James Cordon Hosts a Pet Gala, and its far from Boring
James Cordon Hosts a Pet Gala, and its far from Boring
Although the Met Gala was cancelled this year, that didn’t stop late-night host James Cordon from creating his own Met Gala, but with a twist. The comedian hosted a Pet Gala, which displayed an array of adorable pets wearing bedazzled ensembles and their best red-carpet outfits. Participants were asked to send the late-night show host photos of their pets dressed to this year’s Met Gala theme, “About Time: Fashion and Duration.” The submissions ranged from dogs, to lizards, and even guinea pigs.
On the first Monday of May, Cordon was joined by Brad Goreski, an E! Red Carpet host, to discuss the submissions through a YouTube Clip. One dog named Coco rolled up in a dramatic gown with an extra-long-train, while one dog named Brutus wore a blue tulle gown, which Goreski joked was a “custom bark Jacobs” since it was so similar to Marc Jacobs 2020 spring selection. One lizard, named Phillip Arthur Norrington, stole the show when he came dressed in a snazzy top hat and tuxedo in a Jurassic limo, which granted him the title of “best-dressed man” of the night.
As difficult as quarantine has been for many, James created an outlet for audiences at home to be creative and bring out their inner fashion interpretations to the show.
Report: Woo Jong Kim
Chris Meloni Set to Return to Law and Order: Special Victims Unit for the Season 22 Premiere
Chris Meloni Set to Return to Law and Order: Special Victims Unit for the Season 22 Premiere After 10 years.
Law and Order: Special Victims Unit just finished it’s 21st season lead by star Mariska Hargitay who's been a part of the show from the beginning. This season broke the record for TV’s longest-running prime time live-action series. For the first 12 seasons Olivia Benson, played by Mariska Hargitay starred alongside Elliot Stabler, played by Chris Meloni. However, at the end of season 12 Chris’s character, Elliot, was in a controversial shooting which led to his sudden departure from the squad. Leaving Olivia Benson confused and heartbroken because he didn’t even reach out to her about his leaving.
Recently, news came out that Chris Meloni will be reprising his role as Elliot Stabler in a new Law and Order spinoff show dealing with organized crime. Production was halted before it could start due to the coronavirus, but the current thought is that once SVU starts shooting for season 22, Chris’s new show will also begin.
This past Friday SVU showrunner, Warren Leight confirmed through the SVU official podcast that Elliot Stabler will be making an appearance in the season 22 SVU premiere. SVU’s season was cut short due to the pandemic, but Leight explained that the plan had been to bring back Elliot Stabler’s family, most likely son and wife for the SVU finale to segway into Elliot’s returning in season 22. Since that was not able to happen, there is much speculation about how Elliot will be brought back and how they will explain his 10 year disappearance.
There are mixed reactions among fans about Elliot’s return. Some people are excited and hope to see a lot of Elliot Stabler on SVU, and crossovers with his new show. Others hope for a romance between him and Olivia, one that some have been hoping for since season 1. Some are upset because he betrayed Olivia by disappearing without a trace even though he claimed that she was his best friend. In addition, they cite the immense character growth in Olivia since Elliot left.
Although there are varying opinions one thing is certain, Elliot Stabler's return to SVU will definitely shake things up for the squad. We look forward to Chris’s new show and to Mariska led SVU season 22 as well as any crossovers and interaction between the two shows.
Report: Rebecca Vanderkooi
Beyond Us
What's beyond us? This past week The Pentagon officially released footage of what looks to be a flying UFO. Is it real? Or is it just a coincidence.
Extraterrestrial life has been a circling theory within our society for many decades. This past week, The Pentagon shared three videos to the public that appear to be flying UFOs. The footage was recorded by two U.S Navy Pilots who were shocked with how advanced these anonymous objects were, reaching high speeds and moving in ways we can’t. Whether you're skeptical of other life or not, the footage is difficult to explain, therefore causing a lot of controversy. My question is why release this footage during a worldwide pandemic? Sue Gough, The Pentagon's spokesperson, explains that they released the footage to clear up any misconceptions by the public on whether or not the footage circulating was real, or if there’s more where it came from. He proceeded to explain that the aerial phenomena observed in the videos remain characterized as 'unidentified.'
Picture #1
The president contemplated whether the videos were real or not, and was seemingly astonished by the footage seen. This past Wednesday, President Trump spoke on his thoughts with CNN news, describing the clips to be “one hell of a video”, and wondered if they could be real. Back this past summer Trump also discussed the pneumonias with ABC news, stating"they do say, and I've seen, and I've read, and I've heard, and I did have one very brief meeting on it. But people are saying they're seeing UFOs.”
Picture #2
The excitement with the unknown never goes away in my opinion, the UFO phenomenon is perhaps one of the most compelling pieces of evidence we have. This associates skepticism about worlds beyond us to conspiracy theories about government and primarily the US government.
Report: Emily Andrews
Cancellation of 2020’s Met Gala Incites the Call for Homemade Fashion
Because of COVID-19, the Met Gala was cancelled during the museum’s 150th anniversary. This did not stop people from celebrating the event’s fashionable legacy though; instead, they’ve turned to recreating the past in the comforts of their own homes.
2020 was supposed to be a momentous year for the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum was to celebrate its 150th anniversary with the Met Gala’s new theme, "About Time: Fashion and Duration". The theme was based around the challenges, changes, and fragmentation that the world of fashion has faced throughout time. If anything, this topic strikes hard in the uncertain era of the Coronavirus. Like many other major events around the world, 2020’s Met Gala has been indefinitely postponed due to concerns about the illness.
This hasn’t stopped the public from celebrating the event though. People recently flocked to Twitter, posting photos of themselves wearing recreations of past Met Gala looks using solely what they could find around their house. Some celebrities hopped in on the trend too. Actress Mindy Kaling used red tarp, Christmas lights, and packing tape to recreate Jared Leto’s 2019 ensemble. Olympic figure Adam Rippon bundled up in a fluffy blanket in a cozy attempt to mimic Rihanna’s 2016 look. Meanwhile, the men over on The Try Guys’ Youtube channel recorded their struggles to design and put together a range of iconic looks. Their efforts have inspired many others to pick up materials, channel their inner Vera Wang, and see what they can put together. #MetGalaChallenge has been flooded with silly, funky, and gorgeous homemade looks.
This may not be what the Metropolitan Museum of Art had in mind, but it fits with their 2020 theme. In this heavy time, people are turning to fashion in order to have fun and keep smiling. They’re looking back in time, drawing up snippets of the past, and transforming them into new moments to be shared.
Photo 1: https://twitter.com/EugeneLeeYang/status/1256648859322707968?s=20
Photo 2: https://twitter.com/HaileyJensenArt/status/1255949457713008640?s=20
Photo 3 & 4: https://twitter.com/Adaripp/status/1256327225571282944?s=20
Photo 5: https://twitter.com/mindykaling/status/1256322654564306945?s=20
Report: Nicolette Schneiderman
Five Indie Skincare Brands You Won't Want to Miss!
Want to #slay that skin for the summer? Check out our list of the top five indie skincare brands you won't want to miss!
With all the new indie brands emerging, it is easier than ever to find quality skincare with all-natural ingredients. So if you want to stay hydrated, blemish-free, glowy this summer, you just might want to check out some of these products!
Photo Credit: Herla Beauty
Founded by a grandmother-granddaughter team, Herla Beauty uses local beauty secrets from around the world to create all-natural, responsibly-sourced products. The brand even employs a primarily-female staff. With skincare friendly to all ages, one of Herla Beauty’s most popular products is the nourishing Damask Rose face cream.
Photo Credit: Urban Skin RX
Urban Skin RX was founded to create corrective skincare for diverse skin tones and skin types. Its inclusive, lab-researched products cover skincare concerns from eye creams to serums, and the brand’s best-selling product, the Even Tone Cleansing Bar, touts the Essence Best in Black Beauty Award.
Photo Credit: La Flore
La Flore uses groundbreaking probiotic technology to decrease redness and acne by neutralizing harmful bacteria on skin. The all-natural, clinically-tested products increase elastin production and collagen. Its best-selling Probiotic Cleanser gently exfoliates skin and is suitable for all skin types.
Photo Credit: Kopari Beauty
Focused on being natural and toxin-free, Kopari Beauty products are made from organic coconut oil sustainably sourced in the Philippines. The brand has coconut products for every skin care need, but its best-seller is a Vitamin E infused Coconut Melt that can deep condition hair, moisturize skin, or remove makeup.
Photo Credit: Biossance
Biossance employs biotechnology to create skincare without harming animals or the earth. Pioneering sustainable beauty, the brand vows to use trustworthy, natural ingredients to create products that it ships with carbon neutral shipping. Its popular Squalane and Vitamin C Rose Oil is firming, brightening, and environmentally friendly.
Report: Rachel Attar
BET Airs One Night Special To Raise Funds for Those Impacted by COVID-19
BET has established a COVID-19 Relief Fund in partnership with @unitedway to support and amplify relief efforts in our communities that have been severely impacted by the pandemic. Head to bet.com/donate for more info. #BETCovidRelief
In an effort to provide support for racial disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic cable channel BET launched it’s BET COVID-19 Relief Effort. In partnership with NAACP, United World Wide, and numerous African American activists and businesses, BET hopes to provide crucial financial, educational, and emotional support needed by communities of color during this time. According to an updated preliminary report released by the CDC, African Americans make up approximately 30 percent of the total cases, even though only making up 13 percent of the US population. Specifically in NYC, according to a report made by NYC Health African Americans are being infected, hospitalized, and dying of the virus at a significantly higher rate than their white peers, making up 38 percent of the death as of April 18th, 2020, despite only making up approximately 24 percent of the city’s population.
As a part of these initiatives to further generate relief, BET aired their “Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief” one- night special. Hosted by actors Anthony Anderson and Regina King, TV personality Terrence J, and singer Kelly Rowland. The special aired April 22nd featuring various special appearances and musical performances made by some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. This special is like no other that BET has ever aired because it was all recorded virtually from the celebrities’ homes.
The special opened with a beautiful rendition of “I Smile”, performed by Kirk Franklin, Kelly Price, Fantasia, Jonathan McReynolds, Tyrese, Le’Andria Johnson, Melvin Crispell III, and more. Streaming from their homes comedians, singers, and actors try to spread what BET’s EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy Connie Orlando calls the “healing power of music, comedy, and entertainment” in order to educate viewers about what is happening to their community during these unprecedented times.
The donations made to the BET COVID-19 Relief Fund will allow United Way to provide resources to local organizations in New York, Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans, and Detroit, where communities have been struck hardest by the pandemic.
For more details, or to contribute to the fund, visit BET.com/COVID19.
ALL PHOTO CREDS: @BET on Instagram
Report: Lauren Tucker
What Do the Cards Say?: A Journey Down the Youtube Tarot Rabbit Hole
I watched 5 tarot card readings on YouTube and wrote all about what is in the cards for me. Watch them and let me know what is going on in your future.
Did you know there are tarot card readings on YouTube? They have quickly become a guilty pleasure of mine. In these uncertain times, a peek into the future can be relieving. For those who have poured over their birth charts, this is for you. The categories and topics of each reading is endless: money, soulmates, what the next month holds in store for you.
I watched 5 tarot readings and thought I’d share what my future is looking like. But, first let me give you a little background on the readings and how they typically go. Some are pretty lengthy going over 2 hours for all readings and others are around 45 minutes. The longer the video means the more detailed the reading is. Throughout all of the tarot channels, they all begin in the same fashion.
- Typical YouTube intro: “Hey, guys!”
- Camera paneled down to four cards or crystals
- Overview of what the reading is about
- Choose whatever card or crystal resonates the most with you
- Go to the time jump for your selection and enjoy your reading
Okay, let’s get started. The YouTube algorithms are already hip to this guilty pleasure so I will be going from the first 7 videos recommended to me. Along with each video I will give you 5 highlights of my reading and how in tune the reader was. I have my essential oil diffuser going and a drink in my hand, I am ready, Miss. Cleo.
First up: “*PICK A CARD* (May Prediction 2020)” by Shonnetta’s Divine Tarot (@shonnettasintuition)
First off, love her energy. There is something about a fellow natural hair black woman that makes me feel instantly connected. Now on to my reading. I chose pile #3 to tell me all about what May has in store for me. And here are the highlights:
- Birds. Be on the lookout for birds and feathers, cool cool cool.
- All about the Benjamins. Owww, May is all about the pay. Apparently I should be on the lookout for a pay day this month. Second round of stimulus check, perhaps?
- Important message and wisdom coming my way. An epiphany. I need to meditate to truly get my answers.
- Move away from things that do not serve me. Yes. Finding out what is best for my soul should be my mission for May. This is when I will yield the best results.
- Don’t miss my blessings. Noted.
That was an okay reading. Feel it wasn’t spot on or as specific as I was hoping, but what she had to say was nice to hear. Will I be going back for more readings from Shonnetta? Sure, why not? She has a positive energy that you can’t help but contract.
Second: “Your Life in Three Years From Now (PICK A CARD)” by The Gem Goddess (@thegoddessgem)
I have watched readings on this channel before and I have liked what was in the cards. Three years from now I will be 28, and I pray for better times than this. Please let this reading reflect that. So what does pile #4 say?
- The first card is sun in Virgo and my sun sign is Virgo, hello connection. With the 8 of pentacles, she tells me three years from now I will be going through big changes.
- Renovation of self and environment, letting things go.
- Oh, no. A significant relationship will be ending. Friendship or a romantic relationship, I like my good friends, a boyfriend is whatever. The relationship wasn’t fair or balanced, it did not serve me.
- Fully focused on my career. Stability, security and delight in my future. Finding my feet and myself. Really liking the sounds of that. And more money coming in.
- Moving to a different place?? But, I will be going through the emotions...sick.
- Ultimate highlight: 9 months after purging what doesn’t work for me, I will attract the love of my life. I can get jiggy with that.
This was such a good reading. So detailed in all of the explanations. It really made me look forward to the future. Although, there will be hardships and ended relationships, it will all be for the good and better.
Third: “CHANNELING YOUR DIVINE COUNTERPART-What are they like? What kind of lover are they?” By Gossamery Dreams (@gossamery_dreams)
This video comes with a 18+ warning. How detailed will this be? I have never watched a reading from this channel, so my curiosity sure peaked. I chose pile #3, let’s see.
- My counterpart is very successful, currently going through a divorce/break up, and is highly desired by women. A catch. Okay. And he is older.
- This guy sure knows how to pick ‘em. Apparently my “counterpart” has been choosing the wrong women, the reader in the video describes them as “gold-diggers.”
- We will be eachothers awakening.
- Third reading in a row telling me to let go of things that do not serve me. When I purge, then will come the greatness of success and love. Wowzers. I hear you, universe.
- My counterpart will be alll about me..hmm I would like to see that.
This was my favorite reading, not because of the 18+, but the reader was having so much fun. Her energy and dedication was palpable. I totally recommend y’all going to her channel.
Four: “(Pick A Card) Who is YOUR SOULMATE?!?” by The Tarot Priest (@thetarotpriest)
After the previous reading, this was bound to pop up. This will not be the first “soulmate” reading I’ve seen, these are the ones I like watching to compare them all. Previously I have gotten a creative, successful man who is older than me and is into music/plays an instrument. Along with many other lengthy details, but I’ll spare you. Now, I felt compelled to go with the red pile.
-They are going through it, right now. Changes, growing, overcoming. And possibly a psychic or an empath. Interesting.
- We will always have fun. Playful and spiritual connections.
- He is not materialistic, but working towards accomplishing more.
- Is not open to go on their spiritual journey right now.
- We are on the same path to each other. Just different backgrounds.
This was the shortest reading and the least thrilling. Good video and the reader was informative, but I will probably hesitate watching another reading from this channel.
Five: “*(PICK A CARD)* Everything About Your Immediate Future! *PSYCHIC READING* by Vanessa Somuayina (@build_a_beaulife)
Last video is a short one. Never saw a video about my immediate future, it’s a little too “The Ring” for me. But, let’s see what she is hitting on. The Blue Quartz spoke to me.
- Things are moving into a better spot for me financially. With the lockdown, I am not sure how that's going to work, but never block your blessings!
- What is meant to be mine, will be mine.
- Watch what I say because I tend to be a little too forward and it sometimes comes off as harsh. Noted. I will try.
- Take a time out. Easy. Quarantine has never made that so easy.
- A new romance or platonic connection could be coming my way.
Well, in this video I got some good insight. Not sure what I was expecting, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. A lot to keep in mind for the foreseeable future.
Many may find this tarot card reading on youtube a bit cheesy, and it kind of is. But, in times where there is so much negativity going on this is a spark of joy and fun. Not taking anything too seriously and speculating about what our future holds. So go ahead, sit back and watch these videos for yourself or the bevvy of others out there. Find out about your sexy soulmate or when will be your next big pay day or what is going on in your career.
Report: Bria Ward
Evan Rachel Wood a Bright Spot in Unspectacular "Westworld" Season Finale
The third season of Westworld has been disappointing for fans, but elements that made the show great in the first place, including the performance of Evan Rachel Wood, are still there
Evan Rachel Wood’s character, Dolores Abernathy, from “Westworld” has undergone as much change throughout the show’s three seasons as the show itself. When the series first aired Dolores was an innocent, sweet hearted, farmer’s daughter in a wild west style amusement park. By the start of the third season Dolores had become a ruthless, violent, one-woman army in neo-Los Angeles set in the year 2058. The far venture from its original premise and the loss of subtlety in the plot throughout the third season has drew much criticism from fans. And while the season three finale is added fuel to those same critics’ fire, it did show that the philosophical musings about free will that have been a part of the show from the beginning are still there.
This season finale differs from the two that came before it. While the season one and two finales left us with dozens of unanswered questions, the season three finale answered every question that persisted throughout the season, although where exactly the fourth season will pick up is a mystery. It reinforces the criticism that the plot became much more straightforward in the third season, and some parts of the story and character development do feel rushed compared to the first two seasons. The shortened season, eight episodes from the previous norm of 10, may have something to do with that.
But a bright spot from the season finale is Wood, who still manages to come off as heroic and whose motives seem justified despite all of the mayhem we have seen Dolores cause over the season. We also see a return of the young, naïve Dolores that we were first introduced to. It’s a testament to Wood that she is able to pull off the completely different natures of old Dolores and new Dolores in the same episode. Which Dolores we will see moving forward is anyone’s guess.
While it’s easy to make the case that the show is beginning to go stale and revert into a run-of-the-mill sci-fi show, there is still hope for it when it continues. The excellent performances of Wood and Emmy-award winner Thandie Newton, who portrays the cunning Maeve Millay, along with the moral questions the show forces you to ask yourself are still there, even if everything else around those strengths have taken a turn for the mundane. We’ve seen other recent shows stray far from the original concept and still find success, most notably NBC’s “The Good Place.” “Westworld” has earned the benefit of the doubt that the third season may just be a bump in the road moving forward.
Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Report: Michael Rosen
Netflix's New Series Never Have I Ever is the New Binge Worthy Series
Let’s be honest, now of all times is the best time to binge watch a variety of different shows on Netflix. With that being said, the newest series Never Have I Ever created by Mindy Kaling, explores different aspects of being a young Indian girl in High School after a traumatic year. Devi along with her friends, Fabiola and Elanor, are just trying to live and survive high school by how they think the normal standard of what high school is.
Let’s be honest, now of all times is the best time to binge watch a variety of different shows on Netflix. With that being said, the newest series Never Have I Ever created by Mindy Kaling, explores different aspects of being a young Indian girl in High School after a traumatic year. Devi (played by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) is just trying to live by the American standards of high school while being reminded of her Indian roots. Her and her friends Fabiola (played by Lee Rodriguez), who is trying to hide her sexuality to fit into the standards she thinks her family wants for her and Elanor (played by Ramona Young), who is chasing a dream that was inspired by an absentee mother, are all just trying to make it in high school.
This Netflix series shows in depth of heartache and not just from a romantic standpoint, the struggle of acceptance, living by the standards that society sees fit and trials that test your friendships. While I am not saying everyone’s high school experience is like this, many can relate. There is one thing that makes this show different and that is the exploration of mental health throughout this whole series. Dr. Jamie Ryan (played by Niecy Nash) is trying to help Devi come to terms with the traumatic loss of her father and the world we know as high school. She is trying to guide Devi into understanding that her not dealing with the loss of her father can overlap into the feelings and stress she is taking on at school.
With Devi focused on boys and I mean one boy in particular, Paxton (played by Darren Barnet), Devi uses him as a distraction that ultimately ends up causing many of her problems throughout the series.
This series is one hundred percent a recommended series for you all to binge. You will laugh, cry and find moments that you can relate too. This would be a perfect for the next Netflix Party choice for you and your closest friends.
Never Have I Ever - Netflix
Dr. Ryan - Netflix
Devi and Paxton - fansided.com
Report: Maya Howard
Green Thumb: Easiest Plants to Take Care of At Home
Houseplants are a great way to keep your home colorful and fresh. But without the proper care some can wither away rather quickly. Here is a list of easy plants to care for at home!
Houseplants are a great decoration to have in your home to add a bit more personality and life to your home. But without the proper care, many wither away quickly. Some plants are practical and multifunctional without us even knowing it! Here are a few easy plants to take care of at home!
Aloe Plant
This long pointed succulent is popular for its medicinal properties. It can grow up to 3 feet high, easily filling up any empty spaces in your home. A smaller variety , like the aloe vera, works well in small, sunny indoor space. Aloe grows well in room temperatures and in a lot of sunlight. Because it is a succulent, the plant needs dry soil, so avoid over watering for optimal results. As a bonus this plant is great to incorporate into your skincare for hydration and for treating sunburns.
Herbs
Herbs like basil, mint, rosemary, and oregano are easy to grow and can freshen up the overall vibe of your kitchen area. The fragrances are welcoming and warm. The herbs add a touch of color and are practical in a time when we shouldn’t be going out much! For the best results, give each herb their own pot so you can provide care accordingly.
Pothos
This plant is perfect for hanging because the long stems hang beautifully. Perfect for a pop of freshness and color on top of a table, bookshelf, cabinet etc. And these only need optimal light, so the corners of homes are perfect too! There are many different varieties that grow in different colors, vibrantly green with specks of whites, yellows, or greys. Better yet this plant can purify the air, removing toxins from the air around us. It’s affordable, easy to care for, to propagate, and lasts for a long time.
Snake Plant
A Snake plant is a versatile plant to have at home. They thrive in a dry environment, watering every 2-4 weeks is enough and they prefer medium light but out of direct sunlight. They make a great statement piece in any household. Its long green and yellow leaves can add some life in the shadows or corners of your home.
Succulents and Cactus
These two types of plants are adaptable, varied, and strong. There are a bunch of different types to fill your home. Both big and small, they can decorate themselves into your home easily. They are perfect in terrariums or alone. To care just plant them and leave them alone, watering them just a bit in a few days in between.
Report: Katie Mok
How Fashion Turned to TikTok
Who would have thought that by posting a 30 second video on an app could get you a ticket to the most popular and exclusive fashion shows?
Who would have thought that by posting a 30 second video on an app could get you a ticket to the most popular and exclusive fashion shows? Tiktok, a social media platform, is known as a creative outlet for people who want to express themselves by posting a brief video of anything to music, such as dancing, singing, fitness routines, or baking. One 15-year-old, Charli D’Amelio, was lucky enough to make a career from the app and build a large following base, 41 million followers to be exact. The TikTok star was front row for this seasons Prada fashion show, posting several videos of her dancing in front of the runway’s floral backdrop.
Aside from Charli’s success from the app, TikTok has sent three representatives to this year’s New York Fashion Week: Cosette Rinab, Taylor Hage, and Tyler Gaca, to broadcast scenes from the fashion shows. These shows included Dior’s fall 2020 show, Tory Burch and Rag & Bone. The Tiktok artists also created “get ready with me” videos, which showcased the newest clothes from each fashion show attended. Fashion shows have flocked to the app to cast TikTok artists, such as Neon Eubanks, who was recruited for the Celine fashion show.
Fashion is using the application to showcase their newest lines and perform trending challenges to gain viewers and momentum. Ralph Lauren turned to TikTok to create a hashtag challenge during the US Open resulted in more than 100,000 video submissions, and totaled in over 790 million views. As the pandemic pans out and stores remain closed, TikTok seems like the best platform to sell and promote products, while also having fun with it.
Report: Woo Jong Kim
Saint Laurent's Absence From Fashion Week
The economic fallout of the coronavirus has taken its toll on apparel businesses across the globe, and now it has reached its zenith in the very fashion capital itself, Paris.
The economic fallout of the coronavirus has taken its toll on apparel businesses across the globe, and now it has reached its zenith in the very fashion capital itself, Paris. Major fashion labels are withdrawing from Paris Fashion Week—most notably the haute couture juggernaut Saint Laurent. Saint Laurent, the quintessential French brand known for incorporating the Eiffel Tower and other iconography of their home country into their shows, has made the decision to cancel the premiere of their latest collection at Paris Fashion Week.
Being such a prestigious name, Saint Laurent’s yearly releases are typically the most anticipated shows of each Paris Fashion Week. As such, their removal from such a paramount fashion event epitomizes the pandemic’s devastating blow to the industry. Saint Laurent’s artistic director Anthony Vaccarello realizes the long-term effects of the current halt in sales of their products, pointing out that the closing of their worldwide stores and production sites has forced the company to rethink their creation and showcasing of future collections. While the COVID-19 outbreak has upended Saint Laurent’s 2020 schedule, they are determined to remain connected with their audience. Not only did their Instagram post announce their withdrawal from Paris Fashion Week, but it also indicated that the company will present their new releases in an alternative, more inventive way. The post concluded with the following statement: “Saint Laurent will take ownership of its calendar and launch its collections following a plan with an up-to-date perspective, driven by creativity.”
Report: Nia Hunt
KylieSkin’s Newest Launch: Baby Pink Slides
It’s official, the KarJenners are at it again, but this time in foot wear.
It’s official, the KarJenners are at it again, but this time in foot wear. Kylie Jenner has just recently announced her newest launch, KylieSkin x APL slides.
Who is APL? Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL), have been a long time fan of the KarJenners as they have sported their sneakers for years. Their sneakers are practical for the gym with their light weight and serious comfort, I should know, I own a pair or two! Not a fan of the gym, but still want to look like you flawlessly worked out? Well, you’re in luck because their style can’t be beat. The clean modern look they showcase with their on trend color schemes allow you to look your best, but also be that athletic self you want to show off. ;)
So, what do these slides have that make them worth buying? First off, slides are a major trend this year, so if you buy them you’re already winning. But, the legendary blush pink that KylieSkin promotes could very well be their main attraction, and not to mention, they also have the comfort and style that APL is known for. Their strap is soft and flexible, and they even have “antimicrobial mesh footbeds” which literally massage your feet while you’re going for a stroll. Maximum comfort much? There definitely doesn’t seem to be a downside to these cute, yet casual baby pink slides.
They retail at $100, I know a bit expensive, but why not splurge for self care? You can find these babies on KylieSkin’s website: KylieSkin . Go ahead…click the link, I know you want them!
Photo Credits: Kylie Skin
Report: Kaitlin Gallagher
Shop Justine Skye x H&M
Shop Justine Skye x H&M!
The Jamaican/African- American artist is truly shining in multiple unique fields! The model, songwriter, & singer Justine Skye can do anything she puts her mind to clearly. The popular artist, Justine Skye is known for her dance-oriented Hip- hop and R&B affected sound. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1995, Justine started to gain attention in teens when she tagged along with an entertainment lawyer, which happened to be her mother to a music panel held by performance rights organization BMI. Ever since the star has flourished in not only music but also fashion. Yes it’s true her voice sounds amazing and she also has an excellent taste of style. To prove this you can check out her awfully new clothing line that she has collaborated with H&M. In this clothing line Justine Skye displayed her unique interest in fashion by choosing trendy sets & eye- catching colors. This line can be worn by a broad range of ages. This shows how she cares about her diverse customers. This also shows how multitalented the star is. From music to fashion, she always producing work worth-whiled! She is sure to draw in a lot of people to her line so shop now before it’s too late!
Report: Stacy Good
Inside Look on Gucci’s “So Deer To Me” Campaign
Over the years, Alessandro Michele, Italian fashion designer and creative director for Gucci, has really shown us really creative campaigns for Gucci. With Gucci’s new Pre Fall 2020 Campaign “So Deer To Me” he has yet to disappoint us.
Over the years, Alessandro Michele, Italian fashion designer and creative director for Gucci, has really shown us really creative campaigns for Gucci. With Gucci’s new Pre Fall 2020 Campaign “So Deer To Me” he has yet to disappoint us.
This Campaign shows us things that a lot of us haven't seen in a while; the outside and animals. Models are dressed in bright 70’s inspired coats, dresses and suits and they are laid in the grass and sit pretty on what seems to be a playground captured by photographer Alasdair McLellan.
All of the models are also pictured with an array of different animals. Deers, fawns, owls, blue birds, skunks, squirrels, frogs, hedgehogs, ducks and rabbits are featured across the images.
Animals and Childlike imagination was the inspiration for this particular campaign. On Gucci’s Instagram page, with each posted picture from the campaign was a small description of the inspiration. One photo has the caption “ #SoDeerToMe campaign inspired by childhood innocence, when as kids we rejoiced in nature.” Another photo is captioned “#SoDeerToMe campaign is ultimately an invitation to enjoy the simple things in life. Sometimes, it just takes very little, or a burst of imagination to find some balance.” Not only do we get an amazing new collection from Gucci but the amazing photos that remind us what it feels like to be a child and imagine freely.
Report: Alycia Williams
“The Chiffon Trenches,” A Memoir By Andre L Talley, is Set to Release On May 19
“The Chiffon Trenches,” a memoir by @andreltalley is set to release on May 19. Mr. Talley’s book will discuss his experience in the fashion industry, working at Vogue and his tumultuous relationship with high-powered editor in chief at Vogue, Anna Wintour.
Photo: Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SCAD
Former creative director and contributing editor at Vogue Magazine, Andre Leon Talley, is releasing his memoir entitled The Chiffon Trenches on May 19, 2020. Talley recently interviewed with Daniel Bates at dailymail.com, discussing the details of the book along with some very detailed information regarding his friendship with Vogue’s editor in chief, Anna Wintour. Prior to this interview, Mr. Talley had mainly spoken positively about his experience at Vogue and as Anna Wintour’s dear friend. Nonetheless, several sources have noted that Talley’s time working in high fashion consisted of many brutal, unjust and cruel moments.
In order to fully understand his experience in the fashion industry, it’s important to know his background. The former editor was raised primarily by his grandmother, in North Carolina where he attended the historically black North Carolina Central University and graduated with a degree in French Literature. He then received a Master of Arts in French Literature from Brown University, which he notes as being one of the most liberating times of his life. Prior to attending Brown, Talley had already been obsessing over the glossy pages of French Vogue, read a lot of literature surrounding fashion history and was set to become an editor once realizing he could have success in fashion journalism. After graduating with his master’s degree, he moved to NYC and worked a series of jobs until he worked his way up, becoming the first black male creative director at a Conde Nast publication.
Photo: AFP/Bryan Bedder
When Wintour appointed Talley as creative director at Vogue, the two started developing a very close relationship. According to dailymail.com, Anna even expressed concerns about Andre Leon Talley’s health to the extent of scheduling an intervention for his weight. However, in the interview, the former editor notes that Anna Wintour is “not capable of simple human kindness.,” and that their “decades-long friendship ended because he was too old, overweight, and uncool.” Andre Leon Talley hasn’t been the only person speaking out on his experience at Conde Nast. Other industry sources within the industry, such as Ralph Rucci, recently made an Instagram post stating that he too had emotional scars from his interactions with the Ice Queen. All of the recent news surrounding Mrs. Wintour and her relational dynamics with those she was once very close with raises questions about if The Devil Wears Prada, a film whose main character is intended to emulate the role of Anna Wintour, is an accurate reflection of high fashion work culture. In Talley’s interview with dailymail.com, he states that although there was no distasteful tossing of coats to assistants, many of the staff were met with great trepidation while working with Wintour.
But Talley’s relationship with her is only a portion of what will be highlighted in The Chiffon Trenches. The memoir will also discuss how he’s essentially been blacklisted from the who’s who of high fashion because he made the decision to leave Vogue due after hitting a “glass ceiling.” Talley saw that there was no room for him to grow and has gone on to pursue other curatorial and journalistic endeavors. He currently lives in Westchester Country, where he lives what he describes as a fairly lonely life. One of the benefits of Andre Leon Talley speaking openly about his relationship with Wintour and the industry at large is that people who otherwise wouldn’t be involved in the conversation, are now involved. It’s further democratizing the industry and I’m curious to see how it responds.
Report: Julian Randall
An Emerging Designer In The Time of Crisis.
24-year-old emerging designer David Avido, raised by a single mother, never felt that coming from Kibera in Kenya was something to be sorry for. The opposite was the case. Kibera inspired him
Origin and surrounding play colossal role in forming personality. In those, who chose the path of art, local culture will be reflected in creations. It takes a lot of talent and courage to make the world see the beauty of overcrowded and underfunded community in East Africa. The 24-year-old emerging designer David Avido, raised by a single mother, never felt that coming from Kibera in Kenya was something to be sorry for. The opposite was the case. Kibera inspired him.
Avido gained recognition through crafting handmade straw hats and signature wax-print jackets for reggae stars such as Jamaican singer Koffee. But lately, the trajectory of his creative flow has changed dramatically. With the start of pandemic, designer made a decision to lead a team of 12 to produce free face masks for local distribution. However, the number of confirmed cases in Kenya was relatively low, Avido took upon himself the obligations to take care of protective measures. He promptly organized a few friends and fellow creatives. So far, about 10 000 masks have been handed out to support his community. Interestingly, there were no organizes hand-outs. Point individuals quickly and quietly passed masks to those in need, avoiding fights and chaos around it.
It is worth mentioning that designer masks differ by originality and ethnic motifs.
Report: Olha Dzharyha
Alicia Keys Halts Album Release and Shines The Light On Essential Workers
“I wrote this for all the people that work so hard and never hear the words Good Job. I believe in us though, I believe in the way we are showing up for each other and caring”
The release of Alicia Keys’ 7th studio album, ALICIA, has been uncertain for a while. Like many other projects, the self-titled album has continuously been pushed back due to COVID-19. This pandemic has put a lot of things on standstill and has slowed down music releases. Initially, the album was supposed to complement Keys’ recent book, More Myself. The book is described as both an autobiography and a narrative documentary. More Myself has been promoted by Oprah Winfrey, as the book is being released on Winfrey’s book imprint. More Myself is supposed to capture the journey of self discovery, while the album is supposed to highlight her self discovery. While the book and the album did not release together as planned, Keys has still released some of the music on the album.
The album, Alicia, has four songs that are currently available. Keys’ most recent release, “Good Job”, is a perfect song for this worldwide crisis. “I wrote this for all the people that work so hard and never hear the words Good Job. I believe in us though, I believe in the way we are showing up for each other and caring”, says Alicia Keys. Some artists believe that the attention should be away from the music right now, however songs with positive messages, like “Good Job”, are what helps get people through hard times. “Good Job” shows gratitude, respect, and recognition of the sacrifices being made on a daily basis by essential workers.
Photo Credits: @aliciakeys
Report: Brionna Thompson
Rodman's Flamboyant Personality and Elite Basketball Abilities Discussed in "The Last Dance"
“The Last Dance” episode focused on Dennis Rodman, one of the most bizarre and fascinating athletes of all-time.
While sports fans have had to make do with no live sports during the coronavirus pandemic, they have been able to take solace in “The Last Dance.” The 10-part miniseries which covers the final season of the Chicago Bulls dynasty was not scheduled to premiere until June, but ESPN moved up its release to give fans something to look forward to. The first two episodes aired on April 19, and they will continue to be released in pairs each Sunday.
The documentary features never-before-seen footage taken by a crew that had all-access permission to film the team during the 1997-98 season, as well as interviews with former players, executives, journalists and celebrities; everyone from Barack Obama to Carmen Electra have made appearances thus far. Each episode blends examining the events of the season in chronological order and the background of a specific member of the team. This emphasizes the numerous differing personalities on the Bulls; the win-at-all-cost aggression of Michael Jordan, the quiet, underpaid and under appreciated Scottie Pippen and the calm, Zen Buddhist philosophy of head coach Phil Jackson who was the subject of one of the episodes released on April 26.
The other episode focused on Dennis Rodman, one of the most bizarre and fascinating athletes of all-time. While he’s best known these days for his controversial befriending of Kim Jong-un, Rodman, who grew up in poverty in Dallas, was a key member of the Bulls dynasty and is considered one of the best rebounding forwards in history. One of the coolest moments of the documentary so far is a montage in which Rodman explained how the ball would bounce differently off the rim depending on who shot the ball. For example, Larry Bird’s shots would spin, and the ball would land in a specific place whenever Jordan shot it.
But the most memorable moment from Rodman’s episode came at the very end when he recounted a story from that 1997-98 season. Rodman had been struggling on the court and he asked Jackson for a vacation in the middle of the season. Jordan relented, but Jackson eventually granted his future Hall of Famer a 48-hour trip to Las Vegas before he had to rejoin the team. Unsurprisingly, Rodman did not return in time and Jordan had to fly out to Vegas to retrieve him. Rodman showed up to his first practice after his Las Vegas bender in pajamas and sandals, but he began to play well again following his vacation.
The fifth and sixth episodes of “The Last Dance” will air on May 3 at 9 p.m. EDT on ESPN, with a censored version airing at the same time on ESPN2. The episodes are available to stream on ESPN after they air and they are also available the following Monday on Netflix for those living outside the United States.
Photos courtesy of Wikipedia and WikiMedia Commons.
Report: Michael Rosen
Operation Game: Kardashian Edition
With time comes new trends, usually its a new fashion style whether its hair, makeup, accessories, or clothes. For some, it goes deeper than that.
With time comes new trends, usually its a new fashion style whether its hair, makeup, accessories, or clothes. For some, it goes deeper than that. Some go through life feeling that all those outer layers no matter how much they try to dress them up won’t change how they feel about their appearance.
There are some people, women, especially those who have certain outer appearances that make them feel less than human. This day in society it has become socially acceptable to seek cosmetic surgery to correct body image issues they’ve had for most of their lives due to a traumatic accident.
The phrase ‘everything in moderation’ is a concept long forgotten unless we’ve somehow gone too far. This is not the case anymore. Today, usually things that are done over dramatically are praised when it’s aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The female body shape has become a deadly game. African American women who have had strong curves in their shape for years are now socially accepted because they embrace their curves and their own skin.
This is something every woman should be doing curves or no curves. However, with the influences of men and social media and reality television, it’s not the case. Today, some of our favorite influencers such as the Kardashian-Jenners have turned it into something else.
Television actress Lisa Raye made a point recently saying “the Kardashians have single-handedly changed the woman’s body shape that is acceptable right now.”
The Kardashians have encouraged other influencers to join the trend of a large butt, this is unhealthy because it teaches young women that unless they have an overly large butt no one wants them. Its come to the point where it doesn’t look natural or appealing and women are going overboard with implants and injections infecting their bodies just to be socially accepted.
“Now it’s all about a small waist, and all this a**, which look like the ankles can’t even hold up all of that. I don’t even want my body to look like that because that’s the body everybody has now. That is making every generation after that feel like that’s what they have to do to secure the bag,” said Raye.
This is an insult to the female body shape because instead of telling women to use their minds to get what they want and embrace the bodies they have, there are some women who go through drastic measures such as an expensive, dangerous cosmetic surgery because they think they’ll never have the right assets in life.
The Kardashians are leading this generation and the ones to come they need to look like them.
The Kardashians have become the walking proof and the definition of cultural appropriation.
Report: Josephine Coiscou
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.