ISSUE ONE
Contents!
FEATURES 62 Girl Problems The problems facing girls everywhere on a daily basis. 68 Lash Serums helping you choose the right mascara 70 Big Apple eating A delicious look into places to eat in New York 170 Amsterdam Beyonce A night never to forget A snapshot of the great city A candid review of Beyonces recent performance at the London O2
120 Kids Fashion Week
SUMMER
48
MUSIC 74 Synth: Village music 124 Pussy Riot 154 David Bowie FASHION 64 One to watch Yulia Kondrania 66 Sticking Styles for 2013 72 Little Black Dress 106 One or Two at a time 126 Step Aside Supreme, Givencys in town
146 Babe in the wood
STYLE & BEAUTY 132 After the Party Stunning shoot by the Vidette Fashion team 161 Dermolica helping you choose the right mascara 146 Alisha White An interview with international model 164 Spring Collective A collection of home wear for the summer
84 LANA DEL REY A real rundown of the music’s new icon
PUBLISHER Mohammad Qazalbash EDITOR Holly Gilbert DEPUTY EDITOR Tottie Faragher FEATURES EDITOR Hollie Bracciale OUTPUT EDITOR Hannah Fenn EDITORIAL Sharayne Jones Sejal Patel Rebecca Bourke Ellie Johnson Charli Wilson Emily Taylor Bronwyn Mckay Curtis Lesser Zainab Mohamed Daria Ageeva Szonja Fekete Sophie Garrett Tseng Yi Tseng Jenine Ebanks CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kamran Rajput EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Nikita Grewal ART DIRECTOR Charlotte Hopper PRODUCTION MANAGER Cordelia Hawkins PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Katie Cook Paige Strang PHOTOGRAPHY Ruari Jupp Erika Maitland ONLINE EDITOR Amelia Bath INTERACTIVE DIRECTOR
Maggie Worrel SOCIAL MEDIA Ange Lecart MULTIMEDIA CONTENT Shannon Holder COMMERCIAL & PRODUCT MANAGER Rachel Alison MARKETING, EVENTS & PR Korey Samuel Emma Russell Nancy Clarke
LANA DEL REY Photographed by Terry Richardson used with permission All images and content in this publication has been created organically, if not the content is being used with permission and for educational purposes and thus in the public interest. This product has been produced internally by students of the University of the Arts London. This is strictly NOT for sale. VIDETTE MAGAZINE nor it’s contributors take no legal responsibility no are they finically committed to the project. University of the Arts London
STAFF OUT TAKES
EDITOR Holly Gilbert
EDITOR’S LETTER I will start by saying welcome to the first
issue of Videtté Magazine! I am extremely excited to be able to introduce this new and exciting magazine. Videtté has truly a collaborative project, with passionate people coming together to produce something a little different and a little bit special. The process has allowed everyone working on Videtté to challenge themselves to bring work of the highest caliber to its pages, be it in editorial, creative, marketing or from our online team. This in particular makes me extraordinarily proud to be writing the letter of introduction to the SS/13 issue that will mark our very first edition. We want to take you on a journey through the Urban Jungle of the young and aspirational… We have encountered inspiring individuals, the weird and the wonderful and felt we had to share our findings and musings with you in the best way we know how. I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has helped to put Videtté together from when this seemed an impossible task from those very first imaginings. Above all, we hope you enjoy this very special first edition and are as surprised and enthralled as we have been putting Videtté together Until next time . . .
BEYONCE: A NIGHT NEVER TO FORGET by Jenine Ebanks
As the lights go out and the crowd chants, suspense fills the arena. Ballet dancers ascend to the stage in angelic white leotards as the instrumental to Bow Down/I Been On plays. The charade of video clips on the spectacular LED screen illustrated Beyoncè Knowles-Carter also known as Queen B as the modern day version of Marie Antoinette (Queen of France). As the roar of the crowd amplifies and the screen rises; lights beam, radiating the stage, portraying Beyoncè’s eleven piece all female band. As they begin to play the female empowerment song ‘Run the World (Girls)’ Beyoncè floats to the stage in a beautiful white Ralph & Russo bodysuit, busting out those infamous dance moves. Acknowledging her crowd “I see we have some B-hives in the house tonight” Beyoncè, introduces her next dance track ‘End of Time’ through stepping which send the crowd into a complete frenzy (including me) as we sang along to her top 20 hit on the UK’s R&B chart. Queen ‘B’ then slowed down the tempo of the concert by dedicating ‘Flaws and all’ to all her B-hive fans, seducing the audience with her amazing voice demonstrating exactly why we ‘love her’. The video interlude, takes the audience on a philosophical journey revealing Beyoncè’s hidden innovation, which transforms her from a renowned artist to wife and now mother, adding new alter ego ‘Mrs Carter’. 'I feel like Mrs Carter is who I am, but more bold and more fearless than I've ever been. 'It
comes from knowing my purpose and really meeting myself once I saw my child. I was like, "OK, this is what you were born to do." The purpose of my body became completely different,' Beyoncè states in Vogue. Since the birth of her daughter Blue Ivy in January 2012, Beyonce’s perspective on marriage and family life has changed. The global superstar considers herself to be a modern day feminist, “I do believe in equality. Why do you have to choose what type of woman you are? Why do you have to label yourself anything? I’m just a woman and I love being a woman. But I'm happily married. I love my husband,' she explains in Vogue. The international sensation, stepped out in a Givenchy embellished leotard, an American flag styled cape and snapback cap with a diamante encrusted ‘B’. Queen B stunned the crowd with her belting vocals to a medley of ‘If I Were a Boy’ and a cover of the Verve’s ‘Bittersweet Symphony’, causing a real buzz amongst the B-hives who were summoned to get up and ‘Party’. But just as the audience thought that the concert could get no better, the R&B songstress switches things up by adding a Jamaican dancehall flavour to her smash hit ‘Baby Boy’ which featured reggae artist Sean Paul. Using the LED screen to create an abstract illusion of her silhouette, Beyoncè incorporated a series of Jamaican dance moves to demonstrate the ‘Diva’ that she is.
Talented pianist Rie Tsuji, toned the show down by performing a passion impromptu whilst Beyoncè sashayed onto the stage in a dazzling blue Dennis Kolpodinos jumpsuit, performing the powerful ballad ‘1+1’. The audience are then shown a more lustful side to Mrs Carter, who groans and croons about the comfort of love making. As she seductively dismounts the piano and is fitted with a safety harness, Queen B soars across the audience on a zip line with golden confetti trailing behind her leaving the crowd mesmerised as she approaches her second stage. T he Life is but a dream star, dedicated this segment of her show to interact with her B-hives by engaging the arena with her number one song ‘Irreplaceable’. As the global phenomenon selected members of the audience to assist with this song, the crowd began to rowdily chant the chorus ‘to the left to the left, everything you own in the box to the left’. Enjoying the audience’s participation, Bey went straight into ‘Love on Top’ illustrating just how powerful her vocal range is. But, it was no match for the crowd’s adlib especially on the ‘you ou ou’, which stunned Queen B into asking her B-hives “can y’all just keeping doing that all night”. The segment was concluded with a Destiny’s Child medley (‘Survivor’) before Bey was fastened into her safety harness and zip lined back to the main stage.
A quick change into a stunning black and yellow bodice by David Koma and a video interlude later, Mrs Carter, voted the sexiest woman of the 21st century by GQ, wows the crowd with a rendition of ‘Crazy in Love’, erupting the O2 arena into the ‘uh oh, uh oh, uh oh, oh no no’ booty shake dance, followed by the ferocious persona of Sasha fierce’s ‘Single Ladies (Put a Ring on it)’ whilst the crowd intensely rotating their hands, signifying ‘that if you like it, then you should have put a ring on it’. The whirl wind of ‘The Mrs Carter show whisks the audience away, to an African influenced video interlude. The video clip portrayed the ‘Countdown’ pop star, dancing in traditional African attire with animated lions, elephants, giraffes and gorillas in the background. Bey ascends to the stage in a vibrant Asian inspired Kenzo playsuit, to the swaggering beats of Africa, to perform her latest track ‘Grown Woman’. Queen B captivates her B-hives with her exotic belly dancing, tribal inspired imagery and is even blindfolded at one point dancing with Les Twins (dancers). This fun up beat song channels, Beyoncè’s vision of becoming an independent, successful business woman who runs her own label, irrespective of what challenges may lay ahead. As Queen Bey states ‘I’m a grown woman i can do what i want’.
Overall Beyoncè, ‘Mrs Carter Tour’ was more of a comeback gig, showcasing the R&B singer, greatest hits. Not only did Queen B deliver musical, she enKced the crowd with her fiery/fierce energeKc dance moves, sexy ouOits and electrifying band. My only criKcism of the tour was the lack of new material used, even though she performed the track from the Pepsi advert ‘Grown woman’ (due to Pepsi sponsoring her tour), it would have been interesKng to have a few snips of what’s expected to come later from the pop sensaKon. Beyoncè is eminent for puTng on an exciKng performance and it is clear to see that being the
inspiring and empowering woman that she is, Bey encourages young women to be true to themselves and stand up for their beliefs. It is evident to see that girls really do ‘Run the World’. Beyoncè Knowles-‐Carter will be performing on Saturday 1st June 2013 at Twickenham Stadium in associaKon with Gucci’s Chime for Change campaign, which raises funds and awareness to promote educaKon, health and jusKce for every girl, every woman, everywhere.
#girlproblems
GIRL PROBLEMS words by Emily Taylor After a long day saving the world, superwoman Emily sits down and gives us a few home truths, buckle up! @emilytay1
Karl Legerfeld and he dedicates his life to designing one-off pieces just for your wardrobe. Regardless of personal, style and financial traits everyday is a universal struggle for all women alike, an issue I feel we are never credited for.
T
he fact of the matter is; its hard work being female. I invite any man to try and live through vicious daily battles between our love of chocolate and the desire to look like Miranda Kerr, potential paralysis from wearing killer heels to a ‘casual lunch’ because you know for a fact your boyfriends ex is going to be there and you’ll be dammed if you don’t out-shine her, and knowing that the only way you’re going to be truly happy in life is if you become best friends with
Some things in life are a given; it will always rain the second you step foot out of the hair salon, you will always desperately need what ever is at the bottom of your handbag minutes after a manicure and whenever you step outside of the house for five minutes make-up free it’s like an ex boyfriend reunion, as apposed to when you’re strutting around town for the entire day feeling like Naomi Campbell and the only familiar face you see is your Grandmothers friend from Bridge Club, Beatrice.
One of the most savage battle-fields for any modern-day woman however, is the gym. Disregarding the immense mental strength it took us to tear ourselves away from that bottle of ice cold Savignon and Sex and the City re-runs, because 13 times over just isn’t enough, it’s when we arrive, that's when the real hardship un-folds. I always swore that I would never become one of those women who strutted around the gym with a face full of make up, but then I joined a central London gym which coincidentally plays host to Credit Suisse’s most eligible bachelors and well, I didn't have a choice. According to statistics 1 in 4 people meet their partners in the gym, and although I’m currently not actively seeking as John Lennon once said
‘life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans’ And something tells me that ‘life’ (or at least the life I intend on leading) isn’t going to happen if I’m looking more Wayne than Coleen. So as if the constant anxiety of potentially sweating my face clean off whilst ferociously trying to catch my breath after 15 minutes on the treadmill isn’t stressful enough, I’ve got Mr-HotGym instructor reminding me to keep my back straight when lifting and too ‘really push myself’- to think that they sold me the ‘experienced and helpful’ gym instructors as an added benefit when signing my life away with membership, they owe me a damn refund! There is nothing helpful about having a male model take hold of your love handles and holding your hips still during an upper body workout- as if I’m not red faced enough?
I can’t help but feel that a workout wouldn’t be such a daunting experience if men just didn’t exist, or at least didn’t exist in the gym. I suffer from the common paranoia that everyone is watching and judging as I struggle with my 5k weights and I don’t appreciate Mr Muscle standing next to me bench pressing an army of small Elephants. So there is it, I’m blaming my insecurities on the fact I don’t have a body like Adriana Lema- thanks boys, this is all your fault!
YULIA KONDRANINA Words by Hollie Bracciale Hollie is one of our Editors here at Videtté and is somewhat of a fashion connoisseur… London Fashion Week may be a distant memory now but whether any shows are
sKll fresh in your mind is a real test of the designs on offer. Which collecKon stood out above the rest and really made an impression? For me there was one show during which I don’t think I blinked in fear of missing a moment. Yulia Kondranina’s A/W’13 designs were like no other collecKon. Kondranina’s pieces offer original personal designs with a unique aestheKc, which brings something new to the world of fashion. Through her brand Kondranina wants to revive femininity and beauty in women’s wear by combining her creaKvity and passion for art with want women want from their clothes. Kondranina’s designs are formed from tassels in intricate designs and oden floor sweeping lengths. Using a fine viscose fringing, Kondranina explores two and three-‐dimensional shapes by using a careful weaving method. The female form is distorted by exaggeraKng shoulders, hips or bust, which plays with the shape of the silhouefes. The shapes of the pieces, inspired by sportswear, include cap sleeves and tank tops made from a sport-‐elasKc jersey. Kondranina plays with staKc sculptural shapes and juxtaposes them with the graceful movement of the tassels. Born in Moscow, Kondranina loved clothes and dressing up from a young age and began designing and making her own clothes from the age of 10. Her creaKvity and arKsKc nature lead her to Art school before taking a place at the Moscow State TexKle University. Although always drawn towards conKnuing her studies in art, taking a place to study women’s wear was a decision that later turned out to be one of the most important in her life. Videfé spoke to the so very creaKve -‐ but someKmes Kght lipped! -‐ Kondranina to find out what’s behind her designs.
V: Where do you begin when designing for a new season? Kondranina: First of all I usually start looking for inspiraKon in films, books, old fashion magazines, in the street and in art. My design process usually starts by researching to find inspiraKonal material. SomeKmes I already have an idea in my mind and just look to support it with addiKonal material. V: What was the inspiraKon for your A/ W13 collecKon? K: For my latest collecKon I wanted to keep my ideas with fringe lines and an interweaving technique used in my graduate collecKon, which had a more experimental nature, but for this one I tried to transform garments into more feminine and wearable styles. I was trying to focus on femininity and did this by using classical forms but with a contemporary approach. There are lots of classical tailored jackets, act outs on shoulders and back, corsets and of course colours, which I used for the first Kme. In this collecKon I wanted celebrate the female form but sKll with a creaKve approach using crad techniques. V: What can we expect to see in your S/ S14 collecKons? K: I don’t want to say anything at the moment as it might get change in the development process. V: Would you ever collaborate with another designer? K: I think yes, I will. But won’t name any. V: And just for fun, what three things could you not live without this summer? K: Definitely comfortable heels, a black dress for any occasion and a silk navy jumpsuit.
STICKING FOR 2013 STYLES words by Zanab Ibrahim The fashion scene this year has been innovative in capturing the true essence of female beauty through empowerment. Two themes that have been most prominent on catwalks this season have been a nod to the androgynous and feminine extravaganzas. We see women walking in men’s shoes and becoming more daring and beautifully expressive in their wants and needs in a contemporary world. Daring, superior and contemporary are words that should be associated with strong and enigmatic women. And it is all about manning up this season and channelling inner masculinity playing up to the powerful feminine side of a woman, blending the division between dominance and confidence with a hint of delicacy. We owe gratitude to when Yves Saint Laurent for producing the Le Smoking tuxedo suit for women Giorgio Armani back in 1966. It became obscenely adored as it crew attention and popularity from the fashion world, now this styles is back stronger than ever. The tuxedo look could be pulled off on any occasion, from work to a cocktail event replacing cocktail dresses. As well as casual wear Giorgio Armani accessorises the jacket with a crisp shirt or vest with a neck scarf. You can choose from various styles; oversized, fitted, with or without a vest. The must have classic feminine British look completed with bold coloured heels & lipstick, bringing together femininity with masculinity. It
screams out anything is attainable stepping into a man’s world and owning it. Simply adding a bold lip colour, killer heels and statement jewellery pieces ensure the androgynous tailoring that is key this season remains suited to a womanly silhouette whilst keeping the lines clean and simple. The other winner this season is the dreamy, fairy tale, girly persona and man-up girl domination to make striking entrances to any event and keep people talking about just what you were wearing. Luxurious fabrics such as silk, chiffon and muslin in dreamy soft colours make for a perfect muted Pre-Raphaelite look. Accents of blood red, silver and black can be added to create a darker edge to an outfit too girly and soft. To compliment the enchanted world look, the combination of flowing pleats in pastel hues, Butterflies, bows and roses complete the absolute feminine look. The dreamy aura evokes fascination and mystery. Designers such as Oscar De La Renta have exceeded our expectations as he takes the daring and elegant look into a whole new level. This season’s girly look is all about asymmetrical cuts, volume and swathes of luminous fabric– all the while a hint of seduction being achieved with a sheer panel or lace. So go on I dare you man up or become an overpowering fantasy.
LASH SERUMS words by Ellie Johnson Ellie is our resident lash expert and is all eyes at Videtté’s beauty desk, follow her on twitter for updates @elliemay_j The days of yearning for longer, thicker lashes are gone. And thanks to lash serums, it is as easy as applying mascara. There have been countless ways to enhance your eyelashes: false eyelashes that you apply and remove daily, lash extensions which are bonded to your natural lashes, however both of these methods are time consuming, expensive and often look very unnatural. Lash conditioners have never been so popular as more producers of innovative lash products enter the market. We have researched a few of the most exciting products on the market and found five of our favourites.
L’Oreal Double Extended lash boosting mascara,
L’Oreal Double Extended lash boosting mascara. £6.99
Retailing at £6.99 this new formula from the Double Extend line, which includes growth serum in the Primer side of the tube and is amazing. L’Oreal states that women who tried this saw thicker, longer lashes which were in much better condition within four weeks. There is also a separate concentrated lash growth serum, which again is very good, especially used alongside the mascara for a double lash boost at an amazingly low budget price.
Urban decay Lush Lash serum, priced at around £25.00 it
Dior Diorshow Maximizer £20.00
is simply a growth serum with no mascara included. The results for this serum are phenomenal. It is a double-ended product with one end containing the serum and the other a conditioning mask and you use both in conjunction so they work together. According to Urban Decay, you can see 25% thicker and longer lashes in 2 weeks and 63% in six weeks. It is definitely worth purchasing, giving you thicker, longer lashes quickly.
Dior Diorshow Maximizer, priced at around £20.00 it is a lash-lengthening base for mascara. This is the first Dior serum base with a full lash-boosting effect that works both instantly and in the long term when used often.
Urban decay lush lash serum £25.00
Elizabeth Arden Prevage, which is a lash and brow serum. It is priced at £85.00 and this is the only reason for it not being top of the list. This serum works brilliantly however; it doesn’t work better than the others for the price. The lash serum makes mashes longer and fuller in two weeks while improving the longterm health of lashes with continued use.
Rapidlash Eyelash Enhancing Serum, This particular
Rapidlash Eyelash Enhancing Serum £85.00
serum doesn’t actually go on sale until July 14th of this year, however with a waiting list of over 800 names it certainly deserved a mention. With massive hype and excitement surrounding the launch of this £39.95 lash serum, which Boots have secured the UK exclusive rights too, it works as a lashplumping mascara that nourishes and conditions. Perhaps is is time to put your name on that rather large waiting list for long, luscious lashes? The ladies at Videttè certainly will!
Rapidlash Eyelash Enhancing Serum £39.95
BIG APPLE EATING words by Sophie Garrett & Szonja Fekete One of the most significant elements of any city is, hands down, its eateries. That’s why we thought it would be of great importance to give you a glimpse into the menus we come across as we eat our way across NYC. For your own mouth-watering enjoyment we put together a Morning till Late restaurant hopper summer itinerary. Breakfast Peels, 325 Bowery, Bowery Have to start by saying one of the best ‘good morning’ vibes we’ve experienced - inconspicuously done through natural light, beautiful waiters/waitresses, a blend of white and wood furniture and eclectic food combinations in each meal. The both of us could (and would) demolish everything on the menu, but for the sake of the chefs and ourselves, we opted for the ‘Spa Eggs’ (an egg white omelet with spinach and goats cheese, with a side salad). They have a range of options of sweet and the savory with tropical muesli to biscuits and gravy. These biscuits, or a scone as us Brits call it, are a central theme in the menu where you can customize its toppings as you like. It should also be noted that this fantastic place gives you a selection of cocktails to give you a bit of a kick start, but we boringly stuck with skinny lattes and cappuccinos. In short, atmosphere and food together creates the ultimate start to your day. Lunch Candle Café, 2427 Broadway, Upper West Side. This meal proved to be more challenging to cover in just one option. You only have to walk down one street in any neighborhood and every restaurant is as enticing as the next, but we did come across this little gem one afternoon in the Upper West Side. With its organic vegetarian cuisine, this café has the power to turn any meat eater, if at least for just one meal. The dishes are unbelievable. For most up-market restaurants, presentation is key, and this café does not disappoint. We absolutely encourage visitors to taste at this restaurant and bask in its atmospheric fit and healthy vibe. You’ll feel just that even after a generous serving of Indian curry vegetable cake. Dinner The Standard Grill, 848 Washington Street, Meatpacking District Last of all, dinner. We’ve selected somewhere that gives you the option of all kinds of grilled meats and seafood combined with the most desired wines and cocktails. Ideal for summer, majority of the seating is located outside so you can take in the view of the Standard Hotel and Meatpacking District. One of the most beguiling things about this restaurant is its ability to provide a reflection of an exclusive experience without a hint of pretentiousness. Everything from sesame crusted diver scallops to a porterhouse steak for two appear on the menu and you could
LITTLE BLACK DRESS words by Sejal Patel Sejal Patel is our resident features writer with a passion for fashion, we’re certainly jealous of her wardrobe!
The Little Black Dress is a timeless, versatile and stylish piece that should be in every woman’s wardrobe! The beauty of the Little Black Dress lies in its simplicity making the woman wearing it feel instantly feminine, confident, chic and elegant. Coco Chanel’s introduction of the first Little Black Dress to the world was revolutionary. A far cry from the garish and fussy design features, the primary aim was to create a dress that was effortlessly classic and appropriately sexy in just seconds. Sometimes referred to as the LBD, a perfect example of this dress allows women overcome those “I have nothing to wear” days with confidence and conviction. This clever wardrobe staple has the flexibility to be dressed up or down with a simple change of shoes or the application of a diamond necklace instantly transforming this clever little dress to suit any given occasion. Nothing says classic elegance more than the Little Black Dress. The envious glares pointedly aimed at the most beautiful women of all time have more often than not been most fierce when starlets have graced the most elegant of events in simple black dresses. A black dress, by day, provides an enigmatic and sultry quality. But by night it oozes sophistication and glamour. The search for the perfect LBD is time consuming and must defy trends and fads, a true Little Black Dress transcends the evolution of fashion from season to season. The investment in this little bit of black luxury means the art of femininity, of allure and of style.
SYNTH:VILLAGE MUSIC words by Korey Samuel Korey Samuel, grey jumper enthusiast and music lover. Track him @koreysamuel Remixes these days have the ability and finesse to outshine their original counterparts. Adding dynamic spins to an already great track or completely stripping it down to reveal or create a different tone has put producers on the map the world over. With artists such as Cyril Hahn, Ryan Hemsworth and Le Youth all finding success with big remixes it is no surprise that when I came across Village (stylised as ViLLΛGE) by chance, I simply had to pitch why he should be next big thing on the remix scene. Imagine: you hear the most fantastic remix on the radio, what next? The details were missed, the name of the artist or the producer that mixed it, trawling through the website of the radio to no avail as the track list isn’t up yet. And if like me, the word patience isn’t in your vocabulary this endeavour is particularly frustrating. Even the majestic wizardry that is Shazam fails you; the only hope is to ascend to SoundCloud. All the information I had to work with what revolved around the fact I knew the song in question was originally sung by Cassie; although the mystery track didn’t sound too much her hugely successful 2006 hit. The tempo decelerated, her voiced slowed, it was sexy but mellowed. The remixer had taken the Ryan Leslie production and rewired it to something Ventura couldn’t dance in front of the mirror to, more like something she would undress, shower and fall asleep to. Reason being that the person I was looking for had changed the bassline into
one that doesn’t pound the track, but caresses it, whilst staying loyal to its minimalism and it didn’t take me too long to find it, three or four tracks into the search and I had found my enigmatic winner. ViLLΛGE or Valentin, as he is known to some, is a young, Romanian producer, DJ, and member of the ‘Origami Sound’ collective who creates a wide variety of dance music and remixes, a great deal of which, he releases for free. Supported by UKF music, Eton Messy and Majestic Casual he is quickly establishing a name for himself. This year he has already had plays on BBC Radio 1 and 1xtra; as well as a SoundCloud following of just under 10,000 with only a handful of tracks released. His original creations as well as remixes have a progressive house feel to them with definitive garage influences. However, like most producers finding the limelight, he is more than capable of blending a wide range of genres into his music. His standouts include; the aforementioned Me and You remix of Cassie, his edit of Neon Hitch’s ‘Gucci Gucci’ and his remix of Yuna and Adventure Club’s Lullabies, the latter standing at an incredible 125,000 plays and counting. This multi-talented dance virtuoso plans on taking people places, so just remember who told you first.
THE DECONSTRUCTION OF
LANA DEL REY words by MOHAMMAD QAZALBASH
It’s a
warm afternoon in Santa Monica, and the shadows of the palm trees from the boulevard fell quietly through the windows. We were sat in the offices of record label Interscope – this was really where dreams came true. Momentarily after being offered no water we were summoned into a dark room. My eyes panned across only to see accolade after accolade, and then a hand from a corner press played play. “Young and Beautiful” As lush and haunting as it is fittingly jejune it was – we were told that this wouldn’t appear on the expected studio album. The Great Gatsby soundtrack contribution co-written with director Baz Luhrmann — is just what you'd expect from the singer who fetishizes another literary master work in devotional child-bride pose, prays over funerary bell tolls and swollen strings. After being briefed on impact dates and scheduled live appearances we left the building. The sun was harsh on the eyes and we had spent as little as seventeen minutes in the presence of, she. Myself and three others from Vidette Magazine sat in the SUV that waited for us and whilst we tried to understand what exactly happened – it had become clear. The interview we hoped for didn’t go to plan, in fact the entire fiasco turned into a record playback. We couldn’t help but fascinated by the world that Lana Del Rey lives in – how has she become such a phenomenon?
The issue with Lana Del Rey is not whether she is some corporate test-tubed ingÊnue, but why we are unwilling to believe that she is animated by her own passion and ambition — and why that makes a hot girl so unattractive. The big question here is not: Is she real? But, rather, why it seems impossible to believe that she could be. Del Rey has started to reveal herself as a real girl, and the Internet musters only unconsidered hateration.
On the surface, the Lana Del Rey ‘Authenticity Debate’ swings between two depressing possibilities: (1) That's she's all but the fourth Kardashian sister, Frankensteined together by old white guys in ties in order to exploit the now sizable "indie" market, or (2) that she is a moderately talented singer who is getting over by pushing our buttons with nostalgia and good looks. This is the distracting crux, the long shadow of a pointless debate that falls over Born to Die. For critics and anonymous commenters alike, the prospect of an attractive female artist with a vision that is personal and not manufactured by others, who writes her own songs and makes her own videos, who understands what it takes to be a viable pop product and is capable of guiding herself to those perilous heights, is an unsolvable equation. Yet, Lana Del Rey is doing it all, before our very eyes.
Being sexy and serious about your art needn't be mutually exclusive, even when your art involves (in part) being a pop package. Defending herself to Pitchfork last fall, Del Rey said, "I'm not trying to create an image or a persona. I'm just singing because that's what I know how to do." Her intent is certainly more ambitious than to "just" sing — if not, she would still be making the rounds of Brooklyn open mics, not making a record upon which the Philadelphia Orchestra appears — but she is making an attempt to refocus our attention on her music. Which, for a time, was why anyone really cared about her. Perhaps, if she made more of a stink and showed some enmity toward the music industry's decaying carcass or faked us out with a record on an indie label like Merge first, her ambition would be palatable, rather than outrageous.
The mistaken assumption that's constantly central to the argument against Lana Del Rey is that she is a valence for DIY/indie culture, which she's never purported to be. She played daytime industry showcases at overlit venues in Midtown for years, taking meetings at majors since mid-2010. These are the steps you take when you want to get over as a pop artist, not get noticed by Matador. Blogs and tastemaking websites just assumed that they noticed her first, when, in fact, they were two years behind a pack of lawyers and A&R scouts, eager to sign an artist who was preformed, a total package. Del Rey is a small-town girl. She grew up Elizabeth Grant in Lake Placid, N.Y., neither rich nor poor. She remembers as a kid asking herself cheesy meaning-of-life questions and thinking she was really special for doing so. Then, in high school, she took a philosophy class and realized she was like everyone else. While a philosophy major at Fordham University, she started finagling gigs in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and the East Village. At 19 a small indie label signed her as Lizzy Grant for $10,000. “It was amazing. I got my own place to live. I lived on that money, finished school. At that point I envisioned having a very nice career touring small clubs, continuing my studies in philosophy and volunteering,” she tells me. “It’s actually the same vision I have today. I have a serious life here. I have a really big family. You know, I’m needed here.
While a few blogs got on the Del Rey wagon early (Arjan Writes reviewed "Diet Mountain Dew”, May 2010 and Lizzy Grant's "Kill Kill”, October 2008) – successive waves of attention in late spring of 2011 were prompted by press releases. No- one rightly discovered her, even the coolest blogs were being jumped into by publicists or grassroots marketing firms like Wiredset, and they were gladly repeating the story fed to them. Many of these same blogs are now indignant, fronting as if they were duped into caring about her or lending her credibility, but they weren't so discerning before. They were just eager to claim they found Del Rey "first,” as is the law of the media jungle. In the weeks surrounding the release of Del Rey's Born to Die, each interview and television performance became an opportunity for Del Rey to step into the public arena and prove her worth to a discerning public. Video interviews showed Del Rey as both self-aware and funny, when a VH1 interviewer condescendingly consoled the then rising star by deeming Coachella’s decision not to include her in that year’s line up as "their loss,” She deadpanned, "Aw, thanks," before cracking herself up. Her highly criticised Saturday Night Live performance sounded just as uneven and awkward as every other band that performs on the show. (Consider the fact that she was booked before she was ready resonates as evidence that whatever "machine" is driving Lana, Inc. might well have been a little too anxious and impulsive in those early months rather than being calculated and slick. Or that traditional approaches to artist development and rollout are seen now as a little prehistoric and archaic.) Still, this was seen as resounding proof that she was Born 2 Fail by no less an authority than NBC news anchor Brian Williams.
In other interviews, Del Rey has talked about her studies in cosmology as well as a six-year stint volunteering for homeless outreach, suggesting that she is more engaged in the real world than her ardent critics. Speaking to writers, she's humble to the point of guilelessness, telling MTV, "I consider being able to pursue music a luxury, but it's not the most important thing in my life. It's just something that's really nice that ended up working for me for right now." Still, she doesn't bother hiding her ambition — she's cited the selfhelp classic Think & Grow Rich as her recommended reading. Lana Del Rey to date, has a net worth of 12.4 million with plenty more invested into her father, Rob Grant’s, companies across the America. She has sold over eighteen million records alone with Interscope – and when Video Games appeared here in the Uk it was first played on BBC radio one. As for record number three it’s being given an early 2014 release date. Surprisingly, it's still easier for people to believe the ancient model of a major-label star system — girl of moderate talent is groomed and posed to appeal — rather than accept that a young woman could plot her course on account of her own charisma and dogged determination.
Meanwhile, sexist critiques of Del Rey's appearance, songs, and videos get spun as incisive discernment, offered up as knowing analysis of a deceptive product. Her songs are assailed as "trying too hard" to be sexy, as if we have Rip Van Winkled through the past 25 years of liberated pop-diva sexuality Madonna/Janet/ Britney/Rihanna and are now shocked by Del Rey's slight approximation. She's a by-the-book star, and yet she's seen as somehow breaking the rules — would we seem more intrigued by a young starlet less enigmatic? Why is there a premise that dictates we shouldn’t be admiring a woman who remains more subtle, refined, and modest than your average 21st century music diva. As an audience, we do this big kabuki about wanting the truth, but really, we're only interested in the old myths of what a girl can do. Though of course, a girl whose millionaire father bought her way into the industry she is unlikely to fail.
KIDS FASHION WEEK Words by Curtis Lesser
High fashion for little children tends to raise a lot of questions. How expensive is too expensive? Is a child's sense of style instonctive or learned? Are runway shows for kids a step too far; at what point does being cute, turn to being cruel? The Independent's Charlotte Philby noted that the global market for children's clothes is about a $100 billion dollar industry, so the presence of luxury children's clothing labels isn't entirely surprising. However, the Financial Times, Vanessa Friedman argued that while the staging of the London event was understandable in terms of branding and municipal economics, it went against the very nature of what kids' clothes should be. The first Global Kids' Fashion Week– despite it not being the first fashion week for kids– took place over two days during the 18-20 of March in London. Sponsored by Alex and Alexa, a luxury children's clothing and gift site, with proceeds going to British charity Kids Company; the participating brands ranged from Nike and Keds Kids to Paul Smith, John Galliano and Little Marc Jacobs. It is like any other high-fashion catwalk show – but with one small difference. This is the first Global Kids Fashion Week: where the threat of tantrums and inappropriate behavior comes, not from the usual bitchy fashion crowd, but from a pack of extravagantly styled toddlers. In the front row, mothers discreetly wrestle their uncontainable tots back into their £100-a-ticket seats just in time to see an army of beautiful children take to the runway.
At Global Kids Fashion Week alone, the line-up included Little Marc Jacobs, Junior Gaultier and Paul Smith Reactions to the event have been predictably mixed. Eighty-four percent of people who voted in a TODAY Moms poll called the Fashion Week "inappropriate." GraziaDaily.co.uk, on the other hand, said it was "cute as hell." This clearly illustrates the unpredictable nature of the kids fashion industry and how it will continue to divide opinion. With the market for children’s clothes in Britain estimated to be worth £6.5bn – while the worldwide figure is more than 10 times that of the U.K, it is any wonder that luxury brands have seen the global potential of the ‘mini-me’ lines. Theophanous adds. Over the course of this rather bespoke two-day event (both sold out, with proceeds going to the charity Kids Company), 30 designers are showcased next season’s wares. Today, when it comes to the question of luxury superbrands catering to the staggering demand for high fashion for tiny tots it seemingly reverts back to the dangerous nature of the threat to their innocence. Does the rise of the‘mini-me’ collection represent a pressure to grow up too young? Or does high fashion simply allow the privilaged to play elaborate dressing up to look like mummy and daddy? From pagents to high-end fashion events, when it comes to kids, the opinions of the grown-ups will always be split.
A Russian punk group consisting of about 20 hard-core feminists protesting through their songs. Prominent themes in their songs include LGBT rights, feminism, as well as opposition to Vladimir Putin, Russia’s president.
PUSSY RIOT words by Daria Ageeva
Songs of theirs include, ‘Death to Prison, Freedom to Protest’, ‘Putin Zassal” (English translation - Putin has Pissed himself) and Mother of God, Drive Putin Away, performed in ‘fitting’ locations, such as the Moscow underground. Personally, I look upon this public democratic type movement as the first that became so widespread and global, however, I can’t say that words ‘democracy’ and ‘public voice’, may be suitable descriptions for ‘Pussy Riot. What they produced is chaos and absolute illegality. Pussy Riot have split public opinion, through a number of controversial acts. One, particularly unforgettable performance took place in Moscow’s largest church, performing a song that asks the Virgin Mary, who they believe to be a protector of Russia, to ‘rid us of Putin’. Since then, 3 members of the band have been charged with ‘hooliganism’ and face up to 7 years in prison, other members are on the run from the authorities. In my opinion, the church is a sainted and spiritual place, and those that want freedom of speech, and an opportunity to change, should listen and appreciate other people’s beliefs and opinions themselves, rather than marching into a highly religious place and posing their views there. American pop phenomenon, Madonna spoke out in support of Pussy Riot on her tour in Russia, claiming she wants the world to be free, in peace and with talent and calling on “all of Russia to let Pussy Riot go free”. They call themselves people of freedom and claim that what they do is art. However, not many people know the history of this group and the types of things they did. For example, in their “performance” they threw urine towards police, made a wake in a train of Moscow underground and all the time they use children to be safe at some point. As I’ve said, these controversial acts have divided a nation. Check them out to decide for yourselves.
Céline, Versace, Hermès-‐ a few of the many high fashion brands that have recently entered the realm of urban street style. What was iniKally defined by presKgious designs and quality material, has become 'Haute Couture' for the fashion forward, inspiring several street wear brands. High-‐end designers are notorious for debuKng exclusive, trendseTng garments at the world’s major fashion weeks in London, New York, Paris and Milan. There's no denying that their fierce, Kmeless and arKsKc designs add to their appeal. So, what has influenced their move into the streetwear market? With urban street style on the rise, there has been an increasing demand for this type of clothing. People are able to express their creaKvity and afract the afenKon they crave. The hip-‐hop inspired graphic t-‐shirts, playful hats and eye-‐ catching trainers, never fail to turn heads. For the original wearers of urban clothing, it’s almost a crime to look like everyone else. But with popular high street stores like Urban OuOifers now selling Supreme and Obey, it comes as no surprise that they’ve become more commonplace with everyone trying their hand at the streetwear trend. UnKl recently, the thought of merging high fashion with streetwear was rather bizarre and alien. But with celebriKes such as Rihanna, Iggy Azalea, Chris Brown and Kanye West successfully incorporaKng disKnct designer pieces into their street style inspired ouOits, it was only going to become a global fad. In fact, most, if not all, wearers of street style clothing are inspired by hip-‐hop arKsts, parKcularly A$AP Rocky. The US rapper, who recently released his no1 album LONG, LIVE. A$AP is constantly expressing his passion for fashion in his song lyrics. The song Fashion Killa describes A$AP’s ideal woman-‐ a lover of high-‐end fashion: “She got a lofa Prada, that Dolce and Gabbana, I can’t forget Escada and that Balenciaga.” By name dropping 27 top designers in under 4 minutes, it’s clear that A$AP Rocky knows style. Not to menKon, Rick Owens and Raf Simmons: his favourite designers. A$AP, we salute you! In a recent interview with UK e-‐tailer mrporter he states: "I’m not your average rapper. For us to be thugs and admire high fashion is kind of odd, but people like it.”
STEP ASIDE SUPREME, GIVENCHY IS IN TOWN By Sharayne Jones
Like celebriKes, fashion bloggers can make or break a trend. Fashionistas worldwide visit their favourite blogs for their daily dose of fashion news and inspiraKon. Susie Bubble (Susanna Lau) of The Style Bubble-‐ one of the most successful street style blogs-‐ is highly respected by bloggers, designers and fashion followers, for her quirky personal style and knowledge of fashion. This London-‐born writer’s recent focus on Kenzo and DKNY's logos as a ‘benchmark for the 21st century’, reinforces the trend’s desirability within the streetwear/high fashion market. Lau blogs: “There’s enough distance away from the power logo licensing of the eighKes and nineKes to now deem a logo as ‘cool’ when it was once naff.” The growing interest in high fashion pieces, have influenced many designers to adopt a more urban style-‐ the most recent being Givenchy. Head designer Riccardo Tisci’s graphic rofweiler print t-‐shirt, has taken the fashion world by storm, adding a serious bite to casual ouOits for just £200. Maison MarKn Margiela has also followed suit, in creaKng bold, edgy footwear. His infamous metallic trainers have been seen on Kanye West and Rita Ora. MCM, known for their luxurious leather goods, have transformed the classic backpack into this seasons must have. The Japanese-‐owned brand's Stark Leather Backpack is available in a range of bold colours with striking studs, adding instant glam to urban clothing. With the streetwear market becoming highly compeKKve, its brands have had to step up their game. The arrival of small streetwear brands once dominated urban fashion, with their cuTng edge apparel. ‘Luxurious’ streetwear labels such as, A Bathing Ape (BAPE) and Billionaire Boys Club (BBC) have re-‐launched their enKre brand, in a bid to increase their appeal. In collaboraKng with fresh talent and other brands, BAPE and BBC now boast high fashion produced in limited quanKKes. One thing’s for sure, high fashion pieces are what all the
hypebeasts are lusKng for. These reputable designer brands have experKse in the fashion industry that remains untouchable. And for many, their creaKons scream ‘the best’! The quality of designer clothing makes it extremely hard for us to keep the credit cards away. There is nothing worse than spending on pieces that get destroyed having only worn it once or twice. With high-‐end designer brands, the investment in premium quality ensures longer lasKng garments. But the 'cool kids' aren’t the only ones fascinated with high fashion. Everyone wants to collaborate with couture designers, from up and coming stylists to high street stores. The collaboraKon of high-‐end designer brands and high street stores, such as Versace for H&M, brought iconic designs to our doorsteps. Some of Versace’s classic creaKons, as well as more recent and elaborate ones, including the use of bright prints and disKncKve cuts inspired the collecKon. The chances of being dressed in the same ouOit as someone else, is a nightmare many are now facing due to streetwear labels becoming more commercial. Indulging in high fashion is a way of upgrading ones style and standing out. But, not only do these designer brands differenKate you from the rest with their innovaKve style, their limited stock allows you to be one of few, sporKng their latest creaKons. Several 'high-‐end' streetwear brands have tried to imitate high fashion's characterisKcs, making the trend more affordable for the masses. But urban street style will never be as sophisKcated as high fashion. Even with afempts to blur the lines, products such as Nike Air Jordan’s and Balenciaga trainers remain in separate spheres, suggesKng that high fashion is the way forward. Streetwear…bow down to high fashion!
AFTER THE PARTY Hair and make up: Nikita Grewal Creative Direction: Kamran Rajput Photographer: Andrew Bradford Production: Ruari Jupp Picture Editing: Paige Strang Clothing: Topshop & Casio
STARDUST STYLE: THE RISE OF DAVID BOWIE By Hollie Bracciale
It has been a decade since his last record but the legendary David Bowie has lost none of his Starman appeal. The surprise release of his new album The Next Day has been followed with the much-anticipated opening of the V&A’s exhibition David Bowie is. Bowie-mania has taken over the world of music fanatics and fashion lovers alike. Before it even opened, the first month had already sold out; much like a concert of the great man himself, an exhibition in his honour is a sell out gig. With unprecedented access to the David Bowie archive, the V&A have curated the first international retrospective portraying the extraordinary career of one of the most inventive and influential performers of the past fifty years. The collection of more than 300 pieces, which include original costumes, fashion, film, Bowie’s own instruments and album artwork, demonstrate how Bowie challenged convention through the freedom of expression. His music and radical individualism has been influenced by and has since influenced movements in art, design, contemporary culture and fashion. The exhibition explores the broad range of Bowie’s collaborations in fashion as well as sound, theatre and film. David Bowies is features more than 60 stage costumes including the iconic Ziggy Stardust bodysuits of 1972 designed by Burretti and flamboyant pieces for the Aladdin Sane tour in 1973 by Kansai Yamamoto. David Bowie is tells the story of the creation of David Bowie through his innovative approach to creating albums and touring shows around fictitious stage personas and narratives. 1972 marked the birth of his most famous creation Ziggy Stardust - a human manifestation of an alien being. Ziggy’s daringly androgynous and otherworldly appearance has had a powerful and continuous influence on pop culture, signaling a challenge of social traditions and inspiring people to shape their own identities. On display at the exhibition is the original multi-coloured suit worn for the
infamous performance of Starman on Top of the Pops in July 1972, as well as outfits designed for stage characters Aladdin Sane and The Thin White Duke. Bowie’s past continues to inspire and influence society today, particularly in fashion. Even styles that may seem original at first glance will most likely have been influenced by one of Bowie’s creative ideas. For her 2008 tour, Rihanna took inspiration from one of Ziggy Stardust’s looks by including an eye-patch. Even Lady Gaga’s, who prides her style on unique in ‘haus’ designs, echoes Bowie’s Aladdin Sane album cover from 1974 with her first eccentric look, a bolt of lightening over her eye for her album cover Disco Heaven. In high fashion circles Bowie’s influence is seen further. For the Earthling (1997) album sleeve, he collaborated with Alexander McQueen to design a bespoke Union Jack coat. The use of the flag in fashion since has snowballed and has included the likes of Geri Halliwell and her unforgettable dress to Annie Lennox’s Union Jack suit. For its S/S10 show, Givenchy presented a striped blazer on their runway, which mirrored one worn by Bowie back in 1973. After 37 years his iconic style still inspires. "David Bowie is... one of my greatest inspirations. His individuality, originality and authenticity have been defining.” Says Frida Giannini, Creative Director at Gucci, who have sponsored the exhibition. “Through his creative genius his influence on music, fashion, art and popular culture over decades has been immeasurable and will continue to be for decades to come.” To complement the exhibition, the V&A has collaborated with the BBC for a feature length profile of David Bowie to be broadcast on BBC Two in May 2013. Sharing first-time access to the David Bowie Archive, David Bowie - Five Years will focus on five critical years of his career - 1971, 1975, 1977, 1980 and 1983 bringing his work up to date with his latest album. The exhibition is now open at the V&A and will run until 11th August 2013.
A MODEL EXAMPLE: ALISHA WHITE By Sharayne Jones
From South London to LA, our generaKons Naomi Campbell, Alisha White, 22, pursues every girls dream by modelling for a high end fashion designer and appearing on Britain’s and America’s Next Top Model. We caught up with Alisha to discuss her experience on both shows, her ideal man and her fashion Kps for S/S ’13. Congratula@ons on coming second on Britain’s Next Top Model! How did you feel when the winner was announced? Thank you! On the night, I was so annoyed. The local radio sta?ons were going crazy that day. Everything was in my favour, so I’m a liDle confused as to why I came second. But it hasn’t closed doors for me. Though, winning the show would have been amazing, not just for me, but for my community to see that it can be done. What was the whole experience like? It was very exci?ng because I went on the show when I was 18, and the fact that I was going to be on TV was a big deal for me. I was actually the first of all my friends to change the way we live. The majority of my friends had babies and that was not the kind of life I wanted to live. So, I decided to enter the show and the experience was life changing! It really put things in perspec?ve. I realised that I had to work hard for what I want. Tell us about your experience on America’s Next Top Model. How did it differ to Britain’s? ANTM was different in the sense that it was completely for entertainment purposes. It had nothing to do with modelling. Dressing me up as a superhero, Elton John and a baby with Kim Kardashian’s mum...other than the Hello KiDy shoot, everything else was so irrelevant. It was fun, but it was very exhaus?ng, since I constantly had to be
a different character. What was it like working with Kris, Kendall and Kylie Jenner on the ‘baby’ shoot? It was weird. I don’t even think they understood the concept. But I like Kris Jenner. She’s seWng her kids up for life and she knows exactly what she’s doing. I wish she would manage me, because I’d probably be up there too! What about Tyra Banks? Is she as friendly as she is on TV? No. When I leX, I thought she would have approached me and asked me why I decided to leave. But she didn’t. I literally had a breakdown over there. I wanted to leave much earlier but they didn’t let me. And, you know, she says Naomi Campbell used to bully her in their younger days, but at that par?cular ?me, I felt as though she was bullying me. I think it’s because I remind her of Naomi, especially since we’re both from the same place. So, did she not give you any advice on pursuing your modelling career? No, none. What were your reasons for leaving the show early? I didn’t get to speak to my mum once! We stayed in Hong Kong for four weeks and they didn’t allow us to contact our families. I also felt that everything in regards to my pictures was being planned. I know I took beDer pictures than the ones being selected. Yet, something nega?ve was being said every week. The only posi?ve feedback I received was when I done the Hello KiDy shoot and the music video. Are they saying I only look good dancing around half naked? Because if that was the case, I would not have come second on BNTM. Everything just seemed so set up to me, and I couldn’t sit back and let it happen. What did you learn about yourself on the show?
I learnt that I’m much stronger than I thought. When I decided to leave the show and told the other girls that I wanted to tell Tyra that I was leaving, everyone thought I was crazy. But she needed to know that all the events were taking part, in were unhealthy! I leX my country to succeed, not to be taken advantage of. So, I had to put a stop to it. And it made me feel much beDer within myself. What advice do you have for up-‐and-‐ coming models? If you can stay away from reality TV, then do so because you’re edited according to how TV producers want the world to see you. Secondly, if you want to be a model, do it the correct way. Go to an agency. But also have other things under your belt. A lot of models are actors and presenters too. You never know what your career could bring you. Who‘s the most famous person you have in your phone book? I have Tyra, but I’d never call her. And Mr. Hudson, he’s really nice! Are you currently seeing anyone? No, I’m not. Guys are weird! (laughs) So, who would your ideal man be? Well I love honest and loyal guys. But looks-‐wise, I love Wale. He's really poe?c and I like guys who have a way with their words. Oh and Jus?n Timberlake (Swoons). What male model would you like to work with? Rob Evans, who's currently a judge on America's next top model and Dudley [from Rihanna's ‘We Found Love’ video]. His face alone would make my pictures look hot!
What have you achieved since the two programmes? I've recently done some work for Harvey Nichols. I was recruited as one of their 'new girls'. Usually they use the same models, but this year they wanted to do something different. I remember being at the cas?ng and thinking that I wasn't going to get it, but then my agent called me and told me that I’d been booked. Now I'm working with DKNY, which has always been a dream of mine, and Bitching & Junkfood, an up-‐and-‐coming brand. I love working for underground brands, there's just something about their rise that I enjoy being a part of. Is fashion week something you would want to be a part of? I done fashion week in London this year and I would never do it again. You don't eat for hours, and I love my food! You also have to be a certain size to do London fashion week. I was considered a big model compared to the other girls there and I'm ?ny. But if I was to do fashion week again, I'd choose New York, because the designers have a more diverse selec?on of models. I'd also love to do a Victoria's Secret show. When you're not modelling what do you do? I do all the grooming stuff, hair and eyebrows, so that when I have a shoot I'm prepared. I also spend a lot of ?me with my friends and family and I read or work on my blog. What's your favourite book? The Secret [By Rhonda Byrne]. Tell us about your blog, modelit. What
inspired you to make a blog? No models write blogs and say what's really happening. I may be penalised for it, but I love controversy! A lot of people think the industry is easy and it's not. So, I'll be documen?ng my thoughts and feelings on events as something to look back on in the future and to share with others. It's an empowerment for young women, regarding jobs, modelling, fashion and beauty. I was once a young girl who yearned for a blog to teach me how to apply my make-‐up, dress for that dream job interview and teach me what to say to boys. I mean, there's only so much you can go to your mum for. It's going to be a site for girls to get advice. I'm really excited about it. Who is your inspira@on? I know this is so cliché, but my mum and dad. They've been really suppor?ve of my movements. And [in terms of models] I'd say Kate Moss, because she's been consistent throughout her whole career. I also like Jessica White. She's stunning and always produces quality work. What fashion @ps do you have for S/S '13? Plaits are going to be in, they were killing it on the Harvey Nichols runway. Bright lips-‐ reds, oranges, pinks-‐ and neon coloured clothing are must haves! To keep up with Alisha’s latest fashion K p s , m o d e l l i n g v e n t u r e s a n d empowering words of wisdom, check out her blog, at imodelit.com.
BABE IN THE WOOD Creative Direction : Charlotte Hopper Model : Becky Mulhern
YOUR PRICE ON BEAUTY Words by Erika Maitland Erika gives us a real rundown on Dermalogica Having tried and tested many drug store facial care products to get an affordable product range to work well with my skin and stay working is a problem many people struggle with. The next option most people go for, when failing to get the results hoped for, is to change to the bigger brands with a slightly higher price tag. This encouraged me to try Dermalogica which I had heard many good reviews for. It's normally advised to undergo a full skin test so they can tailor make the right products for your skin. This seemed like a perfect start to a new relationship with the brand, it was comforting to know that they knew what was necessary and the areas that needed concentrating on. For example the sensitive range was ideal as it had a low concentration of chemicals so wouldn't react to any allergies at the same time as clearing any blemishes. Not only do the Dermalogica team give you a full programme and section the 'key areas' of your face but they include incentives if you commit to a full regime pack. I was encouraged to trail a month with the sensitive skin care range, including an exfoliant, face wash, moisturiser and mask. I kept a journal of the pro's and cons so I could monitor the progress. This was my first experience of having a full range and having to go the whole nine yards rather than taking
5 minutes at the end of the day to wash, dry and moisturise. The commitment to run the whole programme was necessary if I wanted to see the results that were presented. The first week using the product made my skin feel considerably more hydrated but had no effect on blemishes, as expected. The team informed me that there wouldn't be an overnight miracle working skin care product. However if consumers stuck to a programme it would eventually adjust the skin to those selected products, but giving up early can obviously change the results so I knew to keep committed. The second week was still positive for a sufferer of sensitive skin as I had no reaction and still felt comfortable with the programme. The problem with clearing the skin still hadn't taken action, but taking their advice I stuck with it. The same results came in the third week but I had noticed my blemishes were becoming more prominent. There are a considerable amount of factors that come into play, obviously diet, environment and exercise can take their toll, so should we really expect a product to clear and remove all of these effects? The fourth week was the straw that broke the camels back, having given the regime the
recommended testing time I was starting to feel that the price tag maybe wasn't worth the results I wanted, and to an extent, what is promised by these high quality brands. Not only that but I felt like my skin may have been getting progressively worse. So the verdict, after a month of buying and trying some of the most expensive skin products on the market I have to say there was no shocking change. I still have faith in the brand because everyone has a different skin type so there's no telling who it will and won't work for. However with my personal experience I won't be rushing back to a store to spend over ÂŁ100 on a programme for skin care. For the majority of people that don't want to pump their skin with damaging chemicals I would recommend the moisturiser and the lighter exfoliant, they give noticeable results and make you feel much better about looking at your bank balance. But when it comes to the face wash I would stick to the slightly higher priced drug store washes you can pick up from your local Boots, Superdrug or even Tesco. So does it really all depend on the 'price' you place on the beauty of your skin?
AT HOME Creative Direction: Kamran Rajput & Nikita Grewal
Amsterdam has long since been associated with the debauched pleasures of its red light district and infamous coffee shops. Having headed there recently for the Queensday celebrations I found myself discovering Amsterdam in a light I wasn't expecting. It is important to note that it is firstly an unbelievably pretty city. The canals that run through the centre and picturesque tall narrow houses are gorgeous and dotted with cafĂŠs and bars of substance, colour and character. In the few short days spent there I managed to devour an unhealthy amount of kroketes at said gorgeous cafĂŠs! For those unfamiliar which the term krokete (as I was until this trip) they are deep fried little cylindrical palate pleasers. Filled with smooth herby veal, they are usually served with bread and mustard and as grim as they may sound I promise the krokete is something I keenly miss from the Netherlands. If like my friends and myself you are less keen on sitting and watching the world go by with a countless Vedette beers there are a number of vintage shops dotted around the centre of the city for those more keen on rummaging for a gem or two. I managed to find a gorgeous YSL silk skirt tucked away in the back on one of the more jazzy vintage boutiques. The whole time spent in Amsterdam felt like one enormous party, the Dutch celebrating the reign of Queen Beatrice and absolutely everyone was invited. With bright orange everywhere including upon each and every person walking in the street it seemed dancing on their way to various parties across the city. We ended up at the most incredible reggae party near the docks with hipsters from all over the continent enjoying the sunshine and great dancing music. If you prefer something closer to the commercial, clubs in the middle of the city were full of house, or hip hop with a distinctly European techno feel which certainly didn't stop us from having a good dance until the wee small hours. I have yet to find a city quite as cultured but as fun as Amsterdam. For parties and kroketes, Amsterdam is a place that comes very highly recommend.
AMSTERDAM: PARTIES & KROKETES Words by Holly Gilbert