BELLA ife is beautifu
October 2013
“AUTUMN is the year’s last lovliest smile”
Welcome to a very special edition of Bella! Browsing through this new issue you may notice we’ve decided to dedicate more space to a plus size fashion and to girls who with their sexy curves don’t give up on style and know how to look great in their bodies. If you are one of them, we hope you will appreciate our tips and tricks for dressing your size and some inspiration for a trendy city style. We are also proud and honored we can bring you an exclusive interview with a plus size fashion designer Anna Scholz, who told us everything about the fashion industry and how to find your way in! If you are following our Facebook page, you already know we’ve prepared a special surprise for you - if you like our illustrated covers (and we know a lot of you do!), you can now purchase these lovely pictures in different forms (T-shirt, mousepad, keychain, framed art... ) to spice up your office or your closet! And every month, with a new illustrated cover, there will be more designs and more products to choose from! So treat yourself with a stylish present and let us know what you think! And there will be more! If you are aeger to know our hot news among the firsts, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter or Facebook page. Another big surprise will be released soon! Till then, have a lovely October and see you next month!
Bella Team
bellamagazine@mail.com Have something you’d like to share? Do you have an idea that you’d like us to feature in BELLA Magazine? Know interesting, creative people who deserve to shine? Let us know!
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the team
people behind
“Do you believe in ghosts?”
Production&Design Martina&Martyna “sometimes”
Editor in Chief Paulina Ness “only in the Ghost”
Editors Pavla Millerová
“not really”
Ema Duláková “ghosts, God&another world too” Lucie Zajíčková “yes, when I’m home alone” Pie Rette “yes, I like them” Lucy Gault “only in friendly ones” Amanda Parks Kremena Koleva
“no” “not yet”
Contact us: Would you like to advertise in Bella Magazine? Email us at bellamagazine@mail.com.
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bazaar
“less talk, more ART”
Bella’s style Loving magazine’s illustrated covers? Get your favorite to decorate your home or enrich your closet.
click & shop
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sensible pianist
who’s that girl
Kimberley K. is a multicultural girl with many hats on. A teacher, student, musician, Miss contestant, blogger, fashionista, martial arts champion, fitness junkie... She definitely isn’t an ordinary girl. She might be a super woman...! How was it growing up in the US in a Korean family? Do you feel more American or Korean? That’s such a tough question to answer. My parents always emphasized the importance of understanding and embracing my Korean heritage - I was definitely raised on korean ideals and expectations. I wouldn’t be able to say I felt more American or more Korean though. It’s equally weighted in all honesty.
How many hours do you practise the piano? I usually practice 5-7 hours a day. It’s tough to fit everything in, especially with since I’m a doctoral student.
You are a classical pianist and a teacher - why did you choose this profession and what else could you do if not playing the piano? Music is my life. I made my professional debut with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at the age of 9, and that experience truly changed my life. I knew then that it was the only path I wanted to pursue. If I weren’t a musician, I’d probably be studying interior design.
What do you like to wear while performing? Do you keep it simple or do you let your fashionable self to express itself? For performances, I always wear gowns. I tend to keep it simple though. I want to make sure I can focus on the music! It’s tough to concentrate when statement earrings are swinging around! What can we find on your fave playlist? Classical or modern music? Definitely a mix of both. I have to admit though, I listen to a lot of pop/rap/techno in my free time. I’m a huge fan of Deadmau5, Beyonce, Swedish House Mafia, and Macklemore. You also have a black belt in Tae-kwon-do. Was it an disadvatage while dating boys? I think guys actually like that I can hold my own. To be honest though, it’s been years since I’ve had a boyfriend. I just haven’t had any time to date! You claim you are a descendant of Confucius, does it mean any obligations or consequences? It doesn’t actually mean anything, I suppose! It’s just a cool fact :-)
Baltimore, USA
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sensiblestylista.blogspot.com
“MUSIC is a safe kind of high”
Your mum used to be an opera singer - can you sing or did this talent miss you? Hm, I can kind of sing... I like singing pop songs. I don’t have the beautiful operatic voice my mother has though! Your mum was crowned Miss Korea and Miss Asia, have you been interested in attending any beauty contest? I actually participated in Miss NY USA a while back! It was really a fun experience, but I prefer my piano. You say you have the greatest friends in the world - how do you define a ‘best friend’? To me, a best friend is someone who I can really trust. Someone, who is there for me through thick and thin. Someone, who loves me for who I am. I’m so blessed to have such amazing friends. I know that I can always rely on them! You are quite into fitness, what do you do to keep yourself fit and what would you recommend us for 'lazy days'? I really like doing DVDs. They keep me on my toes. I do like doing cardio at the gym, although I sometimes feel like a hamster on the treadmil! If you feel lazy sometimes, I would recommend some short exercise DVDs like ‘Ripped in 30’! Effective, yet concise. If you should choose between a new piano, an exotic holiday and a designer handbag, what would it be & why? Probably an exotic holiday with my loved ones! Don’t get me wrong, I’d love a new piano or designer handbag, but wonderful memories are priceless. Spending time with my friends and family will always take precedence.
“I am an ambitious girl trying to make the most of her life.”
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city chic
Hoi,
AMSTERDAM
Forever21
Topshop
New Look
click 2buy Zara
Oasis
Forever21
H&M
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Dorothy Perkins
“life is a beautiful RIDE” New Look
Therapy
Forever21
River Island
ASOS
Zara
do not miss
River Island
Prinsengracht - the most picturesque canal of all 165, lined by funky houseboats Red Light District - famous alleys with ladies inside the glass doors date back to 1275! Vondelpark - the largest green space in Amsterdam, great for picnics, jogging and having fun Van Gogh Museum - with the world’s largest collection from the Dutch painter Nieuwedijk-Kalverstraat - almost 1 km long avenue full of shops with a special vibe 8
fashion icons
movies
the most stylish
Films are made to entertain us. But there are some that got a great attention for its inspirational costume designs, which with time transformed into iconic looks, still actual in this modern age. Here are our favorites of all time.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s It was in this film that the original ‘little black dress’ was born. No-one could wear a black dress like Audrey Hepburn; she oozes old school glamour and elegance. One of the Givenchy designed dresses made for the film sold at auction recently for 947,000 USD!
Rear Window Starring fashion icon Grace Kelly, this film still inspires many fashionistas today. Despite being a movie about murder and intrigue, all of the five outfits worn by Grace showcase the 1950s fashion at its best: with long skirts, luxurious fabrics and varying necklines - all things trendy again this winter!
Annie Hall Diane Keaton brought her own quirky and curious fashion style to this film in 1977. With her oversized hats, vintage finds and baggy trousers she became a fashion icon in her own right! Her style is typical of the boyfriend look that is still popular today.
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“the difference between STYLE and fashion is quality”
La Dolce Vita Frederico Fellini’s movie is one of the most stylish films ever made. Fellini was inspired by ‘sack dresses’ designed by Spanish fashion house Balenciaga. When he put a black sack dress on Ekberg, while she stood in the Trevi fountain, it became one of the most iconic movie scenes ever. It is no wonder the film later won the best costume at the academy awards.
Bonny and Clyde Looking stylish while stealing money is possible only in the movies. Although set in the 1930s, the Bonnie’s wardrobe with berets, long skirts, tweed and fine knits has a seventies feel. Combined with a bob hairstyle, the stylish look became an instant trend-setting sensation.
Photos: Warner Bros, Paramount, Universal Pictures, United Artists, Pathé CC
Some Like It Hot It is a must see movie for any fan of fashion. Orry Kelly won the best costume design for this picture, and deservedly so. With risqué outfits that left little to the imagination, two cross dressing males and Marilyn Monroe in nude chiffon cocktail dress!
Belle de Jour Yves Saint Laurent styled a film star Catherine Deneuve in a wardrobe that managed to make even a prostitute look elegant. Her tailored coats and dresses, knee length pencil skirts and that just rolled out of bed look, are still hot in the fashion world today.
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get the look
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4
5 1.Dior, 2. Topshop, 3. New Look, 4.Accessories, 5. Zara 11
“a great DRESS can make you remember what is beautiful about life”
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1
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1. Guess, 2. Guess, 3. YSL, 4. Topshop, 5. Zara, 6. Topshop 12
fashion focus
stylish
CURVES
10 tips For Dressing Your Figure
1. Know your
Forget baggy, boring clothes, forget diets! These clever tricks will help you embrace your curves and enjoy fashion on fullest!
2. Belt it
measurements
Since much plus size clothing is only offered online, it’s important to know exactly what size you need. Don’t forget to consult brand-specific sizing charts!
Belts work to define your waist and add interest to your outfit. Tip: Choose a medium-width belt and cinch it at your natural waist.
3. Opt for
statement jewelry
Long necklaces lengthen your torso and dangling earrings work to elongate your face. Tip: Not ready for bold jewelry? Try a lucite cuff. It makes a great statement without as much pop.
4. Enjoy layers and prints
A printed button-up shirt + lightweight sweater + denim jacket = Autumn Chic! Tip: Layer with lightweight pieces and rock bold prints. Not ready for a printed shirt? Try a snakeskin belt or leopard shoes!
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“true BEAUTY comes in all sizes”
5. Go big!
Choose a medium-large boxy bag to balance your curves. Tip: Try the handbags on in front of a mirror, just as you would clothing.
6. Get a tailor
You’ll look (and feel!) your best when your clothing fits perfectly. Therefore an experienced tailor who knows your body, your flaws and qualities should become your best friend.
7. Focus on your assets
If you have a dazzling smile, finish it off with a bright lipstick. Love your eyes? Make them pop with gorgeous earrings. It’s all about accentuating your best features!
8. Say yes to skinny jeans
Opt for a dark wash and pair them with a longer shirt, tailored blazer, and a pair of killer heels!
9. Shop smart for shoes Look for boots that hit just below your knee and pumps with a chunky heel and a round, almond, or peep toe. Tip: Always try on both shoes and walk around the store.
10. Abandon all-black wardrobe Plus sized ladies can absolutely wear colors! Focus on the garment’s cut to flatter your figure best and choose colors that complement your complexion. Tip: Teal is a universally flattering hue! 14
fashion focus
Do’s & Don’ts of Plus-Size Clothing
DO dress for your body shape, not your size. The way clothes fit you is the crucial factor. Look for clothing that shapes and contours your body. Emphasize your assets and hide your imperfections.
DON’T be afraid to embrace fashion trends Pick out the best of the season - colors, prints and styles that flatter you and alternate the rest.
DO wear clothing that skims your body Find the happy medium between baggy and tight clothing, that are well made, rather than giant smocks that do nothing for your figure.
DON’T wait to lose weight to look great Having great style has nothing to do with your size. Buy fabulous items that fit you now. Clothing can always be altered to fit smaller!
DO turn to plus size style bloggers for inspiration You’ll find outfit ideas, discover new places to shop, and be a part of a supportive community.
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“SIZE doesn’t define your beauty”
KEY ITEMS
Every Curvy Woman Should Own
M&S
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trouser jeans
M&S
1
tailored blazer
New Look
click & shop
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wrap dress
Triumph
5 4
nude heels Nine West
A-line skirt 16
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a good bra
my style
wardrobe my style, my
Kirstin Marie has a weakness for shoes, vintage and dressing up. And is not afraid to show off her curves. My fall Must-Have A great blazer. It can be dressed up or down, and paired with a pair of jeans and a simple tee, or a cute dress and boots. My tip for looking fab Feel good in your clothes. If you put something on that makes you feel like a rockstar, it’s meant to be. You can’t look good unless you feel good. My last stylish purchase A few bags from the Phillip Lim for Target collection. I couldn’t resist! My favorite accessory Statement necklaces and chunky rings. My fave beauty product Urban Decay’s All Nighter setting spray and Amarte BB Cream.
Florida, USA
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kirstinmarie.com
These are my favorite looks ever: a Kate Spade-esk dress paired with some great heels and a bright cardi to feel more ladylike (right) and sexy, chic look with the mixture of a color blocked body con and a printed cardigan (left).
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Boyfriend jeans are my go-to for a casual look. They can be paired with anything!
A lace overlay on a rich mocha underlay, strappy black heels and a quirky bag make this look great for a night out. Animal prints always make me feel happy, so when I’m unsatisfied with my closet, I always pick something with a print. 18
the brights
details
Banana Republic
Radley
ASOS ASOS
M&S
Therapy
River Island
in the BAG NewLook Dune
the neutrals
ASOS
ASOS
Topshop
Zara
River Island
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“don’t cry, buy a bag”
the colorblocks
DKNY
Accessories
Paul’s Boutique
ASOS
Dorothy Perkins
Dune
New Look Accessories
River Island
click 2buy
River Island
the animals Forever 21
New Look
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19
in the
CITY
Photographs by Katie Wilson for Anna Scholz
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scene
How do you define
STYLE? Amanda P. Memphis, USA It is an outward expression of individualism and confidence. Different from fashion or trends, style is a knowing who you are and having the confidence to show it. Style can evolve, but your signature style — the one that says 'This is me' — is a constant. thesequinedspaniel.com
Karolina G. Rome, Italy Style is the story that we tell about ourselves by the clothes we choose to wear. It’s a very personal expression of your inner you - it’s a kind of a manifesto of who you are and who you want to be.
Martina B. Příbram, Czech Republic It is an expression of ourself that often reveals more than any words or gestures.
kcomekarolina.blogspot.com
theblondieverse.com
Charlotte L., Manchester, Great Britain It is a way of expressing your personality through your clothes. If you are feeling like having some fun you may get experimental and try new looks or add a unique element to your outfit to show off your individuality. lurchhoundloves.com
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“style is within all of us, you just have to find it”
Pamela S. Catanzaro, Italy Style is a concept that corroborates people’s identity and personality. tr3ndygirl.com
Elisabeth E. Cincinnati, USA I think a style is a physical mode of expression; it’s simply not just what you wear, but the manner with which you wear it. Style is the way we present ourselves to the world through color, texture and attitude.
Jasmine Z. Vancouvre, Canada It is a personal projection tool. A particular way you choose to present yourself to the world that is unique only to you. It is also a creative outlet of selfexpression, something you can have fun with.
bellatheblog.com
posinginvintage.com
Kelly W. New York, USA Style is about taking fashion risks. Anything you wear can be stylish once you have the most important thing, which is confidence. islandchic77.com
Darya K., Milan, Italy Style is a kind of love for fashion. It is one of the few things in the world that you can feel, but not touch. thecablook.com
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BEAUTY isn’t about having a pretty face. It’s about having a pretty mind, a pretty heart, and a pretty soul.
NEW cosmetics Explore, try out and enjoy!
Body Oil by MATIS SPA Nail polish by MAYBELLINE
Hand Cream by ROGER&GALLET Smoothing Shampoo by YVES ROCHER
Mattifying Cream by DERM
ACOL
Hand Wash by CRABTREE&EVELYN
Nail Polish by SANTE
Lip Gloss by LANCÔME
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Face Serum by BIOTHERM
Body Peeling by MATIS PARIS
blush!
pro tips
let’s
The best tips and tricks to get your face glowing
{
Choosing the right formula for your skin type is essential. The most versatile one is the powder form that works for all skin types, especially for oily one, because of its absorbing properties.
click 2buy
} If your skin is very sensitive, choose powder blush with no perfume or preservatives. The best choice is a mineral blush with all-natural ingredients.
Which shade will work magic on you? For olive skin, choose brights or warm shades like peach and copper. If you’re fair, opt for natural pinks ranging from pale to a rosy hue. Best choice for dark skin is plum, cognac, and berry tones. Sephora
Artdeco
Are you a trendy girl? Autumn asks for coral, deeply brown and burgundy hues. Sweet coral color is the best idea for brunettes because it brightens up their cheeks and makes a nice contrast with dark hair. Brown and burgundy suit blondes, but be careful with the application - less is more.
Sonia Rykiel
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“pretty COLORS make people drool�
{
Cream blushes that usually contains moisturizers and oils, are the best choice for dry skin. They are more translucent and give a natural flush.
}
No blusher around? Try your favorite lipstick - models all around the world and some makeup artists too, use it to blushing their cheeks! When applied evenly, it looks gorgeous!
Flatter Your Face Shape Invest in a quality fluffy blush brush with a rounded tip that will guarantee an easy, natural-looking application. Wash it regularly to prevent skin irritations.
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Oval: Apply blush to the apple for a radiant look. Square: Use the color up and out to the temples. Round: Use the blush to the apple of the cheeks. Heart: Apply blush to the lower part of the apple. Long: Use the blush on the apple and extend towards the ear.
beauty zoom
FALLING 4 FALL New perfumes and fragrances to love right now
Guess
Calvin Klein
Michael Kors
Anna Sui
Marchesa
BeyoncĂŠ
Clean
Pomellato Dsquared
click 2buy
Lanvin
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“STOP and smell the roses” Avon
DKNY Kate Perry
click 2buy
Juicy Couture
Annick Goutal Moschino
Marc Jacobs
Jimmy Choo
Oriflame
Coach
Boucheron
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my
beauty picks
BEAUTY
rules
British cosmetics lover shares her favorite products and tricks to look great.
HAYLEY CARR londonbeautyqu
een.com
What is your daily beauty routine? I’ve always been one for cleansing thoroughly and applying a moisturizer, so I do this religiously twice a day.In the evening, I like using a cleansing balm and muslin cloth with an overnight intensive treatment, whereas in the morning l use an alcohol free cleanser and a lighter moisturizer that doesn’t interfere with my makeup. I like to apply a primer if I’m out all day too, so my foundation stays flawless for as long as possible. How do you care for your hair? I straighten and style my hair a lot, so I’m extremely careful with the products I use. They not only need to provide me with super soft and manageable hair, but help to repair damage and protect against my electrical styling products. I’m a big fan of Paul Mitchell Super Strong, Moroccanoil and Label.M products. What’s your best beauty discovery? Primers have changed my life, as have BB Creams. Using a primer can totally transform your skintone visually, as well as keeping your makeup in place all day with minimal need for touch-ups. BB Creams have allowed me to step out of the house without worrying that I’m makeup-free.
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“too much ego will kill your talent” What’s in your make-up bag? I always have about eight different lipbalms, lipglosses and lipsticks - just in case! I also carry a powder compact for touch-ups and refreshing makeup, as well as a Clinique or Bobbi Brown concealer in case I get a pimple halfway through the day. Do you remember your first beauty product? It was a Rimmel Heather Shimmer lipstick - I loved it! I also had one of those hideous palettes from Argos that contained all the eyeshadow and blusher shades that no women should ever touch, but in the 90’s they were a must-have! What is your signature scent? I don’t have a signature, preferring to change things up and use my fragrance as an accessory. I change it daily, depending on my mood, the weather, what I’m wearing... I’m currently loving Burberry Body, as well as Jo Malone’s Lime, Basil and Mandarin. For the evening, I’ll wear something heavier such as Guerlain’s Le Petit Robe Noir or a Molton Brown statement fragrance. Nails – nude, bright or au naturel?! When I’m busy and don’t have time to change them, nude. When it’s summer and I feel the need to change my nails daily, bright! Never natural though, unless my nails need some serious recovery time.
click & shop
Any beauty indulgences you try and make time for? I’ve learned that facials are really important and help your skin to rest and recover - I try to make time every three months and it really pays off. Having a really great pedicure every few months (even in winter when we forget about our feet) is vital to maintain foot health. What’s the best beauty trick you’ve ever been shown? Where to apply a concealer. So many people apply it all over the eye, but if you apply just to the crease where your under-eye meets your cheek you’ll reflect the light and create a much more natural result.
“ For me, doing my makeup or styling my hair is an
enjoyable experience rather than a task I have to do.” 40
designer
dream job
plus size fashion
Annoyed by the lack of choice in the plus size fashion, Anna Scholz decided to design her own clothes. And so the brand bearing her own name was created. The German-born designer now lives in London and is among the most successful in a plus size fashion industry worldwide. Have you always wanted to be a fashion designer? What got you started and what does modeling have to do with it? I grew up in Germany as a 6ft tall size 16/18 teenager in the 80s and couldn’t find anything fashionable and sexy to wear. I started making my own clothes from the age of 13 and had my first customers by 16. I started to work as a plus size model when I was 18 and learned a lot about the industry. I saw a huge gap in the market for a trendy curve enhancing collection and decided to move to London to study fashion design at the prestigious St. Martin’s College of Art and Design. I always had the desire to make curvy women feel better about themselves and give them a positive shopping experience.
Do you remember your first design sold? I started having my first customers when I was 16, I believe my first item sold was a pair of linen trousers with asymmetric leg seams (oh dear, it was 80’s!). What skills must one have to become a fashion designer? Is an education actually necessary in this field or is passion enough? Passion and determination are essential as competition is so fierce, but education and a good set of skills are vital. I believe you can only design a collection properly if you understand how a garment is constructed and different fabrics behave. What was your biggest challenge when starting out? Convincing buyers that bigger women also desired fashion forward and figure enhancing sexy clothes and weren’t just interested in hiding away in bags anymore. Do you think a career path of a plus size fashion designer is somehow different or more difficult than a ‘normal’ designer? There are more obstacles as the market structure is simply not as developed, as in not much media support, not many high end stores who carry plus, but there is also a lot less competition. But the job is the same, I firstly look at designing and developing a new collection based on trends, moods and colors and then create styles which are more flattering for a curvier figure.
annascholz.com
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“dress impeccably and they remember the woman” How important is social media for building a career in fashion? It has become more and more important and I oversee our social media activity personally, as I am very interested to see the responses and opinions from our customers. Plus size women have found their voice in social media especially as the main stream media still often excludes them. What are the best parts and the worst parts in your job? The best part would be the creation process of designing a new collection, the worst part is when you spent months of designing and selling and producing a collection and then the finished product gets ruined by someone along the way, like wrong color, fabric flaws, printing mistakes, measurement discrepancies, etc. Finding the right factories to produce your products to a high standard and in a timely manner is very difficult, and sometimes getting paid from your retailers can be even harder. In fashion you have to pre-finance everything. What was the most important lesson you have learnt along the way? To never stop believing in my dream and that there’s a solution to every problem.
What has been your greatest career highlight so far? There were many milestones, as in being able to sell to stores like Harrods, Selfridges, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales. Appearing on Mary Queen of shops gave us a boost, too.
What other areas do you need to understand to make your business successful? The power of the media and marketing, how to manage your cash flow and every other aspect of running a normal business, i.e. sales tactics, staff management, etc.
“ A woman who
What does your job typically consist of - do you only do sketches or more? That question made me smile. I guess sketching new designs takes up about 5-10% of my time. I wish I could spend more time designing. My work is very seasonal and I don’t have a typical day as having a small company means I am involved in many processes. My work includes everything from sourcing fabrics and trims, designing prints and garments, fitting garments, negotiating with factories, showroom appointments with stores, selling trips, casting models, art directing our photo shoots, engaging with media and press, doing talk shows and interviews, social networking, presentations and appearances with our catalog business with Simply Be, interviewing and supervising my team, account meetings, etc. etc.
truly understands her proportions and is comfortable enough to experiment with her looks - that’s what I consider stylish.” 42
dream job What is your tip to look great no matter what size of clothes one wears? To look after yourself and carry yourself with confidence. It makes such a difference on how people perceive you if you simply believe in yourself. Where can you see your brand in five years? I am very happy with where we are, and would like to continue to see growth in the different areas of our business, as in a wholesale (we have just scored a new-still-secret-big account), expanding our e-commerce business and developing our relationship with Simply Be. We are launching lingerie for the first time in spring 2014. I hope we will see an uplift hour of the recession and see happier consumer spending, the start to our fall season has been excellent. I also would love to do more television in the UK, as my brand always seems to benefit a lot from any appearance. Do you feel that a plus size fashion field has changed since you started out? I think the whole fashion industry has changed a lot in the last 15 years. The boom of e-commerce and explosion of social media platforms and bloggers has changed the shopping habits in the whole fashion industry. In plus size in particular the consumers have had a chance to voice their demands for better choices in fashion forward collections and I don’t think the choice for plus size consumers has ever been better.
Photographs: AnnaScholz.com
What advice would you give to other women who dream of becoming a fashion designer? Really focus on your target or niche market and work hard on achieving your dream.
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“what is important in a DRESS is the woman who is wearing it”
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better life
HOW TO get more
ENERGY Feeling sleep deprived and yawning all day long? Follow these tips and learn how to recharge your batteries so you can keep on going all day long.
Have a Shower
To start your day fresh and full of energy opt for a short, lukewarm or cold shower that will also boost your immune system. You can use an energizing citrus shower gel to get even more fuel for your day.
Eat Right
Feeling fatigue? The reason may be your meals. Avoid rich, heavy foods and favor whole food, fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, chicken and meals that don’t slower your digestion (and your energy levels).
Get enough Sleep
Try to sleep at least 8 hours a day. To get better sleep, improve your bedroom hygiene - forget TV and opt for cool temperature in your room. Also, go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
Move around
Drink lots of Water
The more active you are, the better your circulation will be and the more energy you get. It doesn’t matter what activity you choose, the most important thing is to enjoy it and have fun doing it.
Insufficient liquids may cause dehydration, which lets you feel tired or get headaches. If you consistently drink less than 8 cups of water a day, you may be sluggish all the time. So have a drink!
Take a Walk
Forget old Patterns
Getting outside for some fresh air, a change of scenery, and a quick walk to get your blood going will do wonders for your whole body and its energy levels. Also, sunlight increases the body’s production of serotonin, which lift mood and freshens you up.
Stereotypes can be very tiresome. Try something new, change your plans, be spontaneous. Try to worry less, enjoy your life more, relax and forget the problems at least during the weekend.
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“energy flows where attention goes”
Try something New Every new experience gives us a rush. When doing something novel, the brain’s chemicals gear us up to do more. So learn how to dance or paint, start a new language course, travel or whatever you long for trying out and feel inspired and full of energy all the time!
Choose bright Colors
Forget dark clothes and pick up some brights! If you wear happy colors like yellow or red, you’ll get a positive attitude projected towards you, which will boost your own mood and energy levels.
Feel the Rhythm
Music influences our mood very easily and it also helps us relax and boosts our productivity. Can you sing? A quick one-song rock out loud session is an effective way to beat back exhaustion. You’ll also have less anxiety, a prime energy thief.
5 Best Energy Boosters (on the go)
Be Positive
A generally upbeat and optimistic outlook on life will keep your energy level up constantly. Look for the positives in every situation and you won’t be so tired and unpleasant to others too.
Goji Berries Goji helps to handle stress, improves mood and memory—all while giving you the get-up-and-go energy for the whole day.
Sit Tall
Bananas Composed mostly of glucose, fructose and fiber, bananas are a great energy food. Eat it is as a snack, or slice one into your morning cereals.
Good posture opens the chest cavity and increases an oxygen intake by 30%, making more energy available to your mind and muscles. Need help? Switch your chair for an exercise ball that will force you to sit taller.
Almonds Packed with all the important nutrients play an essential role in keeping the energy flowing throughout the body. It is a handy snack to keep at your desk or in your bag.
Socialize Turn off your computer, switch off your mobile phone and go out with your friends. Humans are social animals, and we need regular socializing to keep ourselves in peak health and energy wise. Also, meeting new people gives us a great motivation and drive.
Ginger Tea Swap coffee for a cup of tea. Ginger infusion is filled with antioxidants and nutrients that will give you an instant boost.
Refresh your Face
Dark Chocolate It energizes by providing an excellent source of iron and magnesium. Make sure it’s at least 70% !
Washing your face in the middle of the day may not help your makeup, but letting the cool water hit your skin will release all the stress immediately. If you don’t want to ruin your look, use a mineral water spray.
46
abode
workspace
my creative With a passion for creating, an obsession for food, a need for shine, and an appetite for awesome, Michelle Edgemont presents her home office that reflects all of that and more.
New York, USA 47
michelleedgemont.com
“great WORK ain’t cheap, cheap work ain’t great”
My home office is the place I work 95% of the time. The rest of the time has been split between my living room couch and a local coffee shop. It’s nice to be able to grab my laptop and have a change of scenery whenever I want. I’m drawn to bright colors and patterns, shiny gold, and quirky accessories. Those details usually make it into the majority of weddings I design as well. I’m a trained textile designer, which means I love all types of patterns, especially whimsical florals and geometrics.
Photographs: Brklyn View Photography
Three things I have to have on my desk: My paper calendar (I find it faster and easier to make little notes on the margins), my Wacom Tablet and a calculator for accounting and prices determination.
48
far far away
South Africa First, it was her adventurously curious soul that brought Jenna Finch away from home, from US to South Africa and live oversees. Then, it was love that made her stay longer that initially planned... I originally landed in South Africa as a university student on a six month study abroad program. I was working as a student assistant at my university’s study abroad center in the United States and while I was in the process of deciding where I wanted to spend a semester abroad, our director went on a site visit to Stellenbosch University in South Africa. She came back raving about her experience, talking about beautiful vineyards and extensive service learning opportunities. I was sold. I’ve now officially been living here for over five years. The first two were spent in Stellenbosch and the past three in Johannesburg. Until this year, I was working for a consultancy, but since January I’ve been studying towards a Master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology. If all goes as planned, I’ll be finished in November! In my spare time, I’m also a travel blogger.
There are a few things I wish I knew before moving here: 1. How to drive manual. That transition was quite difficult initially. 2. That the winters here are cold. I assumed that the sun would always be shining in Africa and packed accordingly. That first winter I nearly died in my sandals and short-sleeves! 3. That I wouldn’t want to leave! My poor parents would have never allowed me to come if they knew that six months was going to turn into five years! My greatest initial shock was probably the power outages. When I first moved here, South Africa was undergoing something called a ‘load shedding’ and the power would be out during certain pre-scheduled times throughout the day. It was a challenge at first, but very quickly one just learns to work around it. I was also shocked by how European Cape Town and the surrounding areas were. I couldn’t get over all of the quaint cafes and coffee shops. A visit to the Cape still takes my breath away! And of course, coming from the United States it was very difficult to adjust to the vast amounts of poverty and striking differences between rich and poor. Surprisingly, California, my home state, and South Africa have a lot of similarities in terms of climate and lifestyle. The most striking difference is probably in terms of demographic. South Africa is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with eleven official languages. It took a while to adjust to all the different cultures and traditions. In the beginning, there were a lot of ‘lost in translation’ moments.
49
“who lives SEES but who travels sees more”
The biggest obstacle when moving here was definitely obtaining a long-term visa. South Africa has a lots of strengths, but unfortunately, the efficient government institutions are not one of them. I could go into horror stories relating to my dealings with South African Home Affairs... but I will refrain. Fortunately, I’ve now found an excellent immigration agency that handles all of my paperwork. I met my boyfriend, now my fiancé, almost immediately after arriving in the country, so I was easily adopted into his South African friendship circle. I know some of the other Americans in my study abroad group found it a bit more difficult. Now though, almost all of my friends are locals. Since moving to Johannesburg, I haven’t been part of any international group or program, so nearly everyone I come in contact with is South African. I’ve developed some amazing friendships since moving here, South Africans are generally very warm and inviting. I’m totally in love with a local braai bread. A braai is essentially a BBQ, but they cook their meat over an open fire using wood. Braai breads are kind of like a grilled cheese, only that they also have tomato and onion inside. They toast them over the fire along with the meat and the result is pure melt-in-your-mouth gooey cheesy goodness. Many people don’t know that South Africa is renowned for its wine, and even have its own varietal called Pinotage. In fact, there are over 800 vineyards spread out across the Cape wine lands, with most offering tastings at extremely affordable rates. No trip to South Africa is complete without setting an afternoon to visit a few of the cellars.
I’m not really sure yet if I will stay in South Africa or not. Because I’m American and my fiancé’s South African, I suppose we’ll always be somewhat torn between the two countries. But at the moment, we’re quite content right where we are. There’s also the possibility that we’ll temporarily move to Europe or the Middle East, should a work opportunity arise. What I do miss the most from my home country, aside from my friends and family, is the Mexican food. Sad, but true, South Africans haven’t learned the art of authentic Mexican cooking and being a southern California girl, I really miss getting my nacho, enchilada, fish taco and quesadilla fix. Just thinking about it makes me hungry! There are really so many things I love about South Africa, but if I had to narrow it down I would have to be sappy and say the people. Because they really do make the country. I love that despite South Africa’s difficult past, people from all races, religions and ethnicities are somehow able to come together and unite in the fact that they are South African. Find out more about SA at jennafinch.blogspot.com.
50
far far away
what to see, try, enjoy... Kruger National Park - with nearly 2 million hectares of unrivaled diversity of life is the best place for a good old-fashioned safari. Cape Town - its picturesque setting between the ocean and a Table mountain makes is a place to see. Make sure to hike to the top of the mountain for a spectacular view. Stellenbosch - for its wineries and vineyards as well for its culture and history with some excellent examples of typical Dutch architecture dating back to the 17th century. Soweto - ranks among one of the most important and interesting sights in the country to gain an understanding of the other side of South Africa’s history, past and present. The Garden Route - sandwiched between the aforementioned mountains and the Indian Ocean, it has a wide range of attractions and activities - beautiful coastline, elephant parks, bungee jumping and everything in-between. Hogsback is a magical place said to have inspired Tolkien to write his Lord of the Rings. The landscape is lush, green and dotted with waterfalls and streams to swim in.
51
culture
love it!
“books are a uniquely portable MAGIC”
Hear it, see it, read it,
Best books, music and movies to enjoy and share
For all the creative minds, this book is the true source of inspiration - bright, colorful and full of great ideas, all set out in a way that is easy to follow and be motivated by.
click 2buy Can’t wait to hear the brand new album inspired by Sting’s forthcoming play of the same name! It’s also available in a super deluxe edition that makes a great gift for every fan of a great music.
Bridget Jones is back! The third book, funny as always, makes a triumphant return of our favorite Everywoman - in a whole new enticing phase of her life.
The special 75th Anniversary Edition of this classic still makes the film as fresh, frightening, and funny as it was when first released. A must see for kids (and parents) of any decade! Inspiring illustrated examples of modern dress drawings won’t let you still. Just grab a pencil, let your creativity flow and draw along!
52
Let’s have the
best Fall ever!
moments
“no hurry, great THINGS take time”
10October things to do in
to make it really sensational 1
2
Enjoy a windy day! Go out and have fun with your friends flying a kite.
3
Get some nature to your home. Decorate it with colorful leaves, chestnuts and briers.
4
Start making a list of Christmas presents you want to buy for your friends and family.
5
Buy a small pumpkin and DIY your own candle lamp.
6
Make a playlist of some cheerful songs to lift your mood any time you need it.
7
Get a great, trendy blusher (see p.35) to put some freshness to your face.
8
Buy yourself some bright umbrella to match a colorful fall nature.
9
Go for a walk to get some fresh air and de-stress. No friends around? Take your neighbor’s dog!
10
Make a collection of your favorite pumpkin recipes on Pinterest. Have some snooze. Just a few minutes will increase your productivity by 35%.
54
Scorpio
fashion horoscope
“to laugh at yourself is to LOVE yourself�
23. October - 21. November
Your fashion style is very innovative, sophisticated and provocative but never vulgar, as you like leaving something for the imagination. You prefer quality over quantity and love intense, rich colors, but usually have a closet full of dark-colored clothes. Typical for you is a ladylike look but with an edge. Style: well-tailored dresses, soft cloths, leather and knits, caftans, leather knee-high boots, plush velvet blazers, massive rings, huge chunky bracelets and necklaces
Colors: burgundy, deep purple, deep red, black plum, mid-night blue, silver and white
M&
S
Chanel
Beauty: hair sleek serums, eye liner, thick mascara, pink blush, frosty blue eye shadow, wine or nude lipstick, pale nail polishes, oriental fragrances
GAP Guerlain Miss Selfridges
H&M
click 2buy Vivenne Westwood
Topshop
55
Until
November! www.BellaMagazine.eu
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