www.WomensElevationMagazine.com
WElevate. WEpromote. WEinspire.
Fashion Forward | April Issue 2014
What Do Women Want? Sharing Your Brand Wearing Your Best Self
Spring Fashion Issue
Bre Scullark
Harlem native Bre Scullark talks about the modeling industry and how appearing on America’s Next Top Model helped launch her career.
in this issue
IN EVERY ISSUE 4 from the founder Find the beauty within you
6 what do women want? A friend, lover & provider
14 recipes Comfort foods everyone will love
18 sharing your brand You are your best promoter
66 wearing your best self Be beautiful on the inside too
FEATURES 22 feature story Bre Scullark talks about breaking into the modeling industry
36 having your own style Antoinette Davis struts the runway and encourages you to have your own style
42 be confident in yourself Crystal N. Smith shares that one of the most beautiful things a woman can wear is confidence
48 flawless faces Make-up artist Danielle Lewis uses her talent to enhance natural beauty
54 models are real people Eromomen Esoimeme talks about how models face the same struggles we do
60 breaking into the fashion industry Boutique owner Kim Chambers talks about starting her online shop and breaking into the industry
in this issue
contributors
THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS Sonja Smith Jones Owner of Beautiful Brown Girl www.beautifulbrowngirl.com
Tanya Angelique Owner of RelationScripts www.relationscriptsinc.com
Kara Frison WE Magazine contributing writer www.softwordsbrighteyes.blogspot.com
Shannon Clark Graphic Designer www.srichardscreative.com
WElevate. WEpromote. WEinspire. www.WomensElevationMagazine.com
From the Founder
DELISHA SYLVESTER This issue is all about fashion! We talk to some up and coming models, fashion designers, and makeup artists. But that’s not all! With this issue we want you take something valuable away. We want you look at the image you portray to others. Is it something you are proud of? Do you have some things to work on? If so make sure that you realize that your inner beauty projects to the world just as much as your outer beauty. You can have the most beautiful outer appearance, and still be ugly on the inside. More than enjoying the articles take the time to look for a deeper understanding of beauty within you. As always…Happy reading!
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DeLisha
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W hat Do Women Want? By Tanya Angelique, MBA
It’s an age old question – one that most men spend their lives trying, unsuccessfully, to figure out. What do women want? Books and films have been made about it; men have spent fortunes in pursuit of it; reputations have been staked upon and lost in the timeless search for the answer. Even the venerable Sigmund Freud, who claimed to have spent thirty years peering into the “feminine soul”, ultimately found himself asking, close to his death, “What does a woman want?” That’s the point of this article. I’m here today to discuss with you what women want. If you ask a woman what she wants – or what women want in general – she’ll respond with a variety of possible answers.
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“What women want is a good guy to take care of them,” she may tell you. “What women want is a confident man who makes them feel good,” she might say. “What women want is to feel loved and free,” she could offer. All of those are accurate, to a certain degree; but they all only begin to scratch the surface of what women want. Women want a lot more than what those statements might imply; in fact, give a woman a man who meets every requirement she says she wants, and I guarantee you that in two to four years, she’ll have grown increasingly bored and unsatisfied with him. That doesn’t mean she’ll stray from him; that doesn’t mean she’ll leave him. That doesn’t even mean she’ll want to. But it does mean that she’ll end up not having what she wants after all – because if she did have what she wanted, she wouldn’t be bored or unsatisfied... would she? The basics of male-female mate selection still haven’t changed; when it comes to relationships, men want women who are hard to get and very selective about whom they get intimate with, and women are careful to make sure men they want relationships with see them that way. But if those things women say they want won’t keep them happy forever, then what on Earth will? The fact is that all but the most sexually repressed women enjoy casual sex with men who fall into the lover category, and most women have three primary categories that they fit men they want to keep in their lives into. Those categories consist of: Friends, Lovers, or Providers. Friends are the men women feel contribute to their lives, but they have no romantic or sexual interest in. Women have a great knack for holding onto men who make their lives better; maybe those men help them at work, or give them rides in their cars, or buy them food or gifts, or give them good conversation. It’s rare for women to intentionally lead these men on; oftentimes, men in the “friends” category are thinking that if they are nice enough to women, they’ll get a relationship or physical intimacy eventually. But the women these men are spending time with usually are really, honestly viewing them as “just friends” and are oblivious to any ulterior motives of the men they slot into the “friends” category. Lovers are the men women feel sexual and romantic attraction to, but see no long-term potential with, whether that’s because they live too far 8 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
apart (if one of them is on holiday when they meet, for instance), because the man in question is attached (he has a girlfriend or wife), or because he has some other strike against him (he’s unemployed, not intelligent or educated enough, etc.) because they see no long term potential in him, but feel attraction for him, women give themselves permission to engage in quick sex, seeing no need to prolong gratification since there’s no reason to try and rope him into a relationship. Providers are the men women feel attraction to, and see long-term potential with, as well. Even if a woman finds a man incredibly sexually attractive, she’ll often control herself and put the brakes on if she also thinks he’s a strong candidate for becoming a future boyfriend or husband. Most women know, whether through instinct or experience, that men value women more highly whom it takes them a greater amount of time and effort to become intimate with – so they make these men wait, in the hopes of achieving some level of commitment and increasing their desirability to these men as relationship material. Women want all of these men in their lives. For almost any woman, if she could find one man who met all the requirements of a friend, a lover, and a provider, he’d be her dream guy. He’d be Mr. Right. Most women are willing to settle for less, though, and get other needs met elsewhere, or forego the satisfaction of a few needs if most of the rest are being met.
“For almost any woman, if she could find one man who met all the requirements of a friend, a lover, and a provider, he’d be her dream guy.” Women’s Elevation Magazine | 9
Men in pursuit of women typically adopt a strategy that accentuates the qualities of one of these categories. The men who try to get girls by becoming their friends first act like nice guys, lend them their ear, and are kind and understanding. The men who seek to get girls by becoming their lovers are charming and aggressive, and stimulate women’s emotions and make an effort to sleep with them quickly. The men who try to win women over by proving what excellent relationship material they will be prefer to wine and dine them, buy them expensive gifts, and show what dependable choices they will make. The big secret that none of these men ever seems to realize is this: being just one of those types of guys isn’t enough. That’s right – it’s not enough to just be a woman’s friend. Or lover. Or provider. Women eventually get bored with the friends and providers and long for the excitement of a lover. But once they’ve had a lover for a while, they begin to long for the comfort of a friend, or the security and stability of a provider. There is this constant shifting of desires toward the thing they do not have – and the shifting never stops. A wise man I respect once told me: “I don’t believe it’s possible for a woman to ever be 100% happy.” I’d agree with that – although I’d
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probably also include men in that statement as well. As living beings – dynamic, changing, evolving creatures – we constantly yearn to better and improve our situation, and we constantly look for the things we’re missing, and the things others think we’re missing. Eventually, we acclimate; we become accustomed to the good things we have and take those things for granted; and we begin to focus on and desire the things we lack. A woman who has a man who takes her to fancy dinners and buys her nice clothes and provides her a great lifestyle, but is never around and always at work, will begin to long for a man who can give her attention, affection, and time. A woman who has a man who gives her time and affection but is unable to promise her stability or security will eventually begin to long for a man who can. No matter how amazing a man is, his woman will never be 100% happy. But that doesn’t mean a woman can’t be 99% happy because if we know that women aren’t happy with a guy who falls into just one of those categories above, we also know something else by deduction. We know they want a guy who’s more than just fitting the mold. In other words, what women want – what they really want – is everything in all three of those lists above. Women want the traits possessed by friends, lovers, and providers as well as one other thing. Once women get an amazing guy, they need to be reminded of it – they need to be shaken out of acclimation and prevented from taking their amazing man for granted. Becoming what women want is no easy task. Most men target one category and establish themselves in it – they become good at making friends with women, for instance, or get good at being the sexy guy that women want to have a fling with, or become the guy who competes for women on traditional dates and romantic excursions. But for a man to really give a woman what she wants, he’s got to do more than be just one of the men from those categories. He’s got to do his best to be all of them. He has to make sure his woman doesn’t forget that he is all of them – which means her friends and family need to be reinforcing how great he is, and she needs to be at least a little aware of the risk that she may lose him if she starts taking him for granted. Which means she should ideally see women flirting with him occasionally, and they will have to fight and make up occasionally.
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“Women want, plainly and simply, a friend, lover, and provider all in one. One man, with all of those characteristics.” That probably sounds like a tall order, and it is. It’s a tough pill to swallow. Most men who read this are going to say to themselves, “Not a chance. There’s no way I’m going to waste my time trying to be the perfect man just to get a woman. I can get women just fine!” But we’re not talking about getting women. We’re talking about keeping women. Long-term. Indefinitely. We’re talking about becoming the kind of man who can keep a woman around as long as he wants her. To become that kind of man, you need to become the kind of man that women want. So what do women want? Women want, plainly and simply, a friend, lover, and provider all in one. One man, with all of those characteristics. Every woman’s dream man. This man must challenge her, win her friends and family over to his side, and create a “bubble” of “us vs. the world” – create a feeling that the two of them are close and inseparable and working together through thick and thin, all the while always knowing – and keeping her aware, in the back of her head – that he is able to separate, if absolutely necessary, and be perfectly fine. So... What do women want? They want a man who has become what they want and need. Believe me, once you have, they will be fighting over you because when it comes to men who’ve figured out what it is that women want... well suffice it to say there aren’t a whole lot. They are the rarest of breeds, and the most desired men out there. Women want men who know what women want and if you’ve read this article... now, you’re one of them. Learn more about LifeCoach Tanya Angelique at relationscriptsinc.com 12 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
Recipes
for every occasion!
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Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350. 2. In a microwave safe bowl, combine chocolate peanut butter and 1 teaspoon of the oil. Microwave on high until melted, about 30 seconds; stir. Combine 3 tablespoons oil, butter, brown sugar and banana in a large bowl, and beat with a mixer on medium-high speed until well combined. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. 3. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. With the mixer running at low speed, all the flour mixture and the buttermilk alternately to banana mixture, beginning and ended with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. 4. Pour half of the batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Top with peanut butter mixtures. Spread the remaining batter over the top. Using a wooden pick or knife, gently swirl the batter. Sprinkle the top of the batter with dark chocolate chunks. 5. Bake for 55 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging. Cool 10 minutes in the pan on a wire rack. Remove the bread from the pan, then allow to cool completely on rack.
Adapted from: Kitchen Meets Girl
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Ingredients 15 tablespoons chocolate peanut butter (I used Dark Chocolate Dreams) 3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon canola oil, divided 3 tablespoons butter, softened 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 2 medium ripe bananas, sliced 2 large eggs 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2/3 cup buttermilk 1/4 to 1/3 cup dark chocolate chunks
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Microwave Chipot le Sweet Potato Chips Yield: 2 cups chips Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 5 mins Total Time: 10 mins
Ingredients 1 medium sized sweet potato 1 tablespoon corn oil 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chile powder (sometimes called chipotle chile pepper)
Instructions 1. Scrub your sweet potato and cut off ends. 2. Using a mandoline cut the sweet potato into thin slices. 3. Add slices to a large bowl and drizzle with oil and kosher salt. Using your hands toss the slices to evenly coat with oil and salt. 4. Add a piece of parchment paper to the tray in your microwave. 5. Add sweet potatoes to the parchment paper keeping them close to each other but not overlapping. 6. Cook in the microwave on high heat anywhere from 3.5 minutes to 5 minutes. This will completely depend on the strength of your microwave and the size of your sweet potato slices. Please keep an eye on your chips until you learn the timing of your potatoes. 7. While your potatoes are cooking mix together paprika, garlic powder, chili powder and chipotle chili powder in a small mixing bowl. 8. Once the chips are done cooking remove from the microwave and toss in the spice mix. 9. Remove chips from mix, add to bowl and continue until all chips have been cooked. 10. Let the chips cool slightly and enjoy. Note: The chips will sometimes turn a little brown in the middle while cooking, they still taste fine and are not burnt. Also, the chips should be mostly crunchy when done cooking but will crisp up a little more once allowed to set for a minute after being cooked. These chips are best enjoyed right away. If they sit for too long they may soften.
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Adapted from: Nutmeg Nanny
Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil (use a lot of overhang on the sides because you are going to wrap the bread loaves) and spray with cooking spray. 2. Use a long bread knife to slice the bread. Make long slices about 1.5 inches apart all across the bread, and then in the opposite direction so that you get a checkerboard effect. **Be careful not to slice all the way through the bread, do not cut through the bottom crust!** 3. Gently stuff the mozzarella into all of the spaces in the bread. Stuff pepperoni slices into the spaces next. Melt butter and whisk in Italian seasoning. Drizzle or brush seasoned butter over the whole bread. 4. Place loaves onto prepared baking sheet and wrap the loaves with the overhanging foil. Bake 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bread start to brown lightly. Serve pull-apart bread with warmed pizza/marina sauce. Pullapart your pizza bread, dip, and enjoy!
Adapted from: Le Crème De La Crumb
Pepperoni Pizza Pullapart Bread Cheesy pepperoni pizza bread, easy to pull-apart and dip into your favorite pizza sauce! A quick, delicious, and FUN meal that’s ready in less than 30 minutes! Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Serves: 4
Ingredients 2 round or oval loaves of bread (doesn’t matter exactly what kind, just make sure it is something with a more firm crust) 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, cut in half 1/2 cup butter 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning 2 cups marinara/pizza sauce (I prefer a basil-garlic blend but use whatever you like best)
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g n i r Sha n a r B r u Yo Jones By: Sonja Smith
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nd
Would you trust your hair with a bald beautician? What about trusting a fat physical trainer with helping you reach your fitness goals? Or would you trust your smile to an orthodontist with crooked teeth? Exactly! The most trustworthy brands are those that have a visible application of their success. For those of us in business, defining your brand and communicating your message is crucial. Having a framework in place will keep you focused on your daily tasks, directional growth, and help you to prioritize potential networking opportunities. Once the foundation for your brand has been laid, you can determine the best way to execute your message to your audience. Most people base their entrepreneurial pursuits on their passion. The best way to make a statement with your brand is to live it everyday.
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Once you’ve determined your target audience, and identified the best way to reach them, making a statement with your brand is easy. Just like make-up artists would showcase their message via their own healthy skin and flawless makeup, fashion stylists should be caught wearing nothing less than eye-catching, figure-flattering ensembles. The same theory can be applied to jewelry designers, as their message would most appropriately be conveyed being worn for all to see. Before I stopped designing my custom purses, I garnered more business, not from my website or social media outlets, but from simply carrying a purse with my face painted on it, everyday. Whether at networking events or just being out and about, my purses were the perfect conversation pieces. Since that time, I have transitioned into promoting my branded apparel and merchandise; however I still use the same premise, wearing my products. Just as with my purses, someone will usually question my Beautiful Brown Girl watch or my cross-body messenger bag, and then a conversation ensues. Likewise, whatever your brand is, you should flaunt it to your audience and make it a part of your everyday life. You have to be the best spokesperson of your message, and when you share it, share it with confidence. Remember, you have to be your brand’s ambassador, because if you don’t believe in it no one else will.
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Bre Scullark Brittany “Bre” Scullark was born in Harlem, New York on April 26, 1985. She began her fashion career early on by participating in fashion shows in New York. She first hit the scene in 2005 when she appeared on Tyra Bank’s America’s Next Top Model where she placed third in the contest. We got a chance to catch up with Ms. Scullark and see how she was doing. Read on to see what she had to say!
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WE Magazine: First of all I want to thank you for allowing us to interview you. I was first introduced to you, like many others, through America’s Next Top Model, cycle 5. B. Scullark: ANTM was an incredible experience that really launched my professional career as a model. WE Magazine: What was it like going through the process of ANTM? Did you truly gain something from it? B. Scullark: Absolutely! I gained opportunities! I began my career as a professional model by going through that process. I personally don’t think I would have been able to accomplish all that I have in such a short amount of time if I had not done ANTM. WE Magazine: You are now signed to the CESD Agency, how do you feel they have helped you continue on in your career? B. Scullark: I am signed with CESD Talent agency in both NY and LA. It is an incredible agency that is geared towards Commercial Print/Lifestyle models. I feel super lucky to work closely with my agents on both coasts. WE Magazine: Women in the media and their influence in the media is always a hot topic. How do you feel about your place in the media as an African American woman?
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B. Scullark: I am most proud of being an African American woman. Life is our oyster. I am grateful that society is finally cracking open and accepting us as the beautiful, fabulous, creatures that we are. I don’t believe that I have to “fit” in my career as an African American woman; I believe I have a “fit” in my career because I work hard and I believe in myself. WE Magazine: You were interviewed by Ebony Magazine in 2008 for a piece called “Where are all the Black Models” that was five years ago do you think the status of African American models in the fashion industry has changed? B. Scullark: Yes and No. I can say, people are more vocal about prejudice in any form now regardless the racial background. I notice and appreciate that a lot. People have many beliefs about what happens in the modeling world. WE Magazine: What are some of the myths about modeling that you want to shed some light on? B. Scullark: There are too many to address. Here’s my personal opinion, modeling is not as great as it looks and it isn’t as bad as it seems. Like any other profession, most things only make sense to those who pursue this career.
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WE Magazine: I can totally see as an outsider how people are confused when they overhear certain things. Are their extreme personalities? B. Scullark: Oh absolutely, but they do not represent the entire industry of model/muse/innovative/trend setters that have changed lives, personal style and confidence constantly throughout time. WE Magazine: If you were to give advice to someone looking to model what would you say? B. Scullark: I would say, learn the BUSINESS first. Once you have educated yourself on the business aspect, you will have more room to be expressive and beautiful in your own way. I would also suggest having a sit down with yourself. Ask yourself, what is your motive? What are your goals? I think once men and women are clear about what they want, especially in this field of work, there is less time wasted unnecessarily. (There is no right or wrong answer by the way, just truth or lies) 28 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
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WE Magazine: You have paved your way via modeling and have now been able to lend your celebrity to non-profit organizations. You are involved in Drop Dead Gorgeous, a non-profit organization; tell us about the organization and how you help them? B. Scullark: As the Ambassador of DDG, I have been blessed to speak publicly about human trafficking and hope that it will shine light on an extremely lucrative business. Sex Slavery is profitable, it is popular and it is, in my opinion, the most malicious, degrading crime anyone can commit. The effects of such an act leave victims emotionally and mentally scarred for life. Slavery in any form kills the spirit and discourages ones hope. I am so grateful to be a part of an organization that helps bring awareness to these acts of violence as well as uplift those who have been affected by it. WE Magazine: We here at WE Magazine are always about promoting positive women. Please share with our readers what is next for the Bre Scullark brand? B. Scullark: Before there can be a solid brand for me, I really believe I have to be “together” personally. (laughs) I have spent Women’s Elevation Magazine | 31
some time taking care of me as a person. While still modeling, (rent has to get paid) I do things that inspire me and keep me passionate about my career. I have been traveling a lot more, taking classes here and there and picking up a few new hobbies from time to time. I think Bre Scullark the brand is exciting and fun! I have taken on Commercial Print modeling full throttle. I have also created a blog called “Sincerely, Flawed” that talks a lot about life and its uncanny moments! What a journey it can be!!! I have also become a small business owner! (Yay!) I started a line of handcrafted all natural scented soy candles. The line is called BrVelle www.BrVelle.com. I am speaking on panels about the true definition of beauty as well as some of my own personal testimonies I have obtained as a model in the entertainment business. I can’t say for sure what is next, but I am open to the possibilities life will bring. WE Magazine: Well we here at WE Magazine appreciate your time and wish you luck in the future. B. Scullark: Thank you so much for this interview! For more information on Ms. Bre Scullark please visit her website: www.BreScullark.wordpress.com www.BrVelle.com
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a This month we are pleased to present our fashion issue. Here are the latest in fashion trends, from makeup to boutiques to models. Check out their stories here!
a
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l
Antoinette Davis l
Antoinette Davis was born in Washington, D.C. where she discovered she had a passion for modeling especially after seeing designers like Vogue and Calvin Klein. Her mother and father were both involved in the modeling industry so she often felt like she was “born to walk the runway.” Davis credits her biggest accomplishment so far to being able to both model and be a designer in her fashion show in 2013. Read below to find out more about her story.
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WE Magazine: How did you get into the fashion industry? A. Davis: I got into fashion as a young girl. My first runway show was when I was about 9 years old. We were doing a fashion show for Black History month, and I just remember that I loved strutting down that runway. I’ve always loved fashion especially the models that bring it to life. My favorite model has always been Cindy Crawford. I love everything about her charisma, stage presence, and her graceful walk. She was on every magazine in the 90’s and was the face of the top designers in that era. In order to become a model I told myself I was model. I began to get involved with designing clothes as well, as it has always been something I was drawn to. WE Magazine: What are some of the trends that you see happening in 2014? A. Davis: Wow, when it comes to trends I really don’t follow them I tend to just bend them enough just to make it make own. I see a lot of trends coming back like the mod era. Think model icon Twiggy with a pixie cut and contoured faced. I also see a lot of pastels colors being infused into a lot of designer’s spring collections. The Moto Jacket and the Bomber Jacket are also a big hit with various styles and colors. WE Magazine: What advice would you give someone wishing to break into the fashion industry?
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A. Davis: For anyone wishing to break into the fashion industry I would tell them to just follow your heart. Keep that dream alive; keep that passion you have for what you love to do. Growing up people never understood my style. I didn’t wear what the other girls were wearing so they dismissed me, but now not only is my style respected I get a lot of love because it represents me and all that I am. So in the end just be yourself nobody can be a better you than you. WE Magazine: Explain the style of your brand. A. Davis: My brand is really not that simple I try to piece together things you wouldn’t usually see together or even think about putting it together. Women’s Elevation Magazine | 39
For more information regarding her upcoming brand check out her links below: Instagram: @Petitegirlssagaboutique Twitter: @petitegirlssaga Website: www.petitegirlssaga.com
I would call it Urban Runway because you would most likely see it on a runway, but with a twist. WE Magazine: What’s coming up next for your brand? A. Davis: I have my clothing line petitegirlssaga coming out this spring plus my urban male line coming out this summer. WE Magazine: We look forward to seeing more from your brand and wish you much success in the future!
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of Atlanta for top designers such as Jasmine Elder creator of JIBRI and Tyrell Holmes of The Empress Collection. She has also been featured on TVOne’s hit reality show R&B Divas for Nicci Gilbert’s Carvato plus clothing line. Her motivation comes from the impact she has on everyday women that she inspires to have confidence and live their dreams. Needless to say Crystal Nicole has a bright and promising future ahead of her.
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Crystal Nicole Smith has ripped the runways
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WE Magazine: What made you decide to get into modeling? C. Smith: Modeling is a creative outlet for me to express a side of myself that I don’t portray in my everyday life. It’s the perfect challenge for me to sit aside my shy tendencies, and become a muse for photographers and designers. The drive behind my decision is the positive feedback I receive from full figured women that I inspire to live out their dreams, be confident, and love the skin they’re in. Last but not least, I enjoy the network between talented and likeminded individuals in the industry. WE Magazine: What are some of the myths about the modeling industry?
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C. Smith: One myth is the modeling industry lacks hard work. The truth is there’s a lot of time and sacrifice put into modeling trust me it’s no cake walk, although there’s a glamorous side to this industry, there is also a business side as well. Another myth is that you do not have to invest in yourself in the modeling industry. Truthfully you will have to invest a lot in yourself, and maybe even maintain a 9 to 5 to take care of cost of photo shoots and travel. WE Magazine: What advice would you give to someone that is interested in getting into the modeling industry? C. Smith: My advice is to ask yourself why you want to get into this industry and make sure it’s for positive reasons. Have a firm vision of what you want for yourself in the industry whether it be runway or print. Never be afraid to network. Try reaching out to models, photographers, and designers. Networking is the key to getting your foot into the industries door. Lastly you need to have lots of patience along with a positive attitude. WE Magazine: How would you describe your personal style? C. Smith: My style would have to be urban glamour it’s the perfect cross of being comfortable and glamorous at the same time. I love multipurpose fashion that I could dress up or down depending on the day. For more information on Crystal N. Smith follow her on Instagram @itscrystalnicole. Women’s Elevation Magazine | 47
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danielle lewis Passionate, talented & motivated, Danielle is sought after for her ability to create a flawless face. She specializes in enhancing natural beauty. Danielle has been featured on Essence.com, in Sister 2 Sister Magazine, in films including 9 Minutes & 30 Seconds, on runways everywhere and on the faces of many. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of ThatBeautyBlog.com, a beauty contributor for Fox, the beauty editor for 92.3 & Magic 95.9 and recently launched a luxury lipgloss line called, Lip Lustre. Danielle is dabbling in a lot of different endeavors and there is no stopping her! Women’s Elevation Magazine | 49
WE Magazine: How did you get into the makeup industry? D. Lewis: I’ve always loved beauty and playing in makeup. After college, I went to get my makeup certification and have literally been working in the beauty industry since. WE Magazine: What are some of the trends that you see happening in 2014? D. Lewis: There’s a focus on skin and sheer color for Spring. Corals are big this season. I can’t wait for the weather to catch up :) WE Magazine: What are some trends you wished stayed in 2013? D. Lewis: I would love to move past dark, overdrawn eyebrows. I’m all for a power brow, but it should also look natural. Lashes have gotten a little crazy in the past few years as well. Hopefully, we’ll move towards natural enhancements. No more statement lashes! WE Magazine: What advice would you give someone wishing to break into the makeup industry? D. Lewis: Just start working. At the beginning of my career, I did everything. I worked for free a lot so that I could really cut my teeth and get 50 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
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practice. An artist that I really respect once told me ‘the learning is in the doing.’ You just have to start. WE Magazine: Explain the style of your brand. D. Lewis: My beauty brand is really all about a real woman who loves beauty. When I do makeup, I’m always focused on making my clients feel like their best selves. I love making real women feel like movie stars. My glosses are all about feeling beautiful on the go. I launched my glosses with the idea that my clients could take a little beauty with them after they left my chair. My blog is focused on bringing my beauty reviews and favs to real women everywhere. All in all, I’m just a real woman who loves beauty and wants to share that love with everyone else :). For more information on Danielle Lewis and her brand check out her website: http://www.daniellelewisbeauty.com/. 52 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
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Eromomen Esoimeme Eromomen Esoimeme is a first generation NigerianAmerican. She was born and raised in Oakland California. She is the youngest of four and at a young age her parents instilled in her and her siblings the importance of artist expression. Her father is an artist so she grew up surrounded by art. She moved to Los Angeles in 2008 and began modeling a few years later.
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WE Magazine: What made you decide to get into modeling? E. Esoimeme: When I was in high school and in college I participated in a few local fashion shows, but hadn’t really put much thought into taking modeling seriously. I was “modeling” because it was fun. In the summer of 2009 I cut off all of my hair and people’s reaction to my “spontaneous” decision opened my eyes to new possibilities which lead to the birth of my passion. WE Magazine: What are some myths about the modeling industry? E. Esoimeme: There are many myths about the modeling industry like with any other industry that need to be renounced. The first is the idea that all models are dumb. I’ve encountered many models, if not majority, that are intellectually, spiritual and critical thinkers. Women’s Elevation Magazine | 57
MODELS have insecurities, doubts, and everything else that comes with being a HUMAN. Another myth is that models don’t eat or that [all models] have eating disorders. Of course there is SOME truth to this claim, but I’d like to rephrase that notion by saying “ [Some] models watch what they eat: meaning that [some] models have cleans diets that include LOTS of greens and water. The bottom line is that our bodies are our business... literally. A major myth that many seem to think is that models are conceited/ confident all the time. Models have insecurities, doubts, and everything else that comes with being a human. Lastly, the myth that models are rich is wrong. Oftentimes models are in debt because they are paying off agency fees (travel expenses, living etc.) they acquire while traveling. WE Magazine: What advice would you give to someone that is interested in getting into the modeling industry? E. Esoimeme: Study the industry. Get to know and become grounded with yourself first. Create a folder of your favorite models/ photographers and anything that you draw inspiration from and become very familiar with it. Be friendly, smile, and make an impression of others. That way you’ll always be remembered. Don’t be scared to ask for help, the worst thing that could happen is that they’ll say no... then life goes on. Build a tough skin, you’ll need it. Your greatness does not lie in one person’s decision not to cast you. For more information on Eromomen Esoimeme follow her on Instagram @eromomen. 58 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
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Kim
Chambers ~ Owner of Everything Mahogany ~
Kim Chambers owner of Everything Mahogany a trendy on line store for all women. She looks to keep women trendy, sophisticated and standing out in a crowd. She hopes to encourage women to dare to be different, love who they are, and embrace their inner diva! She hopes they always remember to dress like your sitting in the front row!!
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WE Magazine: How did you get into the fashion industry? K. Chambers: My background hasn’t actually been in fashion. As a doctoral student, my focus has always been in the field of business and management. All I ever really wanted to do was to start my own business which coincidentally became an online boutique. As a young child, I always had a strong sense of style. I enjoyed dressing myself, changing clothes and looks and also styling friends. I used these opportunities to gain confidence in my fashion abilities and found the impetus to start my own online women’s boutique as a business. Like any other business venture, I got into the fashion industry, by taking a leap of faith. I used my savings to invest in inventory, and the building of my website, literally after this investment; everything fell into its place. Everything Mahogany is inspired by everyday fashion, I was born and raised in Kingston Jamaica and always regarded my home country as a fashion hub. Styles ranging from the UK, Japan and the US created a fusion of styles which influenced my style consciousness. WE Magazine: What are some of the trends that you see happening in 2014? K. Chambers: One of the main trends that I see happening in 2014 is color blocking. Long gone are days when women only wore neutrals, ladies can be spotted in the workplace, at clubs and almost anywhere in bold colors. Orange has become the new black, and women are not afraid to wear white after Labor Day. Another trend, that I see happening in 2014 is the ‘punk’ inspired look. Women can be found rocking leather (faux leather) pieces; such as skater skirts, leather crop tops, biker jackets and leather/ pleather pants. These styles are making its way to women’s closets are no longer confined to the punk or rock inspired ‘fashionistas’. 62 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
Another trend, in which I see happening in 2014, is layering. Women are mixing textures with pieces and also mixing patterns without making this layering look bulky or odd. Finally, pastels are taking a new lead in the fashion industry, from the red carpet to the streets of Atlanta, pastels are becoming more prevalent. WE Magazine: What are some trends you wished stayed in 2013? Women’s Elevation Magazine | 63
K. Chambers: One of the trends I wished stayed in 2013 is anything floral print. I am all for vintage pieces and taking looks from the 70’s and making them chic, but in 2013 these prints I believe became ‘overdone’ and should stay in 2013- the past. WE Magazine: What advice would you give someone wishing to break into the fashion industry? K. Chambers: The advice in which I would give someone wishing to break into the fashion industry is simply in two words- don’t give up. It is easy to become overshadowed by all the fashion bloggers, and designers in this world, but believe in what you have to offer and build your brand, it will take time and dedication but if you’re truly doing something you love- it will be fun. WE Magazine: Explain the style of your brand.
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K. Chambers: Everything Mahogany is a trendy, dynamic online boutique targeting all women who love fashion but also want affordability. Our mission is to help our women find an outfit which compliments them, help to boost self-esteem and overall confidence when she steps into a room.
Upcoming Events April 4th 2014- Everything Mahogany Fashion Show at Aurum Lounge, Atlanta GA April 19th 2014- Exclusive Vendor, Urban vs. Couture Fashion Show. 595 North Ave Atlanta, GA June 2014- Pop Up Show (Date and Venue to be announced).
Social Media Pages Instagram: @EverythingMahogany Facebook: Everything Mahogany Twitter: @EverythingMahog Website: www.everythingmahogany.bigcartel.com Women’s Elevation Magazine | 65
Wearing
April Spiritual Corner
Your Best Self
She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. – Proverbs 31:25 (NLT) I could be wrong but I believe that every woman has (or should have) a favorite outfit. . . You know - an ensemble that just makes you think, “I know I look good!” Sometimes what we’re wearing really can influence our emotions. Our emotions can determine our behavior and our behavior can serve as the foundation for the way that other people treat us. Haven’t you heard the phrase, “Look good. . . feel good” before? It’s true! While it’s easy to think about your literal wardrobe choices, I want to make a suggestion. Think about what you’re wearing or “putting on” your spirit. You may need to exchange some items. . . First, replace doubt with faith and let that serve as your foundation. Remember that God can do more than you could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Nothing is too hard for Him! Add compassion. It’s easy to focus on ourselves when we’re out and about but maybe we should consider the fact that everyone is dealing with a difficult situation at one time or another. Make a conscious decision to (try to) be kind to those that you come into contact with- even if they’re not kind to you. For some reason, a lot of people think that guilt is still in style. Whether you’re trying to get someone else to wear it or you’ve been sporting it yourself. . . please stop! Try forgiveness instead and I guarantee that you’ll feel more peaceful! Now, I totally understand that some days- no matter what you’re wearing, you may not feel like facing the world. You might want to curl up with a huge bowl of ice cream and not deal with anyone. Those days 66 | Women’s Elevation Magazine
are good for trying on encouragement and hope. “Sometimes you have to encourage yourself”- for real! Remind yourself to live each day with purpose. You can see evidence of God’s goodness and the beauty of His Love with each new dawning. At times, it may feel as though the weight of the world is on your shoulders but that’s not something you have to wear or carry around. Give your cares to the Lord and trust Him to make ways for you. Remind yourself of the fact that you have nothing to fear because your life is in God’s hands. The joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10) so wear it proudly! Sometimes music can serve as pick-me-ups too. At times, we may need to keep saying/singing something until we actually believe it. . . “I feel good and I know it. Don’t hate me if I show it. The Joy I feel on the inside will show up on the outside. . . The happiness in my life; today it won’t be denied.” {I Feel Good- Fred Hammond} Kara Frison is a 2010 graduate of Hood College who strives to inspire others through her writing. You can read more of her thoughts at www.softwordsbrighteyes.blogspot.com and learn about her organization- Ladies of Virtue. . . Empowered! (for women- 14 & older) by visiting www.facebook.com/LadiesOfVirtueEmpowered.