite Out @ Jun’s Urban Hangout Suite
the
REAList AMERICAN IDOLS
Featuring NFL’s Rodney Harrison!
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
CHLOE
W
ell I did it! I finished my first semester of college. It sure was a great way to start my journey; however I know I really have a long way ahead of me. Living in downtown Chicago for four months has been an amazing experience! It really makes me appreciate my hometown even more. I am able to take advantage of my city’s beautiful landscape and seamless lakefront for photo shoots, and I have been able to capitalize on all of the talent I walk pass every second of the day that should be noticed and featured on an international platform. I’m overjoyed each time a new issue comes out making every new issue my favorite, so that means we are doing something right! When I refer to uStyleu Mag, I have to say “We” because I cannot do it without each one of you. Whether you are contributing to the magazine, liking our posts on Facebook or following us on Twitter, every effort is so appreciated, and I know I can never pay anyone back for this invaluable experience, so I must pay it forward in each and every issue. And what an issue! We worked with so many creative and amazing people and expanded our talent from Bean Town (S/O Boston!!) to way down under in Australia! uStyleu Mag was successful in getting some of our featured designers’ work on the 2013 Grammys’ Red Carpet. Crazy huh? The truth is, uStyleu Mag is working extra hard to acquire hook-ups to get you, our supporters, noticed. We have so much to look forward to in 2013! This year is all about OPPORTUNITY, CONFIDENCE and EPIC exposure, and we’re just getting started!
Chloe Graham
On the cover
follow us on Twitter or Facebook
@ustyleumag
2
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
MODEL
FASHION DESIGNER
Nyalok Akay
Meekis Castillo 773-414-7611 theonlymeeks@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER Michael Anthony Richardson (Michael Anthony) michaelanthony.rich@gmail.com
Make Up: Khadija Parham, D’vine Beauty dvine.beauty@ymail.com
Winter uStyleu
Table of Contents: 4-5 IN THis ISSUE 6 FLASH! - MICHAEL COOPER 7 Style? by Kimber 8-9 SOOO READY! COVER SPREAD 10 Glam Fairy: Alexa Prisco 11 Winter on the Down-low 12 BŏSTON! 13 IN THE SPOT 14-15 GIRLS NITE OUT 16-17 THE REAL AMERICAN IDOL 18-19 ON THE RISE – CHI-TOWNS DJS 20-21 THE BLACK BOOK 22 HAIR SHOW!
2013
Ustyleu Mag Staff Editor in Chief chloe graham National Director of Talent 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
18 10
14
22 winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
3
IN THIS ISSUE Michael Anthony Richardson
With under a year in his industry and profession, the once fine artist started off as a fitness model in February of 2012. Later, Michael began a magazine company, M & M Modeling Magazine LLC. with partner, Milton Callahan. He has also started his own clothing line which will debut during his Fashion Focus Event next fall. Michael’s work is featured on this issue’s cover and centerfold. Contact michaelanthony.rich@gmail.com; instagram.com/michaelanthonymm; twitter.com/ thezone74 or facebook michael anthony richardson.
Meekis Castillo
“Meekis” is inspired by textures from his native countries, Central and South America. Chicago has been home to this unpredictable, imaginative and innovative designer. Meekis’ clients include Musician Phil Collins; Jazz Artists, Angela Bofill and George Benson; Actor, Blair Underwood; Director/Producer, Sharon King; R&B Artists, David Hollister and Ginuwine and many more local entertainers and radio personalities. Meekis’ incredible swimwear creations are featured on issue’s front cover and centerfold. Contact Meekis at 773-414-7611 or theonlymeeks@gmail.com
Khadija Parham
Khadija Parham is a freelance makeup artist based in Chicago where she provides on-location makeup services for any event or occasion. Khadija’s diverse background and experience creates a unique style accredited only to her artistic talent. She has the innate ability to bring out the natural beauty of her subject no matter the gender or ethnicity. Khadija’s work is featured on this issue’s front cover and centerfold. Contact her at dvine.beauty@ymail.com
Christopher Correia
Christopher Correia is an internationally published (United States, UK, Dubai, Spain) fashion, fitness and events photographer based out of Boston. He is a contributing staff photographer for 954 Magazine and his work has been featured in numerous local newspapers and male fitness blogs and fashion editorials. September 2011 marked his first time at Boston Fashion Week as part of the press pit for Prajje’s runway show. His work is featured in our “Boston!” spread in this issue. Visit Christopher at www.cjc-photography.com ; www.facebook.com/ cjcphotography; www.twitter.com/cjcphotos; instagram: c2correia
George Todorovic
George Todorovic is a photographer and model based in Sydney Australia. He began photography as a hobby years ago and began taking test shots for models. He has completed an accessory shoot for the brand “Me Go Meow Couture” and continues to work alongside his partner, Clancee to create a portfolio for himself. George’s work is featured in the “Winter on the Down-Low” Spread.
Danielle Seals
Fashion Stylist and Boutique Owner, Danielle Seals has an eye for fashion, a niche for guerilla marketing and a hunger for entrepreneurship. Fashionable Addictions’ immaculate retail space has served as the perfect venue for events and the “go-to” boutique for celebrities visiting Chicago. She has hosted fashion and music events including signings with Kanye West and VH1’s Reality TV Show Actress, Kimbella, just to name a few. The boutique carries the work of local designers. Fashionable Addictions is the featured designer in the “Girls Nite Out” spread. Find them at www.addictions-store.com, Addictive2addictions@gmail.com 4
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
Jun Nagano
Jun Nagano – Director/Photographer/Videographer - Cuantica Pictures: Jun has years of experience in camera operating and image/movie editing. He pays great attention to detail and is always looking for a unique way to tell a story. Jun grew up in Kagoshima, Japan surrounded by ocean and mountains and loves the element of surprise in any way possible purely to enjoy seeing his clients’ reactions. His inspiration often comes from movies and music, which are the two major drivers of his creativity. Jun’s brilliant photography work is featured in this issue’s “Girls Nite Out” spread. Contact Cuantica Pictures at 708 271 3164 or at jun@cuanticapictures.com.
Shawnda Jackson
Master Stylist/Make-Up Artist, Shawnda Jackson has been a professional in the industry in hair and make-up for four years. She has a great passion for making people beautiful. She is owner of a “dramafree” salon environment where clients feel welcome and the stylists are appreciated. She is an experienced “behind-the-chair” and platform artist. Shawnda and her assistants Angie Gomez (Beauty Consultant/ Make-up Artist & Nail Tech (Assistant) and Beauty Consultant/Make-up Artist & Nail Tech (Assistant), Iesha Jackson artistic work is featured in this issue’s “Girls Nite Out” spread. Contact Shawnda at 847-986-5668.
Ms. Tanika
Ms. Tanika, Stylist at Pure Passion Hair Care located inside Mocha City Beauty Lounge, Matteson, Illinois, specializes in healthy hair with a desire to style all hair types, textures and tones. She is currently in the process of branding her business, Pure Passion Hair Care. Ms. Tanika’s hair designs have been featured on the 2011 fall cover of uStyleu Mag and in this issue’s “Girls Nite Out” spread. Contact her at purepassionhaircare@gmail.com, 708-629-9013, www.mochacitybeautylounge.com
Tammy
Tammy specializes in creating healthy masterpieces for all textures of hair and runs her successful business, Tammy’s Exquisite Hair Care inside of Mocha City Beauty Lounge in Matteson, Illinois. Tammy’s work was featured in the 2011 fall issue of uStyleu Mag and in this issue’s “Girls Nite Out” spread. Contact Tammy at tam1377@yahoo.com, www.mochacitybeautylounge.com, 708-365-8266
Dori
Dori – “I Do” Bridal Styles – As a freelance bridal stylist, Dori is a licensed cosmologist from the famed Mario Tricoci School of Beauty Culture as well as the Vidal Sassoon Academy in London, England. Dori specializes in TV, Runway and Fashion shows. Dori’s artistic hair designs are featured in “Girls Nite Out” spread in this issue. Contact Dori at do-ri-me@msn.com or at 630.362.3674
Want your work featured in uStyleu? Email us at contact@ustyleu.com winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
5
FLASH! FEATURE Michael H Cooper Photographer 3EP STUDIOS
L
ongtime lover of photography, Michael began to shoot seriously around 1989 while serving in the military as a hobby to pass the time. After his stint in the U.S Marine Corps ended, he went to work for a graphic print production company in Chicago. Starting in the film library and working hard, he was able to move up the ladder and become production assistant and digital imaging coordinator for a big box national retail client. During this time honing his photography and Photoshop skills, he rapidly advanced. Fast forward to 2010, Michael endeavored to turn his expensive hobby into a profession by founding 3rd Eye Photography aka 3EP Studios. Having shot hundreds of models for designers and numerous fashions shows…One trick pony he is not. Landscapes, events, portraits, and lifestyle shots also fall within his capabilities and interest. He describes his style as loving to work in natural light, with very little post production edits. His goal is to make you look great naturally! Michael especially likes conceptual shoots and artistic interpretations to add a touch of imagination for clients. The art of the every day is what he strives to capture. Current projects are listed as
6
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
•
Superhero Huff Comic Fashion pages
•
Fusion Wrestling
Style? By Kymber
I
f I had to pick a style that represents me, I would have to say “Retro”. I love the way people dressed in the 80’s, but I like to add my own personal touch to my ensembles. I’ve never been one to follow fashion fads. I just like to put together outfits that I think look nice. Other people’s opinions don’t dress me. As long as “I” appreciate what I put on for the day, I’m good. I like to be versatile in my fashion. As a college student, I think it’s important to save money where you can. It’s nice to find one piece of clothing that you can accessorize to wear in more than one way. Changing your jewelry and makeup can sometimes take you from “Dressed-to-Chill to Dressed-to-Kill”
That’s Style By Kymber
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
7
8
FALL 2012 Issue | uStyleu.com
ooo
eady
S R Model: Nyalok Akay Photographer: Michael Anthony Richardson E: michaelanthony.rich@gmail.com Fashion Designer: Meekis Inc. - Meekis Castillo P: 773-414-7611 E: theonlymeeks@gmail.com Make Up Artist: Khadija Parham, D’vine Beauty E: dvine.beauty@ymail.com National Director of Talent: Yvette Bouye’ Roberson
9
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
A
lexa Prisco has owned her business Glam Fairy for eight years. After two years of being on the Style Network’s hit show Jerseylicious, Alexa was offered her own successful spin off show entitled “Glam Fairy” which is not only about her and the company—but some of her staff and how each and every one of them bring their own sort of “sparkle” to the Glam Fairy. Alexa’s net worth surpasses 1.5 million and climbing. With a new hubby and baby in tow, we caught up with Alexa and asked her to offer her advice on breaking into the fashion/glamour business world. She was so open and willing to offer any advice to us. We loved talking to Alexa! On Publicity: There are wonderful resources out there to generate a buzz about your company. Use social media, like Facebook, Twitter and Blogs. Make sure you position your statements and words correctly so the search engines will direct the right traffic to you. Make sure the key words are in your first few sentences. On Launching: Take a chance on yourself. Stop taking that 9 to 5 approach. Your passion is 24/7. Find your niche and market it…hard. On Determination: Everyday, do one thing for your business before going to sleep. Don’t get intimidated or scare yourself. I started out in my kitchen. All I needed was a client, chair and a mirror. On Goals: Make short term logical/realistic goals. Progress to long term goals On Leverage: Position yourself where people know you and recognize your brand. That means doing things pro-bono at times. Name recognition is very valuable and will eventually lead to revenue. On Success: When you become successful especially in the public’s eye, they think they know all about you based on the media. Contrary to popular belief, I am very easy going and, I’m willing to help anybody. My definition of a true friend is someone who wants you to be better than they are. Anybody I help, I want them to do better than me because that what friends do for each other. On Encouragement: At my school, I always say “Good Job” and give credit where credit is due. I tell my students to make something intangible, tangible. www.theglamfairy.com www.stylenetwork.com
10
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
Photographer: George Todorovic - www.georgetodorovic.webs.com Model: Clancee Erin Models Agencies: Top models and Events, Elese Management MUAH: Clancee Erin, www.clanceeerin.webs.com Styling: G.C Styling - Red Knit long jumper: Coconut by Amanda Location: Central Coast, NSW, Australia
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
11
Photographery: Christopher Correia CJC Photography www.cjc-photography.com www.facebook.com/cjcphotography www.twitter.com/cjcphotos Model: Tom Quigey
12
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
e t t e v Y
Bouyé Roberson
in the spot
B
ouyé Design is one of Chicago’s premier design and fashion marketing companies specializing in Bohemian Chic styles and led by fashion designer Yvette Roberson. Yvette is a well-known and esteemed presence in the Chicago fashion scene and continues to cultivate her skills while expanding her fashion brand nationally. Known for her high quality standards, Yvette’s aptitude for fashion began long before receiving a degree in fashion design from Columbia College at Chicago. She’s from a family of seamstresses who fostered her visionary design talents at a very early age, hence it was only natural for Yvette to follow suit (no pun intended).
found in boutiques and adorned at Red Carpet events throughout Chicago and Los Angeles which includes styling for the 2013 Grammy events. Bouyé designs range from relaxed- carefree to corporate- red carpet avant-garde flair. Currently the National Director of Talent for uStyleu Magazine, Yvette acquires talent and manages the fashion spreads. Yvette is the person to recognize in fashion. Bouye41design@live.com or 312-623-8704 or Facebook: sylviayvette
Yvette’s extensive and diverse portfolio features years of experience and exposure including costume designing, fashion marketing and retail. Yvette’s creations can be
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
13
Photography Cuantica Pictures Jun Nagano, Photographer 500 West Cermak Chicago, IL www.cuanticapictures.com E: jun@cuanticagopictures.com P: 708-271-3164
14
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
Fashion Designer Fashionable Addictions 22 South Western Avenue Chicago, IL 60612 www.addictions-store.com P: 312-265-0735 – Cell 773-569-2536 Professional Hair Stylists Dori – “I Do” Bridal Styles E: Do-ri-me@msn.com P: 630-362-DORI (3674)
Ms. Tanika, Professional Stylist Pure Passion Hair Care located inside Mocha City Beauty Lounge 4300 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, IL E: purepassionhaircare@gmail.com P: 708-629-9013 www.mochacitybeautylounge.com
Tammy’s Exquisite Hair Care inside of Mocha City Beauty Lounge 4300 Lincoln Highway, Matteson, IL E: tam1377@yahoo.com P: 708-365-8266 www.mochacitybeautylounge.com
Make-Up Artists Shawnda Jackson Master Stylist/Make-Up Artist P: 847-986-5668 Angie Gomez Hair Stylist/Make-Up Artist (Assistant) Iesha Jackson Beauty Consultant/Make-up Artist & Nail Tech (Assistant)
Models L-R Alexandra Proano Anastasia Lyubimova Joanna Ortiz (Sitting) Enereida Veronica Preciado Jana Kutak Christine Gambal Massiel Sanchez Amee Binder
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
15
Dads: The Realist American Idols Respect each other and make the child number one.
16
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
harrison rodney
By Hannah McEwen
T
he man best known for being at the Top of his Game on the football field is on the Top of the World when it comes to his family. Rodney Harrison, NFL analyst on NBC & NFL Network, 2X Pro Bowler, 2X Super Bowl Champ is our first to be featured in a four part series of The Realist American Idols. It’s essential to stress to young fathers that it’s not Hot to “Roll Out” on their child. Check out what Rodney has to say.
and a man to create the right balance. That is why God made it where it takes a man and woman make a child. There are certain values that a man can offer a child that a woman can’t and vice versa. There are certain talks and disciplines that a father can give a child. That’s why emotionally I was missing some things growing up, because I didn’t have my father there to teach me how to handle certain emotions or to discipline and chastise me when I got out of line. A child needs both parents’ involvement.
USTYLEU.MAG: What does being a father in your children’s lives mean to you personally?
USTYLEU.MAG: There are women who prevent the father from seeing his kids because perhaps they have been hurt emotionally by the father. How do you separate the personal feelings?
RODNEY: It’s the most gratifying thing in my life. The biggest lesson it has taught me is unselfishness. To actually love someone more than you love yourself and knowing you will be there for to help them grow. USTYLEU.MAG: Describe the feeling when you were called “Daddy” for the first time. What did that do to your world? RODNEY: My heart stopped when my oldest son Christian called me “Daddy” I was like “Wow”. The first thought that ran through my head was “Responsibility”. This child is so dependent on me to love him and protect him. That one word touched my heart because I knew my son loved me. USTYLEU.MAG: What makes a good father? RODNEY: Being responsible, being there for your kids and not just financially. Being able to guide and provide for them and just letting them know that they can count on you for a lifetime. One thing I am very proud of is that I have always been there for my kids which are my number one priority in my life outside of God. I make sure I am always there for them financially, spiritual or for any other aspect.
RODNEY: First, make sure the baby is fine, and has what’s needed. Second, men, respect the woman. She risked her life to have your child and now you have to find a way to make sure that baby is taken care of properly. Every situation is different, but it comes down to communication. Even if you have to go as far as getting a court order to see your child, make sure you are handling your responsibility financially and emotionally. She can make it hard on you, but at the end of the day, you are a man and you have control over your feelings. USTYLEU.MAG: Many people feel, “Hey, I came out okay so a male influence in my child’s life is a luxury not a necessity.” RODNEY: That’s a cycle that we need to break especially in the black community. That’s why it’s so important for me to be a part of my children’s life because unfortunately when we have kids with other people, it may be a challenge to spread yourself amongst several kids or deal with several fathers. I think that you do become a better person with both parents in your life. USTYLEU MAG: Rodney, you are an amazing dad. Was there someone in your life who helped influence your role as a dad?
USTYLEU.MAG: Do you believe there are long-term advantages emotionally for children who have grown up with their fathers in their lives?
RODNEY: My wife has helped me grow to be a dad, a man and to be a better person. The support she has given me is invaluable, and without her I would not be the dad that I am today.
RODNEY: Yes I do. I was one of those kids who didn’t have my father in my life. One benefit of not having my father is that it made me a “Go-getter”, and because I couldn’t depend on anyone but my mom, I valued hard work. At the same time, emotionally, kids need a woman
USTYLEU MAG: Enough said. Thank you Rodney.
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
17
Photography by Complements of T-Photography
Photography by Vladimir Zaytsez 18
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
On The
Rise Chi-Towns Hottest Young DJs By Asia Ingran
Owen Bones – Compact Disco - Mikul Owen Jones has been immersed in music for as long as he can remember. Rhythm and groove came early as he watched his father play drums for years, eventually learning the instrument himself. Sporting a decade long background in percussion, Jones took the bass music world by storm incorporating exotic and fresh percussive patterns over hooky and organic synth work, he crafts captivating anthems sure to infect even the most reserved listeners with headnodding goodness. At only 18 years old and a couple months into publishing music, the young producer has made waves in the electronic music community. Publications such as The Untz, The Dankles, 110 BPM, Salacious Sound, and Donkey Pitch have all praised Jones and his original spin on bass music.
Mikul Dedicated to meeting the right people and refining my art! Using these LED triangle lights to his live shows add crazy excitement and high- energy. Mikul has a group called Midnight Conspiracy. He is a former owner of an art gallery where he hosted large parties with big names like “Justice”. His DeeJaying interests just grew from always being in the entertainment field. Mikul states, “The media has a major influence on what’s hot. I play whatever the crowd gets hot about. I’ve been doing this for five years and I’m already touring worldwide. I just enjoy what I do!” mikul@membersonlyav.com – 773-971-4658
On top of his solo effort, Jones is working closely with many explosive Chicago rap artists, including Alex Wiley, Monster Mike, and Marty Creole. “I’m a producer first, then a DJ.” The producers decide what is hot in the social aspect of things. “My goal is to be touring by this time next year. Hook up at 773-682-7708 Email: owenbones@gmail.com
Compact Disco - Chicago Electro DJs/Producers I respect to the crowd so I am able to supply what people want to hear. I try to be the whole package by not only providing a musical talent, but knowing how to socialize and connect with the crowd. “You can’t be shy in this business,” Henry Jai of Compact Disco says. “I take into consideration of what other DJs have played and how the crowd reacts. I’m fun at all times and I don’t get uptight or too serious.” Email: compactdiscography@gmail.com
Photography by Jennifer Catherine Photography
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
19
VIEW
o t o eg
e y E ur
IN RE
W
H g n You
u M k o o
e h t on
B
B k lac
J
ust by walking into the Freaks and Beats Party, I knew immediately I was in the right place to spend my night. The atmosphere had a way of drawing in crowds from all genres. So‌this was a BlackBook Music Group party? We like!
Offering an abundance of uniquely structured full services to fit musicians at all stages of their musical career, BlackBook Music Group is the premier company to recognize in the entertainment industry. Founded by marketing and public relations specialist, Lauren Saks Merriman, BBMG inclusively provide clients with management, marketing, PR representation as well as booking. BBMG has a team for each of their departments consisting of artist and music development; venue consulting and booking information; marketing as well as A&R specialists to oversee the music development process. Their services are designed to provide their clients with the same benefits of being signed to a music label. BBMG is a young company and has already established an unparalleled reputation for polished and professional management, successful and sophisticated public relations campaigns and promotional strategies, talent booking, event planning and hosting, internet and direct marketing, website building/design, music production, as well as strategic business building and artist development.
ARTIST & MUSIC DEVELOPMENT BBMG is structured to provide artists at every level with a fastpaced yet low-risk platform for music & business development.
20
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
s e i n mpa
o C t Ho
p u o r G ham
a r c G i us BY Chloe
VENUE CONSULTING & BOOKING INFORMATION They work closely with businesses to train their eyes to see exactly that while setting their focus on bringing them closer to their vision of what they truly believe their establishment could be. BBMG works one-on-one with owners, managers & staff to bring in innovative concepts, various levels of entertainment & inventive patron activities, breathing new life into your establishment.
MARKETING The first impression is everything. With BBMG, the image of their artists, clients, and company is crucial in the development of a full service firm. The BBMG Marketing & Branding department is responsible for developing a clear concise message for their artists, clients, and company
BBMG Artists & Producers The Disco Fries Dancefloor Junkies No Pets Allowed The Two Friends Clark Kent Gazzo Address 813 W. Lake St. Chicago, IL 60607 Phone 312.929.4219 General Inquiries management@blackbookmusicgroup.com
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
21
Photography: Michael Kostopoulos
At the
hair show! Spa Expo Midwest International Salon &for Professionals w Sho Experience the Beauty
22
winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
PROMOTION
Fashion
Everywhere!
Get the digital edition of uStyleu Mag delivered to you each quarter for only $10.00 a year
ADVERTISEMENT
Get a copy today at
www.ustyleu.com/subscribe winter 2013 Issue | uStyleu.com
23