Vedere Magazine April/May 2013 by Vedere Magazine

AJNEMRA BJORN KERSTEN

Andre Soriano

ALEXANDER VINASH

Fashion Week Las Vegas Phoenix Fashion Week at the MIM

Blanchet Designs enjoy the journey

In this issue.

Vedere Magazine and the Vedere Magazine Logo are copyright and trademark to Michael Meadows Studios and protected under U.S. and International copyright laws. No reproduction of any or all of the magazine is permitted without the written consent of Vedere Magazine.

Sara Ummell Cunnings at The Vintage Steakhouse Image: Mal Ownbey Photography, malownbey.com

All photopraphs, text, concepts and graphics are copyright the individual creator of such and no free use is granted whether in print or online. Vedere Magazine has authorization to publish all content in print and online from the copyright holders We attempt to do everything possible to assure accurate color representation in printing and converting for digital use, however due to variances in monitor color settings for each user and printing inconsistency we cannot be held liable for incorrect colors, brightness, contrast and hue inconsistencies that are out of our control. For more information on reproducing and usage of portions of the magazine please direct written requests with specific details of usage to publisher@vederemag.com Vedere Magazine copyright 2011-2013 Michael Meadows Studios.

Bling Cycle

sacia O

Alexander Vinash

Bjorn Kersten

Ajnemra

Fashion Week Las Vegas

Spring Colors

The Lucky Guy

"Normally Fantastic?" -PhxFW

Pinkalicious

Andre Soriano

Flight of Fashion

Nothing is Just Black and White

hotel ranola

Fly Girl

Natasha Tiffany

Monochromist

On the Cover Couture Hat Desginer sacia O Model Marina Spencer Photographer Mal Ownbey Photography, malownbey.com

BLING CbyY C L E : Ashley Verhalen

“My designs are created not only for fashion but to show that you can make a full outfit with the

items that others would throw away. Recycling is

somthing that the world should be doing every day and not many do! All you have

to do is add some bling to your

recycled items to make a piece of art.”

Outfit: Bling Cycle by Ashley Verhalen models: Chanel Stansberry, Therese Van Veghel Phipps, Jaime Carpenter hair and MUA: Ashley Verhalen photographer: Erin Durband www.ekahd.com

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White Tulle Dress by Michelle Long Model Ellie Nicole Couture Hats & Headwear SaciaO www.saciao.com Image: Darcy Nichole, Studio VM3

Couture Head Wear

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Model Sarah Ummell Cummings Couture Hats & Headwear SaciaO www.saciao.com Image: Darcy Nichole, Studio VM3

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Couture Head Wear

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Black Tulle Dress by Michelle Long Model Marina Spencer Couture Hats & Headwear SaciaO www.saciao.com Image: Darcy Nicole, Studio VM3

Couture Head Wear

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Fuschia Dress courtesy of Blue Violet Boutique Model Ellie Nicole Couture Hats & Headwear SaciaO www.saciao.com Image: Darcy Nichole, Studio VM3

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Couture Head Wear

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Model Sarah Ummel Cummings Couture Hats & Headwear SaciaO www.saciao.com Image: Mal Ownbey Photography, malownbey.com

Couture Head Wear

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Pink Dress courtesy of Blue Violet Boutique Model Eboni Rayne Couture Hats & Headwear SaciaO www.saciao.com Image: Mal Ownbey Photography, malownbey.com

sacia O

Couture Head Wear

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ALEXANDER http://www.alexvinash.com/

photographer : fernando martinez fashion designer : alexander vinash make up: emma gaspar buxeda

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VINASH model virginia

stylist : fernando martinez shoes: patoh collection

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Photographer: Christophe Vrankenne Make-up Artist/Hairdresser: Olievier Hairdressers, K Make Up Models: Danielle Hack, Niloufar Rahimifar Designer: Bjorn Kersten

www.bjornkersten.nl

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www.ajnemra.com

Photographer: Patrick Ruijters / www.ruijtersfotografie.eu Make-up Artist / Hairstylist: Kelly Baron Visagiste / www.visagiebaron.nl Stylist / Designer: AJNEMRA COUTURE by Kristine Mkrtchian / www.ajnemra.com Models: Chloﾃｩ Tiﾄ］sh! Laarmans & Anna Esajan

www.ajnemra.com

AJNEMRA

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Fashion Week Las Vegas

Interview of Gus Castaneda, Executive Producer of Fashion Week Las Vegas By Fashion Designer, Stacey Blanchet of Blanchet Designs .

When you dream of becoming a fashion designer, in your dreams the "MOMENT" which says you have arrived is your first showing at a fashion week. The runway is lit, music plays, and your collection baring your soul for the whole world to see floats by. Is this your dream? Did your dream come true as you imagined it would be? These are the questions you ponder over and over. Without question, the Paris, Milan and New York Fashion Weeks are the summit. The amount of money, time, challenges, preparations that must be met to participate at that level are monumental. How do you choose where to put your money and time to get the best exposure for your line to someday reach that summit? These are questions every designer must ask themselves.

To educate myself to get a better understanding of all that it takes to succeed in staging a fashion week, I met with Gus Castaneda over dinner last month. Gus is one of the partners of Fashion Week Las Vegas. We discussed this very topic. I wanted to first know - why Las Vegas. He floored me when he told me that he chose that city because it has the Magic Convention. All the buyers from around the world would be present in the city with nothing to do at night except gamble and shows. How smart is this? How lucky for the designers who participated to have access to buyers that they normally would not get to meet. Now that is the true mark of a good businessman. A win win for everyone. Gus was very generous with me with his time and honest with his answers to my questions. He provided insight on what it really takes in terms of experience, money, networking and working knowledge of the fashion industry to be successful in a very tough industry. 1) What does it take to put on a fashion week? Money, Networking and Experience. All of the above, but at the top of the list is lots and lots of experience in fashion, show production, delegating skills, networking and knowledge of the industry to invite the right elements to participate such as designers, models, lighting, music, etc... 2) What role do sponsors play in Fashion Week? A very important one, you need money to pay for this such as venue, assistants, video, etc... Plus a good name associated with your event is priceless! It makes you look like you've arrived and people take you more seriously. But in the beginning it is hard to sell a dream when you have nothing tangible for large companies to see. The more money they have the harder it is for them to let go of it. And smaller ones are not so strict on their requirements. So at VEDEREMAG.COM 25

the start you begin from the bottom and diligently work your way up to the heap of fashion. 3) Business wise, what do designers need to know before entering a fashion week? Themselves! They have to be ready to show and understand what pleases the runway, how to attract good press and buyers with original and appealing pieces that stand out from the rest. And that they will be in a venue with lots of competition all around so you have to be unique and know-that-you-know, fashion! 4) What does a designer get when they do Las Vegas Fashion Week with you? A complete package of a great venue, models, makeup, hair, video, photography, direction, production, things they shouldn't be concerned with because they have so much to deal with producing their line. We try to make it as easy as possible for them to come and show and leave feeling great about participating. And from this past show over 50% already asked about our second one! 5) How many designers participated and what countries were they from? There were 23 designers that came from South Africa, Costa Rica, Saudi Arabia, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Argentina, Malaysia, Vietnam, Australia and several from the United States. 6) There are so many fashion weeks, how does a designer pick the right one? What should they be looking for? Excellent question! Most fashion weeks are self centered, catering to local talent, press and buyers. Even the large capitals do attract some international attention, but, the bigger they are the snootier. And almost impossible to get in if you are a mid size store buyer. For us, it was a big decision to launch FWLV for the first time, primarily because it could be the last big fashion week in the USA! We knew it was hard but not impossible, and to our advantage there are 3 major apparel conventions going on twice a year with thousands of buyers from all over the world! The second largest of its kind anywhere, what other fashion week anywhere has that advantage? So for any designer wanting to get that sort of attention, this is it! No matter where you are from, this is the international platform to be in, period!!! 7) What is the one thing you look for in designers to showcase? O-r-i-g-i-n-a-l-i-t-y, period! As Executive Producer and Fashion Director, I am not into showcasing lots of tshirts and jeans. I mean c'mon any fashion graduate can do that. But to create something unique is paramount for any designer out there. I can tell the ones who do their homework and study current trends, is up on the happenings around the world of the big boys & girls and loves what they do to put it on fabric, period. I can't stress this enough. 26 VEDEREMAG.COM

8) What is the average cost for a designer to participate in a Fashion Week? It depends on the city and prominence so there are many prices to participate. For what we offer I think we are very, very reasonable. But it is an expense and you have to plan well. Anytime you travel outside of your area there are additional costs not just paying for the entry? 9) What must the designer have in place before applying? A thorough collection, photographed even on a mannequin to be reviewed. Once accepted, they must also secure styling such as all accessories and shoes. Since most fashion weeks do not supply any of that, not our responsibility. We don't want to be blamed because what we chose for earrings didn't show up well on the runway, etc... We can connect people with people but that's about the extent of it, each designer must know what best compliments their collection and work on securing it and have it ready before attending.

10) This was your first fashion week alone, what surprised you and disappointed you? I have worked many fashion weeks before, that's how I got started in the industry, at the former California Mart, which was the epicenter of fashion on the West Coast from the late 70's to the early 90's. I learned a whole lot more than if I would have paid the best college in the country. I got hands on experience which is invaluable. And I was not alone; I could not have done any of it without my two partners, Milka Von Rhedey and Carl Keim! We are a great team each covering areas the others can't. And although it wasn't as smooth as we expected, it turned out very well. But we strive to keep improving with each season; there is always room for that. Never settle in and say, ' wow, we are at the top now so we can kick back and relax '. I don't think any of us will ever do that at all. 11) When did you start preparing for fashion week and did you think that was enough time? What will you do different this time around? We started exactly a year ago, last August we launched an international designer competition. That was what gave us the motivation to launch on an international level, it was amazing how people from every continent responded to that one and we found amazing talent. No, there is never enough time, always wished there was just a little more before Showtime. We are doing many things differently for the second one, such as getting designers to finish the application process earlier, most waited till the last moment causing us delays in press releases, etc... Other little glitches that we are aware of and will work hard to avoid, but they are minor in-house things that are very workable. 12) What do you feel was the success of your fashion

week? Lots of factors, primarily, that it got done! You always feel at the last moment that it may not happen or not the way you planned it. But it did way beyond our expectations, mainly because we had such amazing talent from all over the world, something very few, if any, can boast in their fashion weeks! That we truly are a global platform for established as well as emerging talent that feels really, really good! 13) How does a designer apply to August fashion week? They must go to our website; www.fashionweeklasvegas.com and apply there. Not all who apply will be accepted, and yes we review every single one who does. Again, we are looking for originality, flair and knowledge of the industry. We can tell when someone is not doing their fashion homework and is just copying the same style in a different color, sort of speaking. And, we incorporate menswear as well as the women's into the same week and not separate like all the others. During the apparel conventions all sorts of buyers are in town, not just women's high end couture ones. So variety for us is important and welcomed! 14) Tell us more about your contest to find a designer and showcase them? Why? The contest was to promote our event, to get the word out in a progressive and innovative manner. Great way to find new talent, which is what responded and attended, exactly what we were going after. To give the new ones or semi established ones a good stage to come to and show what they do to a larger audience than their local clientele.

I have done lots of interviews in my life, this one by far has been the most accurate and complete for what I do! Thanks Stacey. At the end of February, Fashion Week Las Vegas wrapped with a successful launch for buyers and designers. It was a big gamble for Gus and his partners but, as business gambles go, this one paid off. They are already half sold out for August and busy in meetings to improve on their performance. August again will see designers from all over the world heading to Las Vegas hoping their luck will be that of being discovered and having their "MOMENT". As a designer, I read Gus's answers and know exactly what I should aim for to have my "MOMENT". You always aim higher and better each and every time. In our industry, you are only as good as your last show. You must always be thinking out of the box in terms of your creativity and partner that with good common business sense. Choose your fashion weeks wisely. My money is on Fashion Week Las Vegas. As Gus said to me "they want Fashion Week Las Vegas, to be the New York Fashion Week of the west coast". Gus is well on his way and it seems to me he has had his "MOMENT". He is a teacher and an example for all of us dreamers. Well done Gus!

15) What do you feel were your best and worst moments of the week? First the good ones, everyone was very nice, cooperative and excited as we were producing it. To see amazing talent walk down the runway was priceless, and why I do what I do. To see something planned, organized, talked about and almost cried over then see it happen, wow, cannot be stressed enough in words! On the negative, we had a light blow out right before our first show and photographers were very upset because they had a hard time focusing. One model fainted backstage, shoes did not arrive on time, and several designers had trouble with US customs releasing the packages just before their show started. But aside from that, nothing major to complain about, those are just unavoidable incidents we have to contend with. 16) What other cities do you feel need a fashion week and which ones would you like to do? AS far as I know, there are no other cities, in the US, that actually need one. They are all covered as far as I know? We are the last vestige for this genre for sure. Which ones would I like to do, Paris, Milan, Saudi Arabia and Amsterdam, to be exact!

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S pr i n g C o l o r s Photography by: Petey Wheatstraw

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Makeup: Brenda Lisa Gurerrero Hair: GthaHAIRSTYLIST Styling: World of EyeKandy Model: Champayne Peoples

jean jacket - premium denim cream shorts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DGNY black heels - bebe leather jacket - new look pink & gold heels Chinese laundry tight peachdress -Zingn peach yellow and green heels - Charlotte Russe VEDEREMAG.COM

The Lucky Guy

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Photographer Jon Medel Hair and Make-up - Marinello School of Beauty, San Diego Models - Blonde - Lidia Trainer-Domagalska African American - Ciara Williams Gentlemen - Corey Allen Designer- Stacey Blanchet

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"Normally Fantastic?" If spring has sprung than flings are sure to fizzle when there is no sizzle. This year’s spring fashion show hosted by Phoenix Fashion Week was an event that paired five stylists with two designers and three boutiques to honor the influence of music with fashion. “MIM Rocks Fashion” has successfully been an event that highlighted world music and culture to showcase just that. Fashion and music. Unfortunately, this year had a different “vibe” to it. It appeared that a high falsetto note was missing and that I was possibly in for a disastrous karaoke show. From the entrance greeting to the chaotic ticket purchase at the front door the fashion aura was stressful. In recent years the concept of this special outdoor event has stressed the fact that this show is “different” from any other show. In 2011 and 2012 this fresh new concept seemed to bring excitement and variety which I had undoubtedly expected in 2013. Executive director, Brian Hill, stated in a 2011 article “We want to continue to be fashion leaders in the Southwest and come up with concepts no one has done before. MIM is a great, intimate setting for Fashion Rocks and this event will definitely be talked about.” Two years later, it’s definitely being talked about. An expectation of a grand show was expected, especially coming away from where their last event showcased world known Furne One. On the opposite spectrum, “One” word to describe this year’s MIM show, “Normal.” From off the rack boutique designs to designer “designs” the harmonious tone was not quite there. Off the Rack Two boutiques that where showcased shared one commonality. Simplicity. Rochelle York, stylist, paired with Clothes Minded Boutique to bring the sights of spring to life. Although apparent, the garments did not reflect the cutting edge fashion that they strive to provide. Previously stated by Clothes Minded Boutique, “Our target audience is a woman who wants to look like she spent a lot on her clothes when she really didn’t.” In this instance, the mark was slightly missed but was quickly given the benefit of the doubt due to the fact that they carry local designer merchandise and accessories (and well fashion mishaps do happen). Divaz Boutique was the second boutique that was styled by Yeka Bruner. Slightly bright colors, sheer fabric and flowing dresses were the extent of the runway walk. Styles were reminiscent of many other boutiques that I have visited within the last couple of months and needless to say already in my closet. Not quite a yawn, but definitely a slight sigh.

Designer Made Two designers that made a huge splash at 2012 PFW’s four day event was Bri Seeley and ENVY by Khan. Bri Seeley was the 2012 emerging designer and to help her style this year’s MIM show was Brian Swan. Her style invokes vintage classic for the modern woman. On the runway her signature look was complete with tailored jackets, bold prints, and sheer feminine dresses. Each piece impeccably tailored and notably handled with care. Her color choices of light blue and white were somewhat a repeat of what was used in PFW’s 2012 fashion show. To a disappointment, several dresses that were featured in that same show were showcased again at the MIM. On to the next one. ENVY by Khan paired up with stylist Fawn Cheng to create a sexy treat. A delight to see particularly because there were all original designs that walked the runway, not one dress was repeated here. His geometric and color blocking designs were wearable and easily pleasing to the woman who likes to be a little on the daring side. Beautiful shades of red and hot pink stood out among the deeper greens that he showcased. Along with the two designers was a gentleman who did stand out among the rest. Amir Saebi owner of Amir La Voûte and designer styled his own pieces from his boutique as well as some of his own designs. He placed a unique spin on the vintage suit and ties were an array of color and prints were successfully used. His fashion forward style was refreshing and bold while classically combining high end vintage with a wearable twist. Amir Saebi designs were the highlight of the evening and definitely one to watch in the near future. At the end of the day, Phoenix Fashion Week’s “MIM Rocks Fashion” was a nice show that could have used several more days of planning. The little additions such friendly greetings that I am accustomed to and the pricing knowledge of the tickets was not in place from the new young ticketing staff. I have encountered this with many shows, none that reflected on PFW, but others that I sadly “expected” it from. I will definitely continue to be a fan of Phoenix Fashion Week for what they stand for and what they ultimately bring to Phoenix. New concepts and ideas that Brian Hill and his team work diligently on. Although, this was not the show of the year, it was the event of the month and I do look forward to future 2013 Phoenix Fashion Week events. And by the way… There is nothing bad with “Normal” it makes us fashionistas appreciate the fabulousness that I know will come to the runway!

By Christina Moreno

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P I N K A L I C I O U S

http://www.margheritacalatiphotography.com

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Photographer: Margherita Calati Model: Alexandra Ciubotaru MUA/Hair: Ann Filosa VEDEREMAG.COM

www.andresoriano.com

Andre Soriano channels the high fashion and high art; with influences from cosmopolitan cities worldwide such as New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Milan and Tokyo. Andre Soriano's interest in the fashion apparel and design field began back in his origin Metro Manila, Philippines. His mother "Josephine" designed clothing and draperies for her family and taught AndrĂŠ basics of clothing construction as well as arts and theater exposure. In 1986, the Soriano family migrated to the United States in Milpitas, California. While in high school, Andre became vice president of the fashion club and educated his fellow schoolmates with fashion news, clothing construction and trend forecast in the Fashion Industry. Andre pursued his interest in fashion apparel and design, moved to San Francisco and attended FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) and graduated in 1991.

Model: Leanna Embrey at No Ties Management Makeup: Melina Ruiz Hair: Stephanie N Caceres Fashion Stylist: Julia G Couture Designer:Andre Soriano Photography: Gail Ortaliz Bowman at Gail Bowman Photography

Andre Soriano opened up his first store in San Francisco and designed all type of garments from active wear to classic evening wear, and specializes in elegant wedding and couture gowns. Andre Soriano only selects the best luxurious fabrics on the market such as satin, velvet, chiffon, cashmere, knits and the crochet with bread-work materials that come from Asia and Europe. As a Fashion Designer, Andre Soriano highly believes in giving back to the community where he joined and conducted non-profit organizations to benefit fundraiser for HIV/AIDS orphans living in Africa, City College of San Francisco College Fund and other charities. Andre Soriano's Vision and fashion interpretation is inspired by old Hollywood glamour for today's women and men in mind.

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Once upon a time, air travel meant dressing up for excitement and adventure. Suits and ties for men; stockings, pearls, and gloves for women. And always, there was a flight attendant to make you comfortable and relaxed. Over the years, a flight attendant’s uniform mirrored fashion trends in society as a whole. Stockings, pearls, and gloves in the 1950s, A-line dresses and go-go boots in the 70s, and contemporary fashion in recent years. Recently, photographer Will Haubert and model Christine Hodges recreated changing airline fashions at the Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum near Baltimore. A crown jewel in the museum’s collection is a classic Martin 4-0-4 airliner that is being carefully restored and maintained. Founded by aviation pioneer Glenn L. Martin, the Martin Company built the Martin 4-0-4 airliner throughout the 1950s. As such, it was the perfect location for Will and Christine’s theme. Christine wore a classic 1950s PanAm style uniform, a rockin’ 70s sheath, contemporary fashion, and an aviator uniform (a la Amelia Earhart) for time in the cockpit. And while their plane may not have left the ground, during this shoot, their spirits soared! May we get you a cup of coffee, perhaps a LIFE magazine … ?

Credits: Photographer: Will Haubert, Proprietor, SilverScreen Images Model/Styling: Christine Hodges Location: Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum, Middle River, Maryland 21220 VEDEREMAG.COM

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"Nothing is Just

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I have found that as a model my inspiration for a shoot affects my energy behind the camera. It may help that I have a theatrical background. I find myself wanting to tell the story of the character I have generated through wardrobe, makeup, and props. This specific series was inspired by the umbrella. I wanted to have a character that had some masculine features, such as the tie, suspenders, pompadour look, and pocket watch; however, I also wanted her to have an editorial feel and feminine

Photographer: John Ellis Model: Sandra Wilson VEDEREMAG.COM

expression. Therefore, I decided to give her the bustier, dramatic makeup to offset and balance the two. The umbrella gave me the inspiration because of its long sleek form. It was neither masculine nor feminine, so I thought to combine the two. My vision was to add a touch of magic as well. So, we suspended the umbrella to the ceiling with a fishing wire. The rest was a balancing act. I believe that modeling is so much more than just showing up. The research and vision behind the scenes is what makes it successful for both the model and the photographer.

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John Ellis writes: This is part of my yearlong project of going back to the basics and using one light in hopes of some eye opening experiences on a long journey to mastering light.

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h o te l ranola Hotel Ranola - In Historic Downtown Sarasota, Florida Built in 1926 as a refuge for the winter visitors to escape the harsh northern climates. Today - The hotel has been restored as a landmark for Sarasota with the original wood floors and black and white accent tiles. Ashley Lee - a local senior portrait photographer and model, joined in a collaboration with Arizona Fashion Photographer H. Robert Upton to do an juxtapose shoot joining the past to the future! Ashley borrowed her mothers rich black mint coat and dressed in a white dress to accent the look.

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www.hrobertupton.com

Photography: H.Robert Upton Model: Ashley Lee

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Fly Girl Photographer: Chad S exton Model: Michelle Tea

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www. CS extonphotography. com

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www. CS extonphotography. com

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Natasha Tiffany

Images by: Cedric Jones Photography

The timeless era of sensuality and sexuality; in conjunction with style and grace never fails when we revisit the 1940’s. “Pinup girls didn’t seem to envy other women like they do in this day and age; they simply found a way to be like them. Women of today should adapt that same philosophy,” States singer, model Natasha Tiffany who has embarked upon yet another publication in Vedere magazine from the December 2012 issue volume 4. “When I was growing up, every little girl wanted to be a princess. That is the innocence I see when I look at Marilyn Monroe’s timeless photos. Marilyn was remarkable at projecting innocence while oozing her sex appeal and grace all in one photo.” And that approach has led to one of the greatest legends in the 21st century. Natasha Tiffany, a singer model and corporate worker, has found her balance of motivating others through Toastmasters International where she earned her Competent Leader award in September of 2012. “Toastmasters International has helped me build the confidence to speak in front of large groups. The techniques I’ve gained will stick with me for a lifetime. It also keeps me in front of an audience as I work on my EP titled Goody Goodie set to release in March of 2013 but has been rescheduled to release this summer 2013. I’ve been in the recording studio for almost 1 year working on this project. As a 31 year old fashionista, Natasha has watched women of her generation go through an array of fashionable transitions. ”Beyonce Knowles, Kim Kardashian and Cassie have been in the lime light expressing themselves through fashion. I love experimenting with prints and patterns that I wouldn’t normally go for as well. I’m currently into metallic’s to bring out my sex appeal and I add my femininity by adding soft pastels. Hair and makeup is such an important component of pulling off any look. One can have a perfect outfit but if the hair doesn’t pop then the outfit becomes a flop! 40’s attire generally requires tight curls fingered together to create a polished look while some looks require hair to be loose and flowing. Above all, I believe one should be dressed for the part, the occasion, and their style of dress to complete a look or theme from A-Z.

It is very important to be resourceful ahead of time. Newspaper print is very hard to find and it is rare to see clothing with that design. That is why I hired Janet Brennan, a seamstress and clothing designer for the newspaper print garment. Janet took all measurements, gathered the materials and miraculously made the pattern and print to pull off this classic look. Gathering the right makeup, attire, accessories and ideas for hairstyles is the key to creating THE LOOK. My personal style has a taste of every woman; the classic 40’s style that’s elegant, smooth and polished with the sex appeal of Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren, the edgy yet sexy 80’s style ofVanity of the girl group Vanity 6, where the girls wore lingerie on stage while maintaining class and sex appeal. I actually pulled off that look in 1 of my performances.” When asked what fashion is to Natasha she states, “Fashion to me, most importantly, is whatever is going to bring the wow factor when walking into a room. I love to be the center of attention upon entering a room. And I think that every woman should have an article of clothing that brings them that wow factor. I was floored when I saw one of the most memorable runway shows by Christian Dior in 2004 Spring/Summer Haute Couture. They way that the metallic’s were incorporated with Egyptian style was full of creativity and spoke volumes through color, culture and Haute couture! Some of the most important facets of the fashion industry are runway. Runway gives the designer the opportunity to showcase their artistic creativity. Through their designs, they can cultivate life through imagination. Runway is a platform for the celebrity to feast their eyes on designs that could potentially make or break their career and the model to strut on the catwalk.”

The first fashion statement that Natasha states she ever made was at the tender age of 8. “I wore a black acid wash jean jacket that was strapped with gold medal belts and zippers all over it. It was totally 80’s style which still seems to re-surface itself from time to time. That jean jacket would still be in style today.” One sure way Natasha likes to add flare and pizzazz to an outfit is to incorporate leopard prints, cheetah, and hounds tooth to solid colors. She also states, “Floras are also heavily in style this spring I still have yet to purchase anything floral.” When interviewing Natasha, we asked how she goes about preparing for her photo shoots. “When preparing for a photo shoot, I think of the theme and what I am trying to portray to my audience in art from. Taking photos is art because in that moment, you can play dress up and be whomever your imagination projects. Then I think of how to be resourceful to put the look together. Thrift stores are AMAZING when it comes to vintage. VEDEREMAG.COM

Visit: jchansdesigns.com

Monochromist

By: J-Chan's Designs

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Mo de l :Y an a Jo n es @ W ilh elm

Gladiator Dress & Brown Peony Floral Hat by J-Chan's Designs

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