PIA MI A
COVER
T. MILLS T. CASSIE MILLSSTEELE CASSIE erich STEELEbergen erich erin bergensanders erin TEENAGE sanders TEENAGE
JESSE MCCARTNEY ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 1
2
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 3
4
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 5
salt water cure.
B Y M A R I YA D O N D O N YA N
As the temperature rises, so does our impulse to immerse ourselves in the ocean, and end up entranced in the deep sea seeking a creative revival. We incite you to dive into the quintessential summer muse: the sea. As Isak Dinesen put it, “The cure for anything is salt water” Creativity is like an ocean: limitless and monumental. Generate ideas, explore solutions, and find relationships between two unrelated things. Upon defining the value of those connections made you experience first hand the impact of embracing your creative wavelengths. You may find yourself being drawn up like a jewel from the bottom of the sea, rescued from a creative block. Just keep swimming. 3 months, 3 years, just keep swimming. Just as Sophia Amoruso swam from her Aunt’s basement seven years ago to her 50,000 square foot headquarters in downtown LA. Keep swimming. Catch a wave and engage in business in the deep waters. But understand, when you’re out there in the deep waters, you can’t touch the ground. There’s a fear in swimming out into the deep be-cause it’s very likely you’ll be sacrificing your comfort of security for the ride or pursuing your dream. When you immerse yourself creatively into the deepsea, you’re taking the necessary risks to achieve greatness. The only way to learn what you are capable of is to test yourself beyond what you are comfortable with. It will cause the deep things inside of you to come forth. To learn is to discover, to create is to go deeper. Removing all uncertainty you have of yourself, and the doubt you hear from others. You must believe in your creative abilities to continue persevering until you have made it to new shores—the new bodies of water you were meant to thrive in.
Bodysuit - INTIMISSI
Photographer: Saskia Wegner (www.saskia-wegner.de) • Hair and Make up: Tina Hoffmann (www.tinahoffmann.com) • Model: Casey Stack ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 7
Top - IDENTITY 8
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Editor-In-Chief Ashley Garcia
mast head.
Features Editor Pikka Turangan Art Designer Candace Peoples Content Contributors Mariya Dondonyan Nikki Dror Ariana Velazquez Photography Contributors Kaleb Khu Mattheau Abad Catherine Asanov Josh Williams Saskia Wegner Project Mermaids Fashion Contributors Ariana Dreams Daria Ingram Director of Communications Luis Hernandez Annex Digital Editor Candice Lee Staff Writers Alexandra Duran-kneip Jasmine Ward
CON
TACT
Publicity: Pr@annexmagazine.com Submissions: Submissions@annexmagazine.com Advertising: Marketing@annexmagazine.com
10 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
con tents.
TOC
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 11
EDITOR’S VOICE
‘I am the captain and I have been told But I am not shaken,
Those who’ve visited a mass collective of water understand what it’s like facing the deep, never ending body. Wildly similar to Aladdin’s cave in an unpredictably true way. Every once in a while these unpredictable bodies wash up to shore visions that are so unique, so strong, that their sway is an unraveling inspiration that lends itself. For our summer issue, our intention was not to create a bond with our readers, rather a moving sea between the shores of our creative souls. Soak up the sea while surfin’ the pages with Cassie Steele portrayed as a modern day mermaid, Pia Mia as our baby blue crush, T. Mills entranced by the oceans deep wonders, and more.
I am eight years old And you are still young, but you’ll understand That the stars of the sea are the same for the land And we came to learn the sea’
Dar Williams. “We Learned the Sea.”
Ashley Garcia, Editor In Chief
12 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEXMAGAZINE.COM AD
ANNEXMAGAZINE.com YO U R
D A I LY
F A S H I O N
D E S T I N AT I O N
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 13
Photographer: Kaleb Khu • Assistant: Jasmine Sabagqut • Film: Justine Enriquez • Hair: Jonathan Firdley MakeUp: Audrey Ramos • Wardrobe: Ashley Rae + Pikka Turangan + Ariana Mason Written by: Mariya Dondonyan 14 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 15
Dress - Pima Doll Skirt - Angelo Black Cape - Meskita Ring - Chic Peek 16 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Cassie Steele; actress and musician shares some of her thoughts, current projects, and her proudest accomplishments thus far in her recent interview with Annex Magazine. Working in-credibly hard to balance her life between being a musician and an actress, producing art in both industries and being successful equally in both, is a challenge, but a challenge worth working towards. “Sometimes it’s really hard, and I should never be complaining for working. Sometimes everything just happens all at once, I’d be writing, wanting to release a song, but then have a new film project and need to promote that. It’s all about finding the balance and having your timing be right.” She doesn’t have a preference – she equally loves writing and producing music as she does acting. It’s an art to do even one, and it’s an art to be juggling both. Her new MTV TV movie coming soon (The Dorm) is a psychological thriller. Her character acts as the queen bee that takes the character Vivian (Alexis Knapp) under her wing and transforms the awkward teen that has major self-esteem issues into a flawless, confident beauty. “The show is all about aesthetic beauty and how far someone will go to make themselves ‘beautiful.’ I think we have all felt this way at some point. A point where we feel we aren’t good enough, pretty enough, or that we simply don’t fit in. And we try to change everything about ourselves to be able to fit into that mold. I think it’s quite sad, people are selfdeprecating now more than ever, and we have to remind ourselves that we are all beautiful in our own rights.” Her thought process when she was in the midst of creating her songs and video ‘Sex and Candy’ and ‘MAD’ are similar as she takes inspiration from her closest friends who have some serious talent, while staying true to her aesthetic. She doesn’t focus too much on making her videos or songs necessarily ‘pretty.’ It’s more about a raw feeling that makes her music so re-latable with her fans. “That grunge-y alternative vibe is what’s really attractive to me. It was most popular in the 90’s and that’s how I can really describe my style best.” One of her proudest moments thus far is actually something we will be seeing in the future. Her soon to be release new EP is easily one of the greatest things she’s done in her career and it’s exciting to share with the world. When Cassie was younger, she was heavily influenced by a lot of classic rock and R&B that she happened to fight against at that time. “As you’re growing up and trying to figure out who you are, you lose some parts of yourself you thought weren’t true to who you wanted to be. But when looking back, you realize you’re just naturally attracted to those things.” This EP is different, not only from what Cassie has done in the past, but what other artists are currently focusing on. We’re hearing a lot
of pop and alternative making head-lines in the top lists, but Cassie decides to bring it back and promote that classic-rock style that she misses so much. After everything she has accomplished thus far, Cassie never forgets to thank her team and the people behind the scenes who make it happen. While she enjoys the spotlight, she knows the spotlight isn’t really only about her: it’s about all the people in her life who are actually on this journey with her. Annex Magazine: You have a new TV Movie coming out (The Dorm) tell us about the film and the character you’ll be playing. Cassie Steele: The film is a psychological thriller. My character is sort of like a queen bee who takes over. It’s all about aesthetic beauty and how far someone will go to make themselves ‘beautiful’ I think we have all felt this way at some point, i think it’s quite, and people are self deprecating so much more than ever and AM: How are you balancing being an actress and a musician? CS: Sometimes it’s really hard, i should never be complaining for working, everything happens at once. I don’t have a preference I love being in both industries. i love to write so i can consis-tently work if I’m filming AM: What was the inspiration behind your video MAD? CS: My friend who I was on degrassi with is so talented, we came up with the idea together we wanted it to be real and grungy and relatable, we aren’t trying too hard to make it pretty. She knows me really well I’ve known her for a decade. AM: What goes through your mind while you’re recording a song or filming a video? CS: How I want my tone to sound, will i forget my lines? you don’t fake it its as raw. AM: How did you create your rendition of the 90’s song ‘Sex and Candy?’ CS: Bouncing off of ideas, try to recreate crazy by brittany, grangy alternative, more popular in the 90’s and thats really my style now anyway. AM: What is one of your proudest accomplishments thus far? CS: This ep coming out. I’ve never been more stoked for my music to come out. I was influenced by a lot of classic rock and R&B that I fought against. Right now this is more truthful to my style, as you grow up you try to find yourself and you lose some parts in this process. Everyone is coming out with pop and alt, and this is different. AM: What do you enjoy most about being in the spotlight? CS: When you’re working, it’s not just about you; there are so many ppl and your team in the back-ground who have helped and other ppl will rely on you.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 17
I N S I D E + D E S I G N
Kristen Conahan ( Style Wax Poetic) -
Look out – your summer accessories game just met good vibes on the seashore. Arthur and Livingston is upping your jewelry game this summer for the perfect beach resort essentials!
Veronica Popoiacu (Bittersweet Colours)- wearing purple necklace with plaid
Written by Nikki Dror
18 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Veronica Popoiacu (Bittersweet Colours)- wearing blu
A
rthur and Livingston is a jewelry brand that encompasses the life build around the sea, but worn on the girl who makes it to the sidewalk. The label creates a line of stunning, handcrafted accessories that carries inspiration from tropical islands and summer beaches, while featuring contemporary details that make each piece a statement friendly piece. Carefully handpicking each stones for every piece of jewelry, the nature of the stones are never identical – no two pieces are ever the same. Every imperfection on a piece, or irregularly shaped element such as the coral, mother of pearl, and turquoise makes the pieces authentic and enhances the beauty of each jewel. The vision and mind behind the brand is Nicole Antoinette. With a love of fashion, island nature and the city, she created Arthur and Livingston as a way to simply combine all
of her passions. Her hobby turned to a business and her designing and crafting quickly evolved from when she started back in 2009. The name? Arthur and Livingston is named after Nicole’s two Barbadian grandfathers. She’s greatly influenced by her Caribbean heritage and accustomed city lifestyle. This brand has made big news presenting their products to the world. You can see celebrities and fashion bloggers from all over obsess over the simply designed sea themed pieces. We’ve seen these beauties on ABC’s Secret Sales, bloggers such as Bittersweet Colours and Ria Michelle, Diana Williams wearing the Gregory necklace on her 5pm news report the other week, and even a mention in the July issue of Redbook. But these are only the first few accomplishments. There are plenty more this powerhouse has reached in terms of great lengths and success.
- Wearing Blue necklace with black and White stripe tope and bottom
ue necklaces with navy/ white top
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 19
PIA MIA
20 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Photographer: Kaleb Khu Assistant: Jasmine Sabagqut Film: Justine Enriquez Hair: Taschi Lynell MakeUp: Anthony Merante Nails: Tina Au Wardrobe: Ashley Rae + Pikka Turangan + Ariana Mason Written by: Mariya Dondonyan
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 21
Pia Mia, an Island girl from Guam has made a name for herself while pursuing the one thing she loves most: being an artist.
Dress - For love & Lemons Shoes - AMI Clubwear Necklace - Gail Be 22 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Sunglasses - Lura
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 23
“I think you mature the moment you fi what you want to do in life. I was fort enough to know that I wanted to be a the tender age of eight years old. She’s always being asked how she can be so mature and sure of herself at such a young age. The 17-year-old’s answer was synonymous with who she is, and the person she’s simply meant to become. Pia has taken a lot of influence from her life from a small island with her family. It took a lot more hard work because of being away from the cities that thrived on entertainment. But she took those island vibes and family memories, and kept a journal to document her life. Once she moved out to pursue her dreams, she kept her journal with her, taking notes of every experience, every heartbreak, every emotion and brings it into the studio with her. “My journal greatly influences my writing. I figure my thoughts out through my writing, I learn about myself when I write. My journal is my safe place.” “It’s really a beautiful experience when I allow myself to get really vulnerable while I’m writing songs, and while I’m recording in the studio. Everyone experiences different versions of the same story, I feel. It’s really heartwarming when I’m vulnerable about an experience, and my fans are able to relate to that. When my fans tell me the words in my songs have helped them through something. It’s the most incredible feeling. You know what you’re meant to do in this world when you simply feel it in your bones. Once you are keenly aware of this fact, there isn’t anything stopping you. “It’s hard to get noticed, but if you believe in yourself and never stop for anything, only good things will happen.” Pia surely knows exactly what she is doing. She has die hard fans, and even coined a term for her followers called the WOLFPACK. She shared with Annex Magazine exactly what it takes to join the pack. “Anyone can join the Pia Mia WOLFPACK. But one must be willing to constantly put yourself out there and not be afraid. Be confident in yourself, share your dreams with the world and you’re in the pack.”
24 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Since accomplish
igure out tunate singer at
then, my sights have only been set on hing the things I need to do in order to get where I wanted to go.” Top - Camelia Skikos • Bottoms - Camelia Skikos • Shoes - Privileged by J.C. Dossier • Body Chain - Shop D&J • Cuffs - Shop D&J ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 25
ANNEX
MUSIC WRAP UP
A R T I S T S
/ /
B A N D S
/ /
M U S I C
Written By Kelly Masuda
REBECCA AND FIONA Rebecca Scheja and Fiona Fitzpatrick can usually be seen sporting multicolored hair, candy-colored outfits and fierce attitudes. The pair is not only best friends, but also part of the DJ duo Rebecca & Fiona. Scheja and Fitzpatrick met in Stockholm over six years ago through a mutual friend. After their friendship bloomed, the two decided to enlist in a music duo together. The two were extremely familiar with the DJ scene, having spent some time promoting nightclubs around the area. Released in May 2010, their first single was the “Luminary Ones.” This landed them a spot to open for Robyn on her European tour. Two years later, the duo released their first album I Love You, Man. Touring since 2011, the duo has quite a list of concerts on their resume. They
26 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
have been touring with DJs like Tiësto, Kaskade, Axwell, and Steve Angello. The Swedish DJs have performed at festivals like the Electric Daisy Carnival, Tomorrowland and Beyond Wonderland. Since then, the duo has been busy working on their new album Beauty Is Pain album that was released in April of 2014. It was the result of many hours of writing and developing new concepts with producers like Kurt Uenala, Adrian Lux, Simon Yemane, and The Loops Of Fury. When making their new album, the two constantly stress the importance of being true to themselves especially in a business like music. “We’ve always been just producing what comes out of us,” Rebecca says. “We just do what we feel is great. We never look for what other people want or what we should do. It’s completely us. We develop it together.”
THE CHAINSMOKERS Listening to the single, #Selfie, that launched The Chainsmokers to viral success earlier this year, you might guess that they would be a one hit wonder. But, after listening to their live sets at festivals like ULTRA, it is very apparent that this duo is set to take on the music industry with a bang. Self-proclaimed aggressively handsome individuals; the New York City-based DJ/producer/songwriter duo consists of members Andrew Taggart and Alex Pall. Pall studied art at New York University while Tagart studied at Syracuse University. Shortly after graduating the two met and formed The Chainsmokers in 2012 under the management of Adam Alpert and 4AM. It is obvious to see by the songs they have chosen to remix in the past that the two have their own great specific taste in music. Their signature sound has its foundations in Indie, Progressive and Pop music. Having experience remixing greats like Two Door Cinema Club, Phoenix, Daughter and many more their remixes constantly hit #1 on the HypeM charts and it is no wonder. Mixing already hits and giving them new and unique upbeat sounds the remixes are constantly what you would want to hear driving down the streets of LA or out dancing on the weekend.
According to the two, what separates them apart from the rest is their “unsettling and uncanny ability to discover trends”. Finding and producing around the topics that people actually give a “shit” about are what make people gravitate towards their sound. For their first original project, in 2012, The Chainsmokers released the single “Erase” in which they collaborated with Indian actress and recording artist, Priyanka Chopra. The next year the single “The Rookie” was released and of course this year “#Selfie” hit the hard and the song as well as the music video went viral. As of now the duo is performing and enjoying their lives in New York City performing at venues that once rejected their entrance. Pall and Tagart have charmed their fans with their hilarious personalities and are using the attention they receive through their social media outlets to their advantage. They have become the hottest young American EDM DJ duo, and with that title, there is no saying where they can’t go from here. With their bushy browed eyes on the horizon, it is in everyone’s best interest to keep on the look out for more to come from these talented two.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 27
ZHU The world questioned the identity of the mastermind behind the Outkast cover, “Moves Like Ms. Jackson.” The song received a lot of attention causing a mass Internet search for the mysterious maker. Soon after, the mysterious artist released another song titled, “Superfriends,” which had a similar feel to it. Like the first, this tune also did not have a name alongside the song. Eventually, the name of the artist was released: Steven Zhu, who is known as ZHU. ZHU is a Los Angeles-based artist who felt that it was important for people to focus more on the music than the artist behind it. “Many are wondering why I chose to release my music
anonymously. I am my own ghostwriter. As a society, we become more attached to the creator than to the creation. Music is faceless. My music is for a new generation—one in which people appreciate art for its intrinsic value—Generation WHY,” said ZHU. With his identity mystery solved, fans can now appreciate the San Francisco born artist’s music. ZHU’s vocals are very different in every song, but they are always paired with a booming beat. ZHU has released one EP titled Nightday. The EP features six songs and is just a slight taste into how talented ZHU is.
ADAM JOHAN When you’re at a point in your life when all you’re doing is feeling something, your greatest art is being created. Adam Johan, a young artist ready to share his talents with the world, takes on his life experiences and translates them to music. Adam got his start in high school, on accident, really. Taking control of the music that was playing at friends’ gatherings, he began to DJ at parties. After a short amount of time, he started taking music making to heart – he sold his drum set for a turntable and learned electronic music productions at school. It comes naturally to him because he knows this is where he belongs. He gets most of his writing done in one session. “What’s most challenging as an artist is the moment inspiration hits you, you have to drop everything and write it out. You never know when it’s going to hit you once more or if you will feel the same again. Once
28 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
you’re in that moment, it needs to be expressed.” The minute he knows the message he wants to convey, he tries to get it down as quickly as possible. “It’s really important, at least for me, that I get a piece done or at least have the core message done in one session. If I sit on it too much, and time passes, I always lose that feeling and then it’s a long, frustrating process trying to express what I was initially trying to get out.” The kind of emotions that inspire Adam to create are when he is going through major changes in his life; whether that’s moving back and forth from LA to Canada, or the separating from a significant other. “Any affliction on the heart is easy to write about. Being in this state of melancholy most often stems from parting ways and that’s sort of what I’m going through at the moment. My music is a reflection of what I’m feeling at every certain point in my life. My current season is this.”
PARA ONE Jean-Baptiste de Laubier also known as Para One is a producer that combines muscial influences from both hip-hop and electro. Hailing from Orleans, France, De Laubier was born in 1979. In the 80’s, the 35-year-old became interested in the elements of hiphop after hearing Public Enemy, N.W.A, and the Native Tongues. Eventually, in 1993, he became apart of a hip-hop group. However, the French native only took off as a producer in 2000 once his productions began appearing on various mixtapes. Today, he is well known for being associated with the hip-hop group TTC who he collaborated with on their first album titled, Ceci N’est Pas un Disque in 2000. In addition, he helped TTC with their second and third album, Bâtards Sensibles and 3615. As a result, Dans le Club became a hit success. And in 2003 he became Para One under Institubes. On his debut
album he enlisted the talents of TTC to appear on his title track. He released another EP titled Clubhoppon in 2005 and a full length album, Epiphanie in 2006. On Epiphanie, his song “Dundundun” became popular and was remixed by MSTRKRFT and Boys Noize. Eventually Para One’s success grew and his music began getting recognized. He even receieved requests to do remixes of esteemed artists’ songs like Daft Punk and Ellen Allien. His most successful commercial hit is his remix of Japanese singer, Ayumi Hamasaki’s “Greatful Days.” He also produced the entire soundtrack of the film Water Lillies. In addition to his musical talents, De Laubier also works in the film industry as a film director. He directed the movie It Was On Earth That I Knew Joy. The movie was shown at SCION Installation located in Los Angeles on February 20, 2010.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 29
T-MILLS
Photographer: Mattheau Abad Film: Justine Enriquez Grooming: Shannon Choi + Audrey Janelle Wardrobe: Ashley Rae + Pikka Turangan Shot at the stunning, Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. 8555 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90048 www.sofitellosangeles.com While in the lavish jacuzzi tub Mills dons; Shirt - Beautiful fül • Pants - Ashton Michael • Shoes - Nike 30 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
T.MILLS When you get your first guitar at the age of five, and then start a band ten years later, it’s safe to say your career path is pretty obvious. With guitar leading instrumentals to back the rapper’s fun and young-living lyrics, T. Mills is the perfect example of the new generation of rap. ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 31
32 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Mills makes himself comfortable in the plush penthouse suite of the Sofitel LA wearing, Shirt - All I Do Syndicate • Pants - G•star • Shoes - Timberland
So much of the over-played radio rap these days reflects EDM culture with house and dub-step samples. In contrast, there are rappers like G Eazy and T. Mills, for example, who are doing their best to change the game and turn things in their favor.
Not only does the music appeal to a new kind of rap-loving music consumer, a lot of what has to do with the change in the rap scene is the image of the new rappers. T. Mills’ image, which is strongly rooted in his punk-rock background, specifically attracts a new kind of fan that hasn’t had an artist to cater to their rap needs. Mills acknowledges that his style of music is somewhat of a mix between hip-hop and punk genres and he uses it to his ability by touring with bands such as We The Kings, The Ready Set, and Breathe Carolina – all of which have large followings of fans who’s overarching genre of music is pop-punk. Exposing himself to these types of groups conveniently places him into a sub-genre that a majority of moshing pop-punk loving concert-goers can find interest in. Uniqueness is key in an industry so competitive and saturated as the music industry. But being unique is no problem for Mills who began posting his music to MySpace at the age of 18. After gaining recognition from the music he was publishing in 2009, he landed himself a spot on the Vans Warped Tour. Recording and touring ever since, he originally signed with Laguna Beach label, Uprising Records but in early 2011 signed with Columbia Records furthering his career to bigger and better things. The evolution from the self-published music to now is apparent in more than just the music but also in the lyrics. T. Mills has matured and his music reflects a direction of party hits and music girls will be screaming at the top of their lungs over – the stuff the big bucks are made of. Earlier this year, T. Mills released a four track EP titled after the made for summer anthem “All I Want To Do”. With his killer sense of fashion (which you can see reflected in his concert merchandise) and his even more deadly looks, it is no doubt that this is just the start of his very successful relationship with his music.
Jacket - Beautiful fül • Shirt - Beautiful fül • Pants - G•Star ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 33
Elafonisi Beach / Greece On the far west coast of Crete, lays Elafonisi Beach. With it’s crystal clear waters and delicately soft sand that occasionally takes a pink glow (said to be from corals), is one of Greece’s hidden gems. The beach overlooks the Libyan Sea and is a part of a collection of other small beaches that can easily be explored all in a days work. This is also a hotspot for bird watchers as it is the last stop they make when migrating to Africa. All in all, Elafonisi is just a little collection of world wonders.
Grace Bay / Turks and Caicos On the Caribbean island, Providenciales, Grace Bay is not only a site for sore eyes but a sight for any eyes. At this specific location on the island you are able to stand on perfect white sand turn towards the ocean and see perfect blue and then make a one-eighty and see perfect green. This is one of those beaches you wouldn’t mind being stranded on. Luckily though, that doesn’t need to be a worry since there are a few of the best resorts right on the beach to accommodate you, making it all the more easy to take in the wonderful experience without needing to be ship-wrecked.
Mustique Island / Grenadine Islands Mustique Island appeals to those who are looking for the ultimate luxury experience. The island is privately owned and serves as a getaway to guests looking to rent one of the private villas on the island. The Mustique Company, who owns the island, has created a world-renowned destination for many people including English rockers and even English royalty. The island’s biggest selling points are the privacy it offers as well as the many activities that can be experienced while on the island. Your stay on the islands are filled with relaxing on boats, spas, water sports, land sports (like tennis) and even horseback riding.
34 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 34
SHADES OF PARADISE Written by Ariana Velazquez
White sandy beaches, clear blue water, you’re laying out, sipping out of a coconut and everything in the world just feels right. Sounds like paradise, doesn’t it? Whether you’re going to be traveling this summer or staying local, we’ve found you some of the most perfect coastlines the world has to offer! Cancun / Mexico Cancun – the place where all your 18 year-old dreams can come true. But more than just a place for under-aged kiddos to do their partying, Cancun truly offers some of the most beautiful beaches. Located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula it is a major tourist destination. Whether you’re going to be margarita sippin’ or pampering yourself at one of the many resorts, you’re bound to have a pampered vacation. The bright turquoise water is the ultimate depiction of the word “tropical” and it is something you have got to see for yourself.
The Cook Islands / Polynesia Now, we know this isn’t one beach or even one city, but how could we pick just one? The Cook Islands are made up of 15 small islands whose total land area is 92.7 square miles and though that may seem small they have got a whole lot to offer. The natives have their own language and government and have a diverse culture that varies throughout the islands. The best thing about the Cook Islands however is that they have not been spoiled with tourism. There are no high-rise hotels and with that they are able to offer a rare opportunity for people of different countries and life-styles to experience a vacation that is separate from the clichés of other tropical getaways. This is a great place to experience a new culture and a world apart from your own while indulging in beautiful scenery.
Geger Beach / Bali Oh, Bali! Geger Beach is one of the best that Bali has to offer. Now, if you’re from these parts (LA that is) you know how rare parking lots or parking at all can be near the beach. Well Geger has got you covered, there is a parking lot, I know you think it couldn’t get any better, but trust me, it does. The cafes around the beach also rent beach chairs and bring refreshments out to you on the beach. Then for those of you who are a little more daring, get this, Geger is one of the few beaches that allows topless sunbathing! So recap: you’re getting pampered, didn’t have to drive around for hours looking for parking and you get to end the day with no tan-lines, this is the ultimate paradise.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 35
White Haven Beach / Whitsunday Island The Whitsunday Islands, which are apart of Australia, are a collection of 74 islands on the tropical coast of Queensland right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Not only is the White Haven beach the most photographed beach in Australia, it’s also been named “Queensland’s Most Beautiful Beach” as well as “Queensland’s Friendliest Beach”. The beach is also equipped with coves and lookout points for a full day of adventure. So visit, take a dip and make some friends while you’re at it!
Poipu Beach Park / Poipu, Haiwaii Poipu Beach Park is located on the southern coast of Kaua’i. Not only is the beach a park, but the park is a beach – obviously the perfect combo. Not to mention, this is one of the safest beaches in Hawaii with lifeguards on duty constantly. At Poipu, visitors will find plenty of activities to occupy themselves with; from snorkeling to swimming and boogie-boarding to surfing. This beach has it all! 36 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Siesta Key Beach / Florida For people who aren’t too familiar with Florida, generally, when Florida comes to mind places like Disneyworld, Miami or Key West pop-up, but we’d like to change that. We want you to start associating Florida with Siesta Key Beach. Siesta Key Beach is a wonderful location offering the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico right to your little piggies. Siesta Key is the number one beach in the U.S. and is a part of the Sarasota islands. The city offers local events all year round and it is a great location to go on a trip with your family or your friends!
McWay Waterfall / California, United States In Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park lies a waterfall named McWay Falls. This waterfall is one of the only two in the region that is close enough to the ocean to be considered a “tidefall”. Just off the PCH, the 80-foot waterfall flows year round and is literally a scene ripped out from your biggest beach fantasy ever. Plainly, it is pretty much a Maxim swimsuit shoot waiting to happen. But there is more to this beach than just a beautiful waterfall. In fact, getting to it is half the fun. After parking, there is a half-mile waterfall trail made up of a dirt path that leads westward toward the ocean, into a tunnel under the highway and then to a trail in the cliffside overlooking a small cove. The tidefall can be seen from the trail above however reaching the land below can be difficult unless you are arriving by boat.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 37
38 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
E R I N SA N D E R S When you work hard and are constantly striving towards living a life that is fulfilling, only good things will happen to you. The very talented (and very busy) Erin Sanders always has projects on her plate. She takes them each with grace and is blessed to have an incredibly supportive family and friends who are always there to remind her of the talented individual she is – all while keeping her feet grounded. The kinds of projects Erin is currently immersing herself in are ones with a lot of heavy weight: with life meaning, purpose and fulfillment that brings emotions not only in her own life, but in all of the lives she is touching. The most recent film the actress is starring in, Guilty at 17, is a coming of age story. But not the standard one you’d expect. The film is about realizing the power of your decisions, how each choice you make affects the life you’re living as well as those around you. Erin is currently supporting a project with Debra Hopkins on the journey people go through with eating disorders and building awareness with the struggles that are faced. Breaking the Chains Project is a campaign that aims to change the face of eating disorders. “We are creat-ing a video for the project and calling it ‘My Worst Enemy.’ It’s incredibly emotional and a mov-ing piece. The reason we decided to make a music video in light of the topic is to be able to entertain an audience in order to really educate them. It’s hard because no one likes to talk about it. No one wants to be that one person with the insecurities, we’d rather
hide it.” “At the start of this project, I blind read the script, and it hit me emotionally instantly. Its message is incredibly strong and I knew right away that I wanted to be a part of this project. We are focus-ing on building awareness on the struggles people who have eating disorders face in their daily lives and changing the face of eating disorders.” The lyrics to the song are writings that are taken directly from Debra Hopkins journal. She has come an incredibly long way and it’s such an admiring bravery that she is being so open about her story. “It takes a lot of work to be in love with who you are, it takes a lot of courage to stop comparing yourself to others and realizing there could never be a better version of the person you are right now.” In addition to acting, and being an advocate for changing the face of a large social issue, Erin is also a yoga instructor whenever she has a free moment. “I’ve been doing yoga for my entire life, my mom would take me to classes when I was just six-years-old! And I’m not sure how normal it was for a six-year-old to be in a yoga classed but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have a dif-ferent love for it now as apposed to then. Now I do it mostly because it gives me peace in a hectic day, it clears my mind and improves my thinking, my body always feels good and healthy, and I’m always in a constant state of growing with my mind and body through yoga. I never would have expected to be teaching it but I love it so much, it sort of just happened.”
Photography by: Angelina Venturella Make up by: Amber lee Schoneweis Hair by: Jayme Kavanugh For @projectmermaids And saveourbeach.org Written by: Mariya Dondonyan
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 39
project mermaids. Photographer: Chiara Salomoni • Creative Assistant: Angelina Venturella • Hair and Makeup Artist: Jayme Kavanugh Stylists: Ten Morrow, Edwardo Garcia • Mermaid tail: The Mertailor Eric Ducharm • Assistant: John Kelsey • Sponsored by Sexy Hair
40 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 41
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 43
Shirt - Moods of Norway
46 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
JESSE MCCARTNEY Photographer: Kaleb Khu Assistant: Jasmine Sabagqut Grooming: Taschi Lynell + Audrey Ramos Wardrobe: Ashley Rae + Pikka Turangan Written by: Mariya Dondonyan
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 47
When a young artist starts out in the music/acting industry, it’s easy for them to quickly lose sight of why they began and who they ultimately wanted to become. Jesse McCartney, however, is one who has stayed loyal to who he is not only as an artist, but as a human being throughout his entire career. Jesse humbly shares, “You have to find the balance. The balance between what is reality and what comes and goes. But honestly I’m just the face of the operations, there is a whole team of incredibly talented individuals who work to make all this plausible.” The now 27-year-old began his musical and acting careers at the age of 11, starring in multiple musicals and TV shows. Building up his talents and showcasing them in the most beautiful way possible. You know you’ve accomplished what you were set out to do when you look back at yourself and are proud of what you’ve created for your life. “I never stop learning, however, I think I’ve now come to a place where I really feel a sense of mastery. I know the process now, I’ve put in my 10,000 hours. I’m far from where I once was. I’ve grown so much, my music, my sound, has matured tremendously, but I still learn everyday.” Jesse McCartney’s work exists to be able to connect with people, to share his talents with a world that is more than willing to listen. “After a while, I think people start to get into this groove, you know, where your art is almost on auto-pilot. I remind myself daily to stay on my toes, to keep thinking, keep editing.” Jesse has diligently been working on his new album In Technicolor, and to say we are more than excited for it’s release on July 22nd is an understatement. From Beautiful Soul back in 2004, fast forward ten years later and we are still swooning over the heartthrob who has matured beautifully. “It’s been four years since I’ve released an album. That’s really a long time to think about what I want to write about, and the tone I wanted to set for this new project. When going into a new album, the first thought I want to accomplish is figuring out what I want to say. My songs in this album are more vulnerable, they go back to this classic time when music was produced with authenticity, not on a keyboard. Not only have the words in the songs matured, but my sound has just evolved the most musically. This album is one of my proudest accomplishments to date. In addition to being proud of the way this album has grown up musically and lyrically, it’s also the first album I’m on my own with, on my own label.” Both in his looks, music, and personality. We see the growth in the artist as he slowly steps away from teen pop sensation to a mature artist, but in the most proper and rightful way. We have no worries for this talented mind. He seems to know the balance between heating things up and keeping things classy. We asked Jesse if he could describe his new album in one word, his answer: “timeless.”
48 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
“After a while people start t into this groo know, where yo almost on auto remind myself stay on my toe thinking, keep
e, I think to get ove, you our art is o-pilot. I daily to es, to keep p editing.�
Jacket - Anthony Franco Shirt - Moods of Norway ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 49
KINGS OF KHAKI Andrew Merrill
50 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
NOAH LOPEZ
I N S I D E + D E S I G N
There are a few things that Los Angeles is known to be oversaturated with: yoga studios, tanning salons, juice bars—and fashion startups. When Andrew Merrill and Noah Lopez decided to launch their own LA fashion label, they knew a uniquely outof-the-box angle was needed to trump existing labels. However, instead of trying to change the game through innovative designs alone, the duo is set to revolutionize the industry by changing up the very fabric of their designs. Thus, OPNK, a progressive contemporary fashion label based around khaki, not denim is born. Merrill who serves as the Creative Director explains the overall vision is to change the perspective of Khaki in today’s culture. It’s a bold move, considering khaki is traditionally disregarded as a chic twill choice. But, true to their brand slogan, “The Evolution of Khaki,” OPNK is in full fledge transfiguring the face of the material and effectively integrating it into the fashion conscious world. If spotted on the streets OPNK could easily be mistaken for five-pocket denim but, to the mere touch, the difference in comfort and quality is undeniable. Dyed, washed, and waxed like denim, the pants are hardly recognizable as khaki until you slip into a pair as comfort is incredibly important to the brand. In regards to quality, part of their manufacturing process includes vigorous washing, they’ve made
their khakis strong enough to be washed over and over again. Launching this summer with a highly anticipated core collection of men’s and women’s pants, along with select khaki buttondown shirts, as well. Envision: the denim on denim, bit of repetition look—except with a more comfortable, breathable khaki. The collection can be shopped in high-end novelty stores across the country, including American Rag and Saks 5th Avenue. “We’re the only one’s doing this right now,” beams Merrill. “Nobody else is taking khaki and treating it like denim. So we’re really a novelty, but we’re also a staple at the same time because khaki, itself, is so basic.” While this take on Khaki is politically incorrect, it’s incorrect in all the best ways. Merrill’s closeness to the textile enables him to keep the vision perfectly in check and up to par. There are three main adjectives that come to mind when you try on your first pair of OPNK pants: visionary, progressive, and game changing. When you think of denim you think of Levis, when you think of Khaki you’ll think OPNK. Is OPNK’s khaki revolution the next big thing to come out of the LA fashion scene? We’ll let the success of the launch speak for itself. But let’s just say these are definitely not your grandfather’s khakis, although he’d probably love a pair as well. ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 51
Photography: Catherine Asanov • Glam Team: Audrey Ramos + Taschi Lynell • Wardrobe: Ashley Rae + Pikka Turangan + Ariana Mason • Written by: Mariya Dondonyan
Left: Rachael Shirt - Somedays Lovin Pants - A + C Denim -Blake Shirt - Teenage Pants - Levis Shoes - Vans Right: Shirt - Teenager Shorts - Levis Shoes - Radii
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 53
Rachael Top - MinkPink Skirt - Shop D&J Shoes - Kerol D -Blake Shirt - Teenager Shorts - Levis Shoes - Vans 54 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Annex Magazine: As executive producer and star of workaholics, if Rachel had to be on the show, what role would she play/what would her character be like? Blake Anderson: An in-assassin trying to poison me. We draw from real life when we are writing from the show, you know so that would be her role. AM: So how would her role play into the episode? BA: She’d be my arch nemesis She’d do anything to ruin my fun. AM: What do you love most about the 90’s? BA: Definitely the video games. Super Nintendo, all of that. The overall vibe was just cool with all of this original stuff that lives on – that feels so cool and relevant today. Like Rocko’s Modern Life, if you watch it today, you now realize all the nasty little jokes that were really on there but you didn’t really understand them as a kid. AM: What does your clothing brand, Teenage mean to your fans? BA: Some people take it literally, like it’s only for teenage kids. And that its easier to be bored and on the Internet today. It’s also about making a lot of your own fun. Because when you are, you get creative. And that’s really where the name came from. AM: So do you remember a time when you were a bored teen and what you did to get creative? BA: Of course when your young and bored you start to sort of explore with alcohol, and drugs and that stuff. But my buddies and I would do some really crazy fun stuff. Like we had a backyard wrestling federation and things like that. I was just lucky to have a really tight knit group of people who were down to get creative. We messed around with filming a lot of the time and I think that’s what may have led to what I do for a living now. AM: You film workaholics with some of your best friends, get to work on your brand, Teenage with the love of your life - what are the best and most challenging things about this set up? BA: Well, the awesome reason is obvious because my entire life is surrounded by the best people I can imagine. Anytime you work with people you actually like, you are more likely to make something better with what you’re creating. Luckily, I communicate well with everyone and we hash out at each other once an issue arises. So not too many mishaps.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 55
Shirt - Teenager Shorts - Levis Shoes - Radii 56 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
Annex Magazine: How was Teenage born? Rachael Finley: Blake would always make his own t-shirts and he would design them with sharpies… It was pretty bad. I, however, come from a fashion background. About two years ago I got sick and had to quit my job and I had all this free time, so I began to actually design the shirts for him. We had all these extra t-shirts because he really only needed one, so I’d sell them through my blog: Steak Tooth, and it started to kick off. AM: What’s the best part about having a clothing line? RF: Oh, the best part is easily when we are out in public and we see someone else wearing our stuff. The feeling we get is indescribable. It’s like we have something in common with a complete stranger, like they believe in our brand and what we do. It’s a total accomplishment.
Shirt - Teenager ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 57
E I B G 58 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
R C E E BY
. H R . N
NIKKI
DROR
T
hese days it seems like everyone is trying their absolute hardest to get discovered in Hollywood. But we’re not entirely certain it counts as being “discovered” if you’re actively pursuing the fame. Want a true story of Hollywood discovery? Just take a look at Broadway star Erich Bergen, who’s about to be launched into super stardom with the release of this summer’s blockbuster, Jersey Boys, directed by Clint Eastwood.
When Erich was just 9 years old, he was discovered by his first manager at an after school theater program. While other kids his age wanted to be firefighters and astronauts, “I just wanted to be Michael Jackson,” Erich laughs. One year after that initial offer, Erich launched his official acting career, at the raw age of 10. Erich has since made a name for himself through numerous television appearances. “It’s fun to be a guest star on a show that you actually watch,” he explains…there’s a pause before he voluntarily admits that he’s referring to Gossip Girl. The real “bread and butter” of Erich’s career, however, has been his leading role as Bob Gaudio in Broadway’s hit musical, Jersey Boys. The character, aptly the youngest member of the Four Seasons singing group, is easily a standout in the show and a fan favorite. Gaudio is not only full of natural musical talent, but the audience watches as he goes through many milestones, growing up over the course of the show. Sounds a lot like Erich’s own acting career, doesn’t it? After seven years of delighting critics and making headlines in the role, Erich decidedly became synonymous with the role in the minds of the audience. Therefore, when it came to casting the upcoming film adaptation of the play, it was a no-brainer as to who would be playing Gaudio. Fans of the theater production can rejoice, as Erich explains that the film version is “a very literal adaptation of the Broadway show.” So what has been the biggest difference in Erich’s experiences on stage and in front of the camera? Filming on various sets. “There’s this scene that takes place in a bowling alley,” he explains. “On the stage you just pretend you’re in a bowling alley but then for film we actually got to be in the a real bowling alley!” However, there is one more monumental difference between a theater performance and a feature film: the reach. While Erich Bergen is already a household name within the Broadway community, this movie is sure to take his stardom to the mainstream. With Clint Eastwood and the momentum of the theater production behind it, this film is undoubtedly going to be a really big deal this summer—and so is Erich.
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 59
Photographer - Josh Williams Photography • www.joshwilliamsphotography.com • Talent - Barrett Pall • Clothing Provided By - Swift Vintage • www.iloveswift.com
60 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
PALL PROWESS ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 61
62 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 63
64 ANNEX M A G A Z I N E
ANNEX M A G A Z I N E 65