APRIL 2014 | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
VEUX Magazine - Issue 17 - Storytellers STAFF
Ada Adams Editor-In-Chief/Content Director/Public Relations ada@veuxmag.com
Vivien Hoang Editor/Advisor/Layout Design vivien@veuxmag.com
Wales Wong Editor/Literary Editor/Photographer wales@veuxmag.com
Yawen Chan Web Producer
CONTRIBUTORS: Gordon Clark, C.L. Foster, Tomoyuki Matsushita, Andrew Oplinger, Jonathan Park, M. Andrew Patterson, Christine Polz, Victoria Sorkin, Wales Wong PUBLISHER VEUX Magazine is published every two months by AVW Publishing Inc. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are solely those of the original author and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of VEUX Magazine, AVW Publishing Inc., any of its staff, and/or any/all contributors to this magazine. CONTACT www.veuxmag.com Editor-In-Chief: editor@veuxmag.com Submissions: editorial@veuxmag.com
FOLLOW www.facebook.com/veuxmag www.twitter.com/VeuxMag
COVER PHOTO photography: Leriam Gonzalez make-up & hair: Brandie Hopstein wardrobe styling: Dennine Dyer styling assistant: Melanie Glace model: Cameron Bailey BACK PHOTO photography: Andr Moor make-up & hair: Manuela Melillo fashion design: Simone Pieri wardrobe styling: Simone Pieri assistant: Marta Boroni model: Simone Pieri
IN THIS ISSUE
ISSUE SEVENTEEN | STORYTELLERS
Features & Regulars 4 12 16 32 110
Letter from the Editors Beauty: Eyes of Jewels Feature: Bejewelled - Victoria Sorkin Beauty: Fierce & Feminine Beauty: April Flowers
Fiction - Short Story Contest 22
The Knife
46
The Curse of the Gift
70
Success and Happiness
96
Annie Liked Routine
By M. Andrew Patterson / Photography by Gordon Clark 4th place in our 1st Annual Short Story Contest
By Jonathan Park / Photography by Christine Polz 3rd place in our 1st Annual Short Story Contest
By C.L. Foster / Photography by Tomoyuki Matsushita 2nd place in our 1st Annual Short Story Contest
By Andrew Oplinger / Photography by Wales Wong Winner of our 1st Annual Short Story Contest
Editorials 4 Laissez-moi 38 Wanted 56 Spring Tides 64 Hunt 80 Street Walkers 88 Upfront Backstage 102 Storybook Musings 120 Strange Day
photography: Raul Singson make-up: Ricardo Delgado hair: Katelyn Mcginn fashion design: Michelle New York wardrobe styling: Nick Mathis assistant: Rikik model: Elena Foley (Major Models NY) Long Silk Black Dress by Nicole Miller
Letter from the Editor For many, there is a power that is an insurmountable force pushing them to tell a story. I don’t know how people do it, but many can tell stories that are inspired from an overwhelming urge to share a part of themselves to strangers. Maybe it’s the desire to connect. Maybe it’s the need to reveal life’s wonderful little curiosities. The reasons span far and wide. When we decided to run our first Short Story Contest, we knew there would be individuals like you who wanted their voices heard. The final results for the first Short Story Contest in Veux Mag are: First Place: Andrew Oplinger’s “Annie Liked Routine” Second Place: C.L. Foster’s “Success and Happiness” Third Place: Jonathan Park’s “The Curse of The Gift” Fourth Place: M. Andrew Patterson’s “The Knife” Congratulations to the winners and thank you to those who submitted. You’ll find within these pages words that will make you smile, laugh, cry, panic, or cringe! We’d like to say a special thanks to our regular contributors Christopher Palazzo and Alissa Santiago for their help in judging our Short Story Contest.
We’ve also received yet another wonderful collection of photographic submissions that visually captivate the senses with tales of romance, beauty, quirkiness, bewilderment, slyness, melancholy, fantasy and science-fiction. From one end of the spectrum to the other, various genres come together to create our 17th Issue of Storytellers. Lastly, let every moment in your life be a part of your own narrative that continues to unfold and bring you many pleasant surprises.
WW On behalf of the editors
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EDITORIAL
Laissez-moi
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EDITORIAL Dress by Diane Von Furstenberg Jacket by Yrusha
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EDITORIAL Dress by Donna Karan
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Dress by Diane Von Furstenberg Jacket by Yrusha
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EDITORIAL
Dress by Zhor Rais
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EDITORIAL
Dress by Donna Karan
SWITZERLAND
photography: Margherita Angeli (www.margheritaangeli.com) make-up & hair: Kenji Noma (kensuke2plus.tumblr.com) wardrobe styling: Pedro Hanhausen Vignon post-production: Myriam Alfonzi model: Judith (Up Models Agency Paris)
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Eyes of Jewels CANADA
photography: Hong Lee make-up & hair: Irene Sy model: Joanie (Chantale Nadeau/Focus One Mannequins) 12 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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Bejewelled: Victoria Sorkin
FEATURE
Interview and Photography by Wales Wong You can’t ignore a woman walking down the street when she has an eye-catching row of pearls around her neck or is sporting a unique pair of earrings. Stores are making costume jewelry readily available, but often the challenge that arises is finding our own style that emphasizes our individuality. Rather than letting the jewelry pieces overwhelm, Victoria Sorkin’s pieces bring out the personality of the owner. For Victoria, “…there’s a story in each piece. Every woman sees a different story.” It’s about expressing one’s personality and letting it shine through. Sorkin fell in love with the craft when she took a one hour course on jewelry making back in 2006 during her maternity leave for her second child. When she first started off, she focused on beading for the Royal Collection. Her decision was influenced by the fact that beads have a variety of vibrant colors and the material itself is lightweight. For her latest collection, she decided to explore a more intricate technique to create soutache designs, hence the name Holitache. Soutache, a type of embroidery most often found on military uniforms, has now found popularity with jewelry makers. Victoria can often take hours in the planning process to create the intricate designs so that each necklace or pair of earrings is unique. Nowadays, with a day job in banking, she’s finding the pull of moving over to her art as her main focus. The balance of a full-time job along with a loving family might be a lot for most, but for Victoria, the energy and excitement of making her pieces brings her enjoyment and gives her time for herself. Everything takes time, but when the husband and children are in bed, her life begins. She enthusiastically says, “When you do what you love, you find the time and I really love doing it because it’s art.” It is a life of creativity, exploration, and experimentation when she crafts beads, string, and thread together. In the future, leather will have a special place in her collection as a base for these designs. While the medium is quite different from her past materials, her combination of beading and soutache will still be present. With such unique pieces, you’ll definitely find one that brings out your own personality.
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FEATURE
Schick Eve
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FEATURE
Dance 18 | Peacock VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
FEATURE
Royal Topaz
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My Valentine
Emerald Lane
CANADA
photography: Wales Wong (www.waleswong.com) make-up & hair: Esther Ng (www.makeupbyesther.com) jewelry design: Victoria Sorkin Beaded Creations (www.victoriasorkin.com) model: Rebecca Lyon
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Mystery
FEATURE
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
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The Knife A Story by M. Andrew Patterson Photography by Gordon Clark
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
On Amanda Sapphire Blue Mink Coat Grey dress by Mint Jewellery by JFG On Tom Trench by Giorgio Armani Shirt by Prada Tie by Giorgio Armani Box from Hermès
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
I put down the knife and took a step back. I couldn’t envision a better way to live than to finally accept who I genuinely am. It isn’t as hard as I thought. Simple even. I honestly couldn’t believe I hadn’t tried it this way before. Now that I know, it won’t be so bad next time. The bright surface of the blade reflects my wide eyes. A few drops of water distort the image, tainting my beauty into something sinister. Turning me into something both lovely and dark. I need to clean the water off before it mars the steel, but I can’t make myself move forward. With a reluctant step, I close the distance again and wipe the offending drops off the blade. I smile and my reflection smiles back, no longer that of a madwoman. I’m not. Definitely not. I know what I want, what I need. Tears prick at my eyes with the passion of my purpose. Streaks of mascara mingle with my carefully applied foundation, now matching my kiss-smeared lipstick. I trace my finger along my lips remembering the touch of Sam’s mouth against mine. His wants had overpowered, full of promise and desire. I lost myself for a time in those kisses, his body pressing against me. His strong hands gripped my wrists above my head, trapping me against the wall. In that moment, I wanted him as much as he wanted me. I wanted to give in and at the same time, I knew I couldn’t succumb. With a sigh, I push the memories away. Sam and his kisses were heavenly, but I can’t look like a wanton woman now that he’s gone. It wouldn’t be proper. Mother wouldn’t approve of my tousled hair, wrecked mascara or bruised, swollen lips. No, she wouldn’t. The lights around the bathroom mirror illuminate my face. Wide blue eyes - the color of the sky - according to Sam at least. Sam. His face floats up from my memories as I slowly drag the brush through my hair. I imagine it’s his fingers combing out the tangles and making everything perfect again. Beautiful waves of spun corn silk. That’s how he’d describe it. The brush clatters to the floor; the handle striking the tile is loud in the small bathroom. I grip the edge of the sink as hot tears fall. Sam. Beautiful and sweet Sam. If only he had listened, none of this would have ever happened. He would still be here and I wouldn’t be alone. The ghost of his arms holds me, comforting me. It’s not him, I know. It’s something my mind has conjured to deal with the loss. I shake my head and force Sam back into the dark where he belongs. He’s gone and I have to accept that. I take a couple shallow breaths and look at the damage my emotions have done to my carefully applied mascara.
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On Amanda Dress by Victor Costa (Vintage) Fox Collar: Vintage Crystal Brooch: Vintage Shoes by Max Aria On Tom Tie by Hermès Belt by Gucci (Vintage) Trouser by Paul Smith Shirt by Etro Blazer by Sartoria Partenopea
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On Amanda Dress by Victor Costa (Vintage) Fox Collar: Vintage Crystal Brooch: Vintage
Cleaning up soothes my mind more than phantom memories and moments later I look beautiful again. No regrets. No emotion. Perfect, like a doll on the shelf. I smirk. I’d been called “doll” before by another. He, too, was perfect, but like Sam, he didn’t listen. He didn’t listen to me. Didn’t listen to what I needed to feel loved. I stride confidently back into the living room, past the knife resting on the counter. Now that the moment is over, I want nothing to do with the knife. The tarp covering the living room floor crinkles under my feet. It helps keep the carpet clean. Sam’s kisses almost kept me from putting it down before he left. It would have been horribly messy otherwise. With careful precision, I fold the edges over Sam, securing it so that I can move him to where he belongs - in the dark, with the others. And to think that most people only use a tarp for camping. The basement door yawns open, beckoning and calling me. With a wicked grin, I drag the tarp down into the darkness. The others will be so happy to meet Sam. We’ll have so much fun. I know he’ll listen now.
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
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CANADA
photography: Gordon Clark (Gordon Clark Photography - www.gclarkphoto.ca) make-up & hair: Joanna Keller (Joanna Keller Beautique - joannakeller.com) wardrobe styling: Elizabeth Carol Savenkoff (Vous Valet Vancouver - vousvalet.com) models: Amanda Jean McIntyre (Charles Stuart International) & Tom Heuckendorff Clothing provided by Elizabeth Carol Savenkoff at Vous Valet Vancouver (vousvalet.com).
On Page 28 and This Page On Amanda Maxi Coat by Gianni Versace (Vintage Couture) Sweater by Dolce & Gabbana Silver Chains from Nordstrom Sweater Boot by Gucci Bag by Chanel On Tom Jacket by Prada Shirt by Etro Jeans by Diesel Boots by John Fluvog STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 31
BEAUTY
Fierce Feminine
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
CANADA
photography: Jaylyn Todd (www.jaylynphoto.ca) make-up & hair: Linda Radan (www.lindaradan.com) nails: Linda Radan jewellery design: Handmade by Germaine models: Shain (Fayme Models), Alayna & Kaila
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WA N
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T E D
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EDITORIAL
Jacket by Zara Jeans by Christabell McDonald
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Previous Page Jumper by Hugo Boss Jeans: Stylist Made Shoes by Shoe Bar
Top by Zara Cardigan by Zara Shorts: Stylist’s Own Necklace by General Pants
EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL Shirt by Folke Harness by General Pants Pants by G-Star Glasses by Zeitgeist
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EDITORIAL
Fur Vest by Chaps Harness by General Pants Necklace by Sportsgirl STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 43
EDITORIAL
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Shirt by Zara Suspenders by Danger Field Necklace by Diva
EDITORIAL Coat by Brent Wilson Jumper by Academy Crew Top Ring by Low Luv Bottom Ring by Lovisa
AUSTRALIA
photography: Seet Chareli make-up & hair: Mel Hasan fashion design: Christabell McDonald wardrobe styling: Christabell McDonald assistant: Grace Wirawan model: Kacper (Darley Models)
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The Curse of the Gift 46 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
A Story by Jonathan Park Photography by Christine Polz
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
Kim didn’t believe in destiny. Nothing could interfere with her carefully laid plans. But that fateful day, right in the heart of one of the biggest cities in the world, there was no way to run from destiny. The coming of this day had haunted her from the moment she learned of it. She had cheerfully traipsed into Grandma’s bedroom, wearing a fresh new dress she had received from her for her 7th birthday. With a loving, but silencing and urgent look, Grandma dropped the first emotional bomb of the night. “I’m dying.” “What is dying?” Kim asked, curiously. “It’s like going to sleep and never waking up, child,” her grandmother intoned in a sadly affectionate voice. Kim’s eyes filled with tears as the realization of what Grandma was talking about – an eternal separation – overwhelmed her. “Don’t cry child,” Grandma gently soothed Kim. “Everyone must eventually die. The question is not how do I avoid death, but how do I live life?” Kim sensed that Grandma was about to tell her something tremendously significant and quietly waited, a tremble in her lip. “There is a secret known only to a select few, to those with The Gift of Their Clan,” Grandma whispered conspiratorially. “Every first-born woman of a generation in the Jones clan will eventually have her eyes opened to the astral plane. You will see the connections and you will know what to do with them. It will not be taught to you. You will know. There in the astral plane, the Nephilim, half-demon and half-angel, 48 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
have dwelt since the Flood banished their material existence from the mortal plane, rejected by heaven and hell alike. They have constantly invaded into the material plane and the Jones women have been instrumental in keeping the Nephilim and their evil schemes in check.” Kim was enthralled, feelings of pride about her family history swelling in her chest. Suddenly, her Auntie Krista’s strange behaviour started to make more sense. The more obvious connection didn’t occur to her until Grandma pointed a gnarled finger and declared ominously, “YOU must know these things, for you are the next Chosen One. You must accept this task or all will be lost.” The pride in Kim’s chest soured quickly. Kim liked the nice, orderly world she knew about – the one without scary half-demon and half-angel creatures mucking around, thank-you-very-much. Her skin crawled with dread and fear. Not knowing what to say, she kept silent that evening. Her grandmother died shortly after, never knowing how Kim felt about her fate. Kim never shared that moment with anyone, refusing to believe, while somehow sensing that she must. Unable to deal with her emotions whenever faced with anything that seemed unnatural, she fled to the sciences, hiding in the orderly theories of physics. She would hide from her memories: fleeting flashbacks of an obviously exhausted Grandma preparing breakfast in the morning as if nothing was wrong, sudden awkward silences and stares whenever her Auntie Krista and Grandma were caught alone in a room by other members of the family, hurried excuses as either Grandma or Auntie quickly bustled out the door for no apparent reason. STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 49
FICTION & EDITORIAL She avoided people, worried they would try to draw her into the very obvious religiosity and spirituality that infiltrated every strata of life. It bothered her that others thought her strange and reclusive, but she just couldn’t bring herself to accept invitations to yoga, church, or any other such spiritual activities. Whenever invited to come camping, she politely, but firmly, rebuffed every request with anxiety creeping through her. Anxiety that she would stumble across “one of them” while out in the wilderness. The fear was ever present in her life, always the first factor to consider in any decision-making. But she didn’t believe. She was 26 years old when her dreams became increasingly stranger. She sensed an ominous chill everywhere she went as if someone was watching her even when alone. Despite her aloofness, her family had always been open and accepting of her oddities, just as they had accepted her Auntie and Grandma. She moved back into her childhood home on the edges of urban Chicago, surrounding herself with the comfort of family. Anything to distract her from the premonitions of her destiny. That fateful day – the day she was finally unable to deny her destiny – came unexpectedly, just as expected. One second, she was standing in the kitchen laughing with her family. The next, sudden darkness surrounded her, as her conscious self, unbidden, leaped out of her mortal body. She could feel no material presence, but she could feel. She wished she couldn’t for she knew she was touching darkness. Cold, and yet hot. Wet, and yet dry. A paradox, and a perfectly balanced equation. As the contradictions tore at the edges of her sanity, she heard a grating voice:
“We’re coming.” An hour passed.
“You can’t stop us.” A day.
“Joneses. Delusional bitches that think they know power? They know nothing.” A week.
“You’ve run your whole life. Keep running now, little girl. You know nothing of what is coming.” A month.
“The portal is opening.” A year.
“We are coming.” As suddenly as she had been pulled out, she was back in her family’s kitchen, as if no time had passed at all. She excused herself before her family could notice how pale she had become. “I’ve resisted this day my whole life,” she muttered, “and yet if I do nothing… What did they mean when they said they were coming? What did it mean that it was time for the portal to open?” Kim had no idea what it meant, but she knew one thing – that her grandmother had tried to prepare her for this moment. It was time to stop running from what she had heard. It was time to remember. It was time to face her destiny: to stand in the gap against the Nephilim, who were coming to destroy everything she knew and loved. And she would be ready.
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
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GERMANY
photography: Christine Polz (Christine Polz Photography - www.christinepolz.com) make-up & hair: Jana Perlewitz & Anna Melmann fashion design: Nicola Hahn wardrobe styling: Nicola Hahn models: Anja Straubhaar & Julia Saikkonen
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
Spring Tides
On Kimone, Vanessa and Jessie Silver Embroidered Dress by Brivti Lavender Head Piece: Stylist’s Own Seashell and Pearl Bracelets: Stylist’s Own Pearl Ring: Stylist’s Own 56 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
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EDITORIAL On Vanessa Aquamarine Embroidered Mermaid Gown by Brivti Iridescent Earrings by H&M Crystal Blue Bracelet by H&M Pearl Ring by H&M
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EDITORIAL On Vanessa Ocean Dyed Embroidered Slit Dress by Brivti Head Piece by H&M Lapis Lazuli Bracelets by H&M
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EDITORIAL
On Jessie White Floral Embroidered Dress by Brivti Pearl Bracelet: Stylist’s Own Flower Headpiece: Stylist’s Own 60 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS White Shimmer Eyeshadow and Nude Lip by Motives Cosmetics
On Kimone Cyan & Hot Pink Beaded Embroidered Sea Dress by Brivti Pearl Earrings by Dynamite Gold Headpiece by Dynamite Fuchsia Ring by Dynamite Lavender Eyeshadow and Lip makeup by Motives Cosmetics
EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
On Vanessa White & Light Blue Beaded Dress by Brivti Yellow Agate Ring by Dynamite Silver Floral Earrings by Dynamite Headpiece by Dynamite Cobalt Blue Eyeshadow & Nude Lip by Motives Cosmetics Facing Page Silver Sequin Dress by Brivti Iridescent Earrings by H&M 62 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS Headpiece by H&M White Cotton Candy Lip and Deep Blue Eyeliner by Motives Cosmetics
EDITORIAL
CANADA
photography: Prashanth Raghavan (www.wanderingcam.com) make-up: Alysha Borlase & Juliane Cao (www.motivescosmetics.com) hair: Alysha Borlase fashion design: Bharathy Venkatesan (Brivti - www.brivti.com) wardrobe styling: Vanessa Kiraly retouching: Vanessa Kiraly models: Vanessa Kiraly, Jessie Yang & Kimone Berwise (Victoria Page Management) All Make-up by Motives Cosmetics. STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 63
EDITORIAL
hunt 64 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
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CANADA
photography: Stefan Kolesnikowicz make-up: Kelly Kouleur (Bourgie) hair: Dana Burling model: Sophia (Peggi Lepage & Spot 6 Management)
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Success and Happiness A Story by C.L. Foster Photography by Tomoyuki Matsushita 70 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
Collared Bustier by Atsushi Nakashima Skirt by Atsushi Nakashima Necklace by Christopher Kane (from Atelier Swarovski) Bracelet by Maison Martin Margiela (from Atelier Swarovski) STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 71
Top by nuboaix Skirt by nuboaix 72Necklace | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS from Atelier Swarovski Earrings by Juan Carlos Obando (from Atelier Swarovski)
FICTION & EDITORIAL
I put down the knife and took a step back. I couldn’t envision a better way to live than to finally accept who I genuinely am. I tilted my head to admire my handiwork and then turned to pick up my cellphone to dial my mother. “Dinner at my place. Tonight, at six?” “Sounds perfect! See you then.” My closest friends gathered with me as I made the announcement. My friends have known for years what I loved and supported all of my decisions. They knew I needed them tonight. Precisely at six, my doorbell rang. Opening the door, I can’t help but hide my nervousness under a ridiculously huge smile. “Leanna, you look positively radiant. That smile is to die for,” mother gushed as she hugged me. “I am in the greatest of moods, mom. Come in. I invited some friends to join us, I hope you don’t mind.” “Oh, of course not, babe. The more the merrier. Plus, it’s your house.” Taking her hand, I led her to the kitchen as my best friend busied herself setting the table. As we entered the kitchen, mom immediately gushed about the food. “My word, it smells divine in here.” She eyeballed the assortment of hors d’oeuvres I had laid out on the island. “Try some,” I offered. She immediately reached for the bruschetta, as I assumed she would. The dreamy sigh that left her lips when she bit into the food made all of my nervousness vanish. Even if she didn’t accept my choice, at least I knew it was, at that moment, pleasing to the only person that truly mattered. “This is incredible, Leanna,” my mother said in the most unladylike fashion, around a mouthful of food. “I’m glad you like it,” I answered with a tiny chuckle. “What about the grape leaves? You should try those next. Also, there’s some baked Brie, some spicy shrimp with peanut sauce, and figs,” I added as I pointed to the other side of the island.
“My goodness, child. You are going to make me fat,” she huffed as she traipsed to the other side. I handed her a small plate. “Help yourself. Dinner will be ready in about eight minutes.” “Who did you hire to make all of this incredible food? I really must hire them for my next event.” Her eyes sparkled as she bit into the Brie and then sighed contently. “So perfect.” Ignoring her question, I went to the oven to check on dinner and then walked into the other room. “Well? What was her reaction?” My friend Miles was almost more excited than I was. “She is oohing and aahing over the appetizers as we speak.” If there was a smiling contest, I would have won gold in that very moment. “Showtime, guys.” We all headed into the dining room and my mother was escorted to her head-ofthe-table seat. “You all look so lovely. With this incredible food and such beautiful attire, I would say there is a celebration happening. Did I miss someone’s birthday?” “No, mom. You didn’t miss any birthdays. I invited you here tonight to make a small announcement.” I had to pause as the words snagged in my throat and anxiety took over for a few heartbeats. I shook it off, looked into my mother’s eyes and said, “I am dropping out of law school.” I knew that bomb would take a few minutes to sink in before she freaked out. I continued, getting straight to the point. “I have never felt connected to it as you and dad have, and while I love the justice system, it’s not where my heart is.”
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Onepiece by Atsushi Nakashima Necklace from Atelier Swarovski 74 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
FICTION & EDITORIAL
She clasped her hands firmly in her lap. That was her steadying action. Boiling under the surface, but trying to appear calm was her strong suit. “And do you have other plans or do you plan to just live off of your inheritance and good looks?” Miles stifled a laugh and Ruth smacked him for it. I smiled and walked into the kitchen. I reappeared a moment later with dinner, my mom’s favorite lobster ravioli in saffron cream sauce. I placed her plate in front of her as she looked at me with an annoyed grimace. “This, mom. This is what I plan to do.” “Cook? You’re going to sustain your life on making dinner? So a housewife, then?” I rolled my eyes before I could stop myself. “Try the food, mom. Tell me if a housewife cooks like this.” She looked at me again before gingerly picking up her fork to take the first taste. As soon as it hit her lips, I knew I had her. Closing her eyes, she simply leaned back in the chair and savored the bite so slowly; it almost appeared as if she had fallen asleep. When she finished, as everyone else sat on the edge of their seats, she asked, “Appetizers? It’s all yours as well?” “Yes, ma’am.” She paused briefly before standing to hug me. “You are brilliant. This is incredible!” Tears burst from my eyes as I hugged my mother back. “Really?” “Yes, of course. I’m so sorry I judged you. Dropping out of school is a big deal, but you can definitely do this. So proud of you.” “Thank you,” I managed through tears. “Actually, I started my own catering company.” I reached under her placement and produced the card. “Well, I know someone that will hire you for all occasions,” she smiled and hugged me again before adding, “Can I finish my food now before it gets cold?” Everyone at the table let out a happy sigh and agreed. “Yes, please. Where is mine?” Miles asked next. “I plated them all at once. Yours is in the kitchen. I don’t have wait staff yet, so get to it.” I sent a wink at my friend as he scrambled to gather plates for everyone else. My mother raised her glass to toast. “To success… and happiness.” We all joined her, “Success and happiness!”
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
Dress by Zin Kato 76 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
Shirt by Atsushi Nakashima Pants by Atsushi Nakashima
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FICTION & EDITORIAL
On Facing Page Onepiece by Rekisami Jacket by Rekisami Bracelet by Maison Martin Margiela (from Atelier Swarovski) On This Page Top by nuboaix Skirt by nuboaix Acessories by nuboaix Earrings by Juan Carlos Obando (from Atelier Swarovski) Bracelet by Juan Carlos Obando (from Atelier Swarovski)
JAPAN
photography: Tomoyuki Matsushita (www.tomoyukimatsushita-studio.com) make-up: Akito (www.akitoteramoto.com) hair: Hiroko Matsuo wardrobe styling: Aika Funahashi (www.aika-funahashi.com) model: Marina Streb (Wizard Models) STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 79
EDITORIAL
Blazer by Mark McNairy Shirt by Mark McNairy Shorts by Mark McNairy Shoes by Mark McNairy Pocket Square by SuitedMan by Retro Future 80 Eyewear | VEUX | ISSUE 17 Super | STORYTELLERS
Street Walker
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EDITORIAL Shirt by In God We Trust Pants by In God We Trust Shoes by Mark McNairy Eyewear by Retro Super Future
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EDITORIAL
Blazer by Shades of Grey Shorts by Mark McNairy Tank Top by Hanes Shoes by Mark McNairy Eyewear by Retro Super Future
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Jacket by Shades of Grey Jumper by Mark McNairy Shirt by Lightning Bolt Shoes by Wolverine 84 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
Shirt by Suit Supply Pants by Mark McNairy Jacket by Suit Supply Shoes by Mark McNairy Eyewear by Retro Super Future STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 85
EDITORIAL
Suit by Mark McNairy Shirt by Mark McNairy Shoes by Mark McNairy Pocket Square by SuitedMan Eyewear by Retro Super Future
Facing Page Shirt by Mark McNairy Suit by In God We Trust Pocket Square by SuitedMan Shoes by Suit Supply Eyewear by Retro Super Future Cover Shirt by Mark McNairy Suit by In God We Trust Shoes by Suit Supply Pocket Square by SuitedMan Bow Tie by SuitedMan Eyewear by Retro Super Future 86 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
EDITORIAL
UNITED STATES
photography: Leriam Gonzalez make-up & hair: Brandie Hopstein wardrobe styling: Dennine Dyer styling assistant: Melanie Glace model: Cameron Bailey (NY Model Management) STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 87
EDITORIAL
Upfront Backstage UNITED STATES
photography: Raul Singson (singsonraul.com) make-up: Ricardo Delgado hair: Katelyn Mcginn fashion design: Michelle New York wardrobe styling: Nick Mathis assistant: Rikik model: Elena Foley (Major Models NY)
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EDITORIAL
Black Lace Dress by Nicole Miller STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 89
White Lace Mermaid Gown by Michelle New York Brides Feather Neckpiece by TopShop
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EDITORIAL
Black Lace Dress by Nicole Miller
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EDITORIAL
Floral Print Gown by Michelle New York Brides
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EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
White Lace Gown by Michelle New York Brides 94 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
EDITORIAL
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Annie Liked Routine 96 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
A Story by Andrew Oplinger Photography by Wales Wong
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Annie liked routine. Every morning she walked 2 miles to work, stopped at the coffee shop on the corner to get a large coffee (Columbian roast, one cream, one sugar). She worked 9 until 5 and then she walked 2 miles home. She had done this for 439 days. But on the 440th day, it all changed. Annie liked routine. On Saturday, she descended the 22 stairs from her apartment and walked the 1.32 miles to the lakeshore where she circumscribed the jogging path around the lake clockwise. Once complete, she returned the 1.32 miles to her apartment. She had done this for 62 Saturdays. Annie liked routine. On Sunday, she walked the 22 stairs from her apartment and proceeded onto the 31 steps to the street. Down the block, she took another 202 steps and went into the corner store where she purchased pasta, lettuce, tomatoes, and red sauce. She then returned, tracing back the 202 steps of street, the 31 steps of walkway and 22 stairs to her door. She cooked her weekly lunches - salad and pasta on alternating days - and turned in early. She had done this for 62 Sundays.
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Annie liked routine. She had followed her routine for 439 days. But on the 440th day, it all changed. On Day 440, there were only 21 stairs. Annie stood in the chilly air, one foot solidly on stair 21, one poised over the space where stair 22 should be. Unbroken and vast in front of her was a sea of pure white. Fear, confusion, and shock rippled through Annie. She slowly pulled her foot back to stand safely on stair 21. Annie, of course, had heard of snow. She had even seen pictures of it in school! But she lived in a steady southern climate, with even temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius at its very hottest to 10 degrees Celsius in the lowest of what passed for winter. There was never anything so untidy or disorderly as snow. Her breathing sped up, and pillows of white pushed in front of her, ghosting in the crisp morning air. For the first time in 439 days, she would be late to work!
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On the bottom step she stood, contemplating the world that had swallowed the 22nd step, and the 31 steps beyond. The world was alien and still. No cars passed on the street. No birds sang in the trees along the carefully manicured path. Nothing moved save the steady, visible, puff of her breath. The fear of the unknown was tight in her throat, but passed slowly, surely, and in time she began to see the white as something different. There was a sea of unwritten possibility. What had first seemed like a disorderly mess on the clean lines of lawn and path now seemed to have dampened and smoothed the edges. The world of straight lines and prescribed possibilities had been erased; for once she would move forward without knowing the outcome. Annie liked routine, but Annie loved this. With a smile, Annie steeled her spine, pushed one foot out into space and tilted forward.
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CANADA
photography: Wales Wong model: Beely Huang Shot on location at Si Espresso & Pasticceria Bar (www.siespressobar.com).
Andrew Oplinger lives in California, USA where he is a professional nerd for a major technology company. In his spare time, he enjoys travelling, reading, and experimental cooking. This is his first published short story.
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EDITORIAL
Storybook Musings
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EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
UNITED STATES & TAIWAN
photography: Lin Xian Guo (White Ladder Studio) make-up & hair: Nikki Zhang fashion design: Nikki Zhang wardrobe styling: Nikki Zhang model: Carmilla Jo Shot on location at White Ladder Studio. STORYTELLERS | ISSUE 17 | VEUX | 109
BEAUTY
April Flowers 110 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
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BEAUTY
CANADA
photography: James Ma (whiteoranges.com) make-up: Christina Nguyen (antidotemua.com) hair: Gary Allen (Garyindigo.com) models: (Yellow) Joceline Paquette (Orange) Melissa Pankovcin (Annabelle Cho Models / Spot 6 Management) (Red) Kelleth Cuthbert (kellethcuthbert.com) (Lavender) Mila Bog (milabog.com) (Pink) Lyuba Bond (Allure Model and Talent Management) 118 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
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Strange Days
EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL
Previous Page Sweatshirt by H&M Shorts by H&M Leggings by Simone Pieri T-Shirt by Simone Pieri Wrist Watch by Dolce & Gabbana Bracelets by Il Centimetro Rings: Handmade
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This Page Slacks by Simone Pieri Singlet by Simone Pieri Jacket: Vintage Glove: Vintage Hat: Vintage Wrist Watch by Dolce & Gabbana Bracelets by Il Centimetro Rings: Handmade
Facing Page Upper Jacket: Vintage Lower Jacket by H&M Slacks by Simone Pieri Eyewear: Vintage Hats: Vintage Umbrella by Mary Poppins Wrist Watch by Dolce & Gabbana Bracelets by Il Centimetro Rings: Handmade
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Jacket by Simone Pieri Bow Tie by Simone Pieri Slacks by Simone Pieri Hat: Vintage Military Shirt by Moschino
Eyewear: Vintage Wrist Watch by Dolce & Gabbana Bracelets by Il Centimetro Rings: Handmade Shoes by Converse U.S.A.
EDITORIAL
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This Page Jacket by Simone Pieri Bow Tie by Simone Pieri Slacks by Simone Pieri Hat: Vintage Military Shirt by Moschino Eyewear: Vintage Wrist Watch by Dolce & Gabbana Bracelets by Il Centimetro Rings: Handmade Shoes by Converse U.S.A.
Back Cover Slacks by Simone Pieri Singlet by Simone Pieri Jacket: Vintage Glove: Vintage Hat: Vintage Wrist Watch by Dolce & Gabbana Bracelets by Il Centimetro Rings: Handmade Boots: Vintage Hat Box by Simone Pieri
ITALY
photography: Andr Moor (Andrea Muroni - www.andrmoor.it) make-up & hair: Manuela Melillo (www.lamelillomakeup.altervista.org) fashion design: Simone Pieri (www.facebook.com/pages/La-bottega-di-Simone/231109440270550) wardrobe styling: Simone Pieri assistant: Marta Boroni (www.facebook.com/MartaBoroniFotografie) model: Simone Pieri 126 | VEUX | ISSUE 17 | STORYTELLERS
Location by Simone Pieri (Rome, Italy).
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AVW Publishing Inc. www.veuxmag.com
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