Meet Louis Wright

Meet luxury food blogger Louis Wright who has followed his passion for food and nutrition to the point of creating his own blog “IAMLWRIGHT” in 2017, which centralizes on healthy, nutritious meals for students attending universities and colleges.  Having studied at a boarding school in Deradun, India for an extended period of time and later travelling to the Northern part of Spain to study at a college located in the city of Salamanca, Wright has not only travelled across the globe sampling various nutritive, culinary masterpieces, but has also featured similar nutritious recipes on his blog.

Wright joined a conservation team in 2016 from the Cape Eleuthera Institute in the Bahamas with the mission to save Green Sea Turtles and Coral Reefs off the coast of the main islands.  Wright has gained numerous opportunities to see first-hand how the inner workings of large companies operate, such as his experiences at Sainsbury’s head office (Nutrition department) and McLaren Automotive (Racing).  In addition, he also shares a deep interest for various leading-edge programs, ideas, and designs; this includes the new innovations being performed at Loughborough University & MTC Coventry (3D Printing and Polymer Technology), Newcastle University (Marine Technology).  Please read on for our interview with Louis Wright as he talks to us about what first ignited his passion for a life in epicure, his involvement in Ocean Conservation, and his adventurous & healthy recipes he lists on his blog “IAMLWRIGHT“.

What are you currently inspired by?

“Colonel (Harland) Sanders has always been an inspiring character for me, he started serving, his now famous chicken pieces, to gas station customers from his house that was attached to the gas station. A very simple recipe was perfected and is now worth millions of pounds!”

How did your blog “IAMLWRIGHT” originally come to be?

“I saw a few friends posting about passions they have on Instagram and using the caption to write their own lengthy viewpoint. This was where the original idea to create a place full of important things related to my passions came from. Since then the blog has grown and developed to be a main base for all important news in the food industry and includes many recipes all designed and modified to the needs for a healthy lifestyle.”

When was your passion for cooking and epicure born?

“My passion for epicure originally started when I was around fifteen years of age. I became quite fussy and interested about where the food I was eating came from. Was it organic? Free range? Healthy?”

Where do you get your inspiration for the recipes on your blog?

“Most of the recipes are inspired from food I have eaten with my own personal twist or change to make the product slightly healthier. Some are also healthier variations on well know dishes. I encourage people to tell me if they have an interesting idea for a dish which I can try out and experiment with.”

What is the most unique or adventurous dish you have ever tried? 

“The most unique dish I have ever tried is a dish I still do not know the name of. During my time in India I tried a variety of different dishes, some were very pleasant others were remarkably hot! The most unique dish I have ever eaten was bought from a small stall on the side of the road. It had a very minty flavour and tasted amazing with a smooth almost ice cream like texture.”

Take us through a day in the life of Louis Wright.

“Normally I wake up at around 6 O’clock, I shower and eat, generally getting ready for the day. I jump onto my blog and normally upload a recipe at 8. I will then share that on all of my social media and respond to messages from my fan pages and Instagram. For lunch I will then cook a recipe I am trying out and upload an Instagram picture while I am eating, read all of the news stories and possibly edit some photos or share some funny tweets. I enjoy watching documentaries on the environment and new diet fads in my downtime. David Attenborough’s short movies are definitely my favourite.”

What initially got you interested in Ocean Conservation?

“I was initially interested when reading some papers on the current status of animal populations in the sea. Especially the decline in sea turtles, I researched it more specifically around the green sea turtle. I found an institute in the Bahamas which offered volunteer opportunities to help conserve and research into the sea turtles behaviours. It was an amazing experience and I hope to do further projects in the future.”

What do you believe is one initiative everyone should take to help conserve our ocean and the life within them?

“Limiting the amount of non reusable plastics we use is very important, and is the easiest initiative you can take to make a difference. Plastic stays around for hundreds of years can be a hazard to wildlife and leaches toxins into the environment. Instead of using carrier bags when you do the weekly shop, chose to use reusable bags which are going to last an awful lot longer. The UK and other countries have initiated a scheme which will reduce the amount of plastic bags we use, each plastic bag now has a 5 pence charge. It is an effective inventive which I believe will make a significant difference in our general plastic waste.”

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

“One of my favourite destinations I have visited is Salamanca in the north of Spain. It is a very quiet and quaint city which is well known for having the first university in Spain. The language is very traditional and cafes in the beautiful plaza mayor serve all the dishes you would expect to see on a menu in Spain. I had a local guide at the time who showed me a “secret underground restaurant”  for the locals and the food hasn’t changed since the original recipe and you cannot beat it!”

What is one luxury you could not live without?

“As many would probably agree it has to be my access to the internet. I believe keeping in touch with friends on almost a daily basis is very important, as most of my friends live abroad in many different cities it would be very difficult to speak to them without access to the internet.”

Where to next?

“I am off to Tenerife in a few days, the main reason for the journey is to try and taste new dishes and variations that have been made to the standard and traditional Spanish dishes. This includes a selection of paellas and some inspiring fish dishes.”

Where can we follow you?

You can find my blog here blog.iamlwright.co.uk

Follow my journey on Instagram: iamlwright

Facebook: facebook.com/iamlwright

Meet Cifonelli’s RTW Creative Director John Vizzone

Having served previously as Senior Vice President and Creative Director at Ralph Lauren, John Vizzone recently became Cifonelli’s Ready To Wear Creative Director in 2014.  Leading the direction of Cifonelli’s Ready To Wear line towards success, Mr. Vizzone has not only proven his awe-inspiring expertise in managing as well as designing stylish and sophisticated garments, but has also demonstrated a peerless sense of award winning design that gives Cifonelli’s new RTW department an unrivaled flair of elegance.

Cifonelli’s latest RTW line (their Fall 2017 collection) is the most recent work of Mr. Vizzone, which, as expected, featured an incredible assemblage of sartorial men’s wear pieces.  Mr. Vizzone’s latest collection follows a similar tone to Cifonelli’s Fall RTW 2016 line he designed, though exhibits an exceptionally evolved style compared to last Fall’s line.  The current collection is a true masterpiece by John Vizzone, showcasing a country-inspired wardrobe that includes tan and dark coloured pieces alongside windowpane and plaid toned designs.

We were given the honor to speak with Mr. Vizzone about his role at Cifonelli, his unique design process when creating new RTW lines, what he believes makes a great garment, and his expert style advice for the refined gentleman.

How did you first get started in design?

“While working as a buyer at Brooks Brothers I met Alan Flusser.  I started working with him in his design studio.  We worked on the first Wall Street movie together.  From there I went to work for Ralph Lauren.”

Tell us about your inspiration for Cifonelli’s current ready-to-wear collection.

“I wanted to go back to the DNA of the Cifonelli.  It was started in 1880 in Paris, but during the Dolce Vita period they became the brand for movie stars & celebrities. I thought it would be interesting to go back into that period, (my version of that period)”

Cifonelli is one of the greatest tailors in the world, with that said; what do you believe makes a great garment?

“FIT.  Nothing is more important than that.  Everything else follows.”

Are there any areas of menswear you’re looking to explore further at Cifonelli?

“Next, would be to develop a fragrance that represents the Cifonelli gentleman.  We want to evolve Cifonelli into a lifestyle brand.”

Describe a day in the life of John Vizzone.

“I always start my day by exercising.  I check emails,  get on the internet for fashion & news.  I usually have phone conferences & meeting with the team at Barneys NY.  When I’m not traveling I spend all my time with my family.”

Are any of Cifonelli’s past fabrics showcased in the current RTW collection?

“No.  We develop all the fabrics for the RTW collection.”

Style advice from John Vizzone?

“Know what looks good on you.  Keep it simple.  Be mindful of the way a garment fits.  Even an inexpensive suit could look good on you if it fits properly.”

Take us through your design process, where do you start when you’re coming up with a new line?

“First, I decide where I would like the Cifonelli man to go or be.  From there I create a movie in my head & dress the characters.”

What do you enjoy most about your role at Cifonelli?

“Freedom!  Freedom to create who I think the modern Cifonelli gentleman is.  I have full creative control.”

Where do you believe the menswear industry is headed as a whole?

“I think men are becoming more comfortable with fashion.  There is a lot more self expression than ever before in men’s wear.”

Where to next?

“We are in the process of developing Cifonelli lounges.  We believe this will create an intimate connection with the customer & the brand”

Where can we follow you?

On Instagram  @john_vizzone

and

Cifonelli @cifonelli_official

Where can we shop the Cifonelli RTW Collection?

“The Cifonelli RTW is in Barneys (several locations) & in our flagship store in Paris.”

Photos of John Vizzone by: Fernando Sanchez Alonso

For more information on Cifonelli visit:  Cifonelli.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.”

The Art of Shoemaking: Interview with George Glasgow Jr. of George Cleverley

(George Glasgow Sr. & George Glasgow Jr.)

George Cleverley is renowned as one of the worlds most revered shoemakers, founded by Mr. Cleverley in 1958.  The shoemaker quickly gained a reputation as the best, having since created shoes for everyone from David Beckham and the cast of Kingsman to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales.  Today, the boutique shoemaker is headed by father and son team George Glasgow Sr. and George Glasgow Jr. who continue to elevate the renowned brand’s status in the market of today.  Recently, we were given the privilege of speaking with George Glasgow Jr. on all things shoe-making.

What is the inspiration for the George Cleverley RTW line?

“George Cleverley have been making and selling RTW shoes for over 30 years.  The inspiration of each style comes from our bespoke collection, where every shoe has a story and generally always comes from a previous bespoke order.  We also wanted to offer the market a shoe which we felt was the best value for money and RTW in the world.  A lot of time and effort goes into the making of our RTW collection and still we make everything in England with each detail carefully planned.  We also only use the finest materials available to ensure the shoes can be resoled and last for many years to come.”

What is the most difficult aspect of being a shoemaker in the market of today?

“Unlike most of our competitors, we have not taken any of our production overseas.  We make all of our shoes today in England.  We focus only on making the finest shoes in the world.  I think staying true and classic to your brand is always important.  We make new styles but it is always in line with the George Cleverley brand and design aspects.  Keeping your identity in a fast changing market is always the challenge.”

What shoe would you like to make in the future that you have not made yet?

“We have just finalized a few casual styles.  Something different and more for weekends & beachwear which we feel is going to be the best in the market.  It’s handmade in England with unique features and designs.  Its something I have been working on for a few years and delighted that we are going to launch this exclusive collection on MR. PORTER in May.”

Can you tell us more about your career, and the way you got into shoe-making?

“I grew up in the shoe-making business and have really been around shoes my whole life.  I went to the University of London and studied Economics, which lead me to work in investment banking for several years after college.  I then returned to my family business in 2007 and have been there ever since.  It’s my passion and something which I generally love doing everyday.”

Which other shoemakers do you like?

“I like shoemakers that have their own style, and do not just follow seasonal trends.”

Style advice from George Glasgow?

“Always invest in your shoes and your bed because if you’re not in one then you’re in the other.  I always advise in buying a good quality shoe, which is well made and classic.  It’s also important to know what style and cut suits you. This will make picking an outfit a lot easier and looking sharp at the right occasion.”

What do you believe sets George Cleverley apart from its competitors?

“We are the last family owned and operated bespoke shoemaker in England.  We offer fantastic customer service and strive to make the best possible shoes in the world by hand.  Our brand is run like a family and not a corporation which our clients can feel and appreciate.  Our clients become friends and part of our company and not just another number.  We also have the latest selection of exotic skins in the world, so we have an impressive selection of materials for our clients to design something unique to them.”

Where does George Cleverley obtain their leathers from?  Tell us more about some of the different bespoke leather options George Cleverley is famous for.

“We source all of our materials for shoes in England (soles, linings e.t.c.).  Our calf sometimes will vary depending on where the best calf is location at the time of buying.  In recent years it has been Germany.  Our exotic skins comes from either the USA or Singapore.  Our unique exotic business is one of the biggest in the world.  We source very unique hides & skins for our clients.”

Where do you see George Cleverley in 10 years?

“Hopefully in the same place as today.  We attract an amazing clientele from all over the world.  Some of the most unique individuals from all different backgrounds that love our product.  We have all ages and all nationalities which is a testament to the product.”

For more information on George Cleverley please visit:  www.GeorgeCleverley.com

Images courtesy of George Cleverley & Co. Ltd

Style Icons: Interview with Andreas Weinås

Meet Andreas Weinås; the 30 year old Swedish menswear journalist who proves to be an icon of a true Gentleman’s style.  Andreas who currently serves as both the Executive Editor of the online Menswear/Clothing publication Manolo.se as well as an Editor of the Swedish print publication Kings Magazine.  Andreas who was once a professional handball player, has entered the menswear industry from a rather unorthodox background.  Though now proves to be an innovator and source of inspiration for well dressed men around the globe.  We were given the incredible opportunity to interview with Andreas, whom was just recently dubbed by Rake Japan – as “One of the 10 Most Rakish Men” their way of saying: One of the Best Dressed Men in the World.

What are you currently inspired by?

“For the last two years I’ve been very inspired by South Korean tailoring. Conceptually I think B&Tailor does an amazing job and makes some of the finest bespoke pieces in the world. I love the slightly fuller cut and classic silhouette combined with modern and contemporary details. Another brand that I think is worth mentioning is Agyesh Madans brand Stòffa in the US. They make MTM outerwear, trousers, bags and accessories that are simply incredible. Especially the suede jackets that, in my opinion, are some of the best value in the business.”

Take us through a day in the life of Andreas Weinås.

“I try to workout at least 4-5 times a week and often before going to work. My workday normally starts around 9 a.m. with either a meeting in the city or at the office. I´m in charge of the day to day business of Manolo.se and on top of my own articles I edit the material from our freelance writers. I try to be as efficient as possible and plan my days in advance so that the website and magazine will run smooth even if I´m out of town for a business trip.”

How would you describe your own personal style?  Do you have a special cut philosophy?

“I consider my style to be a mixture of Scandinavian, Italian and British. The colour scheme is “Scandinavian” with a base of navy, brown and grey. I can appreciate men wearing vivid colors but I prefer a muted color scheme myself. The “Italian” part is definitely in the make. I prefer a soft construction with little to no canvas in the chest and shoulders. Neapolitan brands like Cesare Attolini and Orazio Luciano make some excellent soft tailoring in my opinion. The “British” part is the actual fabrics. There´s an expression called “Stile Inglese” which refers to Italians doing their version of British menswear. By combining the soft construction of Naples with heavy British fabrics in flannel, tweed and cashmere you get the best of both worlds if you ask me.”

Tell us about some of your go to pieces in your wardrobe.

“I have a navy made-to-measure suit from Cesare Attolini that I consider to be the backbone of my wardrobe. It´s made up in a British Birdseye cloth and the best fit I´ve experienced. Another piece that is special to me is a bespoke Polo Coat from B&Tailor in a “bulletproof” heavy wool fabric by Holland & Sherry. I´ve worn it pretty much everyday since I picked it up earlier this fall. On the more casual side, I would say that I´m extremely fond of my chocolate suede MTM jacket from Stoffa. It´s a shorter flight jacket with a large collar, oversize pockets and a double zip.”

What are your favorite clothing stores, either online or brick and mortar?

“I’m very impressed by The Armoury, both in New York and Hong Kong. I think they have done a lot for the revival of classic elegance in a modern context and they have a great philosophy about the brands or rather artisans they carry. In Sweden, I think Saman Amel (Made-to-measure atelier by two young and ambitious guys) is very inspiring.”

What do you think is the biggest faux pas or style sin that men commit?

“Not paying attention to the small details. It doesn’t matter if you buy a bespoke suit if you combine it with a pair of low quality plastic leather shoes. By paying attention to details like the tie knot and the sleeve/trouser length, you can look the part in something very reasonably priced.”

Tell us more about Manolo.se & King Magazine and your role at both Publications.

“Manolo.se is the biggest website in Scandinavia with a focus on sartorial menswear. We publish one article a day and it can be everything from a made-to-measure review to a feature of a new store opening. King Magazine is the biggest fashion magazine in Sweden for men and they are both are owned by Egmont Publishing.”

Manolo.se is the biggest menswear blog in Sweden, what is the greatest challenge in heading the site?

“I think the greatest challenge is to find a balance between high quality and a reasonable price range for the products we feature. We will focus a lot on bespoke in the +3000€-range because it´s simply the highest level of craftsmanship, but to be relevant to all our readers, we also try to highlight price worthy options under 1000€. To me it´s important that what we recommend is something that feels like a great product in that price range.”

What do you believe sets Stockholm apart, being your locality of choice?

“I’m originally from Gothenburg on the West Coast of Sweden but Stockholm is without a doubt a stronger city when it comes to sartorial menswear. With the Swedish financial sector located in the city, it´s only natural that men wear more suits and ties. I think especially young men in Stockholm dress exceptionally well with a lot of focus on fit and details.”

Favorite restaurant in Stockholm?

“My favorite restaurant in the city is a Japanese/Scandinavian fusion restaurant called Shibumi. It´s located in the basement of the Michelin star restaurant, Esperanto, but with a more simple presentation and a lower price point. The beef and salmon tartars are the best I´ve tasted in the world.”

Photographer: Ted Olsson

What timepieces do you currently have in your collection?  Do you have a holy grail watch you aspire to one day own?

“I have around 10-12 pieces at the moment. Since about a year or two I´ve decided to slim it down with fewer but “better” pieces. My favorite ones are the Patek Philippe Nautilus (ref. 5711), The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (ref. 15202) and my Cartier Tank Americaine. The most important in my heart however is probably my old Rolex Datejust (ref. 1600) that was handed down to me from my Grandfather. It´s a fairly humble piece, but the history and previous owner makes it such a special one.”

Where to next?

“At the time of writing I´m off to Milan for a very special project. I was asked to walk as a runway model for the Dolce&Gabbana FW/18 Menswear Show in Milano Fashion Week.”

Where can we follow you?

Through my personal Instagram account @andreasweinas.

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.

Visit The BAR For The Open Studios of Gianna Dispenza

The Beirut Art Residency (BAR) is having an open-call.  Anyone who deeply enjoys amazing works of art made by truly creative minds will undoubtedly love this event. The brilliant American artist Gianna Dispenza as well as fellow artist Darryl Westley will be showcasing their work at this incredible event as the new artists-in-residence.  In addition, many other artists will be present during the various BAR events to display their artwork and ability, that put into words is “completely extraordinary”.

BAR is an artist-run interdisciplinary, nonprofit space that embraces residence from every single artistic background.  The BAR artist-in-residence program is the begining for rising artists on their way to build up their career and for already established artists to discover more methods, skills, and knowledge about their profession.  The art residency pursues foster cross-cultural connections amidst participants and the local artistic community within Beirut.  The BAR does this through open panel discussions, orginized screening, workshops, and performances with professional artists from all around the world (including the Middle East).

Hidden away in the side streets of central Beirut’s Gemmayze district stands a unique building with exhilerating views that overlooks the shipping port.  This beautiful area along with Mar Mikhael, is in the middle of Beirut’s bohemian quarter.  The several art spaces around the gemmayze district holds a large amount importance and authority in Beirut’s prospering arts and culture sphere.

The Beirut Art Residence will be showcasing the open studios of Gianna Dispenza & Darryl Westley this Thursday, October 27th from 7-10PM at Pasteur st. Gemmayze facing Coral Gas Station in Beirut.

For more information on the BAR and their upcoming events visit:  BeirutArtResidency.com