Letter from the editors

Trend 954 Readers, September is one of our favorite months. The weather is finally starting to cool down, fashions are changing, and there are an abundance of events in South Florida. It takes a village to create a magazine. Well, maybe not a village but a dy-namic group of people from writers, editors, photographers and art directors that share their unique talents and specialized skills. Together in this magazine, trend defines all of us. Does a trend comes with in or is it a lifestyle. Do we see it every day on the street, do we feel it in every emotion that we speak, or are we embodied in it. Some people say it is their story, other say is their dream. Well… what do you say? Trend 954 is culture, its fashion, its events, it’s a vision, and most importantly it is The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale.

Editors -in-Chief

Let’s face it; being a fashion student in this economy really puts a damper on shopping decisions. Currently in Fort Lauderdale there is a very high unemployment rate and many students are having a hard time obtaining part time jobs. Most students who have a job are getting paid minimum wage and most of their income goes towards rent, gas and food. Luckily for them, vintage clothing and vintage inspired pieces have become very popular in the fash-ion industry over the last few sea-sons. The look continues to grow in popularity as students continue to stride to stand out. Local stores such as LF are full of pieces that are vintage inspired and mimic styles from that past that are unique. However, when on a student’s budget, it is hard to afford the $200 pieces. So what is the newest favorite past time and shopping style of

AI students? THRIFTING! So many students spend a lot of their time visiting thrift stores hunting for unique pieces at next-to-nothing prices, even looking in their grand-ma’s closets and attic. Pieces from the 70’s to early 90’s are student favorites because it is easy to find pieces that look unworn and are still in perfect condition. Many students wear the pieces as is or some design students love to put their own twist on the gar-ments and make them their own or even find pieces that have amazing fabrics and patterns that they can re-invent into a whole new gar-ment. Jewelry and accessories such as purses are very popular purchas-es with students, enabling them to add just a touch of the vintage style into their wardrobe. Fashion is inspired by our sur-roundings, and with the economy the way it is, it’s obvious that the vintage look will be around for a

while. Not only is looking through thrift stores fun, but you can also walk away with great one-of-a-kind pieces at amazingly low prices. By: Elizabeth Wheeler AI Student’s Favorite Thrift Stores:

1.) Couture Upscale Consignment• 2939NorthFederalHwyFt.Lauderdale,FL333062.) Out of the Closet• 2097WiltonDrFt.Lauderdale,FL33305AND• 1785SunriseBlvd.Ft.Lauderdale,FL333043.)NEWGoodwillSuperstore• 1099E.OaklandParkBlvd.OaklandPark,FL333044.) Vintage Diversity• 236W.ProspectRoadOaklandPark,FL333095.) American Thrift Store• 330SSr-7,Hollywood,FL33023

You’re Wearing Your Grandma’s What?!

SIP. SAMPLE. SAVOR.

Do you love trying out new restaurants, win eries, or bars? On a college students budget it may not always be the easiest to travel around and dine at many restaurants. What if you could spend one evening trying over 40 different restaurants and 40 different winer-ies and bars for only $45, and you didn’t have to drive? On September 15, 2011 New Times is having their 4th annual premium food and wine tasting event called Pairings. It will be held at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts from 7-10pm. Tickets can be pur-chased in advance at newtimespairings.com, or at the door for $10more. The event consists of many tables set up from different restaurants that offer 3-5oz samples of their best dishes. Paired with each restaurant is a winery or bar that will give you a 2oz sample of wine, craft beer, or liquor. Live music will also be at the event. If you’re thinking how could you possibly drive home after 40 samples of alcohol, well no worries free cab rides are provided to make sure everyone gets home safe. If your home is too far for a cab then no worries either the event workers can get you a large discount on a near by hotel.

There is no excuse to miss this event. Dress your best and mingle with the some 1,400 people this event attracts. You can’t beat this low price so order your tickets soon for the last two years have been sold out! If you are looking to make this evening extra special VIP tickets are also available. For $80 you get:

• Earlyadmissionat6pm• AccesstoaVIPloungewithcomfortableseating• Cateredfood• Premiumwinesandfeaturescocktails• Realwineglasswithembroideredyear• Bagfullofsponsoredgifts

By: Elizabeth Wheeler

@FASHION

A huge part of fashion is based on what is cutting edge and what is new, with that said Twitter has became a new must have for all fashion divas. Twitter is full of high-frequency updates right from the sources. Unlike purchasing magazines and spending hours surfing the web and researching all your favorite stars and design-ers, it is brought right to your fingertips on Twitter.

Here are 20 users every fashion-forward person should follow.

1. @FashionWeekNYC- Updates from this account will get you excited about Fashion week, and fashion in general every day. 2. @ftlfashionweek- Promoting designers and the local community of Fort Lauderdale3. @InStyle- Keep up with mainstream industry trends 4. @themoment- Demonstrates how high fashion can meld with top notch journalism.5. @giltgroupe- All about shopping! Offers dis-counts on designer where when you want it and where you want it. 6. @VogueParisLive-Expandyourfashionworld-view. 7. @modelina- Bringing works of art to life, using actual models.8. @victoriabeckham- with big fashion comes big names.9. @TyraBanks- Bring out your girl power and womanhood!10. @GQFashion- “Your daily style Authority”11. @dolcegabbana- Let’s you know what celebs are wearing their clothing12. @WorldMcQueen- it has been a top hit ever since the royal wedding.13. @BusinessGirls- Representing the business-woman boutique.

14. @RobinGivham- Keep your twitter feed on a intellectual track, with her expert insights on fashion, culture and society. 15. @rzrachelzoe-Provide nice highlights from the Zoe Report. 16. @jessjamesjake-Allaboutvintage,musthave!17. @gucci- There is always room for one more fabulous designer.18. @modcloth- Puts a surprising spin on fashion. 19. @shoedazzle- A project related to Kim Kar-dashian. 20. @whowhatwear- Your immediate link to celeb-rity styles. 21. @ladygaga- You just got to have her!

If you are not signed up with a Twitter account it is as easy as a one, two, three. Before you know it you will have a twitter feed filled with fashion insights, must haves and all the celeb gossip you thrive on. Say good-bye to Facebook and open yourself up to a whole new inspiring world of Twitter.

By: Erica Mahmood

Uncap your CreativityBy:AllisonCroft

Over forty students submitted sketches inspired by a vitaminwater flavor to be judged for the vitaminwater competition. The top eight sketches were chosen to come to life and to be judged live at vitaminwater’s uncapped live event series fashion show and the winning design will win $1000. These talented eight designers are MitchellPerry,BriSharpe,MichelleGolson,AmyRubenstein,ElaineTimerman,YordNamhongsa,BrianFirkus,andDalyaVidal. Mitchell Perry’s look was inspired by the vi-taminwater Glow flavor. “This look will feature pop-ping, statement making colors, a boned and lined corset and hundreds of hand sewn and hand dyed strips of fabric attached to an underdress.” Mitchell said, “the strips will be very bouncy and airy. The dying process will make the garment ‘glow’.” BriSharpebasedherlookonthepopularflavor,XXX.It’sanAcai-Blueberry,pomegranateflavorwhichBribasedherdesignoffof.Brisaid“Asophisticated look for a sophisticated flavor. I was inspired by the coloring of the flavor and its bottle. The shape and volume are inspired by the letter X.” Michelle Golson’s look was inspired by the flavor Revive which is a fruit punch flavored drink. When she thought of this look she thought of “breaking free from everything and being rejuve-nated; revived.” said Michelle. Amy Rubenstein based her vibrant look offoftheEnergy,tropicalcitrusflavor.“Energyinvigorates you to move and be free, similar to the sun’s rays or a bird. I melded the beauty of peacock feathers and the ribbons, moving and weaving around the model simulating the energy radiating from her within.” said Amy about her design and inspiration. ElaineTimermanwasinspiredbytheRhythm flavor which is a combination of starfruit andcitrusflavors.WhencommentingElainesaid,“She is an energy fairy from the future, the one shoulder dress’s main fabric features the Rhythm

vitaminwater bottle on it. The one shoulder copies the shape of an orange.” YordNamhongsabasedhisdesignoffofthe Orange flavor. He was inspired to create his ro-mantic look by a friend of his who is in love. While speaking to him of her love life she was drinking the Orange flavor and that is why he created his look based on the feel of summer and of the flavor. Mariana Farinas was inspired in the XXX bottle because its her favorite flavors. “The colors are elegant yet bold, that is why my dress is going to be very elegant with a twist of sexy.” Dalya Vidal based her design off of Squeezed, the lemonade flavor. Dalya’s account on her inspiration was “Squeeze me, zinc me, kiss me, inspired by the lemonade color palette on this vitaminwater zero ‘squeezed’ lemonade flavor.” She continued by telling us how “It is light and refresh-ing not to mention a-zinc vitamins to keep you going in hot South Florida days. This inspired a tight corset top layered with folded polyknits. Just a splash of color gives this summer look a refresh-ing twist.” With all these great designers and their inspirations I am dying to see what their creations will look like when brought to life. All of the de-signs will be featured and judged at the vitamin-wateruncappedlivefashionshow.Besuretocome and show your support for our fellow studentsattheshowFriday,September23,2011 at The Stage in Miami’s Design District. The fashion event will take place from 9-11 p.m. and is free to get in and open to the pub-lic 21 and over. We look forward to seeing you there!

Get Fresh Face For Fall

Get Fresh Face For Fall

Summer is finally ending so it’s time to retire your bronzer and gold shim-mer eye shadow and start bringing out the sultry nude palette of fall. In this trend tip we’re going to help you create your makeup look for the entire fall season without having to spend your college tuition. The entirety of this look consists of being fresh faced, with light but puckered lips, but with an alluring manic twist; a contrasting cat eye.

STEP1:Startoffwithyourusualconcealerandthenputonalightcover up powder to begin the look.

STEP3:Nextmoveontoblush,brushSephoraBrand,RoseRebelle,blush onto your cheeks. This pinky peachy blush will dramatize your cheekbones giving you an extra wow factor.

STEP5:Nextyou’regoingtoswoopanicethickcateyeusingKatVonDTattooEyelinerinTrooper.

STEP6:FinishupwithsomemascaraandsomeElffalse eyelashes and you’re the new cat eyed sophisticat-ed women, ready to conquer fall on a college budget.

STEP4:Nowontoyourlips,youcanusealightpink to a light peach lipstick, we recommend any of Revlon’s peach palette. Add a glistening vanilla like glossoverthepeachlipstick.Wasn’tthateasy?You’realmost done!

STEP2:DabonNARSTheMultiple,amultiusebeautystick,inLuxoronto your cheekbones, nose, and chin line. Luxor will give you a luminescent light glow with amazing highlights.

Article by:Lauren Bowen

Make your Home as Stylish as You!By: Elizabeth Wheeler

Fashion trends come and go. Interior design trends do the same. When was the last time you changed up your apartment or house? Your home needs occasional revamping just like your wardrobe. Not only does redecorating up-date the style of your home but it also lifts your mood and makes you enjoy your time in your space even more. When you are proud of how your home looks you will want to show it off and have a greater desire to invite over guests.So when you are thinking about changing up your home décor keep in mind these five key trends for interior design in the upcoming sea-sons.

1.) Vivid colors and striking out-of-the-ordinary combinations and contrasts

2.) Neutral shades with an accent neon color

3.) Contrasting textures such as velvet and brick, steel and hardwood, or leather and fur

4.) Unique lighting fixtures and lamps

5.) Combination of modern pieces and vintage pieces

Confessions of a Bloganista

Blogginghasbecomeapopulartrendovertheyears.Youcanwriteaboutanythingfrommovies, cooking, music, and pop culture. It’s another way to express yourself and to improve your journalistic abilities. Nowadays, you can’t even look at a fashion show with-out seeing someone in the front row with their Macbook uploading pictures to their blogging site. The students at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale have also caught onto this new waveofexpression.Bloggingisespeciallyfamous amongst the Fashion department at AiFL. The bloganista’s are covering every-thing from local fashion events around Fort Lauderdale as well as forecasting upcoming trends and juicy topic within the fashion industry. I had the pleasure to ask Whitney Jones, a fashion merchandising student at AiFL, what inspired her to become a bloganista? Her

response was, “This is what you have to do now in order to be ahead of the game. It’s fierce out here!” Many of the known fashion publications require young aspiring writers or future edi-tor’s to have some form of journalistic back-ground before hiring them. The way to get this experience is either freelance writing for a local newspaper, writing for your college, or blogging.Whether you are into politics, art, films, mu-sic, or fashion you can also create your own blogging website by logging on to some of the free blog sites listed below.www.tumblr.com www.blogspot.com

ByGinaMondesir

Music, Fashion and School, Oh My!

By: Gina Mondesir

The Hip-Hop Club was created solely to pay homagetorealmusicandhip-hopculture.Backwhen art was defined by the streets, the lyrics, and the political movements around the world. Dur-ing these meetings, students discuss films like “Do theRightThing”and“BeatStreet.”Theyconverseideas to bring underground artists, who are doing good music, to the global hip-hop scene. Further-more, they review the ample amount of ways that hip-hop has influenced fashion in the last decade. “I want to enlighten people on hip-hop culture. It’s me because it is in my DNA,” contest Lu Diamondz.

Since the summer of 2009, AiFL student, Lu Diamondz has been taking the Hip-Hop Club to new levels. Combing music, fashion, and college kids who have the same inter-est, the Hip-Hop Club has been growing by the bundles. Over the years, Lu Diamondz has achieved more access to different spon-sors,suchasRedBullandTijuanaFlats,topromote the club. This gained him supreme popularity amongst his peers at AiFL.

The Hip-Hop Club hosts events twice a year. One of which is called the “The Hip-Hop Fashion Show,” where student designers put a collection together inspired by their favorite musicera.Youcanalsofindaliveband, graffiti artists, a variety of foods from different backgrounds, and the most exciting part of the event is the cipher! For more info about the Hip-Hop Club and Lu Diamondz, please join their Facebook fan page at:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=37928646826http://www.facebook.com/LouieDiamondz?ref=ts

living social’s best LivinginSouthFloridacanbeveryexpensiveattimes.Especiallywhenyouareastrugglingstudentlivingoffoframennoodlesandredbulls. With new websites popping up all over with city deals and coupons it is hard to pick one to trust. Not only does LivingSoical.com haveamazingdealsandspecialsbuttheyhavemadeanexcitinglistofthe“best”365thingstodoinFt.Lauderdale.

BESTGELATO

For a summertime treat that’s hard to beat, we love Gelato Station in Wilton Manors. Their gelato is made from scratch, using fresh milk and cream, real chocolate, fruit, and nuts. Our

two faves? Pineapple basil and pistachio.

BESTPLACETOHAVEANAWARDWINNINGPINT

Cravingahandcraftedpint?HeadovertoBigBearBrewingCompanyinCoralSpringsforaward-winningbeersbrewedonthepremises,includingtheKodiacBelgianDubbelthattook

homeagoldmedalattheGreatAmericanBeerFestivalin2002.

BESTPLACETOACTLIKEACOLLEGEKID

Backintheday,whenthecitywassynonymouswithSpringBreak,TheElboRoomwaspartycentral.Beers,boys,andbarely-cladco-edsstillaboundatthisFtLauderdaleBeachbar.

BESTBEACHBOARDWALK

Named one of America’s best beach boardwalks by Travel + Leisure, the 2.5-mile Hollywood BeachBroadwalkiswide,welcoming,andwonderfulforwandering.Hereyoucanjog,walk

your dog, take the trolley, or linger at a seaside cafe.

BESTOLD-FASHIONEDMOVIETHEATER

We’re fond of classic theaters that run fine art, foreign and independent films along with current releases -- and Gateway Theatre fits that bill. Its shabby chic interior only adds to its

charm and they make a mean tub of popcorn.

Those were just a few of the “best” things to do in Ft. Lauderdale. The complete list is on LivingSocial.com. There is something for everyone on that list and you may discover something new you really enjoy! Whether you’re a tourist or a native there is something for everyone, so be sure to check it out!

Written by: Ally NictoraImages from Getty Images

Iconic Swedish retailer Hennes and Mauritz, H&M, is set to open its first Miami store in 2012 along LincolnRoad’sshoppinganddiningdistrictinSouthBeach.H&MbelievesintheFloridamarketandisexcitedtoofferlocalMiamiBeachconsumersaccesstothebrand’sfashionforward,qualitycollectionsfor ladies and men. The new 22,000 square-foot H&M Miami location opening on Lincoln Road will feature two floors of selling areas and will be welcomed by the other two H&M locations in Orlando andWestPalmBeach.

ThisnewlocationwillbeuniquebycapturingthehistoryofMiamiBeach,asitwillbelocatedintheelegantartdecoLincolnTheatre.Thisbuilding,designedin1936,wasformerlyaconcerthallfortheNew World Symphony Orchestra. In an effort to maintain one of Miami’s treasured historical buildings, H&MhasworkedwiththelandlordandtheMiamiBeachHistoricPreservationSocietytoprotecttheiconic nature of the space while adding the H&M feeling of fashion and fun. Throughout the U.S., H&M offers their fashions at the best prices in over 210 locations. Its first store openedtenyearsagoonNewYork’sFifthAvenue,andnowtheyareexcitedtoaddthecityofMiamitotheir list of locations.

For more information, visit their website at: www.hm.com

H&M Moves to Lincoln Road Mall

unveiling lila nikole

Lila Nikole is the owner and head designer of Lila Nikole Collec-tion. The collection features high-end couture swimwear and innovative designs for the last seven years. Lila graduated with honors in 2005 as a fashion design student from The Art Institute ofFortLauderdaleandwonBestSwimwearandUrbanPortfolio.She is also featured in The Art Institute Hall of Fame as a valued alumnus in 2007.

In a brief description of her line, Lila states

“Our products are made with luxury, quality, durability, style and functionality in mind. We pride ourselves on limited edition items that are funky, fun and fresh! When a woman puts on a Lila Nikole swimsuit, she plans on walking into a room and having everyone feel her presence. She demands attention and knows exactly what she wants. She is the trendsetter and the Fashioni-sta. Individuality is the only mindset she understands. The perfect Lila Nikole woman is fashion forward, classy, seductive, playful, ambitious and outgoing.”

Lila Nikole Collection is a swimwear line that provides quality ready-to-wear garments. Lila’s line has been seen on America’s Next TopModel,FashionTV,BET’sRiptheRunway,MTV’sWildin’Out,andonE!’sLastModelStanding.Lila’sCollectionhasalsobeenseen in numerous music videos and magazines.

Lila Nikole Collection has proven to be high quality and the excellent designs allow her to stay afloat even in south Florida’s extremely competitive swimwear industry. Lila personally designs each piece in the collection and uses only the finest materials. Everythingishandmadeincludingtheembellishmentswithnaturaljeweledpieces,woodchunks,andraregems.

Lila’s success is an inspiration for the fashion students at The Art Institute.

Lila Nikole’s collection is available at http://www.lilanikole.com/. Her website also includes blogs, info, lifestyle tips, and upcoming events.

Rock out with ROK: BRGRBy: Meghann Spagna

The cool new place to hang out in downtown Ft. Lauderdale whether your looking for a greatatmosphereorsomegreatfoodafterafunnightofdrinkingandpartying,isROK:BRGR.PronouncedRockBurger,ROK:BRGRisagourmetburgerbarandgastropubthattakesamod-ern approach on American comfort food. There are seventeen signature burgers and a “Create your own” burger section that features certified Angus beef, American waygu “Kobe”, free-range chickenandturkeyandbigfinTuna.WhatisuniqueaboutROK:BRGRisthattherestaurantre-mains true to the gastropub format by only using fresh local ingredients, certified angus beef, all natural artisan cheeses and practice a farm to table approach to dinning. This popular burger bar and gastro pub also uses only the finest spirits with an extensive cocktail list that are all hand-crafted.Theyalsocarry65craftbeersfromaroundtheU.S. ROK:BRGRisknownasdowntownsonlytruelatenighthappyhouronFridayandSatur-day nights. They have 2-4-1 drink specials on premium well; draft and domestic wine from mid-night-3am,aswellas$5burgersand$6cheeseburgerstohelpensureyousoberup!Whywouldanyone go to Denny’s after a great night of partying when you can get cheap gourmet burgers and cheap drinks to end a fabulous night out on the town? For more info check out rokbrgr.com orROK:BRGRislocatedintheheartofdowntown208SW2ndstreet,FortLauderdaleFL33301.Tel:954-525-7656.

Men’s Fashion Mistakes By: Allison Croft

1. White Socks with dress shoesThe biggest mistake we have seen men make many times. If you’re man is guilty of this, do not expect him to fix it himself. Also, do not expect to get anywhere by nagging him about it. The best way to successfully rectify this situation is by sweetly purchasing him some black socks and explaining to him the proper way to wear white socks is with sneakers.

2.TooMuchBlingThere is a fine line between elegant and gaudy here. Too much jewelry and too big will leave your man looking like the cast of The Jersey Shore. Compli-ments should work best here. If your man is guilty of this fashion mishap tell him you love some of his more sensible jewelry rather than express your hatred for the rest of it.

3.WrongSizesMany men are guilty of wearing clothing either too big or too small. It’s no secret that most men do not love to shop so rather than dragging a pout-ing man along on your shopping trip, pick up a few things for him to try. If he’s guilty of wearing clothes that are too big, be flirty and tell him that the other size really makes a difference. Too small? Don’t be insulting; find a way to sweetly tell him the next size is the way to go.

4. StainsMen sometimes tend to be sloppy with no regard to what that looks like for the rest of the day. If you’re man tends to be one of these, pick up a few stain remover pens. Here it’s okay to tease him a bit. Maybe approach with “I picked these up for the both of us, I know how clumsy the two of us can be!”

5. WrinklesThis is probably the most common. Men do not like to fold and shoving those shirts into a drawer tends to leave them wrinkled and sloppy. The best way to handle this, have him hang his shirts. Just as quick and easy as throw-ing them in a drawer but minus the rolled out of bed look.

Ladies,ithasundoubtedlyhappenedtoallofus.You’rereadytowalkoutthedoorsoyoucallyourmantoheadouttothe car and STOP. He’s trying to wear THAT again? Here’s a list of the top fashion mistakes men will make, and how to fix the situation. Keep in mind, this is a delicate situation and must be approached properly because coming off as his mother will get you nowhere.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME

Sick of flowers, dinners for two, and last minute planned dates? We may not want to say it but some-times men are so oblivious to what we’re really search-ing for. They just assume their “fashion diva” girlfriend would never want to go to a baseball game. They don’t know that sometimes all we need to cope from a long day shuffling between work and classes is just that. Doesn’t it sound good to sit back and relax with an ice-cold beer and watch men show off in their tight pants? Well lucky you, the future home of the Marlins will be a first-class baseball stadium, just perfect for your inner princess. The new stadium features a retractable roof, so no more “sunshine stadium” (literally), you can sit back and enjoy the game without feeling like you jumped into a pool, unless you actually want to. Marlins fans hoping to enjoy the summer day can reserve La Playa,

a private seating and lounge area with access to a pool behind the left field wall. Every seat has been placed with only one thing in mind- to provide you with the ultimate fan experience. Open for the upcoming 2012 season so there is plenty of time to plan ahead. The site is less than two miles from downtown Miami, so you and your man can grab a bite to eat and even browse the stores and galleries of Miami before the game.Keep yourself updated on the new Marlin’s ballpark at: http://florida.marlins.mlb.com/fla/ballpark/new_ball-park_index.jspThe site contains all ticket information, game schedules, stadium progress and everything else you need to know to plan your outing! By: Erica Mahmood

Anna Mixon is a 22 year old student, socialite, model and designer. Mixon has quickly risen to the top as one of South Florida’s hottest designers with her collection Mixon by Anna Mixon. Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Mixon moved to Miami three years ago as a model but unfortunate-ly modeling wasn’t paying the bills as well as she had hoped, leaving little money for fashion. She decided to start mak-ing her own jewelry and when her friends loved what she created, she started selling her pieces as a way to make a few extra dollars. What started as a hobby for herself, has turned into a budding business.Anna Mixon is smarter than most 22 year old ambitious models in South Florida. Realizing quickly she couldn’t live the life she used to and buy everything she wanted. “I knew exactly what I wanted and the shape of it, and I thought, “Why not make it myself?” I taught myself how to use pliers. I remember when I first went to Michael’s, something just clicked. I couldn’t stop making jewelry, and people would ask me where I would get the pieces and I’d tell them I made it. I realized I needed to start marketing and selling this. I love what I do.” What really got the ball rolling for Mixon was 2 years ago on the VMA’s, Hayley Williams of Paramore, decided to wear one of her pieces. A friend of a friend played guitar for the band and Mixon ended up going to a show and meeting Hayley. She figured what was the harm in giving her a hand piece and a couple of weeks later received insane amounts of phone calls when the camera zoomed in on Hayley singing into the microphone using the hand with Mixon’s jewelry handsomely displayed. Since then Mixon by Anna Mixon has been featured on the

runway and in print for designers such Nicole Miller, Perry Ellis,andKrelwear.ThelineanddesignerhavealsoappearedinElle.com,ChaosMagazine,NoiseMagazineandMiamiNewTimes. Nicki Minaj wears Mixon for the official music video of Monster by Kanye West featuring Rick Ross, and Jay-Z. EvenLindsayLohanhasrequestedaspecialpieceforfreebutMixon refused and is quoted in the Miami New Times saying, “I didn’t want it worn going into rehab, I wanted it to be worn on the red carpet.”

What started as a young model and student has now turned into one of the hottest designers in south Florida. Mixon was featured by Miami Cultist as one of its “100 Creatives” to watch. She quickly figured out that when she was modeling she had met all these people in the industry and had made some incredible connections. When it came time to get her line out there she took advantage of those connections. One of those favors she called in was for her look book video which was directed by Jerome Duran. His company does Vic-toria’s Secret, Maybelline, and a lot of other big campaigns. Mixon is very excited that now the roles have been reversed and she’s getting used to “Not having people put clothes on me, but actually putting things on a model”.Anna Mixon is definitely a name you want to keep on your ra-dar. Her jewelry is going to start to pop up in stores all around south Florida in January 2012 but if you just can’t wait that long or want a custom piece visit AnnaMixon.com.

Miss MixonBy: Ally Nicotra

Could you imagine start-ing and running your own company at the age of 19? Most of us could not, but Coco and Breezy didn’t just dream it, they did it. These twin designers from Minne-sota moved to Brooklyn, New York at the age of 19 to start their new trend of hand em-bellished safety glasses as a fashion accessory. Now, only two years later, their busi-ness has taken off. Stars such as Ashanti and Kelly Roland have been seen rocking their shades and their glasses have made it to California, Paris, London and all the way to Japan. Design and Merchandising students at The Art Insti-tute of Fort Lauderdale had the privilege of seeing these two inspirational designers speak at the school. Coco and Breezy spoke about their lives and the trials and tribulations of starting a company so young. The girls are inspired by their life story and said how fortunate they were to have parents who allowed them to be artistic and to

reach for their goals. Coco said “The beauty of it all is making mistakes and find-ing out what you did wrong.” The designers focused on trial and error throughout the early stages of their career and encouraged emerging designers to find a niche and just go for it. Another main focus of the girls was the importance of branding yourself and your company and staying true to that branding. As Breezy put it, “Stay in the same lane, don’t try to turn left or make a right, just keep in your lane and you’ll do fine.” The girls have done custom orders and have collaborated with other brands but always stay true to their vision and their image in order to help pro-mote their brand and keep their brand on track. As such young designers and business women the girls really had to learn quickly how to do the business side of things.Students also had the oppor-tunity to ask questions.

“Stay in the same lane, don’t try and turn left or make a right, just keep in your lane and you’ll do fine.”Breezy

One question was whether the girls attended college, next which they did not. They had originally enrolled at The Art Institute of Chicago but once their business began to take off, they ended up skipping college and working straight out of high school. Another question that came up was the hardest challenge the girls faced, which was learning the business end, being creative and designing is their passion but learning how to make it a business was difficult.A big question was what the first step was for them once they had the idea of creating glasses. The girls began by wearing the glasses themselves around New York. “People literally bought the glasses off of our faces for days in a row” said Coco. Mr. Andre West was also present and he agreed. “It’s like I always say, market yourselves. Wear-ing your garments and designs is one of the best ways to get your name out there.” Like the Coco Breezy motto says, “Coco Breezy glasses are your outfit and your clothes are your acces-sories because our glasses are a state-ment.”Now, what is their next step? Starting

in September with their next line of glasses the girls will stop hand mak-ing the glasses and go into production. After that the girls see themselves branching into apparel and other accessories and beginning licensing agreements. Coco and Breezy are great role models and an inspiration to designers every-where. To find more information or to see these glasses visit cocoandbreezy.com.

I had the pleasure of visiting this gem and experiencing all they had to offer. The oenophiles at the winery craft eccentric wines from mangos, lychees, avocado and other non-grape exotic fruits. During my visit I had the pleasure of taking a tour of the exquisite winery. The lush tropical plants and tiki huts around the grounds were beautiful and led us directly into the facility. Our friendly tour guide provided us with a brief history of the winery as he led us through teaching us about the wine making process as we went along.As interesting as this was, I was glad when we moved on to the gorgeous tasting room. The large room featured a beauti-ful bar with a tree-like wine rack hanging over top. Here we had the opportunity to sample some of the vineyard’s exotic wines. My favorite was the Guavino which featured a medley of orange blossom, honeysuckle, and Meyer lemon. So if you find yourself a little strapped for cash and in need of a getaway, be sure to visit the Schnelby Redland Winery. With wine tastings available seven days a week and tours only avail-able on the weekends, anytime is a good time to visit. Friday and Saturday nights also feature live music and is a perfect spot to spend the evening with a bottle of exotic wine pur-chased from the winery.

For more information visit them online at http://schneblywinery2.ning.com/

We all know times are tough, but we all still need a break. Vacationing can get rather expensive, especially for students, so I took a day-cation. Only a little over an hour away, I spent a day in Homestead at Schnebly Redland’s Winery. We all know times are tough, but we all still need a break. Vacationing can get rather ex-pensive, especially for students, so I took a day-cation. Only a little over an hour away, I spent a day in Home-stead at Schnebly Redland’s Winery.

Vineyard Day-cationBy : Allsion Croft

All images courtesy of Getty.

A great, and free way to see nature at its best is at Secret Woods Nature Center, which is just down the street from AiFL. Here you can walk nature trails where you will run into dozens of banana spider webs, quite literally. These spiders seem to have taken over the trails and if you are not careful you will walk straight into a web and bounce back. The webs seem nearly indestructible and of an unusual golden color. Though these spiders are slightly intimidating they are completely harmless to humans and two humans in particular took their love for the spider and mixed it with an interesting textile trend. Several years ago The American Museum of Natural History in New York unveiled the world's only brocaded textile woven from spider silk. Simon Peers an art historian, textile expert and Madagascar resi-dent joined forces with Nicholas Godley, an American fashion designer and fellow Madagascar resident and attempted to make a fabric from banana spider's silk.

The process was tedious and quite humorous at times. They collected thousands of spiders and used 24 at a time. The 24 spiders were interconnected by a harness and would spin a single filament each, then the filaments would be wound into a thread and then onto a spool. Each spider could produce a single filament 400 feet long before it could produce no more. Once they had enough thread, from over 1 million spiders, they could in turn spin that into a yarn and start weaving. The designers estimate that it cost a half of a million dollars to produce this shawl, which they regard as a work of art more than an economically practicable textile.

Now deep in the storage vault at AMNH is where the shawl calls home. For more information on Secret Woods Nature center visit their website at: www.broward.org/Parks/SecretWoodsNatureCenter.org. Or for more information on the Spider Silk Shawl watch the youtube video: Rare Spider Silk on Exhibit at AMNH or go to www.nytimes.com.

-Courtney Reed

Along Came a SpiderOne of the best parts of living in South Florida is the vast array of wildlife that you see nearly every day just by walking from your apartment to your car. Whether its an iguana, raccoon or even a banana

spider the creatures that live in this environment are nothing short of amazing.

Say “I Do” to

Runway Fashions

Courtney Reed

Do youoftenwonderwhat towear to awedding?Youwantsomething original and striking but don’t want to spend your life savings on a dress that you only wear once. Fall in South Florida is the start of the rage we have come to know as wedding season. Depending on your social circle, whether it’s a classmate or a great Aunt, it is quite possible to attend a wedding nearly every weekend. Young or old, local or tourist, looking great on that day is crucial!Youcan’tdancetheElectricSlideinthesameoutfittwiceandrent-therunway.com is here to help you along with the planning process, from the faultless dress to the matching jewels renttherunway.com lets you access your dream wardrobe at 90% off retail value! While youmaynotbetheBrideorevenaBridesmaidthiswebsitehelpstakeyour own personal style in a direction never before thought possible.

Not everyone can rent from this website. First, you must become a member. No fear though, the process of signing up is simple and not to mentionFREE!Aftersigningupyouaredirect-ed to the website’s homepage where you pick the date, shipping zip code, size and event to better help you select that impeccable dress. Here you can screen the price, style and even body type to best fit you and your budget.

Once the dress is chosen you reserve the dates, at least two days before the event. Fit should not be a problem considering they send you a backup size, for free. If style hap-pens to be the issue a small fee, of $25, can be applied and you can select a sec-ond style to be sent for the same wedding.

For just $5 you can get insurance on the items, in case you happen to spill a little wine on the dress or lose a jewel from the bracelet. As if renttherunway.com doesn’t already give you enough for free, the re-turn of the dress is effortless and free too.

So if it’s what to wear to the next wedding that is keeping you awake at night, visit renttherunway.com and you will surely find the right fit for you. And if at that point you need extra advice, call one of their stylists at 1-800-509-0842. Don’t forget to invite your friends too;with each friend who joins, you get $20 to spend on the website.

Cheers!

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In Miami there are very few who really understand the craftsman-ship of Fashion, especially men’s high-end fashion. Patrick and Fabrice Tardieu are brothers from Haiti who created this magnifi-cent men’s line in 2004. The main conception of fash-ion is done to the men’s dress shirt. They have created a whole new spin of men’s dress shirt all the way to the buttons. There buttons have actually been pat-ented. They are square in shape and the button holes on placket are stitched on the bias, which is very unconventional. The cuffs are integrated with leather and sterling silver hardware. This shows how unique and special each garment is. The company’s flagship store is located in Cannes France, but the headquarters are in Miami. That is where all of their ideas are conjured up. They have had fashion shows all over theworldincludingNewYorkfashion week and Cannes. They have had products featured in almost all fashion publications including French Vogue. These two men have created a masterpiece and is now expanding their line. This year is there first year they have introduced their signature jackets to compliments thereimpeccableshirts.Theircollectionsalsoincludewomen’s,kidsandcasualwear.Bo-gosse found in their flagship and only in Niemen Marcus and Nordstrom. This upscale label hastwootherdivisionsincluding:BogossePrivé,andBogosseCommePapa.Thesearemoreupscale and more casual.

The Bogosse BrothersBy: Rachel Maidbrey

By:GinaMondesirWhether you’re a luxurious Leo or a sexy Scorpio, do you believe your personal style is determined by your astrologi-cal sign? Research has shown many of these Zodiac Divas do carry signature pieces in their closet based on their rising sign alone. Here are some tips to spot the trendy Zodiac Diva in you or someone else!

What’sYourZodiacStyle?

Traits: Lovable, Sincere, and Gener-ousColors:Ivory,Pink,LightBlueLibra’s ultimately likes to be balance so they reflect that in everything they do, especially when it comes to style. They always try to look their best and are very fashion-conscious. Libras have a feminine, romantic style and a love of all things luxurious.

Libra(September23-October 22)

Traits: Dynamic, Social, and Intui-tiveColors:DarkRed,Black,PurpleAlthough Scorpions love to attract attention, they also like to leave something to the imagination. They are attracted to rich intense colors, but mostly have a closet full of black clothing. A Scorpio like simple clothing that has a

little edge to it.

Scorpio(October23-Novemember21)

Traits:Experimental,Optimistic,and HonestColors:Indigo,Purple,RoyalBlueSagittarians appreciate one-of-kind pieces and there style is very eclectic. They love to experiment with different colors and styles. Most importantly they love to be

comfortable.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21)

Traits: Ambitious, Mature, and-Practical Colors:Black,DarkGray,Metallic,BrownCapricorns like simple pieces. This sign is not a huge fan of frills and fluff. The more tend to stick with a neutral color palette and love vintagewear.Everythingfromwardrobe to accessories has to solidify elegance.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Traits:Eccentric,Independent,andOpen-MindedColors:Violet,Turquoise,andBlueAquarians have a unique sense of style that is best describe as fashion futuristic. They are known to rock the latest fashion trends as long as it represents who they truly are. This sign also love to incorporate color into every outfit even if it’s a small pop!

Aquarius(January20-Febuary18)

Traits: Romantic, Imaginative, HelpfulColors: Sea Green, Indigo, Violet, BlackThis water sign are hopeless romantics that are attracted to the feminine flowy look. Pisces em-

brace creativity so they are always

looking for unique accessories or clothing. They are also a lover of shoes.

Pisces (February 19- March 20)

Traits:Energetic,Bold,Passionate,and PowerfulColors:Red,White,BlackAries are natural trendsetters. They are not afraid to experiment and wear bold pieces. They love casual basics and their accesso-ries maybe hats or anything that draws attention to the head and

face.

Traits: Hardworking, Resourceful, Lover of Luxurious Goods, and ReliableColor: Pink, Pastels, Light Green Taurus love high quality clothing with unique detailing, but they also love a sale. Lovers of the clas-sic look and you can easily spot a Taurus wearing anything that

highlights the neckline.

Aries (March 21-April 19) Taurus (April-20-May20) Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Cancer (June 21-July 21) Leo (July 22-August 22) Virgo(August23-September22)

Traits: Communicator, Adventur-ous, Intelligent, and CharmingColors:Magenta,Orange,YellowGems love fun and flirty pieces. Becausetheyhavetwoperson-alities, their style is funky and eclectic. They also like making a statement! The sky is the limit for people born under this sign

Traits: Patient, Creative, and Com-passionateColors: Silver, Pearl Whites, PastelsBecausetheirstyleisforeverchanging, Cancers dress according to their mood. They always have a well put together look so their clothes can tell a story. Cancers are big fans of vintage wear and

accessories.

Traits: Leader, Courageous, Spon-taneousColors:Gold,Yellow,OrangeLeos love to be the center of attention. They are very big on designernames.Boldjewelrythat makes a statement and a distinctive print are more in a Leo’s repertoire.

Traits: Organized, Thoughtful, and ObservantColors:DarkBrown,NavyBlue,CreamVirgos pay a lot of attention to detail and like to look as neat and polish as possible. They are into a classic timely piece even when wearing basics. Virgos are a fan of adding a little something extra to their outfits to make a statement.