Meet Lily FitzPatrick

Meet Lily FitzPatrick, the Santa Cruz native and Model, who proves to be a quintessential symbol of California style with her casual beach inspired ensembles.  Check out our interview below as we talk to Lily about how she got her start in modeling, her style, and some of her favorite beaches along California’s Central Coast.

What are you currently inspired by?

“When it comes to looks, I strive to be like Jennifer Aniston in seasons 4, 5, and 6 of Friends. However, I am heavily inspired by 70’s and 90’s fashion as well as photography. There is nothing quite like a crop top, ripped jeans, and the nostalgia of a polaroid photo.”

Tell us about your career as a model. How did you get started?

“Instagram was the key component in starting my modeling career. I used my Nikon camera and took tons of photos of myself in Brandy Melville clothing hoping that they would repost at least one to their page. Eventually, this Brandy Melville store in Italy posted one of my photos on their page and I was contacted by a Bay Area photographer who worked for PacSun at the time. She invited me and 3 other models to shoot some clothes for PacSun in San Francisco. After the photos were posted to PacSun’s Instagram, as well as hers, I had an influx of photographers who wanted to work with me. I was a freelance model for about half a year until I was scouted by an agency in San Francisco.”

What is your favorite thing to do when not working?

“I am moving away from Santa Cruz at the end of Summer, so when I am not working I try to hang out with my best friends and enjoy the area while I still can. I also enjoy exercising more than anything. If it’s a warm day out, I like to go to the beach and swim in the ocean or even surf if I have a wetsuit and board that I can borrow. On colder days, I like to hit the gym and lift weights.”

 What’s one of the most interesting shoots that you’ve done?

“Recently, I shot for Land’s End in Santa Cruz. That in itself was interesting because it’s not every day where there’s a professional shoot in Santa Cruz. It is also very easy to determine who is local and who is from out of town based on clothing. I felt super out of place in my hometown wearing a striped pink tee and teal blue 10 inch shorts. All in all though, I ate an entire pizza and had a great time and that is all that matters.”

Which five words would your friends use to describe you?

-Caring

-Spontaneous

-Intelligent

-Laid back

-Independent

What is your favorite healthy snack?

“I like eating raw spinach leaves, a lot actually. It sounds gross, and it totally was for me at first. I got used to the bitter, plain taste and I started to notice that my skin was healthier and that my vision slightly improved.”

Favorite beaches on the Central Coast of California?

“The beaches in Santa Cruz will always hold a special place in my heart. My favorite beach of all time is a beach off of Highway 1 in Pescadero. There is a large, grassy cliff on the other side of the beach that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. I climb up to the top every time I need time to think and be by myself for a while.”

How would you describe your personal style?

“My style is really laid back and beachy. There is never not a day where I am not wearing my flip flops. Even when it is raining, I wear flip flops. My outfits usually consist of crop tops, onesies, boot cut jeans, ripped boyfriend jeans, or high waisted shorts. There is not too much variety. The only time I have and ever will dress up is for a night out or for my work.”

 What are some places you’re dying to travel to?

“Bali, Indonesia is hands down my dream trip. I thrive in warm, tropical environments. I would also really enjoy going to the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finland and renting an igloo so that I can watch the Northern Lights.”

Where can we follow you?

“You can follow me on my Instagram (@lunalily_) and my Snapchat where I post the behind the scenes of my photoshoots as well as my daily life! (lilyelgatita).”

Photography by: Marli Allard

A Birthday Timepiece: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Hotel Byblos

Hotel Byblos has just recently celebrated their 50th anniversary in the coastal town of St. Tropez on the French Riviera, which highlighted a legendary birthday gift; an exclusive line of new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Summer Editions.  The celebration had many world-famous labels in attendance from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars to vintage champagne maker Dom Pérignon.  The exclusive Royal Oak Offshore Hotel Byblos collection pays homage to the 5-star hotel with a limited 70 examples, of which introduces 50 men’s watches and 20 women’s watches.

Hotel Byblos, which was inspired by Beirut’s Excelsior Hotel, began construction in 1965 and finished two years later in 1967.  Situated North of the Places des Lices and built with its own Provençal village, Hotel Byblos became a luxury resort second to none.  Hosting the most epic parties and world-class celebrations throughout the coastal town, the hotel made a name for itself as one of the finest in all of the French Riviera.  After two years, Hotel Byblos was obtained by Group Floirat as they proved its worth as “the” place to stay whether it be for the week or simply a single day to host social gatherings and other celebratory events.

The current Hotel Byblos and its Provençal village offers a 17,000 square metre venue along with ninety-one opulent guest rooms.  Not only does the 5-star hotel cater to the numerous elites and celebrities that make their way towards the French Riviera, but also the hotel itself has been known to serve as host to various luxury brands across the globe.  As a result of the close partnership between both CEO of Le Byblos Saint-Tropez Antoine Chevanne and Audemars Piguet CEO François-Henry Bennahmias for the last two years, the celebratory event was a raging success in commemorating the 50 years since Hotel Byblos was founded.  The collaboration has even become known as the “BAP”, pronounced as Be Happy or abbreviated as “Byblos Audemars Piguet” collection.

This collaboration created a long-lasting friendship and unveiled an outstanding outcome, in which brought together glory for both Hotel Byblos and Audemars Piguet.  “Antoine and I got on really well from the moment we met”, said François. “Not only is he a watch lover, but there was this instantaneous dynamic between the two of us with a similar vision of the future. We had to be a part of all this, you can’t miss Hotel Byblos turning 50 years young!”

The limited Summer Edition Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore collection that were designed to honor Hotel Byblos are set in two separate variations; a men’s model in 18kt pink gold and a women’s diamond-set piece in stainless steel.  The pink gold 44mm Royal Oak Offshore Hotel Byblos men’s edition includes an automatic chronograph 3126 calibre that is visible through the caseback.  In addition, both variants feature an identical caseback engraved with Hotel Byblos’s anniversary dates alongside its coat of arms portraying the legend of Byblos: the abduction of Europa at the hands of Zeus.

For more information visit:  Byblos-50th-Birthday

Myontec MBody: The First Smart Shorts on the Market

It is no wonder that in the world where the majority of young people never separate from their smartphones, mobile apps and technological innovations cooperate to provide athletes with infinite performance-support possibilities. Wearable devices, which together with specially-designed applications, track, monitor and measure our bodily parameters are all the rage right now. And for a good reason – they offer plenty of information that helps professional and amateur athletes to boost their performance and follow their progress.

An example of such a device are Myontec’s MBody tech shorts. Those who want something more than a simple activity tracker should consider investing in this piece of high tech. Myontec is recognized for MBody Pro, a line of wearables designed for professional athletes that monitor all the essential metrics which are related to particular sports. Their smart shorts include integrated textile sensors whose job is to monitor four major muscle groups (the quadriceps and hamstrings in both legs). They’re made of a special, UV-resistant elastic fabric that prevents fatigue by offering compression for muscle support and guarantees comfort thanks to the featured flat seam construction.

What do Myontec MBody shorts do? They monitor muscle balance (left/right and front/back), load, and ratio, as well as heart rate and cadence. All this data is fed to a special app, which users need to download on their mobile devices. The app then calculates the number of burned calories, together with the user’s speed and route – helping them to analyze their workout and improve it. The shorts offer real-time sports performance statistics that are relevant to any kind of sport.

Apart from muscle overload analysis, the smart wearable offers a range of training readiness options that are based on warm-up monitoring, sophisticated fatigue monitoring functionalities from the attached EMG, recovery & relaxation monitoring, technique feedback that aims to boost individual efficiency and balance, as well as a wide scope of analyses that help to prevent imbalance and injury.

What do athletes gain with MBody shorts? MBody tech gear collects and analyzes data in the training environment – and that’s a new way to monitor muscular performance. Feedback from the device shows what exactly is happening with muscles during training, how they behave under different conditions, and where the majority of muscle injuries occur.

All that real-time and post exercise analysis helps users to measure and analyze their performance with technique optimization in mind. Users can also gain a better control over the recovery process and detect problems in the muscular system (for instance, imbalances or deviations) before they begin to affect their performance.

Myontec sensor technology offers a complete performance analysis that brings plenty of value to training and coaching. The associated app allows users to see figures from past sessions and check their progress. They also gain access to the cloud-based Movescount service, where they can create training programs, maintain a training diary, and connect with other members of the MBody community.

While there are many wearables in 2017 that you should look forward to, if you are a sport-enthusiast, investing in Myontec MBody shorts may be the smartest move. Spoil yourself with this piece of super-luxurious yet super-practical equipment. The complete MBody setup is available now for €820 (about US$920).

Panerai’s New Oil-Free Lab-ID Timepiece

Panerai’s latest release is a technological marvel, as the new oil-free Lab-ID wristwatch not only offers a 50-year guarantee, but is also introduced as a 50-piece limited edition.  Officine Panerai’s CEO, Angelo Bonati, envisions this exceptional timepiece as a turning point for Panerai, yet alone the horology industry.  “The Lab-ID is the beginning of a whole program of advanced technology innovations for Panerai,” says Bonati, regarding the Lab-ID Luminor 1950 Car­botech 3 Days. “This is by far the most technically advanced watch we have ever made.”

Bonati says, “the Lab-ID is the first watch that has brought such an advanced usage of the new carbon technologies to watchmaking.”  The Lab-ID was, strictly speaking, developed based off other companies that had demonstrated the effectiveness of silicon components and diamond-like carbon (DLC) finishes in maintaining durable, low-in-friction solutions for pivotal points within a timepiece.  Panerai constructed Lab-ID with over 60 points of lubrication in the watch along DLC coating, and other carbon-based elements.

This new class of Panerai incorporates movement plates and bridges in low-friction carbon nanotube and tantalum carbide, consequently removing the want for jeweled pivots throughout the timepiece.  While the dial is covered with a blend of carbon nanotubes for an atramentous outcome, the Carbotech case is forged with carbon fibre laminated beside a refined hypoallergenic polymer.

Introducing an extraordinary yet extensive amount of technical features, the new Lab-ID proves that Panerai is an innovator that values advancement and technological breakthroughs just as much as their longstanding design heritage.  Bonati states “It has been our brand identity from the beginning to always continue looking forward in the world of innovation, while holding onto our roots in Italian design.”  The new Lab-ID is currently priced at $53,000.

For more information visit:  Panerai.com

Thomas Pink’s New High Summer Linen Collection

Founded in London in 1984, Thomas Pink has long stood as a world-famous modern British shirtmaker, and will continue as one of the top luxury shirtmakers for the years to come.  Thomas Pink has demonstrated this very principle with their new collaboration with Baird McNutt, an acclaimed Irish linen mill that possesses over a century of craftsmanship knowledge immersed in tradition and invaluable expertise.

Baird McNutt’s century in the fashion industry creating fine linen, coupled together with a contemporary approach towards design, has assisted Thomas Pink in creating an extraordinary collection for the elegant gentleman’s Summer wardrobe.  The new High Summer collection features an array of solid seasonal colors in mélange designs.  The relaxed classic fit as well as the semi cutaway collar turn these Summer-Ready shirts into the perfect blend between casual and business attire.

The renowned linen manufacturer uses traditional Irish techniques to create top of the line, premium materials.  The family business of Baird was first established in 1912, where, at the time, their primary output was linen handkerchiefs, but changed in the late 1960’s from producing handkerchiefs to constructing luxury apparel.  Around this time, the company was given a proposal from the McNutt family in Donegal offering design services.  This resulted in the creation of the current Irish Linen Baird McNutt label.

The founders of Thomas Pink, the Mullen brothers, got their inspiration from the 18th century tailor Mr. Pink, who was known far and wide as the originator of ‘hunting pink’ – referring towards the scarlet jackets that hunt staff wore.  Currently the renowned Thomas Pink label belongs to Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton or LVMH, which the luxury multinational conglomerate company acquired in 1999.

Offering business and casual shirting as well as Made T0 Order, PINK shirts are designed using traditional methods with exclusive materials from prominent mills throughout the globe.  Thomas Pink makes their shirts with hand-turned collars and comprised of up to 14 individual pieces. These shirts come in an assortment of options such as Classic, Slim, and Super Slim Fit, while the brand also (in addition to shirts) presents tailoring, knitwear, separates, and accessories.

Thomas Pink has over 100 stores worldwide and flagships located in London’s Jermyn Street, Rue Francois Premier, Paris and Madison Avenue, New York.  The new High Summer collection is currently available at Thomas Pink stores or on their online site: US.ThomasPink.com.

Huntsman’s Spring/Summer Ready-To-wear 2017 Collection

The English bespoke tailor, “Savile Row house of Huntsman” has just released their new Spring/Summer ready-to-wear 2017 Collection, which embodies the Huntsman bespoke tailoring with all around elegance and versatility for any occasion.  Designed by Creative Director and Head Cutter Campbell Carey, the collection provides the perfect wardrobe for the coming aestival days.

The collection, which was hand-tailored in England, showcases their trademarked one-button silhouette, cut in lightweight fabric joined together by a classic bespoke design along high-performance elements.  Noteworthy pieces of the new Huntsman collection include a 100% bamboo sports jacket fashioned with rare and tenable bamboo cloth, which offers a silky and breathable outline along a luxurious appearance.

Carey introduced an array of classic designs with a peerless focus on high-performing natural fibres for weekend wear and tailored apparel prominently featured in the collection.  With pieces such as the lightweight navy cashmere blazer, the new collection also features two sports coats in soft pure linen and a traditional shade of navy blue.  In addition, the new Huntsman shirt, made from 100% Egyptian handpicked cotton (woven in Italy and hand-dyed in Europe) was included in the collection as a result of a brilliant collaboration with Jermyn Street’s Turnbull & Asser.

The Spring/Summer 2017 collection was developed through skillful craftsmanship and an uncanny touch to detail that is fundamental to Huntsman’s bespoke tailoring.  And because of this, the new season ready-to-wear collection presents a diverse assortment of elegant, versatile, and durably made menswear to turn the seasons of warmer weather into a joyous time for the stylish gentleman.

Discover more details about Huntsman’s Spring/Summer ’17 Ready-To-Wear collection at huntsmansavilerow.com

City of Hope X Just Drew

On May 8th, the Plaza Hotel became the spot for a truly spectacular pairing – Sponsored by Aston Martin and Lancôme A Charity Fundraiser Luncheon/Fashion Show came to the city with the Cancer Research Organization “City of Hope” and a Fashion Show brought to you by one of the hottest up and coming women’s clothing designers, Andrew Warren of “Just Drew.”

Conducted by City of Hope East End Chapter in coordination with Jeanne Kaye League held its annual Spirit of Life luncheon and fashion show. Attended by nearly 500 guests the event assisted in raising vital funds for City of Hope’s cancer research, treatment and education programs.

Sophie Bickley (Left), Andrew Warren (Center), and Charlotte Bickley (Right)

The Incredibly talented personal style bloggers Sophie & Charlotte Bickley of Ying 2 My Yang covered the Fashion portion of the event which included an award ceremony for Andrew Warren, along with Danielle Bernstein, Founder of We Wore What who jointly received the Champion of Hope Award this year presented by Claudia Oshry of Girl With No Job.

Mr. Warren went to great lengths to help raise maximum awarness for City of Hope this year through bringing together the next generation of social influencers to donate their time and walk in the Just Drew Fashion Show, the outfits of which were sold with proceeds going to the City of Hope foundation.

Andrew Warren & Tiffany Trump

Andrew Warren is a visionary who externalizes every stunning piece of the Just Drew line to transform any woman into an “IT girl”.  From a young age growing up in New York, Andrew has always had an innate talent for fashion, as he was greatly influenced by his family’s legacy.  When he began down the road of fashion, he already possessed keen insight on what women want, stemming from various events he styled and dressed his friends and celebrities for.  With his uncanny ingenuity and extraordinary creativity, Andrew leads Just Drew towards the path of success as he continues onward developing innovative collections emanating from a vigorous and inventive perspective.  Check out our interview below as we discuss Fashion & Philanthropy with Andrew.

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Tell us more about your relationship with “City of Hope,” how did you first get involved with the organization?

Andrew Warren: “Lisa Kaye Fuld, the East End Chapter President reached out to me and explained that The City of Hope wanted to bring awareness about the importance of not only their organization, but being philanthropic in general to our generation. My grandfather passed away due to colon cancer before I ever had the chance to meet him, I learned at a very young age what it meant to be affected by cancer. The City of Hope is a massive organization that helps families and their loved ones treat, cope and learn about the disease they or their loved ones are fighting. When Lisa approached me about being a part of this event I instantly knew I had to be.”

S&C B: What was the inspiration for the revamped Just Drew line?

AW: “In the past I have been criticized for only dressing one type of girl. I wanted this show prove that my brand is for all types of girls no matter their style. My goal is to have a line that is for everyone, that all girls can feel confident in. My Spring collection is full of looks that just about any girl can pull off, the short slip dress has proven to be one of the most versatile pieces, even though it is also one of the simplest. I have seen girls dress it up with heels and wear it to dinner or dress it down with sneakers and a bomber to shop around SoHo in. The possibilities are endless, the piece doesn’t limit itself to one ‘type’ of girl.”

S&C B: Where can we shop the Just Drew line?

AW: “Right now you can shop online at justdrewnyc.com, Kyle By Alene Too, and a few specialty stores will be carrying my line as well.”

S&C B: What is your creative process like when developing a new line?

AW: “When I am designing a new line, I like to first go down to the garmet district and look at fabrics. For me it’s all about the vision, and in order to bring a vision into reality fabric is the first step. After I have my fabric picked out I pull inspo from all over, make some sketch’s, narrow down the fabrics and then put the pieces into production. Since JustDrew manufactures all of our clothing right here in NYC, I am able to see each piece go through production and I often make last minute changes during the final steps.”

S&C B: What are some of your favorite things about working with City of Hope?

AW: “I love doing charity work. I did something extremely similar to this luncheon for the Gabrielles Angel Foundation when I was only 14. Giving back has always been something I am passionate about doing, especially because of my grandfather. Over the years I have met some of my very closest friends through charity events and organizations. I loved working with the City of Hope, especially because as I mentioned earlier the causes they support hit close to home and being able to help such a great charity raise money and awareness.”

S&C B: What is one thing you would like everyone to know the Just Drew line for?

AW: “I want to my line to be unique while still being completely wearable. Philip Plein is a designer who went against the fashion world and he’s really successful now, He’s someone who really inspires me. I want my designs to resemble pure glamour while exuding confidence but maintain their “wear-ability”. I want my line to be a household name within 5 years, starting a clothing line is a lot more work than most people realize. These past years have been full of ups and downs each teaching me a new lesson; at the end of the day I want Just Drew to be a line, within which, each and every girl can find a piece she truly resonates with and feels absolutely perfect in.” 

S&C B: Where can we follow you?

AW: @adwarren on instagram or @justdrewnyc – “Do it! This summer will be full of surprises, follow us to stay in the loop!”

Below check out our interviews with some of the talented models of the JustDrew show such as Vale Genta, Reya Benitez, Corinne Foxx, and Sophie Simmons.

Vale Genta is an Actress and Social Media Influencer best known for her content shared through her multiple social media platforms and her recent crossover into mainstream acting.

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Tell us about some of your favorite things about Just Drew’s revamped line?

Vale Genta: “I love the colors; light pinks, whites, and pastels. They are super cute and fun for the season.”

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Do you have any favorite pieces from the show?

Vale Genta: “I am in love with the dress that I am wearing today, the pink ‘Gigi’ dress. I think it is my favorite dress from the collection. I love the cut and color of it”

Reya Benitez is daughter of the Studio 54 resident DJ Jellybean Benitez.  She is a model & social media influencer, and also works for a wealth management firm.

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Tell us about some of your favorite things about Just Drew’s revamped line?

Reya Benitez: “I love the butterfly print dresses which are applicable to all different body types because of their cut and the way Andrew has carefully designed them. They are gorgeous”

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Do you have any favorite pieces from the show?

Reya Benitez: “I am in love with the long velvet dress from the newly re-vamped line, called the ‘Peasant’ dress.”

Corinne Foxx is a Model, Actress, Writer, and Social Activist.  Having modeled for major brands such as Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Gabbana and Wet N’ Wild; Corinne is also a gifted writer who’s work has been featured on lifestyle website, Refinery 29.

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Tell us about some of your favorite things about Just Drew’s revamped line?

Corinne Foxx: “I love how versatile the pieces are. I love that they are comfortable but also extremely chic. I like how the pieces aren’t too intimidating or ‘too much’ like some high fashion pieces can be. They are realistic and I can picture myself wearing them every day.”

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Do you have any favorite pieces from the show?

Corinne Foxx: “My favorite piece from the collection is the ‘Butterfly’ gown, I love how long and flowy it is.”

Sophie Simmons is daughter of Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed, having taken a multifaceted approach to entertainment outside of her rock and roll roots through Music, TV, Film, and Outreach, establishing herself as an artist, actress, model, host, and activist.

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Tell us about some of your favorite things about Just Drew’s revamped line?

Sophie Simmons: “I love how Andrew has brought back the vintage aesthetic look, creating a sort of ‘nightgown’ chic vibe. I love how classic all of the looks are, with timeless cuts.”

Sophie & Charlotte Bickley: Do you have any favorite pieces from the show?

Sophie Simmons: “My favorite pieces from the collection are definitely the classic slip dresses, especially the pale pink slip dress that I am wearing in today’s show.”

The Cutting-edge Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Moon

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso series’ has easily become a timepiece collection for the ages, as it’s rectangular-shape along with revolving case has sheltered various complication structures over the past few decades.  It is a piece that perfectly embodies sophisticated elegance and consists of nonchalant properties, as well as bold and daring elements at times.  Jaeger-LeCoultre’s latest Reverso timepiece, the Reverso Tribute Moon, is a masterpiece among its fellow Reverso dubbed creations, as it brilliantly demonstrates the true purpose and greatness of the Reverso series.

The Reverso Tribute Moon adopted it’s design codes from last year’s release, the Reverso Tribute Calendar, however, it did not include the day of the week and month calendar feature as displayed on the Tribute Calendar model.  This may feel like crucial details to include on the Reverso Tribute Moon, but because of this minimalistic configuration it gained more space on the grained silver dial and a higher up logo position in which these two windows would have made it almost impossible to accomplish.  Furthermore, most Jaeger LeCoultre full calendar timepieces are without a recess button for the quick setting of the day of the week to begin with.  This results in manually speeding up the hour hand until you get to the correct day of the week, thereafter using the quick-set pushers for the alternative indications.  And as such, the Reverso Tribute Moon allows you to manage only the date and its striking hammered moon feature with ease.

One of the most unique qualities the Reverso Tribute Moon possesses is that once you flip its case, the watch takes on another appearance all together.  On the reverse side, the dark blue dial prevails with a Clous de Paris guilloché motif, and the central part is embellished with iridescent finish that provides the time indications with a translucent presence.  This reversible dial lets you set the time for an additional time zone of your choosing via a concealed sliding trigger located at the top of the case.  The timepiece includes a graphical day-to-night feature, which not only adds esthetic allure but also serves as an important function for telling you whether its day or night when your endeavors take you airborne and conflict with your sleeping schedule or when you simply forget yourself in your work until morning arrives.

The Reverso Tribute Moon is relevantly disparate from it’s predecessor the Reverso Tribute Calendar, so in order to not cause any waves with owners of the prior Reverso model.  Jaeger LeCoultre announced Tribute Moon with a relatively reduced price, but don’t let that discourage you, this timepiece is just as valuable and as exquisite as any other piece in the Reverso collection, and may very well be the “holy grail” of anybodies watch collection.  It can also be a great timepiece as your lone Reverso or as part of a one of a kind collection sporting the most luxurious, extravagant, and peerless pieces to hit the horology industry.

Specifications include:

• Case: 49.4 x 29.9 x 10.9 millimetres in stainless steel
• Movement: Manual-winding movement
• Strap: Blue alligator strap accompanied by a folding buckle
• Complication: 223 piece complication
• Water Resistance Up to 30 metres
• Power Reserve 42-hour
• Price: USD 12,700

For more information visit:  Jaeger-LeCoultre.com

Louis Vuitton & Fragment Design’s New Capsule Collection

For this latest capsule collection, Louis Vuitton teamed up with the distinguished Japanese designer, producer, and artist Hiroshi Fujiwara, the founder of Fragment Design, to produce stylish street-ready attire.  To commemorate this incredible collaboration, Louis Vuitton established the Louis Vuitton X Fragment Popup boutique in New York City as to show their respect to Fujiwara, whose partnerships with street-wear labels such as Nike have not only sold out in mere minutes but have always ended in a huge success.

Hiroshi Fujiwara is famous for his hip-hop inspired street-wear style that he popularized into Tokyo’s highly influenced European fashion scene in the late 1980’s.  And from then on, Fujiwara continued to evolve his street-wear style, leading him to become known as the “Godfather of Streetwear” as his pieces became a widely known trend that had renowned brands enthusiastic to collaborate together on.

This collaborated capsule collection for the French marque showcases Fujiwara’s trademark seditious aspects such as, modifying the LV monogram lettering in a fierce black and gray, along with substituting standard hardware for shimmering metallic accessories of oil slicks in order to shape pieces like the monogram eclipse coated canvas and leather backpack (priced at $3,350).  Preeminent pieces of the capsule collection include a unique varsity letterman’s jacket and cardigan (priced at $2,700 and $1,020 respectively), as well as stylish Tattoo Sneakers ($725).

Louis Vuitton X Fragment Popup boutique, located on Greene St. in SoHo, Manhattan, has their doors open through June 30th.  Besides this popup boutique, the collection is also available at LouisVuitton.com, and at other Louis Vuitton X Fragment stores across the world.

Meet Athenna Crosby

Meet Athenna Crosby; the incredibly talented Model, Actress, Singer, and former Miss Teen California.  At just 19, the bay area native has done it all, currently majoring in Social Justice at Saint Mary’s College, Athenna aspires to become a disabilities rights attorney and eventually run for public office; and has even interned at the California State Senate.  With Autism near and dear to her heart, Athenna is a passionate supporter of Best Buddies, an organization founded by Anthony Shriver for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, often volunteering for the organization.  Ms. Crosby has previously Hosted the TV series ‘Eco Company’ as well as the Internet Show, ‘Picture the Possibilities’; which bring awareness to Environmental and Social Issues for today’s youth.  

With an unrivaled set of talents, we are sure to see many more incredible accomplishments from Athenna Crosby.  Check out our interview below with Ms. Crosby, as we chat about her inspirations, aspirations, secret dream career, travel, personal style, and even an interesting story about James Franco at the Cinequest Film Festival.

What are you currently inspired by?

“I’d have to answer this question with who I am inspired by, and that would be my little brother Adrian. As a young man with Autism, Adrian struggles in school and in different social spheres. Although he faces his own challenges, he inspires me in so many ways through his creativity, honesty, and strength. I have many passions in life, and no matter where my career takes me, I know I will always have to think about Adrian and help provide for him. This motivates me to work hard, and humbles me. It’s important to remember that relationships are the most significant aspects of our lives. Without our loved ones, we can lose sight of what is really important.”

You are a talented Model, Actress, and Singer what do you enjoy most and why?

“If I had to choose, I would say I most enjoy Acting. While I am extremely passionate about Modeling, Singing, and Hosting, I love being able to transform myself into another character who expresses themselves both physically and verbally. Although, at the end of the day, I would say I enjoy the art of performance in general. I love being able to participate in anything that explores our perception of beauty and the human experience.”

All time favorite travel destination?

“I love to travel, and within the past few months I have been able to explore exciting places like France, Italy, and Germany. I plan to continue my travels, as I practically fall in love with everywhere I visit. No matter where I go, my heart always comes back to the Bay Area, CA. As a Bay Area native, no where can compare to the beauty of my home. My all time favorite city is San Francisco. It is iconic, progressive, and is a melting pot of culture. San Francisco has the globe at its fingertips. There is just no where quite like the “The City.”

Tell us something most people don’t know about you.

“I am definitely a Class Clown. I love to laugh, and shock people with my candidness. Nothing makes me happier than seeing other people smile. My secret dream would probably be to become a Comedian.”

Take us through a day in the life of Athenna Crosby.

“I am a full time college student, so a typical weekday for me includes waking up at 7:30 and going to class! My education is very important to me, so I try and dedicate as much time as possible to it. On the weekends, I always like to work on a project which advances my artistic career. I am always flying all over the country to network, collaborate with photographers or directors, or pursuing other endeavors.”

What originally peaked your interest in modeling?

“I began modeling and acting at the age of 12 when I first signed with an agency. As a kid, I never excelled at the traditional “activities” like scouts or sports, so I saw the entertainment industry as a place I could find my niche. Within a few years, I had already done print work for big names like Comcast and Verizon Wireless. After entering my first pageant, even more opportunities came my way. Now, I have been able to do amazing print and video work for companies like Tapout, iTan, Infinity Sun, IMAGE Skincare, Want My Look, Goldsheep, and many more.”

What’s one of the most interesting shoots that you’ve done?

“I have done many interesting photoshoots and video shoots, but one of the coolest experiences was actually a hosting job I did where I interviewed James Franco. Last year, the Cinequest Film Festival, whom I have worked with many times, invited me to be a youth moderator at an event with Franco. There was a large audience and the whole thing was being filmed. It was extremely awkward when I asked him for his best “life advice.” He was taken aback, but gave a decent answer and we both kind of laughed it off.”

What did you enjoy most during your time as Miss California Teen USA?

“Oh my gosh, that is an impossible question to answer! I loved everything! If this were a life or death matter and I had to pick something, I would say my favorite experience was to go to middle and high schools in Southern California and speak on the topic of anti-bullying. At one Middle School in Cerritos, I spoke to an audience of over 200 7th grade girls, many of whom approached me thanking me for coming to their school and for being a great role model. I had never felt so flattered and grateful at the same time, and what an honor it was getting to make an impact on these young girls’ lives. That is something I definitely hope to continue doing.”

Any aspirations to become Miss America?

“Possibly…we will see!”

Who are some of your favorite designers at the moment?

“My style varies, but overall I would say I like to dress comfortable and casual with a feminine touch. My favorite designers include Carolina Herrera, Elie Tahari, Betsey Johnson, and Kate Spade.”

Style advice from Athenna Crosby.

“In my opinion, radiance comes from the inside out, so make sure you take care of yourself and your health. The best accessories in life are healthy skin, hair, nails, and a great smile. Pretty much everything else is secondary to that. You can have any kind of style or body type, and as long as you have the basics in check you are guaranteed to look confident.”

You’re majoring in Social Justice, what originally attracted you to the subject?

“Growing up watching my little brother suffer discrimination due to his disability made me aware of inequality that is still prevalent in our country. Right now more than ever it is crucial that we focus on issues of intersectionality and equal rights. I hope to graduate college equipped with the skills to tackle these issues, and use my position as an up and coming artist to be a mouthpiece for my younger brother and individuals like him.”

Where to next?

“I’m going to continue working hard in school, as well as planning my next travel destination(s). Two (very different) places I have been dying to go are The Grand Canyon and The Bahamas! Hopefully by the end of this year I can fill up my passport with stamps.”

Where can we follow you?

“You can follow me @athennacrosby on Facebook and Instagram. Much love!”

Photography by: Marli Allard