Style Chat with designer Tatiana Alondra
Get Inspired by her amazing story!
Quarantine-Chat with Actress/Model Elizabeth Tate by Rasheem Wilkins
Quarantine-Chat with Actress and Model Elizabeth Tate by Rasheem Wilkins
The coronavirus affected our country in such a major way, it literally changed life as we knew it overnight. To some the changes have been completely overwhelming and how do you blame them. I can say, I love some me time, but this me time is turning into I’m about to throw myself into a wall time. Jk. But through all of the craziness going on, the one thing that was able to get me through it was some good TV!
Over the years, I had the pleasure of getting to know and working with an incredible actress, Elizabeth Tate. Elizabeth has appeared in shows like Law & Order SVU, HBO’s hit TV show Succession and Showtime’s hit TV shows Billions and The Loudest Voice. Despite the many characters played over the years, her true personality is unmatched. Her laid-back persona and love for fashion created an instant connection between us. Whenever Liz and I got together it is always a great time. I remember buying an Alexandra Vauthier dress to do an impromptu photo shoot simply because I loved the dress. There was no fancy lighting, or crazy stage set up. It was just us and a camera. That was probably the most fun I’ve had on a shoot in such a long time. I laughed so hard watching her dance through almost every frame.
Scene from Law&Order SVU
I was able to virtually catch up with Liz to chat about acting, boys, and life on quarantine.
When did you first know you wanted to be an actress?
“I fell in love with acting in the 3rd grade, I was in my first school play, haha. I started taking classes in middle school and still work with a coach now. I don’t think I’ll ever stop wanting to learn and explore which is something I also love about my job.”
RW: She also shared with me how much fun it is to get into character, and transition yourself into a different person even if it’s just for a little while.
What’s one role you would love to play?, and who would be the male lead?
“My dream would be to play a role from a different era, or totally transform myself like Charlize Theron in Monster.
-Working with Robert De Niro of course, I’m a big Scorsese fan. Hugh Jackman and Mark Ruffalo also just seem to love what they do and, they are are down to earth. That humble passion would be something I’d be thrilled to work with and get to know.”
RW: I couldn’t agree more with Liz, I mean who would turn down a role with Hugh Jackman..
The COVID-19 pandemic hit all of us in such a major way, how are you coping with this new life in quarantine?
“Quarantine has given me a lot of time to myself in a way I don’t think I’ve had before. I’m grateful to have my health and wonderful friends and family, so it’s been a focus of mine to stay positive and make the most of this time. I’ve been trying to do something creative every day. I’ve been cooking a lot which I love to do and finally writing and developing a new series of my own.”
I’m so blessed to be able to call someone so amazing and talented my friend. I am so excited to watch her career grow into something so phenomenal. Be sure to check her out on Law & Order SVU, and one of my favorite TV shows, Billions.
CLICK THIS LINK TO CHECK OUT PICTURES FROM OUR PHOTO SHOOT!
A stylish love story!
Love is in the air this New Year, and things are heating up at StylishManner. This video tells the story of a stylish New York couple getting ready for a festive evening. Watch as the story heats up in a sexy lingerie scene, and watch them cool down as they sip champagne by the fire place!
StyleChat with Designer TerrelleTerrelle
Summer has begun and it’s all about denim, according to athleisure designer TerrelleTerrelle. I have to say, this was one of my favorite collections to both style and shoot. I love denim, like seriously, I wear it almost every day in some form. So when I was told we were shooting a denim capsule I was beyond excited. I also thought to myself, “what can we do to make these items exciting and wearable for the everyday person”. Thinking about the process made this project worth it. We went back and forth for months trying to curate effortless and chic pieces. To be honest it was not an easy task; trying to come up with items that were innovative, interesting, and wearable was an exciting challenge. I’ve been wearing TerrelleTerrelle for years, and I can say with confidence that the level of time and thought that goes into each item he designs is remarkable! Each piece has a special detail that will never be repeated, making each garment feel like it was personally made for you. My favorite look was the beige drop crouch pants with a contract pleating detail, along with the oversized matching jacket he custom designed for me as a birthday gift. TerrelleTerrelle’s unique details and one of a kind silhouettes makes him the go-to designer for any fashion enthusiast!
1. Describe your journey into the fashion Industry?
My Journey dates back to the 10th grade of high School, I was bored one day so I decided to take a pair of my old black jeans and step all over them with my timberland boots with bleach. The footprints turned light orange and I splashed bleach all over my pants to add a little more design. I wore the jeans to school the next day and got so many compliments on how nice my jeans turned out. People started asking me to revamp their jeans, so I did and made a little extra money on the side. The next year the Art Institute of Philadelphia came to visit my High School and tried to get kids to sign up to attend once they graduated. I wasn’t sure about the school at first because I wanted to go to FIT in New York. The only problem with attending FIT you had to have a portfolio and five garments already constructed to apply for the program. I had no idea how to sew, so I applied to the art institute of Philadelphia and got accepted. It was the year of 2004 when I began my journey, and loved every bit of it. I grew a great love for sewing and and technical design, and immediately excelled in school. I won most marketable collection several times, and graduated top of my class. After moving back to New York, a started my own brand TerrelleTerrelle, creating fashion forward, one of a kind pieces.
2. If you could be mentored by any designer who would it be and why?
If I had the choice to be mentored by any designer in the world it would be the late great Alexander McQueen. Not only was his work impeccable, his collections had a reputation for controversy and quite the shock factor. His collections were bold, and was full of drama. And lets not talk about the runway shows, they compare to none to this very day in my eyes. He was rebellious in a way which I admired. He did whatever he wanted without a care in the world, and I think that is the most amazing thing any individual human can do; Express themselves.
3. What would your Dream collection look like?
Now that’s a hard question because I’m always dreaming lol... I would have to say the one collection that I had several dreams about would be the rainbow T collection. Where the collection starts off in white, follows the color wheel and ends in Black. That’s all I can give you for the moment. I can’t give you all the tea, however I can tell you this, it’s a collection full of love.
4. Have you ever questioned if designing was the path you wanted to go?
Nope not at all. Once I started I knew I couldn’t, and wouldn’t stop! It is something I will always be most passionate about.
5. What inspired this Collection?
Well to be honest it goes back to what got me designing in the first place. I used to revamp denim all throughout high school so I figured why not put all this denim to use I got from my job and make a collection. I call it TT Blues. Over the last 2 years I been going through a lot dealing with deaths in the family, wondering if I would ever find love again, and just life in general. I love how you can do so much with denim, cut it up distress it, mix and match and it adds so much character to a look. Denim is a tough fabric meant to last long, And the woman who wears TerrelleTerrelle is not your average girl. She is bold,and likes to take risks. She also makes statements and demands attention wherever she goes.
Click here to view full photo shoot
For more information about how to purchase items from this collection contact:
Instagram @TerrelleTerrelle Email Terencetferguson1984@gmail.com
StyleChat with Anthony Adams
Outerwear season is the most important time of the year. It’s the perfect time to make a major fashion moment without having to do the most. Your cold weather accessories are a vital part of your wardrobe, if you live somewhere the weather permits. However, for the New York fashionistas, it’s like a moment at the Oscars! This is the time where we select the most stylish pieces to make any semi-casual outfit, fashionable. Now I’m not saying put away all of the amazing under layers, because those are important too. But, it’s all about that first moment, and a cool outerwear piece will give you just that. No matter how casual or dressy your outfit may be, your outerwear will say a lot about your persona.
I sat down with men’s Fashion Expert Anthony Adams to get his feedback on this season’s hottest outerwear trends. We agreed that this is the year of the statement coat.
RW: “We take a step back from tricked out clothing with tons of bells and whistles for a more subtle approach. So with that, we amped the designs with outer garments. Stylish hats and novelty scarves have come back in such a major way, and it’s really exciting. Guys are no longer tucking a big ass wool scarf inside of their coats, instead they are making it the focal point. Also, more designers are taking risks with outerwear creating such an impactful moment in fashion. I say own it! It’s important to sometimes step outside of your comfort zone. Romeo Hunte is outerwear goals for me. He has by far one of the most fashion-forward and dynamic outerwear brands out right now. If I had to pick my favorite coat today, I would definitely give it to my red, black and white Houndstooth Oversized coat. And no it’s not warm at all, I just love it….
Rasheem to Anthony Adams:
What is your favorite outerwear piece?
In order for an outerwear piece to become my favorite for the season, it must meet three major criteria: details, style and warmth are the standards. My Black Italian Cable Transit Topcoat meets and surpasses all three!
What are some of your views on outerwear and how it relates to the fashion world?
“Outerwear is the exoskeleton of every fashion organism around the world. With that said, outerwear should be strong and reflect your personality. Outerwear is a key player in the fashion world due to practicality and necessity of coats. Coats should be bold and fit the season. The coat you wear on any given day has a direct bloodline connection to the outfit beneath it. This is why one coat is never enough!”
What’s your favorite outerwear designer/brand at the moment?
“At the moment I am currently obsessed with Transit, Rick Owen and Antonio Metodo outerwear.”
I couldn’t agree more with Anthony, my outerwear says my personality is DOPE AF lol…
Here’s our list of this seasons must-have outerwear pieces!
Cashmere or Wool Trench Coat
Statement Evening coat
Printed Bomber Jacket
Oversized Puffer Coat
Shearling Coats
Faux-Fur Jackets
Subtle Animal Prints
Click here and Get Inspired by some amazing looks I captured on the streets of New York City!
Special thank you to Anthony Adams aka @guccirun
Style Chat with Owen Gould
When I think of a strong work ethic and a creative mind, several people come to mind. Owen Gould is definitely one of them! To some, he’s known as the guy who’s brought Hollywood glam back to the world of hair, but to me, he’s one of the coolest and most humble guys I’ve met in years. His unique and forward-thinking hairstyles have created a lane of its own. Owen consistently shows the world how hard work and a strong passion for what you do makes for a successful and powerful influencer. As I flip through magazines or scroll through Instagram lusting over his innovative creations for people like Bella and Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Karrueche, and Anna Faris, it motivates me to work even harder. I get so excited just wondering what groundbreaking design he will come up with next, knowing that he will push the limit and create something monumental — making him one of the most sought after stylists.
I still get goose bumps when I see the Interview Magazine shoot featuring Sarah Abney, and I can’t get enough of Priyanka Chopra on the cover of both Elle and Harper’s Bazaar. Owen continues to raise the bar as he creates another outstanding look at this year‘s Met Gala styling Juliette Binoche. Although Owen styles some of the world’s most influential models, actresses, and industry socialites, he still maintains being very personable, humble, and dignified!
Read what I learned about the remarkable man in my StyleChat with Owen Gould.
1. What is it like in the hair/beauty business and what inspired you to get started?
Pouring over magazines as a kid and admiring all that I saw is probably what inspired me to pursue a career in fashion. Being in the hair industry is an exciting and extremely creative business to be a part of; it’s collaborative and can be chaotic at times, but that's what I love so much about it. You’re constantly working with other talented artists to create an amazing image or look – that's why you really need to be a team player to go far in this industry. Working together is so important when trying to create something that everyone will remember. Not everyone is going to love your ideas or see your vision, but the end result is so gratifying.
2. How have things changed from when you started until now?
The biggest change I’ve seen is the rise of social media. It’s pretty much changed the game on all levels. The thing I like about it is the ability to share some of the process with people that follow me, and also some behind the scenes clips with people I've had the opportunity to meet on set. It’s also become a portfolio for your work; I’ve gotten booked for several jobs because of a photo I posted on Instagram. Ten years ago, that wasn’t happening.
3. Who are some of your biggest influencers?
I’ve always loved the old school masters of hair. Oribe, Luigi, Serge Normant. The glamour of the 90’s supermodels has always remained a huge inspiration for me as well. All those old Versace ads with the big hair. I’ll never get tired of looking at those!
4. What has your proudest moment been thus far?
Getting to work with Björk was a really proud moment for me! I remember getting an email from her stylist asking if I’d be interested in working with her. I was like, “This must be a mistake”. My sister turned me on to her music when I was a kid, and I was so in love with those little buns she used to wear all over her head! It was such an amazing experience!
5. Where do you see yourself and your brand in the next few years?
It’s hard to say with certainty but I would love to collaborate on a product line or hair accessories of some sort, and create something that everyone would want to use everyday.
I also recently put out a book called MACHO with a photographer friend of mine. It’s a collection of men’s hairstyles that I’m really proud of and I would love to continue to do more projects like that.
6. What tips would you to provide to someone for an easy day-to-night glam?
I’m a huge fan of dry shampoo. If your hair is dirty or you’ve just woken up, I love to spray the hair liberally and pin it up in small messy sections. It’s a great way to get that sexy bedhead look from the boardroom to the dance floor. It even looks great when you take it all out at the end of the night.
To get styled by the master of hair, email Owen Gould: OwenGould23@gmail.com
Instagram: OwenGould
Style Chat with MUA Mimi Kamara
Spring is in the air, and I had the pleasure to watch this incredible artist transform an amazing model into this editorial trend-setter! Philadelphia native Mimi Kamara is a makeup extraordinaire that came to New York with one goal: TO WIN, and that is what she did. Mimi took the city by storm with her extensive list of celebrity clientele. She also blessed us with the most cutting edge editorial looks for major fashion magazines like Vogue, Essence, Raine, and Lucy's, just to name a few. We've also seen Mimi’s work walk the runway as she's painted faces for top designers like Balmain, Edun, Billy Reid,Publuc School, and Tommy Hilfiger for NYFW. One thing I was so impressed by while doing this interview was not just her humble and poised persona, but the attention she pays to details in all aspects in her business. It was mind blowing. From the styling to the overall feel of the atmosphere, Mimi makes it her point to create an environment that is not only fun for her staff members, but for all involved. From making jokes as security chases us away while trying to get the perfect shot, or simply getting coffee for everyone as a simple thank you, Mimi is the epitome of a true influencer and fashion mogul.
Mimi and I spoke about the huge social media phenomenon and how it has shaped the lives of so many people, both for the good and the bad. However, Mimi believes that this new world of marketing is an amazing tool to inspire others, network, and stay connected with people in all aspects of the world of fashion and pop culture. As I’ve observed her work for many years, I felt the need to share with you more about the person behind this cultivating talent.
Behind the scene photo. Picture taken by Rasheem Wilkins
1. What inspired you to become a makeup artist? What did you do to stand out from the others?
I’ve always been fulfilled by getting to know people and healing people. I went to Temple University for psychology, and close to graduating I realized “I don’t want to do this the rest of my life..”. I LOVED healing people, but was super fascinated by fashion & beauty!
2 things I did (and still do) to stand out:
1. Outwork anyone. This means going the extra mile when no one asks you to. Having a straw in my kit, just in case the client wants water after her lip are done. Or giving a mini facial massage before I start makeup. If I’m on set, I keep an eye out for more than just “my job”. So if her bra strap is showing, I call it out before the camera starts rolling!
2. Be Humble. I was never ever afraid to ask for help. Or recognize when someone knew more than me. In those moments, I asked if I could assist. And took the job just as seriously as if it were my own project. The ego keeps many from excelling, because they’re too proud to assist. Not knowing, one day with someone stronger than you, can save you 10 years!
2. How would you describe your preferred style of work (i.e. dramatic, natural, etc.)?
I would describe my preferred style of work is similar to my fashion aesthetic. “Rich”! This doesn’t mean having a lot of money, but it means tasteful. Someone can be a millionaire but look cheap. Someone can be homeless and look rich. For me, it’s beautiful skin no matter what. This has meant me telling potential clients or even close friends “I’m not the Artist for you”. When there are too many layers or products, things start to look cheap. It may not be popular to some, but I am true to me first and always.
3. Of all the products you use, what are 3 you absolutely cannot live without?
I absolutely cannot live without:
1. Concealer! It can be your foundation, eyeshadow, and lip in a pinch or if you like!
2. Moisturizer- many underestimate the power of properly prepping your skin. Not prepping properly is like having an amazing meal with no fork, knives, or spoon, LOL!
3. Eyeliner- I can manipulate it into other things. Like lipstick. Or eyeshadow.
4. What’s one piece of advice you’d like to provide for aspiring MUAs who are looking to make their mark?
There’s less traffic in your own lane! This means do your absolute best where you are, and don’t compare or watch what others are doing.
Social media is great to be inspired, but someone else’s journey is not your own.
You may miss an awesome opportunity because you feel you have to do Makeup just like someone else. Or follow the same path they did. And it kills your creative spirit!
5. What about people who are not so great with makeup but want to learn...what tips do you have?
Learn the rules, so you can better break them! It’s like cooking. Once you learn the basics, you start to remix it into your own style. I always recommend taking a one on one lesson. This way you learn, make mistakes, and master your face; without the pressure of others watching.
Style Chat With Jamie Costello
Fashion Week is one of the most exciting times of the year for those of us that are obsessed with fashion. I sometimes lose it when I preview the collections of the my favorite designer, and get a glimpse into the minds of some of the most creative people in the world. This year, it was beyond special to me because I got to help exclusively premier the brilliant work of Style Influencer, Shoe Designer, and my dear friend Jamie Costello. For years, I had the pleasure of watching Jamie bless the streets with some of the dopest fashion and one thing you could always count on was her having on a pair of sick heels. Jamie always admired the way high heel shoes transformed a women, leading to her fetish for amazing shoes and desire to design her own. Jamie's signature Swarovski Crystal engraved detail brings something as modern and innovative as the red bottom on a Christian Louboutin shoe, making her the new designer to watch.
What inspired you to create a shoe line?
"After attending fashion school for 4 years, I began my career styling. I worked for a couple of luxury companies dressing the well to do ‘wives of”. I worked with doctors, lawyers and a few celebrities. The most enviable of the experiences was working with the designers and buyers. All these experiences only sharpened my taste and eye for luxury details, and essentially shaped my overall design aesthetic. But styling and selling clothing wasn’t my passion. After the recession of 2008 I lost my job and was like “What am I gonna do next?".. I packed my car and moved to Atlanta and didn’t look back. While I was there I wanted to get back to designing. I sat down one day to create another portfolio and was totally uninspired. I started to cry and sat there frustrated. Sitting at my desk I stared at the outfit I created and focused on the boots I drew. I then drew them on a second sheet of paper and started to really detail them. One by one I just started sketching nothing but shoes. By the end of the day, I drew over 42 pairs of shoes. That's how Jamie Costello shoes were born."
What was the motivation behind your first sample?
"Well it was important to me to create something sexy and unique but also be wearable. I didn’t want the design to be complicated but rather delicate to showcase my unique design aesthetic. The “Daphie” Velvet Strap-Up heels showcase just that. Adorned on the heel of every shoe is a hand finished Swarovski Crystal floating in the middle of the heels. But mostly, I wanted to create some dope ass sexy heels. I love when a woman is alluring and owning her power; heels are just the cherry on top."
Who or what are some major fashion influencers to you?
"I think we are in the time of the entrepreneurial wave. Every millennial I know is doing it for themselves. NYC is an amazing place for creatives to thrive and collaborate. I am consistently inspired by my peers. People that I have grown up with, worked with and went to school with are creating and carving their own paths in their respective fields. These individuals fuel my desire to create some dope shit. I feel millennials have turned the world upside-down and went against the formalities that were set in place. I'm speaking from the Arts, Music and Design aspects. We can thank the internet and social media for that. We now have access to resources that only industry insiders knew and are reaching audiences that were unreachable 15 years ago. You and your idea can go viral in minutes. Whereas before, you’d have to slave away in someone’s office or work your way up in a company. Or simply be denied opportunities. Now it's about taking your no’s and making them a yes! It’s no longer about a selective group of people winning. It no longer matters where you're from, your social or economic status, color, sex or gender. But if you're willing to work hard for your vision, you can be successful at whatever you’ve set your mind and hands to do."
If you had to wear one style shoe forever, which style would it be and why?
"Is this a trick question?!?!"
Where would you like to be in the next five years?
"I have dreams so big that I've loss a lot of sleep over, so I'd say having had a successful, massive launch party with my peers and family celebrating a huge milestone with me is the dream. I can’t wait for my brand to have cultural and international presence. And eventually in music and movies! More than anything, I really want to make my parents and sisters super proud of me. Then eventually, accessories and a fragrance. Why not! The next best thing to looking and feeling like a fearless sexy woman is smelling like one too."
It was such a pleasure to hear the inspiring store of Jamie Costello, her evolution was extraordinary! Jamie's determination to be successful was not only motivational, it made me feel more confidant about the direction I'm going in my own career.
To find out how to get your JamieCostello shoes, send an email to Jamiecostello.shoe@gmail.com
Follow Jamie on Instagram @Jcostelle_
Style Chat With Anthony Adams
Partnering with Men's Tailoring expert Anthony Adams was not just exhilarating because we share the same passion for fashion, but it was educational and so much fun. Anthony and I have been friends for many years but being able to watch him aka @Guccirun in his element was extremely motivating. He really take men's tailoring to a new level. With Anthony's unique style and exquisite taste, there's no surprise to his obsession with the brand Gucci.
Let's read why...
What is it about the brand Gucci that you love so much?
"The three main reasons I love to shop at Gucci are quality, timelessness, and luxurious style. Gucci has been a symbol of style and quality since the 1920s, when founder Guccio Gucci made monogram style chic and desirable. Gucci continues to deliver high-quality, fashionable merchandise every season. I personally fell in love with Gucci in 1994 when Tom Ford was Creative Director, when Gucci introduced a collection that changed fashion, including edges, construction, and attention to detail down to accessories. Moving forward to the current Creative Director Alessandro Michele, Gucci remains relevant, and was the top-trending designer of 2017. In 2018, I believe Gucci to be a brand that continues its legacy of timeless, fashionable, and expertly crafted pieces."
If you could only wear one accessory for the rest of your life, what would it be?
"Fashion professionals and enthusiasts would find it hard to limit themselves to a single item, as different accessories alter a look or an outfit for a specific occasion. With that said, if I was limited to a single piece, I would choose my Fendi stainless steel watch that uses the company’s signature ‘F’ logo as the chain band detail. A watch is not only a practical accessory, it can easily polish off many looks across the spectrum, from formal to urban street wear."
Name 2 people that inspire you fashionably.
"I have been most inspired by designer Tom Ford and Oliver Rousteing, the current Creative Director for Balmain. Both men have a distinctive voice and personal style that is reflected in their collections. Tom Ford remains a constant leader in fashion without compromising on his strong silhouettes, attention to detail, or use of the most premium materials. His work beginning with Gucci and transitioning to his own brand show an impeccable style, with amazing tailoring, and a flair for how to wear a look. I am also a collector of his eye wear, which has become part of my signature style.
I admire Olivier Rousteing for his work in reviving a forgotten label and bringing it back to prominence in the industry. His bold and risky decision to use social media influencers to break with the house’s tradition of dressing only the elites of Paris paid off handsomely, with the likes of Naomi Campbell, Jennifer Lopez, and Kylie Jenner contributing to the rising popularity of the brand. His work demonstrated the power of using social media, as well as collaborating with an already established retailer to break back into the fashion market and reinvent a brand. It inspires me to take risks in my career."
If you can give one piece of fashion advice to the new Fashion enthusiast, what would it be?
"My advice is simple: Only buy what you love. Pieces that you love become more than just a part of your wardrobe; they become a part of you. They become part of your signature style and last beyond current trends. They become your classic, timeless pieces. I have followed this mantra from my earliest days in fashion, and it has served me well personally and professionally. When you buy items that speak to your inner self, your mindset on purchases change. You begin to be more selective, cherry picking through the trends for items that will work with what you already own and love in your wardrobe. In the end, you will be building your own collection of pieces that fit with current trends, but that will have elevated you to a more timeless style that describes your unique point of view in fashion."
Anthony's TOP Must-Have Items to Complete Any Dapper Look:
1. A Pattern Suit: In his case, it happens to be a broken line windowpane navy Hugo Boss tweed suit. This suit is tailored to perfection and makes a bold statement in a sophisticated manner.
2. The Double-Breasted Sport Coat: The double-breasted sport coat will add a European flair to any wardrobe. Paired with a contrasted slim fit pant or jean, it's a perfect look for the office to a night out on the town.
3. The Double Monk-Strap Suede Shoe: Anthony's favorite pair is a one-of-a-kind custom double monk-strap that he designed himself. They are a deep rich navy blue and brown pointed cap-toe, with sliver buckles, a pink top stitch and an embossed monogram spelling the word ANT. Footwear is the foundation of every dapper look.
4. The Fedora Hat.: A man is never fully dressed without a hat says the fashion expert. "I have many hats, however my favorite one is my black Stetson 2 ½” brim fedora."