WBM/AUTR: Fashion -Vol. 1 - February 2013

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NOLCHA FASHION WEEK

100% NY: Is Daniel Silverstein

NBC’s Next Fashion

Star?

Volu

me 1

Febru

ary

2013

THROUGH THE

LOOKING GLASS: Photographers Shannon

Jankula and Jahmar Amani

Aries of MACRAMADE™

June Sohn Lauren Luna

Janeisha John Mikailee Alton

CLAIRE THOMPSON’S Watercolor Impressions

+

FA

SH

ION

FEATURING

…and more!

WBM / AUTR

www.areyouthereason.com

Volume 1 February 2013

EDITORS

DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jahmar Amani / Shannon Jankula

/ David Berg / Michael Soler /

Peter Roessler / Chris Mugin

NOLCHA Fashion Week

WRITERS / INTERVIEWERS

A. L. Roberts

Lital Khaikin

Samantha Harlow

Production Management A. L. Roberts

Lital Khaikin Features Editor

Design Direction and Editing A. L. Roberts

Lital Khaikin

Why Blue Matters is an inspirational and aspirational platform that provides a look as well as a sound for those in pursuit of their goals and dreams.

Why WBM?

In 2009, we were inspired to do something very amazing. Our mission: Identify those not only in pursuit of their aspirations, but those who had the vision, patience, and determination to turn their aspirations into something tangible. The result: The discovery of individuals and organizations who would become hue-man interest pieces while giving new significance to the color blue.

Stories were told. Hundreds of them, about people from all around the world. People all striving for the same thing– to have their impact felt and their efforts acknowledged. So as a means of inspiration, we curate stories about those who personify creativity and resilience while etching into time new legacies to share.

WHY

BLUE

MATTERS

CO

NTR

IBU

TO

RS -

02/1

3

Jahmar Amani

Fearless photographer. Lover of life. Dreamchaser. Jah-mar Amani sees the world beautifully while chronicling fashion and style through his works.

Lital Khaikin

Lital Khaikin is a freelance writer and artist. Through her professional projects, she generates leads and establish-es networks among emerg-ing talent. She writes about music, film, design and visual arts.

Samantha Harlow

Entreprenuer, community activ-ist, lover of all things art, Saman-tha Harlow is the CEO of RevoLu-cian Marketing & Management Consulting, LLC and Founder and President of the non-profit organisation L.A.S.H. Entertain-ment, Inc. Determined to make a difference through the creative, Samantha is poised to leave her mark on the world.

A.L. Roberts

Aficionado of storytelling, crea-tivity and all things inspiring and motivational, A.L. Roberts has an amazing way of look-ing at the world. Combine that with a knack to leverage niche markets and social media , he is a force when it comes to content distribution.

WE HAVE OUR REASONS. ARE YOU ONE OF THEM?

T

AB

LE

OF C

ON

TEN

TS

KERRY BANNIGAN

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

MIKAILEE ALTON

JUNE SOHN

MACRAMADE

100% NY

LAUREN LUNA

NOLCHA FASHION WEEK

FASHION DESIGN

ALINA FAYER

CLAIRE THOMPSON

SHANNON JANKULA

JAHMAR AMANI

KENNY WILLIAMSON

JANEISHA JOHN

ROSALYN LOCKHART

ILLUSTRATION

MAKE-UP

PHOTOGRAPHY

MODELLING

LENA LEE

BLOGGING

KERRY BANNIGAN

NOLCHA

FASHION WEEK

LIGHTS. CAMERA. FASHION.

Kerry Bannigan's Nolcha Fashion Week provides a stellar way for

designers to showcase themselves to the world.

Written by A. L. ROBERTS

Has fashion always been an interest of yours?

I have always been interested in the creative arts and fashion became more of a prominent interest when I moved to NYC and became immersed in the business of fashion. I am very interested in the influence of fashion on the world, consumers and even more about the power of good that it can achieve within philanthropy.

Is there any designer whose collection you're looking forward to seeing?

I get excited by all the designers work and seeing it finally hit the runway after months of working together. I am intrigued to see Adolfo Sanchez and his continual growth each season. It is exciting to also see the return of Dany Tabet after his beautiful debut last season.

Your shows run seamlessly, what do you think contributes to things running so smoothly?

A fantastic team who understand organization, team work, helping where required, accountability and responsibility plus a tab of good humor and fun in there to get through the long hours. Plus the barrage of good food and beverages to keep up our energy from smartwater, FOCO Pure Coconut Water, 'wichcraft, KIND Snacks, PopChips and Zico backstage. Plus we all look forward to celebrating with our sponsors and clients post shows and always enjoying the latest cocktail from DON Q Rums and Cavoda Vodka.

“I AM VERY INTERESTED IN THE INFLUENCE OF FASHION ON THE WORLD.”

KERRY BANNIGAN

From season to season, how do you select designers to feature in your shows?

Although the creative aspect is important and the talent of the designer, we also select brands that are business ready to work with the retailers and media. We aim to be a launching pad for independent fashion brands and encourage them to grow their business with the exposure received; therefore, we seek sellable, scalable and reliable fashion brands.

What's next for Nolcha Fashion Week?

We will continue to strive to support independent fashion designers and aim to remain “as a hot incubator of new fashion design talent” as dubbed by Forbes recently.

KERRY BANNIGAN

WBM/AUTR

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

THE AMP3

ADVANTAGE

A.L RobertsWritten By: A.L. Roberts

Photography By: Peter Roessler

Having an event is one thing, but coordinating and executing gatherings successfully?Now that’s something reserved for a select few. It takes heart, vision, patience and most of all, a level

of passion to deliver not only for those in attendance, but also for the clients and their guests who rely on a remarkable experience. For six seasons, AMP3 PR has been the premiere lifestyle agency handling public relations and publicity for Nolcha Fashion Week, an award-winning

event held during New York Fashion Week for independent fashion designers. From each season to the next, Nolcha Fashion Week takes independent fashion to all-new heights. Nolcha Fashion Week keeps getting bigger and has recently been praised by Forbes Magazine for the amazing

platform they provide for emerging designers. Co-Founder of AMP3 PR, Alyson Campbell Roy, is not your typical publicist, and it’s her love for everything she does that gives her an advantage.

“I love that we get to set the tone for how fashion week goers first experience Nolcha Fashion Week. I most look forward to seeing a smile on everyone’s

face and giving people the most positive experience possible...”

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

What’s the best thing about running a boutique PR Firm? I absolutely love being self-employed. There is something exhilarating about being fully responsible and accountable for your own successes. It can be difficult at times, but the reward of seeing my projects come to fruition and delivering for my clients outweighs all of the stress. At AMP3 PR, our careers are a lifestyle and we have a lot of fun doing what we do. I am living out a dream I wrote down on paper as a kid; sometimes I seriously have to pinch myself.

What are the pros and cons of working during fashion week?

It’s a love/hate relationship. It can be dif-ficult working around the clock with little-to-no sleep, dealing with extremely high expectations, and trying to keep everyone involved happy: our clients, the designers, the sponsors, the media, and our guests. But in the end, there is nothing I love more than the fast-paced environment, the pure beauty of fashion, and helping my clients to achieve their goals and grow their businesses through the efforts of Fashion Week. I might complain all week long, but at the end of the day, I wouldn’t change a thing. How many Fashion Weeks have you worked together with Nolcha Fashion Week? This will be my 6th Season handling pub-licity for Nolcha Fashion Week: New York. It is an honor to be a part of their stellar

organization. Last season, they were dubbed the ‘hottest incubator for up & coming fashion designers’ by Forbes Magazine, and it’s true. I also admire their commitment to ethical fashion; they always have a sustainable or chari-table brand involved each season (usu-ally several), and it’s great to work for a brand that sees the power fashion has to make an impact.

If had the opportunity what Fashion Designer would you do PR for and why?

There are so many! But, I really love Nanette Lepore, Cynthia Steffe, and Re-becca Minkoff, for being accessible ready-to-wear designers that are within my

reach and that you will actually find in my closet. I own pieces by each of them, and I can shop their lines without breaking the bank (within reason, of course!). They produce clothes that fit with my lifestyle, like perfect shift dresses and handbags for the ‘PR girl’ wardrobe. I also really admire the work that Nanette Lepore does for the “Save The Garment Center” organization and the local fashion community, it’s so important.

What’s the biggest misconception about Public Relations?

That we’re all catty and/or mean! In TV & Film, Hollywood tends to paint publicists like these ruthless animals who will do

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

“I absolutely love being self-employed. There is something exhilarating about

being fully responsible and

accountable for your own

successes. ”

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

anything for the end goal. I firmly believe there is a way to be determined without sacrificing your integrity or the smile on your face. I take a lot of pride in the fact that many people will say to me, “Wow, you and your team are the nicest or most accommodating PR people we’ve dealt with this season.” Someone once called me the “Anti-PR, PR person,” because I break the stereotype, I am the antithesis of it. That’s awesome! Kindness, gratitude and validation go such a long way, no mat-ter who you are or what industry you’re in.

Leading up to Nolcha Fashion Week, how have days been coordinating its series of events?

It’s a trip. The months leading up to Feb-ruary and September Fashion Weeks are our busiest months at the agency, but it feels great to be in the midst of doing what we do best. There are lots of moving parts, and many unknowns. You have to stay nimble and open-minded. We’re in our element right now.

What about Nolcha Fashion Week are you looking forward to most? ACR: As the PR agency of record, we’re the gate keepers of the event. We send the

invites, we make the guest lists, we make the seating charts, and we grant the ac-cess to the event. I love that we get to set the tone for how fashion week goers first experience Nolcha Fashion Week. I most look forward to seeing a smile on eve-ryone’s face and giving people the most positive experience possible. Of course, we can’t wait to see what the designers bring this season either; it is an unbeliev-able line-up for Fall/Winter 2013!

“Kindness, gratitude and validation go such a long

way, no matter who you are or what industry

you’re in.”

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROY

MANDI GALLEGOS

SUCCESS BY

DESIGN


Photography: Nolcha Fashion Week

Somewhere between effort and work, there’s a description missing from the dictionary that accurately defines the meaning of success. Most think of it as a favorable outcome or an at-

tainment of goals, but in order to even reach that point one must endure. It’s the state of being that coerces individuals forward and provides many with the necessary experience to achieve anything the heart believes. Mandi Gallegos is the personification of her passion and her entry

into the fashion world with Mikailee Alton is one definition for the books.

“I love that we get to set the tone for how fashion week goers first experience Nolcha Fashion Week. I most look forward to seeing a smile on everyone’s

face and giving people the most positive experience possible...”

MANDI GALLEGOS

Behind the design, Mandi Gallegos is? I’m a 36 year old single mother from San Antonio, Texas with a wild dream to be a fashion designer. I feel like I have told this story numerous times, but telling this story has gotten easier to tell. It’s been hard, be-cause it’s what has pushed me this far and it’s a part of who I am as a person. In 2007, I got ill and went through chemotheraphy for a very uncommon disease called Central Nervous System Vasculitis. It was a tough hand I was dealt, but I prevailed. I prom-ised my family that if I made it through this ordeal, I would make them proud. So for the past five years, I have pushed my-self harder than I ever have to keep up with that promise. I did not know at the time what it was I was going to do with my life, I was 31 years old, a single mother and re-covering. One day, I was walking out of a doctors office when I came across a manne-quin displayed in a window. When I walked it, I came to find it was a design school. I took it as a sign and went back to school, I have never looked back nor regretted go-ing back. It was hard, because I worked full time from 8-5pm and then attended school from 6-11pm, but I was a determined woman and I think it’s paying off. Hard work always does, I am trying to teach that value to my sons... I believe it’s working.

Finish this statement. When I think about fashion, I think about...?

I think about making a statement. Fash-ion to me is an art form, it’s a wearable art form. I love how fashion can make you feel instantaneously different. It can make you feel amazing or change your

mood, good or bad. Its how we want oth-er to perceive us as individuals. Whether its alternative, hippie, retro and or ur-ban... it’s who we are, and fashion is all about that.

Where do you think your sense of style comes from?

I don’t know what style to categorize my design company as, honestly. I design whatever is in my head. I can only hope someone else likes it as their style. I am constantly evolving, so I can’t pinpoint what makes me unique from others, I just am. I don’t want to be labeled as Modern, Romantic, or even as an Avant Garde de-

signer, because I think fashion is limit-less!

Who is the Mikailee Alton woman?

I have a motto, I try to bring a unique blend of structure, nature and grace into every collection it’s only enhanced by the indi-vidual who wears it. Mikailee Alton can be any woman, if she loves the way she feels in my clothes; then I accomplished my goal with my company.

MANDI GALLEGOS

“Mikailee Alton can be any woman, if she loves the way she feels in my clothes; then I accomplished my goal with my

company.”

MANDI GALLEGOS

You’re featured in this year’s Nolcha Fash-ion Week. How did the opportunity come about? What’s funny about the day I heard about Nolcha, I was contemplating giv-ing up on my dream. I was frustrated and doubting myself. I felt like I was work-ing so hard, but felt under-appreciated. I don’t remember my exact words I typed in Google that day, but it was something like, “HOW TO GET INTO FASHION WEEK”.

I wanted something bigger than what I had done in the past, but didn’t know how to do it. So I researched every link that came up. I came across a site, then another, then a photo, and when it popped up, the descrip-

tion said Nolcha. When I clicked on its link, I saw designer application, so I took a leap of faith and sent it in that day. I uploaded every magazine I had been featured in, all the videos I had been apart of, and just about everything I could use to make my resume shine. I got word a 3 days later and, well, here I am.

Your work is fabulous. Did you anticipate things taking off this fast?

Thank you, I appreciate the compliment immensely. It’s funny that you say that to me, because I have worked so hard to be validated as a designer, that now when peo-ple give me a compliment, I kind of blush. In my head, I say “Are you sure?” HA! I don’t

think this can take off fast enough to an-swer your question, honestly. Since I have worked hard for a very long time, I asked for this. I feel a great sense of accomplish-ment, though I feel I have a longer road ahead. There is no slowing down or taking things too seriously, because there are no “breaks” with designing...Fashion is con-stantly evolving and so, my creative skills need to evolve too; the hard work is alwaysthere.

What else can the world expect from you this year?

Well, my spring 2014 collection is already in my head, so after this show with Nol-cha... it’s back to work.

MANDI GALLEGOS

“I have to love all materials I guess; if I limit myself to one kind, I feel it holds you back, so I try to work with everything. I would have to say Baby Silk is probably very high up on the “favorite” scale. I love the feeling of it against the skin.

It’s luxurious to me.”

ALYSON CAMPBELL ROYMANDI GALLEGOS

1MANDI GALLEGOS

“I want women to say Mikailee Alton designs

made them feel beautiful,

I can live with that!”

“I want women to say Mikailee Alton designs made them

feel beautiful, I can live with

that!”

MANDI GALLEGOS

JUNE SOHN

JUNGWON COLLECTION

JUNE SOHN

New York-based designer, June Sohn,

exhibits her sleek spring 2013

collection at Nolcha Fashion Week.

JUNE SOHN

Written by LITAL KHAIKIN

WBM/AUTR

MANIFESTING AN IMMACULATE MINIMALISM FOR THE CITY

REALIZING HER INSPIRATION IN TRADITIONAL KOREAN CLOTHING, JUNE SOHN TRANSFORMED A BASIC NECESSITY INTO A CREATIVE OUTLET.

The principle behind Korean-born designer June Sohn’s outerwear is a durability that is consciously integrated for a professional woman. This woman might be wearing a blouse of delicate chiffon, a cashmere cardigan, or a simple cotton t-shirt, but she doesn’t want to be concerned about the elements.

This February, June Wohn exhibited her designs at the celebrated Nolcha Fashion Week, and is setting up for an incredible year of developing her TANK CITI collection.

CLEANSED OF THE EXCESS, JUNE SOHN’S JUNGWON COLLECTION IS A FRESH ALTERNATIVE TO THE COMMITMENT OF ACCESSORY AND OBTRUSIVE SPORTSWEAR.

“There are always

trends; however I

get more inspired

by architecture

and nature during

my travels.”

JUNE SOHN

While you were a young sprout, who were some of your biggest inspirations, or perhaps some of your oddest heroes?

When I began studying fashion, I loved Balenciaga, Chanel, and Christian Lacroix because of their craftsmanship.

Can you share with us where you lived prior to living in New York City, and how ended up moving here?

I was born in Korea, and grew up there until I completed a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree. I then came to America to study at Parsons School of Design to complete my studies in fashion design.

What design projects have you worked on before starting the JUNGWON collection of outdoor wear?

I was working on TANK CITI—it is similar to JUNGWON, but the difference is that TANK CITI is breathable and more active outerwear. JUNGWON is breathable rainwear.

How did you come to be a designer?

When I was in elementary school, I use to go to boutique stores with my mother to get custom-made clothes (one piece). Since then, I wanted to be a designer. I guess I enjoyed wearing different clothes very much back then, and watching how the fabric was chosen, so I wanted to also enjoy this in creating my own clothes.

Tell us about the unique material you use for your outer-wear designs, and why you consider it so important.

I already mentioned little bit how fabric and trims are most important, because I prefer light fabric, and no lining… So to develop the fabric, it is a very important and long process. If you use great fabric, then the jacket will come out with a really nice drape. I prefer a clean look, so great trims make it unique. All fabrics are specially treated as a breathable, waterproof, and windproof membrane.

Tell us about your creative process, from researching to the final development of your clothing.

There are always trends; however I get more inspired by architecture and nature during my travels. Once I get inspiration from anything for one design, then it will grow into a few other design. But this idea has to fit into your lifestyle, which is practical, comfortable and easy. I always make a sample by myself until I have approved it entirely from pattern to the sewing.

How do you feel the reception has been towards your designs?

So far, a lot of people I know agree that it is “The one jacket you need in the city”.

What kind of person do you design for?

It’s for a New Yorker, but it’s good for all working women in the city who might be in professional position with a busy lifestyle.

What do you believe to be one

characteristic of your designs that allows

people to look and say, “That is a piece by

June Sohn”?

Very slim, clean, chic, and has basic

function. Another key function is that it is

very light and has no lining, which means

that one single fabric has it all.

You cited your inspiration as being the Korean Dooroomakee. Can you tell us about this?

It used to be a men’s overcoat in the Chosun Dynasty. These men were well educated and had a power which was not for all men. Later on, men and women both began to wear this coat with the reformation to wear simple clothes in 1884. It’s very comfortable and has clean look.

JUNE SOHN

What is the collection you will be showing at Nolcha Fashion Week?

It’s breathable and waterproof rainwear not for recreational purposes, but for the city.

Who have been some of the most inspirational designers for you?

Right now, I like Prada, and I used to love Helmut Lang and Jil Sander as well.

JUNE SOHN

WBM/AUTR

How do you hope to develop the

JUNGWON line in the future?

By working with women’s essential

items, and to have a retail store for

customers.

What are some upcoming projects or

events that we can look forward to

from you?

Annual runway shows and

developing more TANK CITI into

active outerwear.

Do you feel that there is a defining line

between the functional and the purely

expressive?

To me, it depends on its functional

work. Fashion’s bottom line should be

practical. By meeting basic functions

such as protection from nature’s

elements, protecting people’s

weaknesses and privacy, and giving

confidence at the same time, then it is

good design, I think.

JUNE SOHN

“By meeting basic functions such as

protection from nature’s elements,

protecting people’s weaknesses and

privacy, and giving confidence at the

same time, then it is good design…”

JUNE SOHN

MACRA MADE BY ARIES

Chris

Mun

gin

MADE TO BE

DIFFERENT


It would appear that style is the by-product of fashion, as choice enables the individual to select this and pick that for no reason other than what’s trending at any given time. A closer examination would suggest that anything picked has already been predefined for us at no fault of our own. On the other hand, suppose we could change the way we

fashion our lives. What if we could uniquely accent our individuality based on a purposeful way of choosing? What if that choice could redefine your style? For Aries, creator of MacraMade™, fashion is now something you can style, and choice never looked

so good.

“There are millions of designers worldwide, but it shouldn’t be all about the look. Look for inspiration and purpose behind the pieces you wear and that will give you more of a respect for the pieces and

brands you chose to support...”

MACRA MADE BY ARIES

What does it mean to be MacraMade™? To be MacraMade™ means to be different; to believe that fashion can go further than just how you look, but also help to inspire and change your life. There are millions of designers worldwide, but it shouldn’t be all about the look. Look for inspiration and purpose behind the pieces you wear, and that will give you more of a respect for the pieces and brands you chose to support. That’s what MacraMade™ is all about. How did your brand get its start?

I actually began learning how to make jew-elry when I was 13 because I always had a thing for jewelry, but specifically bracelets. After taking a break from jewelry for a few years, I decided to try my hand with the macramé style in 2011. I made a number of pieces that I would wear out to events and things, and people would take notice, and would ask if I could make some pieces for them. Throughout 2011, I had received so many requests, even from a few notable ce-lebrities like Big Tigger and Robin Thicke, that I decided in March of 2012 it was time to Brand myself and take things to another level. From that day, I’ve never looked back and its been an amazing journey so far. It’s a blessing to say the least. Your jewelry is amazing, what goes into the design?

Thank you! Each piece is designed with two main things in mind. First, of course, how the piece will look. I use only the highest quality gemstones and metals to ensure the highest quality product we can produce,

while each time trying to create a design that will catch the eye of anyone who happens to see it for the simple fact it’s like nothing they’ve seen before. The sec-ond thing that goes into the design are the stones’ properties. I practice healing and cleansing with gemstones. Each of the stones has its own energy and its own unique properties, such as Onyx which is good for helping one recover vitality af-ter being ill. That might be paired with Tiger’s Eye which helps with settling and soothing an upset stomach. Not only do these stones have complimentary heal-ing properties, but they’re both neutral colors so they compliment each other in both aspects of the design. This is the

thought process behind each of our sig-nature pieces and I believe that is one of the main things that sets us apart from other brands out there today.

Do you have a favorite design, or has that yet be created?

I would have to say that I don’t neces-sarily have a “favorite design” to date. I have a pretty large variety of styles and designs, and honestly I like all of them. I always told myself if I didn’t like it per-sonally, I wouldn’t put it out. I needed to be a fan of it first. I must say though that I am a HUGE fan of out new anniversary pieces releasing March 1st. They’re basic-

MACRA MADE BY ARIES

“I have a pretty large variety of styles and designs and honestly I like all of them. I

always told myself if I didn’t like it

personally, I wouldn’t put it out. I needed

to be a fan of it first.”

MACRA MADE BY ARIES

ally a combination of my signature leather style bracelets mixed with my signature MacraMade™ knotted gemstone bracelets. I haven’t really given them a name yet because they’re so different, but as soon as I come up with something, WBM will be the first to know.

What do you feel makes MacraMade™ unique?

I feel MacraMade™ by Aries is unique be-cause not only do we design custom pieces with purpose, we’re not afraid to push the bar when it comes to designing our pieces and taking things to the next level. I feel like we took our first step in making a name for ourselves as innovators when we

released our signature MacraMade™ knot-ted clasp-back bracelets spring of 2012, but with these new anniversary pieces, we’re really trying to change the game.

Fashion is very important here in NYC, how important is fashion to you? Fashion is very important to me. I’ve al-ways believed that how you look and how you dress when you go out into the world is one of the biggest ways of expressing to the world who you are. When you encoun-ter people in everyday life, the first thing they see and know of you is what you look like. The shirt you’re wearing, to the shoes on your feet, to the watch and other acces-sories you have on your person. Fashion

allows a stranger who doesn’t even know your name to know a little about who you are simply because of what you have on at the time, and I think that’s very powerful.

“Fashion is very important to me. I’ve always believed that how you look and how you dress when you go out into the world is one of the big-

gest ways of expressing to the world who you are. ”

MACRA MADE BY ARIES

INTERVIEWM<MMACRA MADE BY ARIES

Chris

Mun

gin

1 0 0 %

Challenging a Wasteful Industry and Taking on NBC’s Fashion Star with Daniel Silverstein and

Chris Anderson


Studio Photographs by JAHMAR AMANI

N Y

INSTIGATING SUSTAINABILITY WITH SEDUCTIVE STYLE

SHEER DRAPES, TEXTURAL SPINES, AND ROCOCO-INSPIRED

KNOTS COMPLETE THE CONSCIOUS DESIGN OF THIS

INNOVATIVE NEW YORK FASHION LINE.

THE UNDERCURRENT OF INSPIRATION RUNS

DEEP FOR NEW YORK DESIGNER DANIEL

SILVERSTEIN, OF 100% NY.

100% NY – DANIEL SILVERSTEIN & CHRIS ANDERSON

The designs are easily recognizable by their

confrontational cut-outs, swept with care,

elegance, and skill. The colors of 100% NY

alternately burst with fire-lit intensity and hover

in bashful tones of pastel.

“He had ideas for design that challenged industry norms, specifically those related to fabric waste.”

It is a critical challenge to create desirable clothing while eliminating material waste. Nearly 13.1 million tons of textiles are trashed every year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency of the U.S.A. Chris Anderson, brand manager for 100% NY, admits, “At 100% NY, we never shy away from thinking outside the box.” An innovative determination to overcome the challenges of consumer waste has infused the label with the sense of responsibility that is necessary to direct change.

With designer Daniel Silverstein appearing on NBC’s Fashion Star this March, we will certainly be seeing much more of this unique label. Establishing 100% NY has been an incredible reality for Daniel, as he says, “I get to wake up every day and do what I’ve always wanted to do. What’s not to love about that?” Of course, with all of the whimsy and eclecticism that comes out of the studio, where does the 100% NY team find their creative Muse?

100% NY IS SATURATED

WITH A PASSION FOR

ECOLOGICAL

RESPONSIBILITY AND

AUDACIOUS STYLE.


http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/textiles.htm

What is your favorite place in New York City and why?

DS: I love the Frick Museum on the Upper East Side. Not only does the preserved town home give you a feeling of New York City at a different time, but it has (in only a few rooms) one of the most impressive collections of western art. I especially love the Rococo room!

CA: Central Park…hands down! Not only does Central Park provide a great escape from the concrete jungle, it’s a visual feast of humanity, in other words… the people-watching is great! People come from all over the world to Central Park; they walk, they run, they dance, they skate, they sing, they shout...some even take a ride in the horse drawn carriages! I never know who or what I’m going to see but I’m always happy I wandered in.

What is the story behind how the company was founded?

After graduating with honors from NYC’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Daniel-- and anyone that has ever met him!-- knew that it was only a matter of time before he launched his own collection. He had ideas for design that challenged industry norms, specifically those related to fabric waste. Daniel had seen first-hand the piles of landfill-bound fabric that littered fashion factory floors. The thought that this practice was standard in factories around the world bugged the hell out of him. He knew it didn’t have to be this way. So, in 2010, shortly after graduation, Daniel launched 100% NY with the idea that great design doesn’t have to waste fabric.

If you were a fabric, what would you be and in what color/print?

DS: I would probably be a very intense brocade with a non-repeating jacquard. I am a non-linear thinker, so my print would probably never repeat!

CA: My favorite fabric right now is Repreve, a super comfortable fabric made from recycled plastic bottles. I have the 100% NY Libra black leggings that are made out of Repreve. Seriously, I can’t stop wearing them. I’m wearing them now. Hmmmm, so yes, I think I would like to be Repreve in black….ethical, comfortable and made for NYC!

Daniel Silverstein at 100% NY’s Brooklyn Studio.


“According

to industry

estimates,

15-20% of

fabric used

in creating a

garment is

wasted in

production.”

Forest Kilmer-Johnson (Intern at 100% NY) with Daniel Silverstein


Tell us about what makes your designs eco-friendly.

At 100% NY, we are one hundred percent committed to making clothes without wasting fabric. According to industry estimates, 15-20% of fabric used in creating a garment is wasted in production. These scraps add to already burdened landfills, and waste the resources used to produce the fabric in the first place. We do our best to keep it zero waste in the studio. When we can’t, only about 2% of the fabric is scrapped. Fortunately, we have a place for these scraps to go! Fellow designer Zaida Adriana Goveo Balmaseda of Balmaseda uses them in her beautiful knitted designs.

What are some of the major concerns that a designer has to deal with when creating “green” fashion?

The biggest challenge in creating “green” fashion is bumping up against pre-conceived notions about what ethically produced clothes are. Consumers have a hard time shaking the stereotype of eco fashion as nothing more than unattractive hemp skirts. Instead of fighting this stereotype with an “our green” is better than the “old green” discussion, we simply let our designs do the talking for us. If a customer likes the design, she’ll buy it whether it’s green or not. If she doesn’t, the fact that it’s green won’t make a whit of difference.

Tell us about one of the most inspiring places, buildings, people, or works of art that triggered in you a concept for your designs.

DS: Without a doubt the most inspiring place I have ever been to was Pompeii. I had an aha moment when I visited there in 2009. I was suddenly struck by how beautiful everything was despite the fact that everything was broken, damaged and destroyed. This eventually lead me to one of my main philosophies on design, ‘age is beauty; aged is beautiful’.

“Age is beauty;

aged is beautiful.”

100% NY Studio.

“ECO FASHION WILL

BECOME THE NORM WHEN

PRODUCING ETHICALLY IS

NO LONGER CONSIDERED

A SPECIAL WAY OF DOING

BUSINESS, BUT THE ONLY

WAY OF DOING BUSINESS.”

One of the unique elements of 100% NY designs is Daniel Silverstein’s draping technique. Tell us about this special feature.

When designing a 100% NY garment, the goal is to use all of the fabric in an aesthetically pleasing way. There’s no formula. Every piece creates new challenges. Daniel starts with an idea but never really knows until he starts draping how the piece will look. It’s exciting to see the beauty of the design revealed during this process.

“The commitment of these large companies to sustainability helps convince others that it’s an important part of doing business.”

Is Twitter to be believed, will Daniel be on NBC’s Fashion Star? What can we expect from this exciting project?

Yes, it’s true! Daniel will be on NBC’s Fashion Star beginning March 8th! Unfortunately, there’s not much Daniel can say…sworn to secrecy and all. But we can promise that regardless of the outcome, all will enjoy the Friday night dive into the challenge of creating brilliant fashion.

What do you believe has to happen for eco-friendly fashion to become the norm?

Eco fashion will become the norm when producing ethically is no longer considered a special way of doing business, but the only way of doing business. When asked why he produces an ethical collection, Daniel simply responds “why wouldn’t I?” If he can produce fashion women want to wear without wasting fabric, he thinks he should. It just makes sense. Hopefully, one day “eco-fashion” will be an outdated term once used to describe “fashion”!

What are some designer trends or technologies in sustainable fashion that you hope to see sticking around?

More major designers and retail outlets seem to be making ethical production a focus of their business. Companies such as Levis, Puma and H&M have put an ethical stake in the ground. Not only is this great for eco-fashion, it’s great for fashion in general. The commitment of these large companies to sustainability helps convince others that it’s an important part of doing business.

How do you feel the reception has been towards your designs?

We are thrilled with the response to the collection! We often hear “this is like nothing I’ve ever seen before!” We love that! We don’t want to design something that looks like a piece a woman already has in her closet. At our last trade show, a major vendor picked out our Lonika dress and said it was her favorite piece in the show. Major.

Whose collections are you most excited to see at New York Fashion Week or Nolcha Fashion Week?

Fashion Week is always an exciting time to be in NYC. Though the shows are captivating, it’s always great fun to hang out near Lincoln Center just to see what the fashionistas are wearing to the shows. Photographers come ready to snap photos of the most glamorous, brilliant and crazy outfits. We don’t have plans to attend any shows but, if we could, we would love to see Thom Browne, Dolce&Gabbana and Carolina Herrera.

Please tease us with an introduction to your Fall 2013 collection, and share with us how you’re preparing for the trade show in February.

DS: This collection is inspired by the idea of influence. We all begin as pure beings, but over time we become curious, doubtful and eventually our purity is lost. Influence can come in the form of an idea, a drug, a feeling, or a higher power, but as you see the colors progress through this collection you will see a loss of innocence, the effects of influence on the mind and body, and eventually a return to virtue. I hope to express that even though we are all different, we all have vices, we all share this journey in life, and though we strive for virtue, when innocence is lost we can never be the same again.


“I hope to express that even though we are all different, we all have vices, we all share this journey in life…”

Personal favorite 100% NY design?

DS: That’s funny! I get made fun of sometimes when I am working because every time I finish a new design, I have a bad habit of saying, “I think this is my favorite thing I have ever made.” So to answer your question, whatever I just finished.

CA: So tough to choose, as each design resonates with me for different reasons. However, if I had to choose one, it would be the Spine dress from our first capsule collection in the summer of 2010. The Spine dress is iconic in my eyes as it was the piece that introduced our signature spine detail. It’s a dream to wear too.

What do you believe makes a particular item of

clothing beautiful?

When it makes the person wearing it feel beautiful.

What is your proudest accomplishment with the 100% NY brand thus far?

DS: In general, when I have an opportunity to update my resume, I am always so pleased that the story is moving forward. I have accomplished a few things that I am truly proud of: dressing Jennifer Hudson, showing my collection to an editor from Vogue Magazine, selling my pieces on Shopbop.com and becoming a part of NBC’s Fashion Star as the youngest competitor ever to be on the show. But, the proudest accomplishment of all is that when I rattle off a list of things I have done with the brand, I am talking about my real life! I have to pinch myself sometimes and remind myself that it is all true.

“I am always so pleased that the story is moving forward. I have accomplished a few things that I am truly proud of…”

WBM/AUTR

SHOE DESIGNER & ARTIST

LAUREN

LUNA

LAUREN LUNA


She, of golden proportions…

LAUREN LUNA CRAFTS WITH CHIMERCAL VISION.

HER FIERY SPIRIT UNLEASHES DRAMATIC DESIGNS FIT FOR A

DREAMER. LAUREN IS A MULTI-TALENTED DESIGNER AND

PAINTER, NATURALLY PROWLING INTO THE PATH OF SUCCESS.

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Lauren Luna longed

for a place that would envelop her fierce creativity. In

2011, she discovered that home in Houston, Texas.

With Nolcha Fashion Week gracing the stages of New

York this February, the anticipation is building for

Lauren, who will be showcasing a breathtaking

collection at next fall’s show.

While she has built a confidence in her vision through

experience, it seems as though she has always been

brimming with an electric passion. As a painter, she

found further promise in a different medium—one

that women carefully select to bear them through the

routine of the day, or to place a stroke of finesse on a

special event.

Where does she find such inspiration to craft her

magic? No questions about it, Lauren Luna’s shoes

belong in the spotlight, lovingly hand-painted or

glimmering with dramatic spikes.

LAUREN LUNA

WBM/AUTR

THE TRUTH IS, LAUREN LUNA WILL OBLITERATE YOUR NOTION OF THE STATEMENT SHOE.

Who was a childhood hero for you?

She-Ra! I am a child of the 80’s, so She-Ra

ROCKED! She could do anything! I had these

barrettes that were gold with an iridescence

to them. I remember when I wore them, I

WAS She-Ra!

“I had these barrettes… when I wore them, I WAS She-Ra.”

What is the story behind how you came to

pursue painting and shoe design?

I’ve always been artistic. My earliest

memory of being artsy was when my

mother was working in her garden and

would dig up big clumps of clay. I would

run over and sculpt things out of the clay

she would unearth. My parents saw my

artistic nature very early. I don’t know if I

drew on walls as a toddler, but it wouldn’t

surprise me, because as a teenager I

painted on them.

The transition into shoe design is a short

tale. I just wanted a cool pair of sneakers.

I searched and searched, and nothing I

found was really expressive of me. A co-

worker knew of my search and suggested

that with my art background, I should

just design my own. So I did. And that, as

they say, is that.

Tell us about your design process.

I do research to find the colors of the

seasons, and also to find the trends, but I

really stick with what I like. For example,

this spring, graphic lines are back with

Pantone’s color of the year Emerald being

everyone’s main staple. So I’ll take those

guidelines and make something completely

Lauren Luna Ltd! Now, I can’t really be more

specific than that because my designs

haven’t been released yet, but you get the

idea.

Who have been some of the most

inspirational fashion designers for you?

Alexander McQueen has been highly

influential to me. I saw his exhibit at the Met

a few years back and it was unbelievable. My

favorite shoe designer of the moment is

Burak Uyan.

WBM: On that note, tell us about some of

your favourite artists, whether fashion-

related or otherwise.

Burak Uyan, Alexander McQueen, Pharell

Williams, Skrillex, Flux Pavilion, Above &

Beyond, Royksopp, and Liam Neilson.

LAUREN LUNA

What might be be an inspiring place, building,

person, or work of art that inspires you?

The Empire State Building. I’ve always been

really into the Art Nouveaux, Art Deco styles.

The organic shapes of the Art Nouveaux and

the lines of the Art Deco have always made me

a happy girl.

“Textures and metal are some of my favorite things to work with.”

Can you share with us a bit about your current

collections, or designs?

Right now, I am taking my designs back to their

beginnings, meaning that I am working with

just one base-model shoe and then painting

designs on it. I recently had a showing with a

few of my one-of-a-kind designs with featured

brass wire sewn onto the heel of a shoe, spikes

and chains, and of course what has become my

signature, rhinestones.

Are there any textiles, colors, or patterns from

anywhere around the world that you find to

be of particular inspiration for your

illustrations, or which just find especially

beautiful?

I love the jeweled tones of the traditional

Indian palette, but I also love the intense blues

and greens from the Mediterranean palette. I

dabble back and forth between the two, but

sometimes I find myself in my comfort zone of

Earth tones.

What is your motivation behind

designing couture footwear, in addition

to the basics?

I like to experiment. Sometimes, what I

design in my head can be too

complicated to actually come to reality.

But textures and metal are some of my

favorite things to work with.

Who would you love to see wearing a

piece from your collection?

Someone who can take my business to

the next level. I’m not picky!

What is your personal favorite design or

collection that you have released?

The Se7en Deadly Sins collection has

definitely been my most memorable. It was a

challenge first and foremost to even come up

with concepts for each of the seven sins, and

then to make them come to life was

challenge number two. Thankfully, I had a

great staff that worked with me to make it all

come to life. Lift your head up high / And scream out to the world / I know I am someone / And let the truth unfurl / No one can hurt you now / Because you know what's true / Yes, I believe in me / So you believe in you.

- Michael Jackson

Favourite lyrics?

LAUREN LUNA

Do you find yourself moved to create by

any particular music?

Absolutely. I need the tempo that is in

Trance. I’ve recently cheated on Trance

with Dubstep, but both have the upbeat

tempos that I like to create to. Sometimes,

you may even find me dancing around my

studio when the mood hits me. Honestly,

there is no other place I’d rather be than in

my studio with the music blasting and

myself, paintbrush in hand, getting down.

Well, maybe if you added a margarita to

the equation too, it might be that much

better…

“All of my shoes

have been

functional, though

I’m not sure where

you’d wear

something covered

in Christmas

candies…”

What are some upcoming projects or events that we

can look forward to from you?

I am in talks with NOLCHA fashion week for next fall. I

also have paired with singer Esnavi to have shoes in her

next video single on VH1 Soul. My company will have a

booth at the Ultimate Women’s Expo in Houston in

April, and there is so much more on the horizon.

LAUREN LUNA

What has been a memorable experience for you as a

designer?

The most memorable thing that has happened so far is

that people from far and wide are starting to gain

interest. When a person starts a business, it’s usually

just friends and family that support. It takes a while

for others outside of the immediate circle to notice,

and now that people have, I feel really great!

WBM/AUTR

THEALLURE OF

LENA

THE ALLURE OF LENA - LENA LEE

On the search to find beauty, one of-ten discovers self. For beauty blogger, Lena Lee, her chronicles allow you to

see the best sides of her.

Written By: A.L. Roberts

Lena, who is she?

Musician, New Yorker, Beauty blogger, Lov-er and Procrastinator in life. I am a classi-cally trained singer who lives in New York. I play the piano and indulge the idea of making music in different genres like jazz.I have been running a small beauty blog called Lenallure for more than a year now.

What’s the best thing about being a beauty blogger?

I get to talk freely about the things I feel passionate about on my blog, which is pret-ty exciting already. However, I never im-agined I would be able to connect with so many wonderful people with the same in-terests by doing so. And that connections vine on even further. Having this interview with WBM is an example.

Have you ever been to NY Fashion Week?

Yes. Just once. I was lucky enough to be invited to the Michael Kors event at the Lincoln Center in last fall.

Name one beauty product that you cannot live without.

I guess you are expecting me to name a lip-stick or a blush? But if I really have to pick just one, it would be a nice stable (and cos-metically elegant) Sunscreen. There are tons of products that claim to make you beautiful and younger, but a good sunscreen is about the only thing you can trust at this point (ac-cording to FDA).

beautiful in them. This is of course, some-thing I’ve come to realize after having tried other things and observed myself. Some-one tells you shouldn’t wear blue eyeshad-ows to work? You absolutely can if you know how to pick a right shade that com-pliments your eyes. Observe and under-stand yourself, then you will be able to find a beauty style that makes you stand out.

How do you complement your great look with fashion and accessories?

As much as I like girly feminine stuff, I am into simple things in fashion and accesso-ries. I guess I go by “Less is more”, as the great Coco Chanel said. I rarely wear neck-lace and earrings together. If I am wearing

all black, I try to accent the whole look with a colorful scarf or a purse. Makeup plays a very important role here as well. You will likely find me wearing a red lipstick with a taupe pull-over and my hair pulled back tight. Well-polished nails work like the jew-els. Sometimes passionate purple or satu-rated red is the only color you’d see in my outfit.

THE ALLURE OF LENA - LENA LEE

When you think of beauty what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

Being yourself. Being the most beautiful you.

So many people are trying to fit in, what advice would give to the individual who want to stand out?

Hmmm this is a tricky question. I believe this only can be achieved by understand-ing ourselves. It does not necessarily mean we have to wear eye-catching makeup or flashy clothes. I myself dress in monotones all the time maybe because I am a boring dresser or maybe because it brings out my light neutral complexion more and I feel

“Be(ing) yourself. Be(ing) the most

beautiful you.”

THESTYLE

SOCIALITE

THE STYLE SOCIALITE - ALINA FAYER

The standard is set—she is iconic in her own right. Whether as inspiration or en-couragement for others to follow their dreams, Alina Fayer is quite the role model. Dominating a space where statements made are in texture, pattern and color, her style says everything she needs it to. She creates opportunities that allow her to attend high-profile fashion events, inviting thousands around the world to view

and read her journeys as The Style Socialite.

“I wanted a name that described who I was as a person and what I strived to

achieve in fashion...”

Written By: A.L. Roberts


The Style Socialite,

who is she?

What’s the most exciting thing about NYFW?

Best thing about being

a fashion blogger?She’s everything I’ve aspired to be. Choosing the ideal name was obviously very important when I started my blog. I wanted a name that described who I was as a person and what I strived to achieve in fashion. As The Style So-cialite, I’m lucky to be invited to glamorous fashion shows, VIP soirees and live a sort of fantasy fashion life that I’ve always dreamed of growing up.

Everything! This season will be my 7th year at the tents. I feel like NYFW is like a fine fashion wine. It just gets better with every season. If I had to choose just one excit-ing thing, I would say that it’s the people that attend. You’re guaranteed to meet the most incredible fashion individuals inside the tents. Last season, one of my favorite people to meet was Vogue’s International Editor at Large, Hamish Bowles.

The opportunity to inspire people through fashion is probably my favorite thing about being a ‘fashion blogger’. The fame and no-toriety of it all gives me an elevated plat-form to do it. It’s such a gratifying feeling to be stopped by people you’ve never met and have them tell you that something you’ve written or worn really inspired them in their own life.


What’s your favorite moment in fashion history and why?

I’m probably biased when I say this, but my favorite moment in fashion history is when my alma mater, The Fashion Institute of Technology, was created in the 1940’s. As it’s done for countless others before me, F.I.T. quite literally opened the fashion doors for me. Its founder Mortimer C. Rit-ter, most notably said, “What we need is an MIT for the fashion industries.”

If you had to describe your style, what would

you say it is?

Where’s the best place

to find style?Pinterest! It’s become an invaluable tool to find interesting fashion content. It doesn’t necessar-ily dictate style trends, but rather inspires one to create their own. Some of my Pinterest boards include: inspiration for Fashion Week, lovely dresses, fabulous shoes and glamorous parties. Follow StyleSocialite on Pinterest to see what I’m personally inspired by!

My style is very Audrey Hepburn meets Daphne Guinness. I’m a mix of old Hol-lywood with an undertone of bold, un-expected edginess. I like putting looks together that tell a story and really evoke an emotion.

INTERVIEW

CLAIRE THOMPSON

With an extraordinary power to communicate feminine energy through color,

Claire Thompson is a fashion illustrator with a deeply moving story, embracing the whirlwind of New York.


Urgency often awakens in us an

innate courage and an immense

desire to realize our own truths.

A close brush with permanent loss of

eyesight liberated in Claire Thompson the

inspiration to create and share her

spirited paintings.

“I sort of had a love affair with color when I regained my eyesight, and

haven’t stopped painting since.”

At moments, her portfolio drips with striking

simplicity—the power of an individual piece

sketched into a feline pose or a particularly luscious

color. At other times, her intimate control of fine

detail exposes her fascination with couture. Every

stroke captures ecstatic movement between breaths,

or a coy meditation in vogue. Her vibrant pigments

bleed into instinctive representations of chiffon,

gauze, and silk.

Growing up in Ohio, Claire studied fashion design at

the University of Cincinnati. “I knew I always wanted

to live in NYC since I visited it for the first time when

I was 18,” she says, “I recently moved to New York a

few months ago in order to pursue my career as a

fashion illustrator.”

Through an extensive repertoire of creative

experience, Claire has been fine-tuning her skills in

fashion illustration and design, while also

experimenting in photography. During New York

Fashion Week, Claire was especially excited to sketch

at the Clover Canyon show, inspired by the

imaginative prints of the Los Angeles label. As for her

personal exhibitions, she reveals, “I will be doing a

few shows in Brooklyn this spring and summer.”

Claire recently had an exhibition at 92Y Tribeca.

CLAIRE THOMPSON

What is the story behind how you came to pursue fashion illustration?

I got into fashion illustration when I was living in the French Alps. I was recovering from eye

surgery and spent the majority of my time painting everything around me. From old castles,

to mountains and lakes, there was never a shortage of beautiful things to paint. Colors were

much more vibrant after my eye surgery, and so I took all of my inspiration and began

painting fashion illustrations. I sort of had a love affair with color when I regained my

eyesight, and haven’t stopped painting since. It wasn’t until recently I decided to take a leap

and pursue my passion fulltime. For a while, I treated it like a hobby, but when I found myself

spending all my free time illustrating, I quickly learned it was more than just a hobby.

How would compare the experience of illustrating ready-to-wear fashion to that

of couture?

Ready-to-wear fashion takes a little bit more time for me to create. I have to

constantly think about the consumer and what they would like to wear, how

they would like to feel in it, and where they would be wearing this outfit.

Couture is much more like art. I can be as provocative and eccentric as I’d like, as

long as I capture some sort of emotion or feeling.

“I can be as provocative and eccentric as I’d like, as long as I capture some sort of emotion or feeling.”

Tell us about your creative process, from

researching to the final illustration.

Both concentration and discipline are vital

in my creative process. I can’t even begin to

produce work unless I am completely

immersed in my art. I’ve done some of my

best work in my most vulnerable states, so

getting to that point is what will really let

me open up and be honest with my work. I

can find inspiration in anything, from the

melodies in a song, a texture on a piece of

metal; to the way someone is standing on

the street. My final illustration will embody

the essence of my inspiration, but I try to

never replicate it exactly. I’ll always push

myself to use my own interpretation.

WBM/AUTR CLAIRE THOMPSON

Do you find yourself moved to create by any

particular music?

Absolutely. Music is probably one of the biggest

inspirations for me. I can point to just about any of

my illustrations and will remember what song I was

listening to when I painted it. I also listen to a lot of

different types of music, indie, instrumental,

classical, mash-ups… they all create a very different

aesthetic and tone in my work.

“Anything that pushes boundaries and makes me look twice is something that really inspires me.”

Who have been some of the most inspirational

fashion designers for you?

I love the work of Ellie Saab and Gareth Pugh, but

for the most part, it’s the cut of a jacket or the

silhouette of a dress that inspires me most.

On that note, tell us about some of your favourite

artists, whether fashion-related or otherwise.

Anything that pushes boundaries and makes me

look twice is something that really inspires me, so

I can’t say there is a specific artist I pull

inspiration from. I’m really drawn to the colors

and movement in a lot of street art. I used to live

in San Francisco and would go on a lot of

photography trips throughout the city,

photographing as many murals as possible.

There’s something about the scale of the art that is

really impressive to me.

Do you draw on location at fashion shows?

Yes. I drew at several fashion shows last

September at New York Fashion Week, and will

be illustrating at a few in February. I also draw at

fashion events and preview shows.

Are there any textiles, colors, or

patterns from anywhere around the

world that you find to be of

particular inspiration for your

illustrations, or which just find

especially beautiful?

I love how delicate and ethereal

chiffon is, and I also like how

versatile leather can be. Combining

the two creates a very interesting

juxtaposition in my illustrations.

The colors from rusted metal

inspire me a lot, too. I can create

some really interesting patterns

and color combinations from it.

Tell us about one of the most

inspiring places, buildings, people,

or works of art that triggered in

you a concept for your designs.

I was really inspired by Lake

Annecy. I designed a wedding dress

inspired by the ripples in the lake

and ended up constructing it by

hand. There are few times I feel so

strongly about a design I sketch I

have to bring it to life. Sometimes

it’s just not enough to let it live as a

sketch on a sheet of paper.

What might be a signature style for

you that would make someone look

at your work and say “That was

drawn by Claire Thompson”?

I would love it if people considered

my work as elegant but provocative.

One thing that I do not include in

any of my illustrations are faces.

Rather, I try to evoke an emotion for

the viewer based on my illustrations’

body language. I don’t want a facial

expression to take away from the

mystery. I want viewers to imagine

the personality of the fashion

illustration themselves.

CLAIRE THOMPSON

“As an artist, seeing is

what feeds my passion

and allows me to

communicate with the

world.”

Do you feel that there is a defining

line between the functional and the

purely expressive?

No, I believe art and fashion go

hand-in-hand. Fashion is the most

intimate form of art. It is something

that touches our body every day

and represents our individuality.

While functionality is something

that usually trumps the purely

expressive, people will still find a

way to customize their style, even

if it’s as simple as choosing a color.

How do you hope to develop your

artistry, whether in technique or in

a personal approach?

I plan to work on several new large-

scale fashion illustrations on

canvas. I also want to dabble a little

bit in acrylics. I am always looking

for new collaborations with other

artists, too.

“I would love it if

people considered my

work as elegant but

provocative.”

WBM/AUTR

What has been a memorable experience for you in your journey as an illustrator?

Being told I had 5 days left before I’d be blind for the rest of my life was an experience that changed my life

forever. As an artist, seeing is what feeds my passion and allows me to communicate with the world. I spent

two weeks unable to see or paint after my surgery. The second I could see again I painted constantly, and

spent the rest of my recovery living in France. I took trains out to Switzerland to see eye doctors in order to

make sure my recovery was going ok. Looking back it was a huge risk I took going by myself. I was so

determined to live abroad that I wouldn’t let anything stop me. That experience really taught me the

importance of following my intuition, and to never let go of a dream.

CLAIRE THOMPSON

MAKE-UP ARTIST

ROSALYN

LOCKHART

She exudes a calming vibe and sparkling personality akin to the

Caribbean Sea...

With a passion for making things beautiful, make-up artist Rosalyn Lockhart views the

world as her inspiration and Fierce Phaces as her canvas.

Written by SAMANTHA HARLOW

Makeup: Rosalyn Lockhart

ROSALYN LOCKHART

Who is Rosalyn Lockhart?

Rosalyn Lockhart is a go-getter, dreamer, designer, makeup artist, friend, and superstar in the making.

Where are you from?

St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

What inspired you to become a make-up artist?

Being a Makeup Artist gives me freedom that I didn’t have as a Graphic artist. It’s not an easy job, but it is a very rewarding one. I meet people and go to places I never could have imagined. I get to know them on a personal level. I love the interaction most of all.

When did you know this was something you wanted to pursue?

I suppose from an early age, I knew that I wanted to be a Makeup Artist. Looking back now, I’d say I was about 8 or 9 years old. This was when I received my first copy of the book “Fine Beauty” by Makeup Artist, Sam Fine.

What does it mean to be a make-up artist in 2013?

It means hard work, entrepreneurship, staying focused, keeping up with current fashion and beauty trends, and networking (especially in LA).

ROSALYN LOCKHART

Who in the industry do you look up to as a model of how you want your career to pan out?

Nakeah Fuller, Kevyn Aucoin, Sam Fine.

You recently had your work featured in an ad campaign for Beats By Dre. Mind telling us a little about it?

It was a great opportunity to be able to work with such a huge international brand. The “Show Your Colour” campaign featured 10 contest winners from various parts of the globe.

How has being from the Virgin Islands influenced your craft?

Many of my clients (performers, actresses, etc.) are extremely anxious before their jobs. I’ve been told that I have a very “calming demeanour.” I think that my being an “islander” enables me to help them relax.

What are some of the things that inspire you?

I’m inspired by fashion, music, and old movies. I love seeing at different genres of makeup. There are so many subtleties that catch my eyes.

“It’s not an easy job, but it is a very rewarding one. I meet people and go to places I never could have imagined.”

WBM_AUTR

Why does what you do matter?

I make beautiful people GORGEOUS!

Define success.

Success means many different things: having healthy personal relationships, financial wealth, being in good physical health, accomplishing ones goals and being able to impact others positively because of your success. Those are a few things that say success to me.

What would you say is your biggest accomplishment thus far?

My biggest accomplishment was definitely uprooting my life from South Florida, relocating to LA, and doing all that I’ve done in just one year. It has truly been a whirlwind and a blessing.

What's one thing that many don't know about you?

Both of my parents have passed on.

What's next?

I can only go up from here.

Any advice for those looking to pursue their goals and dreams?

Focus, focus, focus! Have “tunnel vision,” plan ahead (mentally, physically and financially) and network. Work Smart, Not Hard.

Makeup: Rosalyn Lockhart

ROSALYN LOCKHART

JAHMAR AMANI

AT THE HEART OFPHOTOGRAPHY


With inspiration all around and imagination running just as fast as those whose chase dreams, photographer Jahmar Amani captures his own one photograaph at

a time.

“When I’m looking through my viewfinder my spi-der sense goes off. I know when that happens, to me is when I take my best photography. I don’t plan. I

just pick up my camera and feel...”

JAHMAR AMANI

Who is the man behind the camera? Jahmar Amani is someone who is fear-less. I’ve been raised by a single-mom who has instilled great morals in me and good beliefs. I’m someone who is driven. I’m a dreamchaser. I believe in this life we can achieve anything we want, and I plan to do just that. What is your camera of choice?

Right now, I shoot with a Canon 7D. What is the difference between a photog-rapher and someone who just takes pic-tures?

I think someone who calls him or herself a photographer is someone who has a gifted eye versus someone who just picks up a camera and simply shoots. I feel like a photographer has the understanding of anything from a silhouette to the compo-sition of a picture. I feel like a photogra-pher is someone who is fearless and has no limit to their craft or their creativ-ity. It’s all a matter of how one looks at things. It’s all a matter of having an eye (for it).

What goes through your mind right be-fore you hit the shutter?

To be honest, there isn’t anything that goes through my mind. It’s more of a feel-ing that I get. When I’m looking through my viewfinder my spider sense goes off. I know when that happens, to me is when I take my best photography. I don’t plan. I just pick up my camera and feel.

Is there anything that inspires you?

Everything. I get inspired in the mo-ment, and in each of those moments I try to capture them to the best of my ability.

Describe a typical photoshoot of yours?

Let’s say I’m shooting someone. I like to get a feel of my subject and really get a feel of their personality. By doing that, I like to bring out their personality in the pictures. I feel like a lot of that is connection, going back to that innate feeling that I was talking about.

What’s your favorite place to shoot?

I really love shooting in Miami, spe-cifically South Beach. The water. The beach. The sun. It’s just so beautiful. I just love the feeling of being there. I also love shooting in the streets of NYC. The sights. The sounds. It’s the style of all of the people that really captivates me.

JAHMAR AMANI

“I feel like there’s no wrong in

photography...”

JAHMAR AMANI

“I like to get a feel of my subject and really get a feel of their personality. By doing that, I like to

bring out their personality in the pictures.”

JAHMAR AMANI

INTERVIEWM<MJAHMAR AMANI

JAHMAR AMANI2 >>> FASHION

Model: Whitney Heleker

Hair: Melanie Charlton

Makeup & Photography: Shannon Jankula

SHANNON JANKULA

SHANNON

JANKULA

Self-taught photographer and make-

up artist Shannon Jankula crystallizes

glamor through her lens.

Written by A. L. ROBERTS

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER

WBM_AUTR

Model: Erica Mena

Makeup: Crystal MissMUA

Jewelry: Poparazzi

SHANNON JANKULA

Was photography something you envisioned yourself doing?

Creating art visually was something I've done since I was very young. I started out drawing portraits, then went to drawing on faces by doing makeup, and then to capturing people with a camera.

Think of the shoots that you've had in your career. Do you have a favorite moment?

My most fulfilling and rewarding moments have been shooting people with low self-esteem and who hate taking pictures, and having them walk away with some great pictures and feeling amazing about themselves.

Model: Destiny Sierra

SHANNON JANKULA

What's your biggest accomplishment?

Aside from shooting reality stars, Olympic medalists and pro athletes, having some of my worked featured on Vh1s Love and Hip Hop and being published in magazines...My biggest accomplishment is being a single mother with two little ones at home and being able to support myself and my family doing what I love to do.

What type of camera do you shoot with?

I was shooting with a Canon 60d, but just got a canon 5d mark II a few days ago and can't wait to shoot!

Do you remember the first picture you took? What was that of?

The first "real" shoot I did was of a model friend, Clara, we had a lot of fun, and I was able to get super funky and creative with the makeup and hair!

“T

he w

orld t

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ugh m

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yes

is a

n a

bst

ract

vie

w o

f

pola

rized p

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pectives…

”

SHANNON JANKULA

If you had to describe your style of photography, what would it be?

Although I shoot all types of photography from children to industry, my heart is in beauty, fashion, and editorials with a creative, artistic edge.

Model: Draya (“Basketball Wives LA”)

Hair & Headpiece: Haute Headz Hair

Makeup: Bianca Rich

Styling: Cloe

SHANNON JANKULA

Why is what you do so important?

Not only am I doing what I love, I am able to create art and make people happy when they see their reflection as I see it.

Model: Laura Jacobs

Hair & Makeup: Courtney Housner

Styling: Holly Larry

WBM_AUTR

What is the world like through your eyes? What do you see right before taking a picture?

The world through my eyes is a abstract view of polarized perspectives with a palette of different colored emotions.

Right before taking a picture, I see shadows and highlights, the way the light falls on the subject, and emotion.

Model: Ashley Hannemann

Makeup: Shannon Jankula

SHANNON JANKULA

Who's your favorite photographer?

Annie Leibovitz

Model: marine

Hair: Melanie Charlton

SHANNON JANKULA

Let’s say you have 5 shots left in your camera. Who do you take a picture of and why?

My children- because they are the reason I wake up and drive me towards my goals; they are the two loves of my life and couldn't be more beautiful.

My family- because they are also a big part of my life, especially my mother- she's my biggest support and cheerleader in everything I do!

People on Skid Row- because it is known to be such a dark place, I feel like I could find some type of beauty and light in the darkness hiding there, or help tell their story with a profound image.

A beach sunset- I spend a lot of time escaping reality at the beach—it's where I go and think. The colors and beauty of a sunset is one of my favorite things.

An artistic fashion/editorial shot- with hair, makeup, wardrobe, location: the works! Because it is my favorite thing to do!

Model: Ashley Hannemann

Makeup: Shannon Jankula

SHANNON JANKULA

Photographer: David Berg of Blackwood Imaging

JANEISHA

JOHN

“With determination, perseverance,

and a heart of gold, always believe you

can and will achieve.”


MODEL, ACTRESS, TV PERSONALITY

JANEISHA JOHN

WBM/AUTR

all of the elements that make the Caribbean unified, yet uniquely diverse, come together in Janeisha John.

Where are you from and how has it influenced your career?

Many don’t know, but I was actually born in Jersey, however I’ve lived on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands all my life-- since I was six months old actually. My mother is originally from Puerto Rico and my dad is from St. Lucia. So the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands, is my home, it’s what I know and what I represent. Representing my islands has given me the opportunity to compete in a national and international pageant arena (Miss Universe & Miss America) as well as giving me a chance to host various television shows to include Cross Caribbean Countdown on TEMPO Networks, who is ironically based in New Jersey (laughs). The Caribbean has given me culture, and the courage to be myself and to work towards any of my dreams. Overall, I’d say that my home has built me to be a strong fish in a small pond, who isn’t afraid to venture into larger waters.

With international appeal and strikingly exotic features,

How long have you been modeling and how did you get your start?

I started out modeling for fun around 8 years old at the C9 International Modeling Agency on St. Croix, which was led by Griselle Soto-Mitchell. I NEVER thought I would be actually be doing any kind of modeling years later, but I picked it up again shortly after competing for Miss America in 2008, and realized that I truly enjoyed it. So I started working on my own portfolio and have done a number of works with Caribbean/International designers, photographers, fashion shows, commercials and music videos. Being a television host and former beauty queen is more the titles that I bear, however, being a model on the side surely has its perks.

How would you describe your style, and is there any particular designer(s) and/or fashion house(s) that have influenced you?

My style is what I call Island chic! From bright colors, soft flowing fabrics and homemade shell jewelry to structured, edgy designs, crazy patterns, and spiky pumps/boots, I do a little bit of everything. It all depends on what I feel like that morning. So my look is very diverse, always evolving and somewhat trendy, in the sense that I love to try new things, but not just because it’s in style but because I randomly want to. I feel that fashion is not about how well you can imitate someone’s style; I feel that a true fashionista is one that can make something fashionable on their own accord and out of anything.

How would you describe the energy that Fashion Week brings to New York and the industry as a whole?

NYFW is always a rush! It’s like a wave of excitement just rolls through NY during that time. Everyone has on the hottest fashions, attends the hottest events. It’s as if everyone becomes walking canvasses displaying works of art, but through fashion. I think that NY breeds creativity and people have no inhibitions around NYFW, they just bring it! NYFW has become a staple for the city, when you think of NY you can’t help but think of Fashion Week.

What opportunities have the world of fashion opened up for you?

Well, the world of fashion has granted me some pretty unique opportunities like being the first and only Miss Virgin Islands to compete for both the Miss America and Miss Universe pageant. It has also allowed me to experience so much while living in NYC, from working with International and Caribbean designers in NYC like Karen De Freitas of Soka, Sandra Baquero, Sohung Designs, Roger Gary, Jamal Drummond of Ahmadz just to name a few… to being a Red Carpet Correspondent for NY Fashion Week for Mychael Knight of Project Runway and his Lost World Collection, where I got to interview the likes of actress/TV host Sherri Shepherd, Trina, Olivia, BBWLA Gloria and Laura Govan, Nicki Minaj’s hair stylist Terrance Davidson, and many more celebrities in attendance. These are just some of the experiences I’ve had, and though I feel that there is much more to come, I am extremely humbled to have experienced what I have thus far.

JANEISHA JOHN

Photographer: Michael Soler

Why does what you do matter?

What I do gives me a Voice. It’s my outlet to express myself creatively. I also think that what I do gives other young girls from the Caribbean with dreams of being on television, of modeling, of being a beauty queen, some inspiration and the ability to do it better. I see my story as a map or guide for them to use to learn from my mistakes and to grow from my accomplishments. Not to mention I get to represent my home, the US Virgin Islands. It’s a small place on the map but I think the more people like me continue to represent it in a positive light, the more exposure and appreciation others will have for those four small dots on the map.

Who is your favourite style icon?

Of course, as an island girl, I have to go with Rihanna. I love her style because she takes risks and isn’t afraid to be different. I like that she can go from simple, classy to grungy and wild. She’s colorful and vibrant one day then dark and risqué the next. It’s a fashion roller coaster with Rih-Rih.

Who is your dream designer to work with?

My dream designer would’ve been Alexander McQueen. The man was an absolute genius!! He had no boundaries, and I love that he took so many risks with his clothing. Though he is no longer with us today, he will always be a fashion icon that has influenced so many other designers in the industry. I know his designs will be remembered for generations to come.

JANEISHA JOHN

Photographer: David Berg of Blackwood Imaging

What advice can you give to those looking to pursue their dream?

Oh wow, I mean, I can write a book on advice, but I think that at the end of the day everyone should experience things for themselves, after all LIVING is the most important part of life. I will leave them with my favorite quote that I made up when I was like eight years old at my first pageant, it goes like this: “with determination, perseverance, and a heart of gold, always believe you can and will achieve”… that just means if you are determined and willing to keep trying hard enough for your dreams, and you have an honest and pure heart, then it might take longer than those that cut corners, but when you do make it, the feeling will be the most rewarding and well-deserved.

WBM/AUTR JANEISHA JOHN

Photographer: Rashad Martinez

“…though I feel that there is much more to come, I am extremely humbled to have experienced what I have thus far.”

Model and Comedian Skinny Kenny steps onto the scene with striking features and a wit to match.


KENNY

WILLIAMSON

KENNY WILLIAMSON

How long have you been modeling and how did you get your start?

I've been formally modeling for about 2-3 years. I got started whilst living in Japan. I was working in a very shady bar in Osaka a few years ago, and one of my customers was the Marketing Director of Uniqlo, and she asked me to model for her company. And that pretty much got me started.

How would you describe your style, and is there any particular designer(s) and/or fashion house(s) that have influenced you?

My style is ultra-modern. I'm not influenced by any "one" particular person. My style is influenced by all the people I've met in Japan. It's an amalgamation of what I've encountered in Osaka.

“My style is influenced by all the people I've meet in Japan. It's an amalgamation of what I've encountered in Osaka.”

KENNY WILLIAMSON

WBM_AUTR

KENNY WILLIAMSON

How would you describe the energy that Fashion Week brings to New York and the industry as a whole?

I'm still fairly new to New York, but the last fashion week brought a lot of outside energy. As models and fashion designers from all over the world descended upon the city. The mixing of so many ideas from all over the world is what makes New York such a great city.

Who is your favourite style icon?

I guess if I had a style icon it would be Prince. And that is just by chance. People often say I resemble Prince. So I guess subconsciously I'm getting cues from him.

Who is your dream designer to work with?

I don't really know many designers, as I don't really follow fashion. Maybe Alexander McQueen.

WBM_AUTR

KENNY WILLIAMSON

WE HAVE OUR REASONS. ARE YOU ONE?

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MATTERS HYBRID CREATIVE AGENCY & PUBLICATION

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WBM/AUTR: Fashion -Vol. 1 - February 2013

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Transcript of WBM/AUTR: Fashion -Vol. 1 - February 2013