Seven Newbies On The Runway.

FASHION | Collection Review | 2018

The top seven fashion trends from the 2018 Academy of Art graduate fashion show. 

our future.

Look to the younger generation, as they are our future leaders. Integrate them, stimulate them, they too have a voice. No longer will they be told to 'be quiet'.

organic shapes.

"Art is meant to be worn, not hung". Come into the light, where you are born to be. No longer fade into the norm of society. Stand out and claim your time. ​

With an exploration of contrasts, we look to recycled goods. Bringing outside goods and materials to the runway. Elevating the design aspect without relying on overpriced textiles, prints, and fabrics that plagues the fashion industry.

krazy for knitwear.

we are one.

We look to the future, and those we leave behind. In hopes to embrace a difference in the world to come. In hopes to no longer check an ethnicity box, but instead come together as one. From all over the world, the 2018 Academy of Art Graduate Fashion Show is home to collaborations. This cultural fusion unites us as one in our artistic communities. 

take it anywhere.

As the lines between womenswear and menswear continue to blur, so have the lines on silhouettes and cuts. 

screen printing.

Among all, the digital print and design collaborative fueled the spirit. ​A mix of inspiration and art that never shies away from the unexpected. 

Wilder, The Wandering Restless Soul.

FASHION | Featured Editorial | 2018

“Hustle beats talent, when talent doesn’t hustle”. ​

Welcome to Ditch Day! We are the ones your parents warned you about. WE ARE HERE TO FUCK SHIT UP! Younger generations are starting businesses & making opportunities for themselves. They are going to school to still not be hired at the end of the day. Skipping school, dropping out early, thus not continuing for a higher education because they rather join the industry and begin their careers. Education has now been pushed to the back-burner. 

The Miseducation Of Cameron Post.

FASHION | Film | 2018

The year 2017 was just the beginning for LGBTQ+ cinema, as 2018 suggest strides forward to equal sexual representation. ​

In 2018, explore and embrace LGBTQ+ as one of this year's must see and important LGBTQ+  films. The Miseducation of Cameron Post, is based on Emily Danforth's novel; a new feature from Desiree Akhaven, this must-see is refreshing with a focus on sexuality and female desire. Set in the early 90s, two young women, Chloe Grace Moretz and Sasha Lane, are caught having sex landing them in a gay conversion therapy centre.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post shall cause quite the commotion. ​

The Vraj.

FASHION | Editorial | 2018

Credits.

Photographer: Ross Deater
Wardrobe Stylist: Yenifer Ubiera
Makeup & Hair: Giusi Giunta
​Model: Emely Chang

FLUIDITY.

FASHION | Featured Editorial | 2018

Location : "Nap or Nothing" Indianapolis, Indiana
Creative Director: Courtney Wilkins
Co- Creative Director: Desiree Williams- Moulin
Photographer: Kuddy Outlaw
Model: Christa Stinson + Stephanie Scott
Stylists: Courtney Wilkins
Makeup: Desiree Williams- Moulin

Mad Max.

FASHION | Editorial | 2018

Creative Director: Daniela Santos
Photographer: Jen Lovely
Model: Dominique S. (LOOK)
Stylists: Daniela Santos

Trends For 2017 Resort Collection.

FASHION | Feature | 2017

Maria x Dior.

FASHION | Feature | 2016

Dior finally appoints a female Artistic Director. Although, we loved Raf Simon and the outlook and vintage chic look he brought to Dior.

Dior finally appoints a female Artistic Director. Formally a Co- Creative Director for Valentino, Maria Grazia Chiuri joined team Dior. Although, we loved Raf Simon and the outlook and vintage chic look he brought to Dior. Dior has been designer less since his resignation, thus leaving an opening that focused on women’s wear. Dior hoping for a new feminine touch, it’s about time a woman comes in and gives her aesthetic. Being the first woman in over seventy years, this will be Maria’s first solo design position. 

Beauty, The New New.

FASHION | Feature | 2016

Filter free is me.

Beauty has taken over the fashion industry. It’s all about contouring, fun hairstyles, colored eyebrows, and big lips. Society wants women to look flawless 24/7, no matter the time, day or place. 

It seems as though 2016 is all about team natural and embracing your beauty without alterations or enhancements. We all saw this campaign gracing the covers of magazines as well as blasted all over social media. Bare face and all with her hair thrown back in two pigtails, Keys states “I don’t want to cover up anymore”.

Alicia Keys launched a #MakeupFREE campaign, encouraging women to embrace their natural beauty. In a letter, Keys explains her inspiration for #MakeupFREE. Revealing her insecurities and scrutiny she faced in the music industry. Tired of the constant judgement of women, confronting stereotypes that have been placed on women. In media, women are told that being a normal size is not normal, and to be sexy means being naked.

Was Keys late on the team natural campaign, or just putting a face with the movement?

Act Like A Lady!

FASHION | Feature | 2016

Comb your hair, fix your makeup, and don’t forget to act like a lady.

Society has transformed the idea of beauty and how women are suppose to look. Whether it’s from everyday Botox parties, Kim Kardashian’s butt injections or live plastic surgery shown on new television show, BOTCHED. No matter the case it seems like women are getting put into a box when it comes to their beauty, and what is expected of them. When did having to look pretty become a full time job?  Whether women decide to embrace their big boobs, flat asses, extensions, or acne filled faces it seems like it’s a lose lose situation. Women’s beauty will forever be a double standard, especially when it comes to race, gender or ethnicity.

Tune into MTV new show LadyLike, where comedians from Girl Code, Nicole, Blaire and Jade, confront these gender cliches head on.

Top Trends Of Fall/Winter 2016.

Fashion | Collection Review | 2016

As the seasons change, so do trends. But, what happens when designers start integrating fashion from each season, as well as combining mens and womens fashion week? Trend seekers, followers, and activists are starting to realize that the dynamic of the fashion industry is evolving. We are no longer waiting for seasons to change, or designers to designate what is in or out. It is the driving market, the demand for more that is the power seat.

Seasons come and go and now trends are the same. It seems as though this Fall/ Winter 2016 our style will stay the same. Designers are giving consumers exactly what they desire, the wearability of all clothes during any season. Although it’s Fall/ Winter the color combinations are still bright, and we are now layering our summer wear with our winter wear. 

Fall/ Winter 2016 at New York Fashion Week is always fun to watch because it’s more than less what you will see everyday individuals on the street wearing. New York Fashion Week has become a powerhouse, allowing designers to fully understand their customer base. Even if that means restraining their creativity to create something more wearable for the “everyday woman”.

statement fur.

Fur is no fad, and is here to stay. Whether it is real fur or faux fur the use of bold colors, prints, and patchwork is keeping the trend of fur relevant. Fur can be found on the runway, streetwear and now replacing accessories. Fur accents have been added to trims, belts, and collars.

ruffles.

When we say ruffles, we aren’t talking about your stereotypical grandma ruffles. Ruffles have grown into much more than what you see on a old Victorian blouse. Ruffles have grown larger moving from the neckline to sleeves, and skirts. Designers are taking these extreme ruffles to new measures by creating asymmetrical ruffles. These over the top large proportions have taken center stage on the runway for their easy and fun wear-ability.

electric.

The last time we saw this much shine, was the disco era. However, the Fall 2016 showcased a strong collection of metallics, and golds. Yet, it was the liquid silver shine that captivated us. It has become the norm to see this metallic silver as gaudy. This play on silver has crossed over from gaudy to now a statement piece in one’s wardrobe.

turtlenecks.

Turtlenecks are becoming more so a staple. Turtlenecks are now allowing us to be able to wear our summer dresses during the fall. Slinky slips, low cut dresses can now be paired with a turtleneck underneath to be worn out once again. Who said we have to wait for summer to break out these iconic pieces?

laid-back plaid.

Plaid is not your typical plaid anymore, designers such as Calvin Klein and Victoria Beckham are taking a different approach. A clean, focused and muted design on plaid that can go with anything. It’s the mix of plaid on plaid that is keeping designers entertained.

pantsuits.

Ladies, say goodbye to the stereotypical suits with skirts. With Hilary Clinton paving the way, pantsuits are here to stay. Kendall Jenner was even spotted at fashion week wearing a slim fitted pantsuit. Pantsuits are not your typical business wear anymore, but now power suits in fashion with their slim fit, bold colors, slim and style.

goth glamour.

Who knew going goth could be so glamorous? This new refined goth makeup has been used by many designers in the Fall/Winter NYFW 2016, celebrating a mashup between glam and punk. The contemporary smokey eye, and dark matte lip  have made a comeback yet again. This Gothic Glam can give any look an edge, it’s no longer left for just night outings.

glitter.

What young girl didn’t play in glitter? Taking girls back to their younger days, designers are integrating glitter into the beauty makeup of Fall/ Winter 2016. It all started with glittery eye shadow, then led to multi-colored eyebrows. Yet, it was Marc Jacob’s painted finger waves brought glitter back on the scene. A touch of sparkle can make any girl shine.

Top 10 Fashion Ads For Spring 2016.

FASHION | Feature | 2016

The top ten fashion advertisements for Summer/ Spring 2016.

Writtenafterwards Fall 2016 Collection.

Fashion | Collection Review | 2016

Do you remember the book Goosebumps, and reading about the different creatures that would come to life?

WrittenAfterwards fall 2016 collection was like a story. Each piece of the collection was a page torn out of a story book. Elaborate garments and accessories told a different story, from a guy model wearing an oversized wool trench coat while holding a lamb to a models featuring face applications of a animals, monsters or mythological creatures. Yoshikazu Yamagata brought the creative storytelling back to fashion collections. Leaving his audience wanting to know more; wanting individuals curious about the backstory of his collection.

Yamagata definitely shook things with a theatrical show that will be remembered. Yamagata Fall 2016 collection featured monsters, couture, mixed with a Japanese aspect featuring traditional kimonos and fabrics. Yamagata is known for his artistic statements whether its highlighted on society, culture or the environment.

This collection featured an inspirational mix that ended with garments accessorized in of mangled stuffed toys to colored feathers or an elaborate mask covering models faces. Lately designers have been utilizing models’ faces in the collection. We’ve seen excessive piercing and even the covering of their faces. Yet, Yamagata gave us more than a model, he gave us fantasy. Creatures of the night and hybrid animals walk the stage now. Models lurking, and staggering down the runway to embody their inner monster. Many models wore zombie inspired clothing with halloween masks and makeup. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson played the end of the collection as the audience exited the building.

​Yamagata’s Fall 2016 collection was refreshing, bringing back the aspect of fantasy and story to fashion shows.

Self- Portrait Spring/Summer 2016 Collection.

FASHION | Collection Review | 2015

New designer Han Chong showed his first collection, Self- Portrait, at New York Fashion Week RTW Spring 2016. It was not only his first collection, but his first time showing at NYFW. Although his models didn't strut down the runway, he found a creative way to showcase his collection. Chong introduced an intimate setting by staging his models in different places amongst the bleached white interior decoration. Chong introduced his line in a presentation setting, essentially his own take on a fashion editorial. Each model strategically posing throughout the abandoned mansion. If you look closely up you will notice props such as: books, statues, chairs, tables and even a baby carriage. There were a total of 120 pieces used in the backdrop, all painted white to look as a 3-D puzzle.

Chong found inspiration from the city itself. His collection promoted the edgy, and directional fashion forward designs, that can be found in New York. Chong’s collection read edgy, sporty chic, with a bit of Victorian mixed in. An abundance of ruffles, emphasized shoulders revived the Victorian era in the designs. Chong focused on simple, clean and modern. Detailing his collection with brocade, contrasting vibrant colors and in house fabrics. The rawness from the installation, showcased the variety of color used in the collection. With clashing colors and textures, made for a very loud statement spring collection. Dresses are a signature look for Chong, designed with lace, sheer fabrics, and waist- pinching silhouettes. Its simplicity showed in the slip dresses paired with lace. The vibrant colors used for the slips, would echo through the lace giving his designs dimension. Chong kept his fashion line clean and modern. Self- Portrait was new to NYFW, and they left one hell of a lasting expression.

Finally, a new designer who is provoking us to think outside the box! We barely see new designers showcasing during New York Fashion week.  With it being their first showcase, a lot is on stake. It can either be a hit or a miss, really. All you can do is cross your fingers and hope that all your hard work, time, and money is worth it in the end. It is very rare to see new designers, especially because it can be challenging for them to get their foot in the door during NYFW. As its appear at NYFW along with the industry veterans, they hope the reckinition will all be worth it in the end. 

Han Chong introduced his audience to his style and he will be back! Chong showed that newcomers do have a chance. That even in a sea of big name fashion designers, you come across a brand new talent that blows your mind.

Rosie Assoulin Spring/Summer 2016 Collection.

FASHION | Collection Review | 2015

Assoulin knows exactly what her clientele looks for in garments. Many individuals falling in love with her use of cottons, vivid colors and modern volumes.

New York - born Rosie Assoulin has had one of the most rapid career to take off in the fashion industry. The designer has a very likeable energy, unique fashion, celebrity endorsements and affiliation with the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America). Assoulin knows exactly what her clientele looks for in garments. Many individuals falling in love with her use of cottons, vivid colors and modern volumes. 

This season Assoulin’s 2016 Spring/ Summer 2016 collection was a tribute to summer classics. Assoulin’s Spring 2016 Inspiration is the nineties and seventies mash up. Her spring lineup channeled the playfulness, complete with mermaid mesh, rainbow colored separates perfect for a presentation hosted in an emptied pool.

Water conservation is at all times high. Taking advantage of the movement, Rosie Assoulin presented her Spring/ Summer 2016 collection in a vacant swimming pool in the West Village. Just don’t expect any swimsuits! For upcoming season Rosie Assoulin hidden under the collection was the inspiration of bathing suits. Each garment featured characteristics or elements of a bathing suit. Assoulin’s focus was on the reconstruction of casual wear: bikinis, underwear and pajamas. 

Assoulin, this season, traded in her dramatic over-sized gowns to instead focus on casual wear. The underwear were boxers that had been sewn into the twill straight- legged pants. The swimsuit style offered Assoulin an opportunity to use the triangular tops as daywear. The candy- colored bikini kept the pool theme vibrant in the collection. Assoulin took the vibrant colors of pool toys and translated them into bright colors.

Assoulin’s included structured gowns, and formal tops paired with long skirts, and wide legged pants. Varied from overalls to dramatic gowns with hints of swimwear. Fun triangular shapes were used in the bodice of the garments. As well as, bikini bottom ties used as an embellishment in cocktail dresses, and trousers. 

A triangle top paired with a button- down shirt, were clearly inspired by the bikini. It’s evident Assoulin was impressed by the more delicate elements, such as the snaps, and Swarovski crystals. Snaps used on the one shoulder pink frock turned it into a shape shift; a must have for city dwellers. It’s back to the versatility of fabrics and the creative use of sewing machines that speak through this collection. The vibrant colors in the collection, were icing on the cake.

Yeezy Spring/Summer 2016 Collection.

FASHION | Collection Review | 2015

Thank Gawd this collection wasn't as questionable as last time. I know, I'm not the only one that was worried what Kanye West was going to showcase.

Especially since his earlier collections were severely criticized and ridiculed on social media and by the New York Times and others.  His 'designs' are derivative and egotistic, was the general social media comment. Yes…like the Kardashians… he has millions, many millions of followers. But, that means a lot of people find him compelling, no doubt. Although, it does not make the fashion valid or original or even a statement. Yes, Kanye we get it; you're an artist and think differently than everyone else.

There was no grand stage used this time to present the Yeezy Spring 2016 Ready to Wear Collection. Of course, ears were buzzing once they found out the infamous “YESUS” will be showcasing another collection. West presented the second season collaboration with Adidas through a performance with Vanessa Beecroft. 

Surprising fashion media with a last minute showing, West unveiled another lineup of monochromatic hues. Imitating the outspoken artist’s own wardrobe. West confirmed the show the same day as his invitations went out.

The same military metaphor was used the presentation, using drill sergeants to call our formations. Blondes started the runway show, all lined up to march down the runway to pose for pictures. Yeezy's models were grouped in small units by skin tone, all matching in monochromatic clothing. The clothes varied between neutral colors: beige, taupe, brown, and black. It was compelling to watch as the shade of the model, clothing and hair all got darker until the last item of clothing came out.. Although there were few models, the clothing was still there. Each look consisted of multiple pieces, such as: baggy sweatpants, dyed shorts, nude bodysuits, parkas, hoodies, leggings, and bras. All given the over- dyed and broken in fabrics.The style was very sporty, and a bit worn made of soft cotton and canvas.  There was a clear influence by the Japanese workwear stated in the silhouette. Styled to feature the main look, which consists of just a sweatshirt. The Yeezy brand is consistent with unisex sweatshirts, leggings, outerwear, and boots as the backbone of the collection. West has an aesthetic and he’s sticking to it.

All the model return to the stage to West’s new song about love being fate, while one of the models chain- smoked cigarettes. Each model aligned from front to back or you might say white to black.Duh, Kanye has an underlying meaning behind his collection. It would be unlike him, to not have one. Racial injustice has been headlining all media, in just the past year. It’s clear that West is a designer in the fashion life, that is not going anywhere soon. He is an influential designer, no one counting page views or sneaker sales can complain. West’s “Star Power” is strong within the community, and its evident.

The Dirty Truth About Retail.

FASHION | Film | 2015

It's about time light is shined on the truth in working retail. Unless you have worked in the retail/fashion industry you might not understand the struggle and scarifies made to please day to day customers. One might think working retail is an easy relaxed job position, but there's so much more to retail than folding clothes. 

Dark Twisted Fantasy.

FASHION | Editorial | 2015

Photographer: Desiree Williams- Moulin
Model: India, Stephanie, Christina + Imani
Stylists: Courtney Wilkins + Bria Covington
Makeup: Desiree Williams- Moulin
Hair: Bria Covington

Fashion Film.

FASHION | Film | 2015

Directed by Matthew Frost and starring Lizzy Caplan, Fashion Film is a thing of beauty, capturing the simplicity of art, and performance.  This short fashion film embodies who Caplan is, with her quirky objects, 1960s bands, and vintage paperbacks. Caplan's parody of fashion films debuts Vena Cava's newest, more afforadble line Viva Vena. This artsy fashion film turns hilarious a the end, when she is interrupted mid-thought. With a little help from Caplan, Vena Cava has shed light on the absurdity that comes from fashion films. Fashion films typically star dream girl idols, as well as brands. ​Who do you know that walks around in a backyard in heels? 

Fashion Is.

FASHION | Film | 2015

What is Fashion? In this fun and sexy short fashion film by Baruca, models try on and take off their clothes. Located in a fitting rom, the film is played backwards which makes it intriguing to watch, ending in a pillow fight between the models. 

The Art Of Dressing.

FASHION | Film | 2015

Beauty is found in the simplest things. We take a lot for granted without realizing it, until someone of course reminds us. We are accustomed to bigger and better. But there was a time when the simplest things, held so much beauty. Whether it be in fashion, film, technology… anything. Maybe that is why history repeats itself, and you find yourself longing for a simpler time. The Art of Dressing, is just that. A hand-made, simple film that takes you back to the basics. Appreciating what once was. The traditional animation of a simple woman getting dressed grabs your attention with simplicity and technique, art.

Treasure Island.

FASHION | Editorial | 2015

Location: Treasure Island, San Francisco California
Photographer: Danielle Rueda
Model: Jamie at Exalt Models
Stylists: (floral suit) Bibiana Pina, (tulle vest) Lily Ketabi, (denim dress) Sophia Charles.
Hair + Makeup: Hedy Lavinsky

Fall Leaves.

FASHION | Editorial | 2015

Location: Academy of Art University, San Francisco California
Photographer: Nick Gutierrez
Model: Sydney Wokek @ JE Models
Stylists: Courtney Wilkins, Sonya Sun + Denysse Montano
Hair & Makeup: Victoria Boggiano