Meet Christelle Khouri

Meet Christelle Khouri, a natural born fashionista who shares her passion for all things travel and style on her Instagram, giving the stylish woman ideas on day-to-day looks.  Christelle appreciates everything and anything “beautiful”, may it be through music, art or fashion.  Being a frequent traveler, Christelle has lived in all kinds of magical locales including Beirut, Paris, Doha and New York.  In true global citizen style, Christelle holds dual citizenship from France and Lebanon.

Currently residing in the Emirate of Dubai, a place where east meets west featuring one of the most steadfast fashion and retail sectors globally.  Dubai has become the perfect haven for Christelle to receive inspiration and in return inspire fashionable ladies everywhere who share her love for fashion as a means of self-expression. Read on as we talk to Christelle about her love for fashion as well as her exciting life as a world traveler.

What is the inspiration for your unique style?

“Having been brought up between Europe and the Middle East, I find my mélange in upbringing has really shaped my style and the way I perceive and embody fashion. It’s the French simplicity, that little bit of chic, which is complemented by the boldness and intricacy of the Middle Eastern patterns.

Also, despite fashion trends being highly inspired by the looks on Fashion Weeks’ runways, I don’t believe that clothes have to be expensive to look expensive (and stylish of course). That’s why my blog serves as a little guide on how to make high-street fashion look high-end, and the key is accessorizing well! I sometimes “invest” in designer shoes or bags, but you will find that most (if not all) my clothes are high-street.

I’m always amused at friends and people’s reactions when they find out where I actually bought my clothes from, and how I paired the whole outfit together – which is what pushed me to actually start the blog in the first place. I try to make it as reachable as possible: if you like it, you can go and get it today, and you (hopefully) won’t have to pay and arm and a leg for it.

To cut a long story short, I don’t think that one style defines me. Yes, I would describe my style as classic and feminine with a twist, but I normally dress depending on my mood and current street styles that inspire me.”

Talk me through a day in your life.

“I’m someone who loves mornings, and sunny Dubai definitely helps! Getting ready for work, as ordinary as it may seem, is something I truly enjoy. It gives me the energy and sets the tone for the rest of the day. The latter never starts without a much-needed espresso, followed by my skincare routine, after which I choose my outfit (favorite part), do my hair and makeup and I’m ready to go. Despite having a corporate job, no day in the office is like the other, especially when I instantly dive in the world of beauty and cosmetic at L’Oréal.

After work, I either have dinner or drinks with friends, attend corporate PR events or go home and work on a post.

I’m always excited about the weekend because this is when I really have the time and opportunity to create content for the blog. I normally do photo shoots in different locations with several outfits to post the following week, meet with young designers for future collaborations or simply research strategies on how to improve the blog.

It can be challenging to have only limited time to work on the blog, but loving what I do definitely helps and makes it a whole lot of fun!”

What are you currently inspired by? 

“In my case, it’s who I’m currently inspired by: Olivia Palermo.

Yes, her outfits may be on the more ‘pricey end’, but I feel that she really embodies elegance with a twist. Her ability to mix color and print while making it look effortlessly chic is extremely inspiring. She keeps up with trends yet maintains this classic, feminine and timeless look which I can very much relate to. In fact, as much as I am inspired by current trends and street styles, if I don’t think that the “must-have” for this season is in line with my personal style, you will never see me wearing it.”

What are some of your favorite clothing brands at the moment?

“I absolutely adore Victoria Beckham’s designs, especially her monochrome looks. While her collections have evolved over the past few years from short and playful dresses to oversized wide-legged trousers, there is always one common thread which can be found when describing the Victoria Beckham woman: her fierceness. Can’t wait to try her layering techniques spotted on the 2017 Fall/Winter runway.

When it comes to high-street, most of my wardrobe comes from Zara, so it’s safe to say that it’s one of my favorite high-street brands at the moment, along with Topshop and Mango”

What do you enjoy most about your role at L’Oréal, did you always aspire for a career in the cosmetic industry? 

“Given my love for fashion, most people first assume that I work in Marketing for L’Oréal, when I actually work as a Financial Controller. At the end of the day, our favorite brands would not survive if they weren’t financially profitable, and that’s what my main role at L’Oréal is: actively partnering with marketing teams to ensure that brands are lucrative, so that you can not only find the products you like in store, but also benefit from the newest and most innovative ones. By being in Dubai, I am by default led to work in a very diverse environment – 48 different nationalities to be exact. We all learn from one another on both a personal and professional level, and new ideas are always brought to the table.

What I enjoy most about my role at L’Oréal is working side by side with teams of brilliant people who continuously work on introducing the best of cosmetics innovation. This constant desire to keep up with current trends can have its challenges, but is quickly overruled by the rush of working in a fast-paced environment: no day is like the other and you always have to be reactive and ready to go – with one mission in mind: “Beauty for all!”.

I also must add that loving the brands and products I work for does make it easier, although I didn’t necessarily aspire for a career in the cosmetic industry. I however always knew that I wanted to work in beauty, in whichever form it takes: fashion, cosmetic etc. I believe that every woman should feel beautiful. A woman who feels beautiful will feel good about herself, and there’s nothing more appealing than a confident woman!”

Being a frequent traveler, what have been some of your favorite destinations and why?

“Tough question! I love traveling and each country is unique in its culture, climate, history, landscape, gastronomy and people. But if I had to choose my top 3, I’d choose: Cappadocia (Turkey), Cancun (Mexico) and Paris (France). I had already been to Turkey (Marmaris, Bodrum and Istanbul). I definitely loved each of these unique cities but Cappadocia was by far the most magical in my eyes. I actually first came across pictures of Cappadocia on Instagram, and I remember thinking that this couldn’t be a real place; this photo must have been photo-shopped.

I then decided that my next holiday destination would be to Cappadocia, and believe me it’s still hard to put into words how fascinating I thought the place is. The natural landscape, volcanic peaks and chimney-rock formations are unlike anything I’ve seen. The experience of sleeping in a cave hotel was just incredible, but the cherry on top of the cake was the sunrise hot air balloon ride, where I found myself staring at the real-life picture I had once seen on Instagram.

Cancun needs no introduction. Definitely a great place to party and let loose but that’s not why I fell in love with this city. The second you arrive to Cancun, you immediately feel like you’ve just landed on a tropical island. Palm trees, jungles and greenery surround you; white sand beaches and crystal clear waters also adding to the magic.

While it’s very common to stay in all-inclusive resorts, there’s so much to discover in Cancun: the famous Chichen Itza and Mayan history, beautiful caves and lagoons where you can swim and snorkel, and most importantly, interactions with the sweet locals who taught more about their culture than any book I had ever read. Cancun has it all: rich history, parties and beautiful scenery!

And finally, the best for last: Paris. I might be a little biased since I was born and lived in Paris, but this city simply stole my heart. Every time I go back to Paris and step out of my doorstep, I feel like I’m a tourist discovering it for the first time: my five senses are awakened and ready to be blown away by the beauty of this city. I seriously feel like I’m in a living museum. Any picture I take from any angle looks like it’s out of a post card.

What I enjoy most is getting lost in tiny paved pathways in the Marais and finding hidden treasures in local boutiques, arousing my taste buds at the “café trottoirs” or having a glass of wine by the Seine.

Paris lives up to its reputation: the City of love, light and a certain je ne sais quoi.”

Favorite Restaurant in Beirut & Dubai?

“Beirut has an amazing selection of restaurants offering all kinds of cuisines but my favorite Restaurant in Beirut is “Em Sherif”. I always take my foreign friends, choose the set menu and make sure we all go on an empty stomach. I don’t allow myself not to taste literally everything they serve me. From the authentic and delicious Lebanese food to the elegant atmosphere and décor, one can never go wrong with Em Sherif!

Dubai is known to host the most lavish and luxurious restaurants in the world, but my favorite is a cute bistro offering traditional French cuisine: “Tolosa”. I recently discovered this restaurant and it quickly jumped to 1^st place in my favorites list. At Tolosa, I can close my eyes, pick anything on the menu, and rest assured that I will enjoy every single bite from the entrées to the dessert. What’s also special about this place is this couch area where I normally either enjoy coffee or a glass of wine while playing board games with my friends. Tolosa is a taste of home away from home.”

Where to next?

“My work schedule has without a doubt made it challenging to create content for the blog as regularly as I would want, but I definitely plan on putting in place a clear strategy on the direction I want the blog to take. I will try as much as possible to post more consistent and relevant content to hopefully keep inspiring women on their daily looks and styles. On the long-term, I hope that the blog, along with my experience at L’Oréal, would allow me to put my name out in the fashion industry: maybe become a personal stylist and/or create my own brand. Who knows? In all cases, as cliché as it may sound, my passion is fashion & beauty, so it’s the only industry I see myself in.”

Where can we follow you?

“You can follow me on instagram @christellekhouri where I try to post as regularly as possible.”

7 Remarkable Sustainable Fashion Labels

Image credit: SVILU

As sustainable fashion continues to grow market-share in an industry well known for significant pollution, more and more existing brands and emerging eco-friendly clothing start-ups are stepping up to take the industry by storm.  Whether accessories, unique artisan textiles, or faux-fur & leather pieces – producing ethical luxury garments has never been as high of a priority as it is today.  With the ever increasing offering of many brands it is becoming progressively convenient to shop your style ethically, and feel good about it simultaneously.  Long gone are the days of boring and uncomfortable pieces.  Each brand that we have listed below was selected not just for their commitment to sustainability, but also because they are truly producing some of the most brilliant wearable pieces to fit the wardrobe of any hard to please fashion lover.  So wave arrivederci to any past biases, and read on to discover some of the most exceptional eco-friendly designers & brands of today.

1. Ancient Greek Sandals

Image credit: Ancient Greek Sandals

2. EDUN

Image credit: EDUN

The New York City & Dublin based sustainable fashion brand was founded by Ali Hewson and Bono in 2005 with a mission focused on sourcing production and encouraging international trade in the African continent.  EDUN (named after the garden of Eden) is best known for mixing up cutting edge modern design with the rich cultural heritage of African nations.  Through their partnerships with local communities and artisans, EDUN helps to build long term sustainable growth across the continent.

Recently being sold to major luxury conglomerate LVMH, the brand continues to be a shinning star in sustainable fashion with production levels as high as 85% in the African Continent.  Well known for simple quality products that showcase the positivity and cultural diversity of Africa.  With most garments prices around $500, though with sales often offering pieces at under $300, there is something for everyone.

3. Elefante & Boa

Image credit: Elefante & Boa

Meet Elefante & Boa, a handbag label based on sustainability, practicality, and creativity.  Founded by the young Italian eco-entrepreneur & designer, Isabella Cavalletti.  Elefante & Boa credits its name to the children’s book titled “The Little Prince” where every adult sees only a hat, but, the young boy in the story sees an Elephant being consumed by a Boa; the story speaks to the brands commitment to imagination as well as customization.

Elefante & Boa sources fabrics from across the globe and then incorporates them into Isabella’s innovative and one of a kind designs that offer a modern, yet ethnic vibe.  Making for a truly one of a kind handbag available internationally.  Elefante & Boa places significant emphasis on empowering women from indigenous villages across both Asia and South America through a microfinance project, while keeping production of their textiles completely environmentally friendly.

One of the most unique features of the Elefante & Boa handbag is the customizable flap & chain, allowing the owner to easily change the look of the bag to suit any occasion.  The label produces limited run collections allowing for the utmost exclusivity, in addition, as a result of the hand woven fabric flaps, every handbag is slightly unique from each other due to the human error in the hand sewing of the cloth.

By combining Luxury & Convenience with Hand Woven ethnic textiles from around the globe merged with local Italian materials as well as Italian manufacturing makes Miss Cavalletti’s handbags a truly one of a kind must have accessory for any fashionista.

For more information visit: www.elefante-boa.com

or

Shop Elefante & Boa at: www.bagtelier.com

4. SVILU

Image credit: SVILU

For those of whom are addicted to bohemian vibes, there exist no better brand than SVILU, offering comfortable garments in soft colors with the evershining small details to win your heart.  New York City based SVILU was founded by fashion veterans, Britt Cosgrove and Marina Polo in 2012 – Cosgrove’s CV includes time spent at Peter Som for Tommy Hilfiger, whereas Polo apprenticed at Vera Wang.  The brand provides ethically produced organic garments for the closet of every fashionable lady.  Every factory is woman owned and has under 10 employees, and the company is constantly looking to innovative ideas for reducing their environmental footprint.

For more information visit: www.svilu.com

5. Stella McCartney

Image credit: Stella McCartney

A true pioneer of the eco-friendly revolution, Stella McCartney has built her label by diving head first into limiting the carbon footprint of the clothing industry.  Born in London, Ms. McCartney had graduated from Central St Martins in 1995.  After just creating two collections, she became the Creative Director of Chloe in 1997.  Starting her own label in 2001, she has gone on with a strong commitment to sustainability.  Even the majority of the firm’s offices are powered by wind energy, this is a direct action on the company’s anti waste policy which reflects in all aspects of Stella McCartney’s business.  Some unique recyclable and renewable materials used by McCartney are eco-friendly faux leather, citric acid, and biodegradable soles.  Stella McCartney offers apparel & accessories for Him, Her, and the Children.

For more information visit: www.stellamccartney.com

6. Maiyet

Image credit: Maiyet

Maiyet based in New York City is a brand with an unwavering commitment to sustainability.  The luxury brand partners with artisans from India, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Mongolia, Peru, Bolivia, and Thailand to incorporate incredible details with unique textiles that are sourced with global-localization in mind.  Just recently Maiyet launched a line of three different environmentally friendly sunglasses, which are made of a one hundred percent biodegradable frame.  The company has also partnered with NEST an independent non-profit that’s mission is to develop and train artisan businesses, such as the silk weaving communities in Varanasi, India.

For more information visit: www.maiyet.com

7. Nosouj

Image credit: Nosouj

Nosouj is the ultimate go-to sustainable eco-luxe beach bag/tote. Named after the Arabic word for hand weaving, this sustainable label manufactures their bags by hand out of recycled clothing.  Founded by Basma Abdul Hadi in 2015, with a mission to connect the space between style and social responsibility.  Nosouj brings forth authentic designs while creating jobs in communities to provide sustainable living for the community’s inhabitants.  Recently Nosouj was awarded the Butterfly mark for their commitment to both social and environmental sustainability.

For more information visit: www.nosouj.com

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

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.”

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

Meet Egith van Dinther

Meet Egith van Dinther; best known by her nickname “Iggy”, the Los Angeles based Dutch model & actress is one of the most talented fresh faces on the Modeling, Acting, and Hosting scene.  Iggy was born in Uden a small town in the south of Holland.  Beginning her career as an Equestrian and soon becoming a proffesional show jumper for 8 years. Iggy transitioned into her modeling career at just sixteen and is currently signed with Wilhelmina Models, where she has worked with some of the most prestigious international brands such as Ralph Lauren & Brietling.  Most recently Ms. van Dinther has dove deeper into acting, and also has just finished her degree at Conde Nast College of Fashion and Design in London.  We spoke exclusively with Egith van Dinther on all things lifestyle & fashion.

What are you currently inspired by?

“So many things! Life is full of beautiful adventures. At this moment, I’m working on a documentary about ‘Comfort Women’.  Comfort women were women forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese Army during World War 2.  Because many Dutch Women were captured during this time; it is a subject that’s close to my heart.  These women really inspire me because of their strength and courage.”

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

“My career starts in a little town called Uden. This is the place where I grew up in the south of Holland. Modeling wasn’t really a profession back then, and I was to focused on my horses to be bothered by photoshoots. But a Local Horse Farm that I was working for needed new pictures for their brochure. The photographer that made those pictures saw something in me and directed me to the right agency. Before I knew it I was flying out to Paris, Milan and London.”

For the last few years you have been a Host for Breitling at Basel World.  What do you enjoy most about the event?  Do you have any favorite timepieces from Basel World 2017?

“Breitling has been a client for more then 4 years now. It’s amazing to work for a high-end brand like this. The organization is on the highest level I know. This year they really stepped out with their uniforms. Every morning we wake up at 5am to do hair & Make-up and our look changes every day. Followed up by a different outfit. Just the amount of effort Breitling puts into their hosts & entertainment program is incredible. My suits are all tailor made just for my size. Which brands do that nowadays?!

Of course I am a fan of Breitling watches, but my eye always goes out to Chopard or Harry Winston. They are the kings of diamonds.  I love the classic looks with beautiful pink leather wristbands. It’s just an art of watchmaking”

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

“My favorite shoots are the ones that I do for Ralph Lauren. They always pick the best locations and work with the most professional teams. Everything is just right and connects; the make-up, the photographer, the stylist. They are all number one and that result you see back in the pictures. For my last shoot for Ralph Lauren we traveled to Dubai. This place has the most luxurious hotels and best Polo fields in the world. It was the perfect scene for their latest Cruise collection.”

Being that you are starting to branch out into acting, what would be your ideal role?

“I am now working on a documentary, something that is actually closer to my heart.  I like to express myself the way I am. With hosting I can just be myself. I love to interview people and express my emotions into my work. By just being myself I hope to inspire people and give them hope and joy. I want to connect with people and hear their stories. So for the future I would love to have more opportunities in this direction.”

Take us through a typical day in the life of Egith van Dinther.

“Oelala… be prepared because it is a lot! To start off I wake up very early. I love to get my workout done before the hectic day starts. You will find me in Equinox almost every day! Its my second home. After I have my workout done, I  get a smoothie ‘to go’ and run into my castings and meetings. Because LA is so big, I mostly spend a lot of time in the car. Thank God I love driving because my castings go from Downtown LA to all the way back in Malibu. When we are shooting on location, my call time normally is 9:00am. For TV shows it’s normally earlier. I recently did the KTLA morning show and they always want the models ready at 5:00am sharp.

To get an impression of how beautiful LA is, you should really follow me on instagram. Here you will see villa’s in the hills, Palmtrees in Malibu and Celebrities on the red carpet. Around lunch time I always try to find some time for a quick stop at Whole Foods or EreWhon. My favorite spots in LA. They have everything from vegan salads to tonics and bulletproof coffees.

Meetings normally finish around 6:00pm. By this time my boyfriend and I love to take a Hot Yoga class together. There is a really good one in Santa Monica called HOT 8 YOGA. After we sweat all the dirt from that day off, we are so hungry that we normally end up at Cafe Gratitude. This vegan place is just one of my favorites.

Another great spot where you can find us; is the Soho House in Malibu or the one in West Hollywood. This is a place where you can relax, paddle board or work on your laptop all day. The perfect hangout place. This is just a typical week day for us. Normally we have a lot of events going on; last months we had the Golden Globes, the Oscars and Premiers all over town.”

What is your favorite healthy snack?

“Because my boyfriend and I are on a cleanse right now; my favorite snack is a home made Green Smoothie. I put all the right supplements, amazing grass, lean protein, acai, spinach, kale etc in their to make it extra jammie.. You can me wake up for this one!!”

How would you describe your personal style

“My style is classic but sexy. I always felt that my European style stood out here in Los Angeles. Most of the girls wear a lot of black at castings. I like to wear colors!?  That’s my way to stand out, fashion is a way to express yourself without speaking. My styling of accessories and make up is minimalist. I love the clean look. Less is More.”

If you could only wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?

“I love Stella McCartney, not only because of her designs, but mostly because her company is all about being sustainable. I think nowadays its very important to look at the world we are living in. Fashion is one of the largest industries that pollutes the world. We can make a change and that starts with making the right choices.

Stella’s designs are girly and feminine at the same time. She is using beautiful materials and soft color palettes that are all vegan. Not only her ready to wear collection is fabulous, BUT also her Sports collection for Adidas is Grande. These outfits put you right on track again.”

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

“Japan is high on my list. I heard so many good stories about Tokyo; how clean it is, how far they are technology wise, how polite the people are, how great the food is, how safe it is, how cute and beautiful the landscaping is… Just to many things to mention. I HAVE TO GO :D”

You were previously a professional show jumper, what initially attracted you to the sport?

“I grew up on a farm, so having animals around me was normal. Just the connection you can have with a horse is incredible. Showjumping is a high level sport. I always liked to have competition in my life. Racing together with your Horse is just the best feeling in the world. Besides the horse world is an amazing environment to grow up in. It is a luxury lifestyle that never gets boring.”

Having just recently finished your degree at Condé Nast College of Fashion and design in London; do you have any aspirations to enter the world of fashion design one day?

“I already started my own athletic wear company called; IggyvanD. It was part of a school project. But as I told you before, I’m a firm believer of the sustainability side of Fashion. So if I continue with my brand I want it to be 100% Holistic.

A big eye opener was watching the documentary ‘the True Cost’  this made me realize how fast fashion is ruining our world. I admit, I used to buy from H&M and Forever21. But after seeing what these companies do; I never want to buy from them again. So many people are suffering in Bangladesh, just for us.. Its not necessary. We don’t need to buy clothes every week. Rather, buy one beautiful designer piece and treasure it for a life time.”

What are some of your favorite things to do in LA?

“LA gives so many options. Because of the great weather me and my boyfriend love to workout outside, and use nature as our gym.  Running by the beach, hikes in Malibu, Paddleboarding, bicycle rides. All activities I love to do. Big plus point; you get a beautiful tan at the same time :D”

Where can we follow you?

“Follow me everywhere. I love to share my happy moments & fashion choices with my followers. I’m a big fan of Instagram stories. But I still use snapchat as well. Their filters are just the BOM.”

INSTA: @EGITH

SNAPCHAT:  Egith

FACEBOOK: @IggyvanD

TWITTER: @IggyvanD

Where to next?

“My horizon is endless. My options are too many. I feel this is just my time to shine and LA is helping me everyday to come a step closer to my goals. Making meaningful documentaries and helping the world become a better place. These are the values that I admire the most. I want to achieve big things that mean something. Inspire other people and be a role model.”

Chanel Takes Center Stage At Paris Fashion Week

Chanel emerged as a shining beacon of Haute Couture at Paris Fashion Week, sparkling under the light of the runway; the famed French Design House created a hall of mirrors to showcase their latest collection.

With a one of a kind runway, which included white lilies a top mirrored pillars, this special display allowed the crowd to view both their own reflection, as well as Lagerfeld’s spectacular designs come to life from every possible angle.  The collection included suits in multiple shades of pastel – which supplied a unique twist and a tulip shaped silhouette and hats worn hanging off the back of the head.

Taking center stage was Chanel’s shinning star Lily-Rose Depp, the 17 year old daughter of American actor Johnny Depp and French actress Vanessa Paradis.  Miss Depp who closed the event showcasing a stunning dusky pink gown with flowing ruffles which graced the Runway floor as she walked alongside Chanel’s longtime Creative Director, Karl Lagerfeld; who for the first time in years declined to give any post show interviews with the press.

The Best Luxury Women’s Fashion Blogs

In the sea of personal blogs, there is only a handful of those who are unique for the extravagant style of their authors. We picked the best of those which are definitely worth seeing (if you haven’t already).

Yin 2 My Yang

The major thing that separates this blog from other blogs is the clearly visible love and harmony between sisters Sophie and Charlotte Bickley. Since they were exposed to the fashion industry from a young age, they have always been in love with fashion. Just like yin and yang combine in contrast and by that create the perfect balance, the two sisters also embrace their different styles and manage to look perfectly in tune with one another. When you think of it, it can seem really hard to combine eccentric and spontaneous style with posh and feminine, but they somehow always manage to own the city streets as well as the hearts of their readers.

Get The Look

When it comes to their style, it is all about following trends but in your own way. For example, if you like the velvet rush, instead of buying a velvet crop top (that every girl in the world probably has), buy a long A-line velvet skirt with sequins and combine it with metallic loafers and exaggerated sleeve sweater. Or just get a long, long sleeved velvet dress and a pair of heels.
The key is in wearing comfortable and eye-catching pieces and following no rules, but still looking fabulous. Oh, and let’s not forget that light pink details and jeans are their number 1 favorites. It’s the 70s vibe at its finest.

Gal Meets Glam

The beautiful Julia Engel started her blog in 2011 while she was still in college. Even though she started it just to spread her creativity in some way and relax her mind by writing articles about fashion, travel and beauty. Eventually she fell so deeply in love with fashion and blogging, that she quit her day job and committed 100 percent of her time to her blog. We adore her because of her lady charm that makes you want to kiss her hand and take her to the opera.

Get The Look

When it comes to Julia’s style, it is minimalistic, sophisticated and really feminine. It is like she walked either out of a Parisian cafe, or pages of Vogue. She knows fashion and she knows how to turn it in her own advantage. She loves to embrace light colors like pink, grey and blue, as well as black and brown.  Basically, embrace your pure girly side by adding satin skirts & pants, flounce skirts, blush pink sweaters and dresses to your closet. Lots and lots of different dresses – short, long, long sleeved, short sleeved, strap, wrap etc…

Bisous Natasha

This beautiful brown London jewel is a model, blogger and a photographer who writes about fashion, photography, beauty and travel as well as her experiences from the fashion industry. Natasha Ndlovu created her blog in 2013. and she’s winning the hearts of true fashionistas ever since.

Get The Look

Even though her style tends to be trendy and classy, the beauty if it’s the small details she’s adding which are making it unique. For example, to spice up a basic clothing combination she adds a piece of bridal jewelry to it like a pair of earrings or a ring. Since she’s a model, she likes to rock fashionable pieces like ankle boots, wrap dresses, jagged edge jeans, print T-shirts, sweater dresses, designer bags, velvet sandals, metallic boots, hats etc…

Five Five Fabulous

The two Lebanese sisters created their blog in 2012. as a platform where they documented their journeys in fashion, travel and style. Reem and Natalya combine their creative skills and impeccable eye for detail to create the fabulous combinations that blow us away every time. They collaborate with many prestigious brands and have a very strong influence in fashion industry.

Get The Look

The greatest thing about their combinations is that there are no rules actually. You cannot define their style in any way. One thing is certain though: they’re big fans of basic garments like oversized T-shirts, faux leather pants, coats, white garments, black over the knee and ankle boots, black jeans, white sneakers, John Lennon glasses etc. which they combine with unusual details.

In conclusion we must say that, the major thing that separates these authors from all other authors is their individuality and boldness. Remember, the biggest success in fashion is being your own, and they’ve shown us exactly that. Make sure you check their blogs if you haven’t already.

Glamorous Makeup Looks for New Year’s Eve

The most glamorous night of them all is approaching – celebrating New Year’s Eve is always a nice occasion to show off your most glamorous looks. Since it only comes around once a year, nothing is forbidden. This applies to clothing, hairstyles, and, of course, makeup. New Year’s Eve is quite literally your time to shine, so you better stock up on sequined clothes and glittery makeup. In case you ran out of ideas, here are some of the best makeup styles for you to look as glamorous as possible while you are waiting for 2017 to come.

Sparkling cut crease

Cut crease technique is unavoidable when you want to achieve a dramatic look and there’s no better occasion for it than New Year’s’ Eve. Start by prepping your skin for makeup with high-quality skincare products, such are those from Alpha H collection. Once you’ve done this, prime your eyes with an eye primer and outline your crease and upper lash line with dark blue pencil. Create a cat-eye in the corner and blend it with a fluffy brush. Also, add a bit of dark blue shadow to intensify the colour. Grab a silver eyeshadow and apply a thick layer carefully so it doesn’t get onto the crease. Don’t forget about glitter pigment either! Apply eyeliner on upper lash line and put some mascara and false lashes if you like. Finish off with highlighting your brows. Since this is a really dramatic look, you’ll want to keep the rest of the makeup minimal – opt for a neutral lipstick and you’re good to go.

Shiny and romantic

This one’s a subtle yet glamorous look for the night of 31^st December and it starts by applying foundation and some highlighter on top of your cheeks to enhance your natural glow. A bonus tip for highlighting: add a dash of darker blush just below your cheekbone to create a more dramatic look. Fill in your brows subtly and then proceed to create a metallic eyes look. Base the whole lid with a concealer and then add copper eyeshadow on the inner and the outer corners of the lid. Put a thick layer of gold eye shadow in the middle and repeat until it blends with the corners. Traditionally, you would finish off with red lipstick but dare to be bold this year and consider adding beige gold lipstick to create a nice monochromatic look. Complete the look with a fine layer of mascara, et voilà – you’re ready to party.

Red lipstick classic

It’s amazing how a simple look with winged eyeliner and the right shade of lipstick can look glamorous. Of course, just because you won’t need many makeup products, it doesn’t mean it’s easy to get it right since winged eyeliner is a nightmare to most women. Our advice is to start early and be patient. After you prepped your skin and primed the eyes, grab your eyeliner and start drawing. To make it even more glamorous, add a fine line of glitter eyeliner next to the black eyeliner. Apply two coats of mascara and highlight the brows gently and your eye makeup is done. Proceed to the lips but be careful – red lipstick can bring out any inflammations you have on the skin, such as blemishes, veins, and capillaries, so you’ll want to create a smooth, even canvas with some fine liquid foundation formula. Finally, choose your shade of red lipstick, put it onto your pout and that’s it!

Now it’s your turn – make your choice and start prepping your makeup tools. Whatever look you choose, one thing is certain – you’ll surely turn heads and enter 2017 looking glamorous. Happy New Year!

How to Look Like a Million Dollar Babe for New Year’s Eve

Celebration of the New Year is one of the most entertaining occasions people enjoy to dress up for. While Christmas is reserved for family fun and rediscovering the feelings of joy, love and gratitude, most New Year’s Eve parties are all about… well… partying. Therefore, ladies often take extra measures to ensure that their appearance and style is impeccable. So, if you too have a special and elegant party to go to for this New Year’s Eve keep on reading. You might find a lot of useful advice that would put you in the spotlight as you dance into the New Year like a million-dollar babe.

Perfect outfit

The first and most important thing about great looks for the New Year celebration party is your outfit. You need to pay special attention if you’re going to attend a high-end gathering at a fancy restaurant. Before you start looking for your perfect dress or outfit combination, keep in mind that your comfort will be essential in order for you to have a great time. Then, you should always stick with clothing and dress forms that suit your body shape in a flattering manner. Once you have these basics covered, you can take your time to carefully choose the design and patterns that you want. If you’re going with a little black/red/gold/white dress, make sure to accessorize it with adequate jewelry. It’s New Year’s so it’s okay to add a bit of sparkle with your jewelry. On the other hand, if you opt for a sequin dress or shirt, keep your jewelry relatively simple. High heels are a must, so make sure to break these in well before the party.

Hairstyle and makeup on point

If you want to look really fashionable and stylish for a luxurious New Year’s Eve celebration, your hairstyle will play an important role as well. Basically, you should keep your hair frizz-free. This means either blow drying your hair with a round brush so that every hair is in its place or using a flat iron. If you don’t want to leave your hair down, definitely check out some of the most elegant updos and try them out several times before the party. That way, you can practice the technique and see for yourself what type of updo best suits your hair and face shape. As far as makeup is concerned, a ton of glitter is not really all that appropriate for a high-end party and definitely not in style for a million-dollar look. It would be best to stick to the classic femme fatale look – black winged eyeliner and stunning red lip. Of course, you can add that healthy glow with strobing technique.

Thorough prep

There are many other forms of preparation before a New Year’s Eve party and especially so if you’re going to travel somewhere else for this unique experience. For example, New Year’s celebration in Japan is quite different compared to your regular parties at bars and restaurants. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you’ll get the chance to welcome the first day of the New Year at a shrine. But don’t be fooled. This is a very special occasion in Japan and people dress their very best to celebrate it. Some ladies take the trouble to show up in a stunning winter kimono; so, if you want to celebrate in a true Japanese style, you should definitely check out different types of kimonos and the ways to put them on. On the other hand, if you’re going to a tropical destination such as Australia, be prepared for some exquisite beach fun and celebration. Since most of the fashionable ladies show a lot of their skin and wear really sexy swimwear, make sure you do feel comfortable about that. Otherwise this is the last moment to do something about that. An expert of plastic surgery in Sydney says lots of people opt for some adjustments for this occasion in order to  get the best possible look for this night. Well, in this case, your body really is your biggest fashion statement.

Wherever you find yourself celebrating New Year’s Eve like a true queen that you are, remember to enjoy the general splendor and make these exceptional moments count. Once you look the part it is your confidence that should shine even brighter than the most luxuriously decorated Christmas tree. Physical appearance is not the only thing that makes you look like a million dollar babe but your attitude and behavior as well, so don’t forget to act the part too.