How to Accomplish the Perfect Winged Liner

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always in style, atlanta, beauty, Black eyeliner, blogging, cat eye, cat eye liquid liner, classic, classic makeup looks, coffee, DIY, dramatic, easy, easy cat eye, easy liquid liner, eyeliner application, face, favorite look, have fun, hodge podge coffee house, How To, how to do a wing liner, Links, liquid liner, makeup, Makeup Artist, makeup for dummies, models, out on the town, pictures, pinterest, Revlon Colorstay, runway makeup, simple, style, things you want to know about makeup, tutorial, Wing Liner, Winged Liner, writers block, writing

I’ve said this before, but I shall tell you all again. I LIVE AT THE COFFEE SHOP. Or should I just say that I pay $2.15 per day for my office space. My coffee shop exclusivity only extends to a very few shops in Atlanta. Criteria: it needs to have the right energy  AND the right people.

As I sat on the floral patterned couch here at Hodge Podge Coffee House, I suddenly realized it was already 4:00pm and counting. ” I HAVE TO WRITE” I told myself, but after a wedding weekend with old friends and limited social networking, my best friend came for a visit . Her name is writers block.

Glancing to my left was a hip Redhead with tattered jeans, a purse slung over her shoulder, and a Cafe Mocha (I think.) I talk to everyone already, so I figured she’s probably around 16-17 , and although my readers are an older demographic, I figured some of the most honest answers come “from the mouth of babes.”

I turned and asked her what her name was : Maret (awesome name) . I asked if she would help me with something and then went into a dissertation of what I do and asked her ” If you could think of anything you would want to learn about fashion or makeup , right now, what would it be!?”

Simple Winged Liner – Straight Across with a Slight Upward Angle

“How to wear wings with eyeliner, and make them the same on each eye!” She answered. Well this chick just rocked my world. I wear “wings” everyday. I have decided it’s ok for me to have a “staple” or comfortable look. Winged liner will never go out of style. Check out my Pinterest to really understand my obsession with the wing!

We exchanged FBs , and Instagram names and I told Maret to look out for her “closeup.” The article is in fact inspired by her. Thanks Maret for saving me from that evil friend that visits so often.

A Dramatic Wing That Stays Consistent in Thickness

Lets talk Wings.

Most people have a problem with how to accomplish the “wing” or “cat eye” look. But it is simple. I say that with a grain of salt, as it is only “simple” with the right instructions.

First you need to branch out and TRY that liquid liner, a good one that wont smudge, My favorite you can see here. Throw the fear of “the wing” out the window. No worries, a Q-tip can fix any mess!

One of our eyes is always different from the other. Start with the one that gives you the most difficulty in applying liner or shadow.

The fool-proof way to create a “wing” effect is to use a black or brown pencil liner FIRST, and use it ONLY to make a mark for where you want the wing to go.

Choose One! Great Liner Ideas

Make sure it has a decently sharpened tip on it, and begin by placing the tip, aiming at an angle towards the end of your brow, start as high up or as “curved” as you want the wing to be, and draw the pencil in a LIGHT motion inward and down to the base of the lashline.

Look at where the wing-end aims toward your brow, and repeat it on the “easy” eye. If you feel as though its uneven, Cut with a q-tip (use one dry or wet, and draw it upward on bottom-side of wing line to draw the wing to a sharper point.)

Now use your black liquid liner and trace over the pencil “outline” . Some people feel more comfortable with a brush tip liquid liner and some with a felt tip. It is up to you. But if you have not tried liquid before, a felt tip might be easier.

Take the liquid and apply just like you did the pencil liner but with an even hand movement, and in one fell swoop toward the lashline.

Try This Advanced Hyper-Angled Wing that Extends On the Bottom Lashline

NOW , with any other style of eyeliner application you don’t want to stretch out your eyelid, but it is easier, when using liquid, to make the straight line across the lid area when the lid is stretched outward, after the wing has been applied. Wing, connect, then draw line toward tearduct.

Start with a thin line as close to lashline as possible (gently push the tip of liner into the lashline and across) go over it and thicken the line as much as you want. Let dry.

Sometimes you will have to adjust the outer wing with a q-tip and make it straighter , more curvy, or shorter and a more triangular shape. When the wing is done being applied then add those touch ups.

Easy Peasy, Ladies! Go for it , and give yourself some time to make it work. But rock the socks off of it! Wing liner is simple and you do not have to add eyeshadow to make it a “complicated” look. The wing does it all for you.

Thanks to Maret for being my Muse!

Please comment with any questions!!

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Guest Post : Hampton’s 2012 Summer Fashion Trends

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2012, accessories, Airy dresses, Alexandra Jacobs, ballet flats, beach, beachwear, beauty, bikini, blog, casual clothing, classy, clothing, Color Blocking, daytime look. nightime look, Design, Destination Vacation, dress pants, easy to wear, fashion, Fashionista, Floral patterns, Guest post, Hamptons Vacation Rentals, heels, how to wear neon, inspiration, interesting, lace dress, lacquered flats, Latest Trends, Lifestyle, Light clothing, mens polo. swim trunks, Menswear, mix and match, nautical colors, nautical prints, Neon, neutral colors, New York, people, photo, pictures, popular, red white and blue, shirt, skinny jeans, solid colors, sophisticated style, spring summer 2012, style, Summer Fashion, Swimsuits, Tanning, The Hamptons, travel, trendy, upscale, vacation, Wedges, what not to wear, White dress, writing

Fashionisabitch : I love blogging, tweeting, facebooking; it just seems as though I come across such wonderful people and especially incredibly talented, smart and fashionable WOMEN! Recently I connected (Via Social Networking!) with a wonderful woman named Alexandra. As a fellow blogger, fashionista , and travel junkie, she has amazing insight on “What Women Want” and better, what they should  be shopping for! She has written an article that taught me about Hampton’s Fashion! Enjoy the read , and make sure to follow her on Twitter and her Blog. Thanks Alexandra.

Fashion Trends for The Hamptons 2012

By Alexandra Jacobs

Spring in the Hamptons has begun with summer soon to follow. If you live there, or plan to spend a relaxing vacation in one of the many luxurious Hamptons rental homes this summer, you should be aware of what to have in your wardrobe. Keep in mind that the Hamptons is a sophisticated, warm environment with high style standards. Stay on top of upscale and casual fashion trends that keep you feeling comfortable and confident.

Daytime wear should always be light, airy, and colorful. Short neon tops layered over a cute tank with shorts is always a “Do”. Solid colored or floral patterned summer dresses are also always in fashion; add easy to wear matching wedges with a shiny cuff bracelet and you’ll be good to go. For a more casual daytime look, try a pair of colored skinny jeans with a striped top and a colorful belt, matched with neutral colored ballet flats. For guys, go with a colorful polo and khaki or black shorts and neutral colored sandals for a casual look. You can spice up the casual style a bit by throwing on a nautical designed t-shirt and black or navy flats.

As for beachwear, stick to nautical colors.  They are always so classy.  A nice navy blue, red, white, or neutral bikini is a must.  Neon and floral patterned bikinis are also popular. It’s acceptable to mix and match your bottoms with your tops, as long as the look doesn’t contrast too much. A string bikini top and regular panty cut is the simplest choice. If you want to be more glamorous, try a one piece with abstract open cuts on the abdominal and back area. Halter’s are also in style and tend to be an easy and flattering choice. For boys, don’t wear floral swim trunks, as those are past their fashion prime and now appear tacky. Go for nautical or solid colored swim trunks.

Nightwear in the Hamptons has to be upscale and sharp. Ladies should always go for an easy white, black, or solid colored one piece dress. If you want to mix and match with skirts, keep it simple. Color blocking is popular, so go ahead and throw in a little neon and color in the dress, skirt or heels.  High-heels are preferred, but shiny, lacquered flats are also trendy. Men’s night wear should be conservative and simple as possible. Go for the classic solid colored dress shirt or polo, and matching dress pants. If you choose to be more casual, wear a graphic t-shirt with black jeans and some shiny dress shoes.

Alexandra is a travel enthusiast who loves to write about tourism, beaches, food, and the wonderful things in the world.  She provides her own insights on vacationing to the blogosphere.  If you would like to learn more about her, follow her on twitter  @alexsjourneys or visit her blog alexsjourneys.wordpress.com

Fashion Through a Kaleidoscope: The Musings of a Girl With Ever Evolving Style

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2012, adventure, always be yourself, atlanta, banana republic, BBC, be yourself, beautiful, bohemian, boho, Boho Chic, boots with skirts, British style, British television, budget shopping, Cassie Skins, chapters of life, clothing combinations, clothing labels, color inspiration, colorful clothes, creative outfits, deal hunting, dress for yourself, Dresses, ethereal, every day is dress up, fashion, fashion advice, fashion evolution, Forever 21, free, free spirit, GA state college, gap, gloatl, growing up, Guest post, H&M, hannah Murray, hippie chic, How to wear anything, I hate my clothes, If I ruled the world, inspiration, journalism, Kaleidoscope, life in technicolor, neutral accessories, neutrals, normal girl, personality, psychedelic, quality, Spring 2012, style evolution, The Goat Farm, thrifting, tomboy, tried and true, wardrobe staple

Abby (bottom right) Hoola Hooping with Friends

A few weeks ago I attended an “open movement” dance class with about 50 others part of our local art community at The Goat Farm here in Atlanta. One of those people was a wonderful girl named Abby Carney. My dear friend, Erin, brought her to the GloATL class to dance the afternoon away, flailing ourselves around in the “deep-sea of our emotions!” I loved it, and at first sight I loved Abby. She was wearing a hair piece, a skirt, and winter lace up boots. My kinda girl.

I struck up conversation with her when she asked what else she could wear with those boots, and how to transist them into a Spring staple. Erin and I started offering up opinions and came to a conclusion: dresses, cropped pants were the necessary articles to wear with the infamous boots.

As I talked to Abby about what she did for school and for a living, we immediately connected heart to heart. As she is finishing up school for Journalism in a few weeks (yay), I figured I would extend a fun opportunity to offer some fashion advice to my readers. She is truly a visionary and creative. Her outfits say ” I never hold back, I wear what I want!”

I received incredible inspiration from her following article!

When I was a kid, I was very much a tomboy. For quite a while, I favored overalls, bandanas,
cargo pants, and sneakers . Thankfully I outgrew that phase and
the “trying to fit in” mentality most people go through in high school. Really, I think
life is just made up of a million little unique chapters we go through, and the point
is to just thoroughly enjoy whichever one you’re in.

In high school I always felt
“bohemian” urges and wore many scarves and headbands, but I was too nervous to
fully embrace my true self aesthetically and otherwise. College and urban living
allowed me to blossom into the bohemian hipster baby I admit to being much of the
time now. I’m not afraid to try something new or different. If it makes me happy,
I put it on and wear it proudly. I no longer look at labels or sizes. I simply wear
what feels good and what makes me smile.

Paradoxical to my general boho look, I
also gravitate towards neutrals. I can’t get enough of black, white, navy, and gray.
My closet is filled with white blouses and beige accessories. I shopped at thriftstores before it was cool, and that’s the solid truth. I attended an exclusive private
school, so my mother taught me to be nonchalant about my scavenged treasures.
She certainly trained me in “advanced deal hunting” at an early age. At the same time, I also believe in
quality . It is rare to find me perusing the H&M’s or Forever 21’s of the world.
They make cute things, but they are disposable at best. If I am going to veer from
my usual thrifting stops, it probably means I’m shelling out a little cash at Banana
Republic or Gap to purchase a tried and true wardrobe staple.

It would be impossible to pinpoint my inspiration. I am endlessly fascinated by
everything, and I feel that my outward aesthetic is a way of expressing that. I adorn
myself with objects that captivate me: Like an urchin drawn to shiny baubles, I
am mesmerized by colors. The more the better. If I ruled the world, we would see
everything in Technicolor. Life would float by like a psychedelic swirling twirling
undersea octopus’ garden in the shade. Did I get carried away? That’s what I
seek to express. I think you can grasp that just by looking at me sometimes.

  

Cassie from "Skins" BBC

 Your clothing really acts as an outer mood ring. Moods can be as varied as a rainbow, so never pigeonhole yourself. As far as a muse in human form, my fashion inspiration is Hannah Murray, who portrays the character Cassie on the British television series Skins (above). Something about her style and personality enraptures me and I feel kindred to her spirit and fashion. That’s about it. There are no hard and fast rules in my world but this old cliché—don’t ever dare be anyone who is not totally and earnestly you. Comparisons are futile. I roll out of bed each day and think to myself, “What adventures we’ll have today.” Dress yourself for the day’s adventure.

Abby is a freelance scribe in ATL, freshly graduated from Georgia State and actively exploring every nook & cranny of her hometown before taking on the world. Find her on her purple bicycle, running these city streets, in coffee shops, with her nose in a book, or perched up high in a tree.

Follow Abby on Twitter and Tumblr

The Not Wedding : Not Your Average Bridal Show

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2012, A Town A list, accessories, Achor and Eden Photography, affordable wedding decorations, Ambient Plus Studios, Antique Rentals, atlanta, Band, bang for your buck, beautiful, bloomingdales, Bottles, Boudoir, Bouquets, boutique, Bridal, Bridal Event, Bride, Bridesmaids, Buzzy Craftery, Callie Murray, Cardstock, Center Pieces, Ceremony, China Plates, Church Pews, classy, cocktails, Couture, Creative, Customized Invitations, delicious, DIY, Embroidery Circles, Event, Extraordinary, Extravagant, Facebook, fashion, fine and fleurie, Flower Arrangements, Follow, Follow Friday, Food, Four Inch Fold, Gertie Mae's Floral Design, Groom, Hair, Hanging Wreaths, High End, Juli Vaughn Desings, Like, Links, makeup, Mismatched, Officiant, one stop shop, Orlando, Paper goods, Photography, Planning, Raney O Keefe, Re-purposed, re-usable brown bag, Reception, Rentals, rununculu, rustic white photography, San Diego, Sarah Esther Photography, Sexy, Spoken Word, Spring 2012, Sun in My Belly Catering, Tablescapes, The Majestic Photo Booth Company, The Not Wedding, The Wobble Dance, top of the line, tunnel of love, Twitter, unique, Vanities, vendors, Websites, wedding accessories, Wedding Cakes, Wedding Vendors

Traveling to the West End of Atlanta is not something I usually do, at night, by myself. But I was too excited about this incredibly unique event, that I got gussied up, and ready to wreck the town; actually to attend Atlanta’s hottest Bridal Event, “The Not Wedding”. As I parked on a dark street and made my way over broken sidewalks and potholes, ( in stilettos) I arrived at the door that seemed to be attached to a run down warehouse. Never judge a book by its cover. I didn’t and yet I was still blown away . Above the door read ‘Ambient+ Studios’ , and before I could read those two simple words, the door had been opened, and I was escorted  into a beautifully designed stairwell by an attractive young gentleman wearing a tuxedo. Although I had seen pictures of this event before: a faux wedding ceremony followed by a full reception with a catered dinner, beautiful cakes, boutique cocktails, and a band, I still had not envisioned such a classy and uniquely hosted event. Callie Murray, co-owner with her brother Aaron, of Achor & Eden Photography, started “The Not Wedding” in 2008, and it has been gaining exposure by the day. In their 5th year, Callie and her trustee group of exclusive and high-end (let’s call it ‘bridal couture’) vendors, worked together to surprise potential brides by giving them more than their $35 ticket was worth. Each Atlanta vendor, such as Buzzy Craftery (that designed the beautiful hanging bottles, flowers, and paper decorations on the way in), Four Inch Fold (vintage rentals, such as the church pews, vanities, chairs, typewriters and much more) , Gertie Mae’s Floral Studio (responsible for all of the unique flower designs), and Juli Vaughn Designs (tablescapes and awesome hanging floral embroidery wreaths), collaborated and transformed Ambient Studios into a Bride’s paradise. The hand-picked vendors were responsible for everything down to the makeup and hair of the “bride” and “bridesmaids. Raney O’Keefe , a highly talented freelance Atlanta makeup and hair artist , enhanced the beauty of the girls with wonderful a palette of peach and neutral brown and beige. This was the colour swatch for the event, and frankly the designers hit the nail on the head. Upon entrance, I received a high quality, embossed cardstock menu, and ceremony program. This was no Red Carpet Event, this was a Black Carpet Event! As the beautiful bride walked down the “sparkly black carpet” to meet her groom (her husband in real life, because that kiss was simply killer!) they were taken through a five-minute, poetic”spoken word” ceremony, and then the rest was history. Actually what followed was history in the making. Brides-to-be stepped up to the dinner spread, catered by the oh so wonderful Sun in my Belly Restaurant and Catering Co., greeted with mismatching authentic china plates and miso glazed salmon and chanterelle ravioli to top it off. We were all encouraged to step through the “Tunnel of Love” which is where the bride’s and their beaus would personally meet every vendor. Because of the inviting yet exclusivity of the event, The Not Wedding is loyal to their vendors, keeping only about 20 personally run companies, all with different expertise. A special Thank you to Robert and Tiffany from Rustic White Photography for providing all of the pictures for this blog post. As you can see, they are an amazing duo that knows how to capture the heart and soul of an event, not to mention their impeccable customer service!  I received a “Medium Brown Bag” (reusable) from Bloomie’s and filled it with the little goodies that were offered. Handmade organic beeswax lip balm by Raney, cute hair pins by Fine and Fleurie , and best of all, a wonderful picture keepsake from The Majestic Photobooth Co. (a vintage style photobooth company that was started 7 years ago, before photobooths were all the rage!)

Me and My date Ansley in The Majestic Photo Booth

I got to touch base with an acquaintance and now a friend, Sarah Esther with Sarah Esther Photography, who offers and incredibly unique service: Classy Boudoir Photography. She makes it possible for brides to give their husband a little “steamy” pic to put in their wallet!! I felt pampered, and secretly, I was not a Bride-to-Be. To end the event, ‘A Town A List’ brought us through the cupid shuffle and a new dance I learned, The Wobble. I have never been one for bands at a wedding but these guys are the ultimate entertainers. Both Lead Singers tag teaming it to everything from 70s Disco to Usher , while shuffling their feet to “Moves Like Jagger.” What a wonderful experience. Thank you Callie and your team for such a unique and rewarding experience. If you are from Atlanta or the Tri-State area, Orlando, or San Diego please give some love to these local vendors and hire them for your next event (it does not have to be a wedding!)

Do not forget to follow them on FB and Twitter. You can see a complete list of the vendors for Atlanta, Orlando, and San Diego here .

The Beauty of Hindsight

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2012, beautiful, bloggers, Do what you love, emotions, future, Gathered Thoughts Box, Hindsight, I hate work, inspiration, kids, LBD, Lifestyle blog, Link up, love, Love Feast Table, makeup, memories, past, personal, present, Quotes, sharing thoughts, story, support, Wisdom Words to live by, Women, Work

Not often do I share my direct opinion or personal life on my blog, because frankly, It is a fashion blog! Today is a special day where I get to share with you (my readers) a quick insight into my brain, and heart.

A few weeks ago, I had been invited to be an “Official Hostess” of The Gathered Thoughts Link Party. The opportunity was extended to me by my best friend and incredibly succesful blogger, fashionista, and best of all, a fabulous mother of five. Kristin along with her creative/business partner  Chris Ann (read a little bit about them), have cultivated not just a website but a culture. The Love Feast Table  goal for today is to have women from all backgrounds grab quote cards from a unique conversation starter box called the “Gathered Thoughts Box.” and write about whatever they were feeling while reading the quote (check out the link to read and meet the other fabulous women bloggers as well as the Gathered Thoughts Box for purchase at a discount.)

Each Hostess was given 9 cards, one for ourselves and 8 for a few of our favourite bloggers and creatives. I chose the one (above) for myself, because I seemed to have gravitated toward it the most (yet still second guessed myself, hence the question mark in upper right hand corner!)

“Enjoy the Little Things. For one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”  – Robert Brault 

Just like in fashion, in the present you have no idea what will move from a “trend” into a “staple.” Who knew at the beginning of the fashion emergence that things like  sunglasses, hats, shoes, the LBD, and many other fashion trends would later become the “norm?” Designers would eventually be making tons of LBD, unique lines of shoes and accessories. Clothing evolved from the “need” to cover up nakedness to a full blown obsession. Now Fashion rules the world.

On a personal note , this “prompt card” drove me to think long and hard about what was little to me then that has become an integral part of my life now.

Although I am in my mid twenties and have so much more life to live, learn, and enjoy, I do posses a bit of hindsight that I hope to impart to those that use me as a listening ear, and most of all, to my children (when I have some!)

Above is a notorious picture  of my sister  and me. We were around 3 and 4. That’s a travel “Conair” blow dryer in my hand styling my hair while Brittany basked in the fun of blowdrying her own hair, in a diaper, with a pacifier in her mouth. We were doing what we always loved to do:  Act like Fashionistas. I always said that one day, if i ever became “famous”, that would be the picture they show on the big screen when I achieve a goal or eventually pass away. It is a clear depiction of what we loved to do (my sister is now an amazing hairstylist, go figure!)

Oh the days of the Toys ‘R Us shopping sprees! My parents were so generous, and even in their state of financial need, they recognized that girls especially, need to exercise their creative passions. As soon as we entered those automatic doors, we would go straight for the Barbie aisle. I would choose a Disney Princess Barbie , or the Barbie you could put makeup on or cut the hair. Brittany did the same, while throwing in an animal activist Barbie such as the “Vet” Barbie with the little dog and stethoscope (#crunchygranola.)

After the Barbie aisle, we went straight for the kits of makeup marketed for young girls. It was the early 90’s so we were putting palettes of bright pink blush and intense blue eyeshadow on the register belt. We couldn’t help but to rip open the package the second we got  in the car while simultaneously painting each others faces. I was always slightly disturbed that the stupid “lipstick” didnt have enough pigment. By the time we reached home, I would have already broken into hives from the toy store makeup. My parents didn’t mind. They took me inside, washed my face, and moisturized it (maybe gave me a Benadryl.) They knew how much I enjoyed the toxic makeup, and only once (that I can remember) tried to “request” that I should not use it. Of course I did not listen and kept having them purchase me palettes. Eventually my loving mother would let me “shop” in the free “gift with purchase” bags of clinique (ewww…) and Estee Lauder lipsticks, mini blushes, and eyeshadow. I did much better with these.

My famous line as a child, in order to make my sister and friends let me paint their face, cut their bangs, and dress them was “Don’t worry, I’m a professional! I was not, till many years later.

As I grew into a teen, I seemed to have my older friends come and ask me what shoes went with what, shopping trips where they literally let me pick out their whole wardrobe. They had trust in me. Why? Im not sure , I guess because I had a passion for fashion and a good eye. I still look back on pictures and go “Why in the world would I ever wear that, ever?” But fashion and style changes with time, whether in your own life or on the Runway.

There are the “staples” that will be there forever. I’m still buying makeup palettes, this time from MAC and Sephora, (not the Toy store) and taking my friends and clients for personal shopping trips for makeup and clothing.

In hindsight, the biggest thought that comes to my mind is, when you feel a passion for something, go for it. You never know if it will be your biggest success in life. Your fulfillment is worth quitting that 9-5 (if it is not for you) and relying on your creative skill to get you through life, financially blessed and happy. HAPPY!! I am happy doing what I love.

Search your heart. Look back when you were a child, and asses what may have been the “small things” then and whether or not what you are doing now is the “staple” you want to exist for the rest of your life.

In my own words: “Go find that perfect Little Black Dress” It’s NEVER too late.

In PASSION AND FASHION,

Brielle

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2012 : Runway Religion

Tags

2012, Backstage, care, change, Controversial, Custo Barcelona, dressing for fashion week, encouragement, fashion, Fashion and Religion, fashion industry, fashion week, Humanitarian, interesting, love, Mara Hoffman, MBFW, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, models, non profit organization, prayer, religion haters, Runway, thought provoking, Volunteers, Youth WIth a Mission

Backstage at Custo Barcelona MBFW 2012

I tend to live vicariously through those who attend Fashion Week all around the world. As I do my research around NY Fashion Week (to blog about the many beautiful up and coming designers,) I come across some pretty interesting things.

Considering myself a Humanitarian, as I have traveled the world to love on street children in India and the destitute in the Philippines as well as other parts of asia, I naturally gravitate toward anything that combines religion and philanthropy with High Fashion. It’s controversial and thought-provoking.

Most of the time people have the sneaking suspicion or hardcore belief that religious groups HATE fashion, think it is shallow and narcissistic, but I have come across quite an interesting story and have gotten a firsthand interview with Angela Nennie, PR for Designer Custo Barcelona . She is also the Fashion Liason for YWAM NYC.

YWAM is a Non Profit Organization, Non Denominational, Christian Based Humanitarian Organization, and the NYC chapter is loving on, and highly involved with the High Fashion industry.They are in no way trying to force religion on anyone but to simply give encouragement to the designers and models.

Angela Nennie for Custo Barcelona 2012

This MBFW, Angela and a few volunteers (makeup artists, fashion students, and YWAM students) all helped backstage to make Custo Barcelona’s Runway show  run like glass!

Here is a snippet from Angela and her experience with the models, designers, and what she thinks needs to change in the fashion industry.

‘Every Fashion Week, teams from Christian missions organization ,Youth With A Mission (YWAM), descend on New York from various regions of the country and the globe. They are young and beautiful, fashion savvy and fancy-free and yet against all odds, they are compelled by a force much greater than themselves.

Each season, the YWAM teams become interns for various fashion labels. This gives
them access to work backstage in varying capacities. Operating check-in services for
press and guests, dressing models, ushering and running errands are just some of the
ways that they become involved.

While serving in these positions, they are presented
with opportunities to share the message of hope with fashion professionals. They also take time to pray with industry people and encourage them. On many occasions, they’ve been granted direct access to the designers.

Organizing Runway Show for Custo Barcelona

One volunteer shared the following experience from the recent MBFW.

“I will never forget talking to designer, Mara Hoffman. The Lord told me to tell her that
He delights in her designs and that He watches her create these beautiful expressions
of art and loves every second of it! He wanted me to remind her that He opened these
doors into the fashion industry for her, so that his glory might be brought out in her
designs.”
She was so pleased and shocked by the words that I spoke to her. These designers get
swarmed by people after the shows are finished, but I could tell that no one had ever
come up to her and said anything like what I had just spoken. As quickly as our
exchange of words happened, her assistant insisted that Mara need follow her away
from all of the backstage madness.”

Custo Barcelona 2012 Runway

If I was asked to use five words to describe the atmosphere at Fashion Week, I would
have to say Competition, Pride, Excess, Insecurity and Selfishness. That’s why it’s so important for Christians to be involved. With God’s presence comes Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness,Gentleness and Self Control. I speak from experience when I say that those are cravings of people working in such a competitive environment. My prayer is that by seeing such a contrast, fashion professionals will be jealous to be reconciled to God who delights in their creativity and designs.

Whether you believe in religion or not, these volunteers have hearts to encourage, not to push a product. I think this is pretty wonderful. Fashion is about creativity and a passion for the art.

Angela Nennie’s Information is below if you would like to contact her with any questions about MBFW. Please do not send any hateful comments her way, as she is a fashion activist and loves the industry.

Angela Nennie

Australia Born, NYC Residing Fashionista. PR Consultant for Custo Barcelona and Fashion Liason for YWAM NYC, who loves to have fun, don the latest fashion trends, and share her love for people.

Email: ange@ywamnyc.org

                            Website: www.ywamnyc.org

Crime of Fashion : Melanie Pullen and High Fashion Crime Scenes

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art, beautiful, Carson Daily, Controversial, Crime, Crime Scene Couture, disturbing, fashion, High Fashion Crime Scene, LA photographer, Melanie Pullen, NBC, Photography, reanactments, unique, video, Vintage Crime Scene Photos

I don’t know about you, but the intrigue of crime has been an interest of mine, when i stopped being afraid of the reality of it “happening to me.” I find myself glued to my couch as I watch Dateline, 48 hours, and others with real life footage. I usually do not like reenactments, as you cannot see the true story. But Melanie Pullen, a self-taught LA based photographer, who found her niche in her teens while shooting the earliest shots of The Black Keys and other now famous bands has created a reenactment that I actually think is quite beautiful. She is widely published and well-known as an “envelope pusher” with her controversial work.

I really don’t enjoy Carson Daly, but as i was decompressing from my day at 1:30 am, I was excited to see her segment and automatically decided her work needed to be written about, even more! (Check out Link)

Melanie Pullen on Carson Daly

“I’m a selfish person when I create art, I’m creating it for myself…then I have to give it away.” – Melanie Pullen

Her most recent work is a collaboration of vintage crime scene photos , collected from the LA County Coroner’s office, and reenacted into haute couture scenes of women in their time of death. Somehow, in a disturbing and real way, she makes it utterly beautiful. I will spare you the most gruesome shots, but you can always view them in her recently published 128 page book called “High Fashion Crime Scenes.”

My Favorite

Pullen’s goal, in this particular project, was to combine art, passion, and couture into an amazing spread of telling pictures. And she has done it well: Artistically and esthetically.

“Prior to the 1950s the nature of criminal photographs was fundamentally different from their present clinical form. Given the complexity of cameras earlier in the century, most crime scene photographers had both artistic and professional experience with an eye for composition, lighting, and drama. – From Melanie Pullen’s Bio

That is what she has emulated and successfully done.

Crime is either the outward expression of those who have “a few screws loose” or, crime is that of a passionate response to a need to fulfill, complete, or create a picture that plagues the brain.

I believe crime footage is so telling of the people who commit the deed. A door that opens to reveal why.

Fashion comes in all different shapes and forms and we should not , and WILL NOT box it in. Everything in the artistic mind is open for interpretation. Something may be beautiful to me and ugly or scary to you. That is what makes artists so unique: the difference in the definition of what is pleasing and beautiful.

Look out for her upcoming project called “Haunted” ,The exploration of the moment before death.

Tattoos: Cultural Beauty

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Anil Gupta, atlanta, Atlanta Tattoo Artists, Body Art, Body Modification, Cultural Beauty, decatur ga, Flower Tattoos, Ink and Dagger Tattoo, Inkline Studios, Knuckle Tattoos, Kurt Fagerland, malia reynolds, Memorial Tattoo, Mentawai Tribe, Negative Connotation, NYC Tattoo Artists, Tapping Method, Tattoo History, Tattooed Mummies, Tattoos, Teeth Sharpening, The Illustrated Lady, Tribal Tattoos, Vegetable Sleeve, video, Women and Tattoos, youtube

I think Tattoos are (sometimes) the most amazing pieces of art, not in a museum but on a person’s body.

We are not talking about those who go to “the shop down the street” and pick from the flippy demonstrations of sailors , although if done right, they can look quite interesting. I don’t know if I should talk, I have a recently inked gun on my hand and a cupcake on my foot. Really?

Tattooed Woman 1907

But just like my goofy tattoos, most people get tattooed for the sentimental value of what they are placing on their bodies, the experience, or simply the painful rush. Mine , along with my 3 beautiful other pieces (that mean a lot to me) have been done with best friends as a bonding experience. Will I regret it when I am 70? Probably not, “Tomorrow is not promised to anyone!”

"The Illustrated Lady"

Living in Atlanta, I see ugly, but mostly incredibly beautiful works of art just by walking down the street. It’s sad that ATL doesn’t rate (AT ALL) on the “Most Inked Cities” List. We are rivaling with places like :

Austin, Tex.: It seems that their “Free Tattoo With Every Pulled Pork Sandwich” campaign has finally paid off.

Tattoos will never be a dying art as it has existed for centuries , dating from the fourth to fifth millennium BC.

Tattoo found on the Arm of an Ancient Mummy

The negative tattoo connotation should not even exist, as it exists as a form of cultural “branding” and beauty. This video is about the Mentawai Tribe who performs the traditional Tribal “Tap Method” of Inking and body modification such as teeth sharpening. This shows the painful process of a hammer and needle taking a girl into womanhood. Most importantly , you should always look for a tattoo artist who smokes a joint while performing his art.

One of my favorite tattoo artists would be a NYC Indian man , Anil Gupta with his personally run Inkline Studios. He has not a single tattoo on his body, but he has tattooed many (with a huge wait list). His art surpasses any I have seen before, and his specialty is reproducing classic works of fine art and portraits onto people’s’ bodies.. Who else can produce a highly detailed – full colour quarter size thumbnail of The Mona Lisa. Only he. He is known for his miniatures.

Another two artists, who actually reside here in ATL (that blow my mind) are Kurt Fagerland, who transferred from Ink and Dagger Tattoo in Decatur, to Memorial Tattoo in Cabbagetown and Malia Reynolds, a LA native, relocated to Atlanta and is presently working at Memorial Tattoo on Moreland Ave. Both of these artists are amazing with colour and creating a design from simply a few descriptive words.

My favorite piece by Kurt would be his (in process) and amazing “Vegetable Sleeve.” It is breathtaking and not just because I’m a Veggie.

Malia is well-known for her detailed flowers, but lets not peg her there. She is an amazing artist, and I have had the honor of being tattooed by her. She gave me the most beautiful Ranunculus from wrist to elbow (as a reminder of how much i love my sister; she had them in her wedding bouquet.)

I’m not pushing body art on anyone, I just love the culture and what these amazing artists bring to our generation. Tattoos are truly a representation of Cultural Beauty.

Please feel free to post pictures of your tattoos and favorite artists as i always love to learn more about our growing culture.