Interview with Designer
James-Paul
Drab to Fab:
Not Your Average Stylist
A Look at Boston’s
Emerging Trends
Fashion Show
Spring Trend
Retro Returns
Table of
10
Contents Community
Honk!
Boston Fashion
Drab to Fab 8 Emerging Trends 2009 Show 10
Politics
Edward “Ted” M. Kennedy: The End of an Epoch 13
On the Cover
Spring Ahead
14
Entertainment
James-Paul
20
Hot Spot
Boston Boutiques
22
Beauty
Booking Boston
24
Art
Gulu-Gulu Cafe
26
Culture
A.R.T.
28
Trends
Spring 2010: Retro Returns 30
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POLISHED Magazine is produced with graphic design support by the Graphic Design League at Lasell College. Visit us at www.GraphicDesignLeague.com Polished is printed by Wing Press, Beau@wingpress.com
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Contributors
Letter from
the
Editor
Publisher
Editors
Editor-in-Chief
Elisa Bronstein Alyssa Davis Fallon Coster
Lasell College
With spring ahead we have much to look forward to: the season we all love for its versatility and budding nature is sure to surprise those seeking a glamorous way out of winter. Get a glimpse into the future and the past with our trend article, Retro Returns. Put the whole look together with the inspiration from our editorial featuring clothing from Boston-based designers. Notice the transitional personality of the clothing and accessories for spring; it’s sure to bring you out of that winter funk. Get an insider’s peek at the fashion industry with our one-on-one interview of James Paul, our modeling agency exposé, and our Emerging Trends 2009 Fashion Show coverage. Feel the warmth in the air, and rediscover what it means to be POLISHED.
Mary RuppertStroescu
Founder
Richard Bath
Faculty Advisor Stephen C. Fischer
Managing Editor Erica Valente
Creative Director Christian DiPietro
Christian DiPietro Erica Valente
Writers Elisa Bronstein Megan Carlson Alyssa Davis Alicia Deily Lauren LaDeau Shauna Mullin Kaleigh O’Brien Holly Stephens
Art Director
Contributing Artists
Asst. Art Director
Neil Bacon Adam Caporiccio Rachel Coelho Nordian Davis Maria DelRose
Neil Bacon
Emely DelSanto
Faculty Editor
Erica Valente Managing Editor
Fashion Editors
Becky Kennedy
Emely DelSanto Allison Geoffroy Matt Haversat Kristin Liberacki Breanna Liggan Erin Patten Andrew Ranalli Haley Scott Matt Scully Ana Shores Rizwan Samma
Marketing Editor Elisa Bronstein
Marketing Kaitlyn Condon Megan Dougherty Eliza Fitzgerald Janelle Ford Lynn Holly Melissa Kenny Christa Langbehu Leah Mackey Sarah Meyers Danielle Weiss Natasha Whitby
On the Cover Photography: Ron Ranere Model: Tanja Lederer
Stylists: Erica Valente and Christian DiPietro Hair and Makeup: Eleni Demetra Photographic Assistant: Neil Bacon
Location: Hotel Indigo, Newton, MA
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| COMMUNITY |
Festival Kicks Brass by Elisa Bronstein
Music is likely the only force that could bring parents with children in strollers, elderly in wheelchairs, and trendy “twenty-somethings” together in one area. The fourth annual HONK! Festival in Somerville, Mass., got strollers shakin’,
Photographers: Stephen Fischer & Elisa Bronstein
wheelchairs spinnin’, and “twenty-somethings” groovin’.
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fter just four years, the festival has gained so much publicity and grown in popularity that those granted entry are thanking their sequined scarves for the honor. HONK! was turning down bands for participation because the cost of running such a grand-scale event has become too much for everyone involved. Between the tents lined up offering every type of ethnic cuisine imaginable and the artisanal goods for sale, the festival was sure to be a hit for all. If you didn’t like the band playing at the Church St. stage, you could mosey on over to Massachusetts Ave. where you found an entirely different sound working the crowd. Some bands played with no stage, others on large
barren structures. No matter where they played, or what they played on, bands had the crowds going wild. This year, thirty bands from Canada to Italy crowded the streets of Boston to “honk” their horns, all in the name of a cause. Each band rallied for its own causes but for the three-day festival, everyone joined in “a chord” to delight the ears of passersby. The Leftist Marching Band from Portsmouth, NH, is a group of adults who support political issues such as equality, tolerance and civil liberties. This was their fourth year participating at HONK! and when asked, they said they look forward to playing in such an inviting atmosphere every year.
The Pink Puffer Brass Band ventured from San Lorenzo, Rome, and simply tickled us pink with their sounds. Thirteen members adorned themselves in colorful eyelashes, feather boas, and all things pink to hit the streets playing. In an interview, the PPBB was asked, “Why pink?” “WHY PINK?” they said - “Because a pink band playing black music is an hymn to anti-racism, because the pink panther is pink (and swing, and jazz, and like them), because pink people are against Bush and war and stupidity generally speaking, because pink is the colour of the flowers that will become peaches, and because pink puffers are clinical patients affected by emphysema.” From trade goods, handmade jewelry, clothing, and artwork to awaken the eyes, to brass instruments sounding in the streets, to ethnic foods tantalizing taste buds, HONK! Festival was an exhilarating, eye-opening, three-day festival to remember.
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positive image photography
Advertising • Model portfolio • Head shots
www.positiveimage-boston.com Contact: ron@positiveimage-boston.com 135 Massachusetts Ave Boston MA 02115 617.542.2111 across from the Hynes T stop To see more of Heather go to www.positiveimage-boston.com click on Heather
By Alyssa Davis
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bout a decade ago, fashion stylist was probably one of the most underrated professions in the fashion world. Fast forward ten years to the present, and it’s no secret how dramatically the reputation has evolved. Just take a glance at the media. Rachel Zoe, who is credited with crafting the styles of Nicole Richie, Lindsay Lohan, and Keira Knightly (to name a few), has become not only a reality television star but also a fashion icon whose career is envied by the entire fashion-crazed community. Or what about style gurus Stacy London and Clinton Kelly of TLC’s What Not to Wear? Watching them transform the public from drab to fab is more than just a guilty pleasure; it’s an infatuation that we can’t help but want to be a part of. To get s o m e i n s i der knowle d g e a b o u t t h i s jet-setting occupation, a few of Boston’s finest fashion stylists have agreed to dish on their daily tasks as well as spill secrets to successful shopping during an economic recession. Alegra Torel, former model and previous owner of Boston’s trendy boutique Lola, located in Newton Centre, has certainly created a name for herself within the fashion industry. Not your average fashion stylist, Torel has expertise as an international fashion consultant, beauty and image consultant, personal stylist, and shopper. She explains that there are two types of clients she assists: “There is my typical client [public] and my celebrity client. They differ because styling for celebrities is a day-to-day process, dressing for shows and events. When styling non-celebrity clients, it is less intense because I do not meet with them on a daily basis.” Torel is also currently styling for the taping of The Real Housewives of New York City, Season 3, working exclusively with Alex McCord and Simon van Kempen. So what exactly is an average day like for this globetrotting stylist? With the fast-paced environment of the fashion industry always changing, it’s hard to be sure. As she receives the weekly schedule,
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| BOSTON FASHION |
she looks for events, with the assistance of two or three interns. However, there are always last-minute changes. Torel explains, “There may be a last-minute change at 6:00 PM that day and it’s our job to provide outfits for 7:00 PM, which is why I always have backups.”
Photographer: Daniel Roman
Model: Alexandra Wrack
Stylists: Alyssa Davis & Jill Cruckshank
As for some economic advice, Torel explains that each person should have what she calls a “collector’s vanity,” filled with not only what you want but also what you need and, more important items that are interchangeable. She suggests a pencil skirt because it can easily go from day to night. She advises consumers to still commit to a few trendy pieces but to choose wisely. Torel says, “I’m sporting the big shoulder trend this season but won’t be investing in thigh-high boots.” Among the clan of the fashion conscious, Ginger Burr, President of Total Image Consultants of Boston, also guides the public into a fashion-forward direction. When asked what her number one wardrobe staple would be, she responded that it would be the not-so-traditional, legendary little black dress. “While it seems to be an unspoken rule, there is really nothing that says an LBD has to be black. If black is not your best color, why not get one in a great deep color – perhaps an elegant dark brown or copper, or a beautiful navy, maybe even a rich plum or magnificent teal?“ Burr says. Meanwhile, Evangelia Souris of Optimum Image recommends a crisp white shirt of the best fabric and tailoring: “This has such an understated and elegant look…at the same time appearing fresh and simple.” On the topic of handbags, Souris recommends a simple bag that can be embellished by tying a scarf around it or adding a chain to give it more interest. Regarding the issue of the economic recession and the consumer’s temptation to purchase cheaper clothing pieces, Maria Vasilevsky of Stilista argues, “We are living in a less-is-more environment when it comes to fashion. Now, more than ever, quality and fit are key, and our clients expect their garments to last season after season. My pick for the most necessary investment piece would be a trench coat in black, navy, or beige, because the neutral colors will not go out of style.” On a final note, Mary Lou Andre of Dressing Well states with pride, “The economy may be down, but don’t underestimate the power of dressing up. When you feel good about yourself, it’s contagious, and everyone around you benefits from your good choices and confidence. It’s really that simple.” Now how can we argue with that?
| BOSTON FASHION |
Emerging Trends Boston Fashion Week
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or most people, the future brings an infinite number of questions, possibilities, and concerns. As for the designers featured in the 2009 Boston Fashion Week’s Emerging Trends show, their view of the future brought excitement and ideas for new and innovative creations. SYNERGY events hosted the second Emerging Trends show after a complete sellout at the 2008 premier event. Boston Fashion Week included dozens of events reflecting the potential of the trendy fashionistas residing in the Boston area. The Emerging Trends Fashion Show was held on the night of October 2, 2009, at the Castle in the historic Boston Park Plaza & Hotel Towers. Produced by SYNERGY’s CEO Reaz Hoque, rising designers from all over the world came to display their latest lines. The show provided a great opportunity for designers, models, young professionals, store buyers, stylists and VIPs to interact. “Our team sees Boston as the best place to have such an extensive fashion week show,” stated Hoque. “With so many international professionals and high-end boutiques, the designers are able to reach out to ideal targets. We accept nothing less than a successful evening of high fashion and glamour at this year ‘s Boston Fashion Week.” A crowd of glamorously dressed people lined the sidewalk next to the Castle in hopes of gaining access to the fabulous show. A red carpet lined the walkway from the sidewalk to the door, and a line of black dividers kept outsiders from strolling in. VIP passes allowed those select few to make their way to the front of the line and enter the event with no
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wait at all. Inside, lights flashed from one end of the function room to the other. The entire venue was dark except for dim lighting to set the mood. The stage in the middle of the room was lit up like a child’s face on Christmas; around it, chairs with personal name tags were reserved for the event’s VIPs. Around the room ‘s parimeter were a few vendors: shoes by Zach Lo, a designer line from London that was featured on the runway, jewelry, and even a sustainable T-shirt company. Guests could purchase beverage tickets and obtain drinks at open cash bars at the back and to the side of the stage; once in their seats, they could relax. Alison Cronin, Miss Massachusetts and host for the night, introduced Reaz and some of the designers and then the show began! The featured emerging designers included Emily Hancock (Boston), Angela Chen (New York), Christel Akouri (Boston), J’aime Lizotte (New York), Crystal Noe (Boston), Zach Lo (London), Skylier A. Blanchard (California),Claudiana Baranenko( Venezuela), Andy Jacques (Boston), Caitlin Allen (New York), Heather Luca (Minnesota), Keith Lissner (New York), and Nadia Ivanova (London). Each designer line reflected a different vision through a multitude of details, from the way the models walked, to the color of the eye shadow, and of course, their designs. Jillian DePalma, who modeled for Heather Luca and Keith Lissner, described the event: “It was an incredible opportunity! It was so exciting to model such beautiful garments in Boston Fashion Week.” The overall atmosphere of the event truly enhanced each designer’s line, and the superb event planning allowed all
| BOSTON FASHION |
2009 Show by Megan Carlson
Photos © Schuyler Ortega, www.SchuylerPhoto.com
of the designs to shine their brightest. The lighting was perfect and all the models looked fantastic; Reaz successfully put together a team of young, sophisticated individuals with innovative ideas for the show. Erin Tremblay, Assistant Program Manager, stated that there was nothing better than knowing that all of your hard work had finally paid off, big time! Along with Tremblay, many volunteers worked all day at the event, doing everything from setting up chairs and moving furniture in the morning to organizing the models and selling drink tickets at night. Without the help and dedication of the hardworking volunteers and production team, this event would not have been nearly as successful! The extremely well-organized
models as they made their way down the runway; magic, drama, and romance were thematic. Skylier Blanchard designed a distinctive line of fur bags that her models flaunted with matching colored tights; the line included a lot of formal wear. Nadia Ivanova designed a business chic line, NAI. Katie Dunn designed a line of semiformal wear; one of her pieces that really stood out was a gorgeous dress that was ruffled at the top and belted with a thick silk brown belt. Caitlin Allen styled a much sportier line. Her models rocked the infamous Chucks, which brought a light, fun tempo to her designs. J’aime Lizotte’s line, Shape Shifter, was full of zippers serving every function from decorating the garments to actually holding the pant legs
The entire show left nothing to be desired. fashion show was produced by SYNERGY and sponsored by Lasell College, Monster, Indra Salon, the American Heart Association, and other groups. The show left nothing to be desired. It was divided into segments that featured everything from runway ready-to-wear to outrageous costumes. Between the segments, Reaz recognized some of today’s emerging artists, like Sophia Moon and Marcie, who performed in front of the audience while the models were prepped. Claudiana Baranenko from Venezuela designed a line of semiformal wear. Her main focus was the headpieces on her
together. The collection by Andy Jacques reflected his personality in unique ways. Crystal Noe, a graduate of Lasell College, designed an urban-hip styled line. Her collection was full of pattern and color; she used a lot of chain and gold, making her garments resemble club wear. Christel Akouri designed a line of gorgeous formal wear that was bursting with detail on every garment, adding extra interest to every piece. Emily Hancock, another graduate from Lasell College, designed guy/girl looks that reflected a linear theme. Some of the designers stood out: Zach Lo marketed off his line of exotic shoes in
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| BOSTON FASHION | his coworkers’ designs. This tactic was a way to focus his audience on his magnificent shoes. Heather Luca designed a steam punk Victorian line. Her designs really caught the audience’s attention when the models came out strapped in horse saddles and vintage-style couture. She used buckles, zippers, corsets, and headpieces to complete the look. Angela Chen created a sophisticated, whimsical display; her models all showed off the same pair of shoes, bringing a unified look to her line. The Fashion Show’s former contestant Keith Lissner graced the audience with his presence as well; he was the featured designer and used jewelry by Mischa Bella. Lissner’s line is worn by sophisticated young New Yorkers and some of the biggest stars today, including Janet Jackson and Natasha Beddingfield. His models rocked lips filled with blue
glitter that sparkled as they walked down the runway. Keith’s line was amazing: intricate dresses with delicate draping that hugged the body in soft pastels along with flirty, flowing organza in bright green. This collection was very Sex and the City and one of the biggest hits of the night. As for what to expect for the future, it’s best to leave that up to these designers, who presented a great daydream of the fashion world and a preview of what to expect next season. The SYNERGY event staff and volunteers created a landmark Boston Fashion Week event like no other, so be sure to mark next year’s show as a must-see. Learn more about these emerging designers at www.theemergingtrends.com.
His models rocked lips filled with blue glitter that sparkled as they walked down the runway.
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politics | | POLITICS
Edward “Ted” M. Kennedy
The End of an Epoch
”
Senator Kennedy was a rare and unique public servant who became a champion of the least fortunate and the most needy members of our society. He believed in providing equal opportunities – in education, in health care, in housing – for all of our citizens. He worked tirelessly to bring peace to Northern Ireland and he supported peacemakers around the world, including Nelson Mandela in South Africa.
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Dr. Janice Barrett, Chair, Communications Dept., Lasell College
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| ON THE COVER |
Spring Ahead Catch a
first glimpse
of Spring’s prêt à porte
at leading Boston
Hotel
Models : Heather Hand Tanja Lederer Jewelry: Joyce DeLoca Photography: Ron Ranere
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Boutique Hotel,
Indigo.
Fashion Directors: Christian DiPietro Erica Valente Shoes: Models’ Own Hair and Makeup: Eleni Demetra Location: Indigo Hotel, Newton, MA
Jumpsuit and Dress: Lily & Migs
(Left) Dress: Cyrahn Harvey (Right) Dress: Lily & Migs
Top: Lily & Migs Shorts: Model’s own
Jumpsuit and Dress: Lily & Migs
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Dress: Suka
| ENTERTAINMENT |
Exclusive Interview: James-Paul of Bravo’s The Fashion Show By Alyssa Davis
B
riefly introduced to the public eye, James-Paul Ancheta can be recognized as second runner up on Bravo’s ‘The Fashion Show’. The fashionbased reality series hosted by internationally acclaimed designer Isaac Mizrahi and four-time Grammy Award-winning performer Kelly Rowland only slightly revealed the stunning talent of this rising fashion figure. Pleased to reach out to current fans of the show and fellow followers of fashion, James-Paul contributes his opinions and experience on fashion design and the industry to Polished. Growing up in the Philippines, living in LA, and studying in London, James-Paul gives us a taste of his widely diverse world that was not covered on the show.
Alyssa Davis: What inspired you to get into fashion design? Women and democracy. Throughout my lifetime, I have witnessed great women who persevered and really challenged the traditional roles that society had imposed on them. Within the challenge for women was their right to equality and respect of capability. I grew up within a nation that was under martial law and saw housewife Corazon Aquino, rise into power and regain the freedom of democracy that had been stolen from my people and did it through the means of an individual’s right for democracy. I remember as a child, when the streets were covered in the color yellow and people wore yellow shirts with Benigno Aquino’s face printed on. That
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color had meaning. That face had meaning. And it was worn by many as a tool to regain freedom by the people. I thought how powerful fashion was as a tool to bring forth what was in the hearts and minds of the oppressed and materialize it through what we wear. Fashion has a symbol and it should reflect on how we dress.
AD: How does the certain uniqueness of a designer help them move forward, not only on reality television shows, but overall within the fashion industry? After completing my foundations in fashion merchandising, I worked a side job in fashion show production for Los Angeles Fashion week under IMG. Not only did I become an expert in running and managing fashion shows but I learned so much from the designers that I had encountered and saw what it takes to make a show memorable. Most of the designer’s at Los Angeles Fashion Week created clothes that could be found at a mall and did not capture the aspirations of fashion that will sell in the industry. They may be the trendiest, but they are forgettable. It’s like they are building sand castles; they won’t be there for long. There was one designer at Los Angeles Fashion Week that really stood out and essentially it was the only show Anna Wintour ever attended. It was really about the elusive enigma of fashion that has to be with a designer. Working on the LA shows got me other opportunities to
see other designers and what they were all doing. It felt like everyone was doing the same thing and saying the same marketing catch phrases. After a while it became redundant. I also got to work in the casting process of the Project Runway Season 2 and saw Nick Verreros and friend Raymundo Balthazar audition. I saw different designers, I heard all their dreams, successes, failures, and through that I saw only a few who were gems that had something to offer the industry. The majority of who auditioned had the same answers, the same stuff; it felt like playing a sound bite repeatedly in different frequencies of sound. It taught me to find my real voice and contemplate why I wanted to be a fashion designer. It was a total revelation.
AD: I’m aware that you have studied fashion overseas. How have you benefited from the experience abroad and from the universities, themselves? Well, I decided to pursue two of my Bachelor’s in England, from London Southbank University and AIU-London. All of the professors I worked with had previously worked under designers such as Alexander McQueen, Pucci, Balenciaga and Vivienne Westwood. Most of the professors had their own companies as well, so they had transferred their knowledge and experiences onto their students. I worked for Chiltern Street Studios in London, a buying company for department stores, and so I learned what sells. I also became aware of the different demographics and markets for various retail stores. It is important to realize these aspects vary with location.
AD: In the past, have you trained or apprenticed with another designer? How was that? When I interned under Vivienne Westwood Studios, I learned to grow as a fashion designer. Westwood was avant garde, couture and very fashion forward in all aspects of making clothes. I learned
| ENTERTAINMENT | how to funnel the high creative ideas into a fashion business system that makes money. Since she had different labels, there were different requirements and I did that working on the Japanese Red Label.
AD: What type of woman do you most often design for? My clothes represent an independent and progressive woman. I do not believe that fashion corporations have the right to dictate what makes us valuable through branding and marketing ideals.
AD: Describe your philosophy about the art of fashion. Fashion is a belief. It is intangible and has many facets. It is hard to capture fashion into a material; it is unattainable and only aspiration, which is why people are always chasing fashion. Fashion as art, I think, is our interaction with it. It’s how we lure fashion to be with us.
go back to supporting our independent American businesses and help them to grow and develop. Currently, Europe has been the consistent society that has been making it’s designers successful in innovating and influencing the rest of the world. They have government programs, councils, and corporate sponsorships that allow and encourage the industry to grow. We have to move away from the hype and the influence of the media, and believe in our own style because that is what created American fashion. America should be very proactive in this because young designers of Europe, especially England, are much more competitive. They have new things all the time and they are all individually different. I witnessed a fashion designer who de signed a program to create clothing based on algorithms, some by using the influ-
AD: What are you working on now? I am working on research on how to develop the shape of the common clothes we all wear. It is exciting. I am also talking with other designers in England in creating a sub-brand with their labels. I am very excited about that one. I have been talking about the project for such a long time; I met him when he transferred from Christian Dior.
AD: What do you have to say to the next generation, particularly to those hoping to follow in your footsteps? Shop for the right fashion school. You don’t want to mention your school to dictate your learned skill. You should always depend on your skills and your talent, not how wonderful the school is… Ask yourself what you want to contribute to the fashion industry. Listen to Vivienne Westwood, She is a fashion mystic; she made me find my fashion soul.
“Shop for the right fashion school. You don’t AD: What about fashion as a business? want to mention your school to dictate your learned skill. You should always depend on your skills and your talent, not how wonderful the school is…”
Photo courtesy of James-Paul
Fashion as a business is highly complicated. As a business, it should always stimulate a purchase. A designer must learn how to delegate work and ideas into a fashion house. Vivienne Westwood , Chanel, and designers who are in the couture business are successful because they have a great system in which they could make a profit by using the aspiration their brands carry and trickling it down through their many labels.
AD: What do you think the future of fashion will be like? I think American fashion will remain the same for a while. In the past, fashion has changed with the influence and invention of Urban and many sub-culture movements that many clothing companies in America were based on. Now we have to
Read! Read! Read! Reading leads to discovery, and there are always new ideas about the things you know and it also changes every time.
ence of paper. Likewise, we must have something beyond the primitive way of creating fashion. We have to be ourselves, the innovative, and never afraid of change the confident Americans that the world knows.
AD: In what way did you benefit from competing on ‘The Fashion Show’? It is hard to say, but I am not going to wait for it.
Talk about what you have done, not what you are going to do. Have an aim in life. The thing that you have learned in school is about the past and it has been done before. Now what are you going to do for your future? Read Paul Arden’s books and go on YouTube to listen to Randy Pausch’s lecture. Have an open spirit, open mind. Always be inspired by everything. If you are in school, you should be an intern as well. Learn how things work and do it differently. Challenge the things you know!
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| HOT SPOT |
B oston B outique s That Won’t Break the Bank
by Alicia Deily
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eing a college student is often synonymous with being broke. We love to have unique clothing, and especially in today’s recession, that task can be incredibly difficult. Often we are forced to resort to shopping at chain stores, where masses end up buying the same clothes. Luckily, there are a number of stylish and affordable boutiques in the Boston area where you can rock an original look and not break the bank. These small, one-of-a-kind boutiques feature both new and used clothing and accessories. The best part is that all of these shops are conveniently accessible via the “T”. So instead of frequenting the same old chain stores in the mall, hop on the “T” and check out these unique Boston boutiques. No one should have to sacrifice style or originality for money!
Rescue Neighborhood: Allston/Brighton T stop: Harvard Ave on the B line Address: 252 Brighton Ave, Allston Web: www.rescuebuyselltrade.com This small thrift store carries men’s and women’s clothing that is both stylish and affordable. Rescue was started by brother and sister duo Jeralyn and Paul Mason. What’s great about this store is that you can bring your old clothes in and get cash or store credit. Therefore, it’s possible to bring old clothes in and literally trade them in for new ones, without ever spending a cent! This method is both eco-friendly and wallet-friendly. The brands range from American Apparel to American Eagle. Be sure to check out the accessories as well. They have a great selection of belts, scarves, and shoes. The store is geared towards the college students in the area, so you’ll feel right at home. A bonus incentive is that sometimes college students get 10 percent off with a valid college ID.
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| HOT SPOT |
Coco Neighborhood: Allston/Brighton T Stop: Harvard Ave on the B line Address: 185 Harvard Ave, Allston (between Commonwealth Ave & Glenville Ave) Don’t let the name fool you; cosmetics are only a small part of this hip boutique’s offerings. It carries everything from stylish winter coats to “going out” dresses. The bright, youthful, and fun atmosphere makes this store stick out in the Allston neighborhood. They also carry purses, jewelry, and a small selection of shoes. Shoppers can easily walk in and spend less than one hundred dollars for a completely new ensemble. Compared to other boutiques with similar selections, Coco offers an incredible deal. If you are looking for unique pieces, this is a great place to check out.
Zinnia
Photographer: ALICIA DEILY
Neighborhood: Cambridge T Stop: Harvard Square Address: 1300 Massachusetts Ave Web: www.ilovezinnia.com There are so many stores in Cambridge that at times, it can be overwhelming. Sometimes the best places get overlooked. Zinnia is a jewelry store that is actually affordable; the pieces are unique and the selection is eclectic. It is hard to walk in here and not leave with a purchase. Whatever your personal style is, you are sure to find something you will love here. The staff is extremely helpful and the atmosphere is welcoming; this is probably due to the fact that it is a family-owned business. Zinnia is also a great place to get gifts and not spend a fortune. Conveniently, there is a on Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge and even a location in Burlington, Vermont. If you are looking for an original piece of jewelry to spice up your wardrobe, be sure not to pass by this store without stopping in.
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| BEAUTY |
“There is more to it than just a pretty face.”
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Booking Boston
Photographer: Tiffany Fortier
rom the catwalks of Boston Fashion Week to the trendy retail stores that line Newbury Street, fashionistas are making a home in the city of Boston. High fashion is associated with Paris, New York and Milan - but stop the press everyone because Boston, Red Sox and dirty water in tow, is soaring into its own prominent spot in the fashion industry. Modeling agencies are tickled with excitement by the growing talent surfacing on the local scene.
Modeling agencies recruit models and book them with jobs at retail stores, independent designers, and other creative outlets. In the midst of more and more modeling opportunities emerging in Boston, having the know-how of a savvy agency is key. The model Ivania Nicole, says, “Now is the time to get in before the market gets bigger, tougher, and more competitive.” Casey, of Maggie Inc., explains that when models solely depend on freelancing they have a harder time finding work. When speaking with Emily Huntoon from Click Models of Boston Inc., she expands upon the dangers of freelance modeling. She explains the safety factor: a buffer between the model and the client. When working through an agency, the models have someone looking out for their best interest, booking lucrative jobs, and negotiating fair compensation. Bookers at the agency send models on casting calls for jobs that they choose to fit the model’s profile. The market in Boston has a distinctive style that defines the criteria needed for a model. As the fashion industry grows in importance, Boston pushes forward with a unique look and a willingness to take chances. Boston has a fresh and optimistic
| BEAUTY |
by Shauna Mullin
take on the fashion world, in part due to its rising presence on the scene. Bostonians are willing to “take a chance on a different face,” says Emily. Jo Somers of Copley Seven describes the in-demand look as “willowy” which refers to sizes four to six, and sometimes even an eight, being seen on runways. These girls are slim and well proportioned as a result of eating right and exercising. Somers said there is a heightened level of integrity and honesty in Boston that is rarely seen in other fashion capitals. No matter where you are, Somers says, “there is more to it than just having a pretty face.” For example, local agencies in the commercial look category are on the lookout for models with “good smiles that are suitable and relatable to the customer.” Casey calls this look aspirational: providing a model who encompasses a physical appearance that the consumer aspires to achieve. Ivania Nicole is a prime example of the aspirational look. Ivania is signed with agencies both locally and nationally, and offered POLISHED an interesting perspective on the industry in Boston. She says, “Here in Boston it’s all about networking… once you build that relationship they’ll keep coming to you.” Much of Boston fashion is about helping others grow and develop their name in the industry.
Emily from Click says that many of her models are students in the area. Boston is predominantly a college town. With more schools offering fashion courses, the demand for uniquely Boston models to wear uniquely Boston fashion is growing. The excitement is everywhere, Emily says, “I look forward to working with emerging designers.” Emily states, with no hesitation, that the fashion industry in Boston is an exciting and growing industry. The fertile foundation that encourages businesses to take chances is drawing more designers and entrepreneurs to the streets of Boston. In comparison to the other fashion meccas of the world, Boston is considerably smaller. Bostonians have turned this potentially negative fact into a positive capitalizing on its close-knit neighborhoods. “Boston offers good camaraderie… it’s like a family,” comments Casey. Boston projects a warm and welcoming atmosphere for tourists and models alike. It only makes sense for Boston to have an active fashion scene as it is home to thousands of college students, business professionals and international visitors. Watch out, Milan, Boston is moving on up!
The average model in Boston is traveling less as opportunities continue to flourish right outside her backdoor, such as Boston Fashion Week. Ivania walked in five Boston Fashion Week shows this year including the Fashion Expose and admitted that from just a year ago, the events seemed “upgraded.” Somers explains that the “crop in the last couple of years of outstanding young talent is very exciting.”
Fall 2009
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| ART |
Gulu-Gulu Cafe Brings Boston Art Alive by Kaleigh O’Brien
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Photographer: Emely DelSanto
A
rt, music, books, live entertainment, films, great food, and drinks make up the Gulu-Gulu Café. The GuluGulu Café was originally located in Lynn, Massachusetts, and now is conveniently located right off of the Salem stop on the Boston Commuter Rail. The atmosphere at Gulu-Gulu is fun and welcoming, where bright-colored walls and exposed brick reveal various paintings of Jack the Boston terrier: the café’s own official mascot. The European-style café is a unique hot spot that promotes and encourages music and art in the Greater Boston area. With something new and exciting to offer every night of the week, the Gulu-Gulu Café is guaranteed to never be a bore. Some of the weeknight specials include “Dinner & a Movie Tuesdays,” “Open Mic Wednesdays,” and “Philharmonic Thursdays,” featuring new and returning independent, local music acts. While you sit back with a fresh espresso and enjoy live music or poetry, you can also view the ever-changing artwork that is displayed throughout the restaurant. The artwork, changing monthly, is created by local Boston artists. Because this quaint café also acts as a local art gallery, I talked to the general manager, Laura Potter Walton, to get an inside look at how the artwork is picked, displayed, and sold, at the Gulu-Gulu.
What was the inspiration for opening the Gulu-Gulu Cafe?
How do you pick the artists that you will feature?
The original Café Gulu-Gulu was owned and operated by a Frenchman named Frederic Lasne in Prague, Czech Republic, between the years 1994 and 1999; the café was immensely popular for expatriates and locals alike. During the day one could sit, relax, enjoy an espresso, and read for hours on end.
Steve Feldmann, who owns the café with his wife, Marie Feldmannova, chooses the artists we feature. Some of them we know as customers or friends of the café; others have submitted their work without us having met them. If Steve likes it, he’ll try to give the artist a show. One caveat: we do not display photography.
During the evening Gulu-Gulu was an electric gathering place. Owners Steve Feldmann and Marie Vaskova got to know each other at the Café Gulu-Gulu during the spring of 1995. They were married a little over a year later and held their wedding party at the café. This was a very special place for a lot of people and something was lost when the company’s lease was not renewed in 1999. By resurrecting the inspiration of Gulu-Gulu in Massachusetts, Steve and Marie are looking to bring a little piece of Prague to America. What are the typical customers like who come in? Our customers range from teenagers coming in for dessert or smoothies, to 80-somethings who love our coffee and crepes, and everyone in between. We tend to attract an eclectic group here, and we really embrace all walks of life. Each day we have something different going on that attracts different types of people. We have movie nights on Tuesdays, Open Mic on Wednesdays, and live music Thursday through Saturday ranging from indie to blues to jazz to folk to experimental. Also, the last Sunday of every month we have a GLBTeadance.
Do you only feature Boston-based artists? I believe we have only shown Boston area-based artists. While I don’t think we’d be opposed to featuring artists outside of the Boston area, we do feel strongly about supporting the local arts. Is all of the artwork you show available to purchase? All of the artwork is available for purchase except for a few key pieces. Above the bar are two paintings that were commissioned for the café and are not for sale. Greg Orfanos, who has shown at Gulu-Gulu before, painted these wonderful portraits of the owners’ two dogs (and Gulu mascots), Jack and Charlie. Matthew Giuffre will be the last featured artist of the year with his work showing from November 15 to January 2010. Come down and say hi, maybe make a purchase, or just support the local arts!
Fall 2009
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| CULTURE |
ByBy Lauren LaDeau Lauren LaDeau
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Fall 2009
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he American Repertory Theater, or A.R.T. is a resi-
dent theater producing shows for the Boston area. The 2009/2010 year marks the 30th anniversary of the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge. Since its start, it has rendered over two hundred productions. Partnering up with the Moscow Art Theater, it also serves as an institute for young artists.
Photographer: MARCUS STERN
In the fall of 2008, a new Artistic Director, Diane Paulus, was appointed. She came from New York with fresh new ideas that are revolutionizing the American Repertory Theater and changing the way we think about theater. With her lead, the A.R.T. developed a new concept which they refer to as “Experience the A.R.T.” With this new idea, they are giving the viewers an experience in theater they have not had before. There is no longer a separation of stage and audience, but cohesion of a social occasion and production. Their mission is to give the audience “a voice, a sense of ownership, and a feeling of importance in the theatrical event.” The A.R.T. is presenting a festival this season called Shakespeare Exploded, featuring The Donkey Show, as well as Sleep No More, and Best of Both Worlds. The Donkey Show was brought to Boston after its successful six years in New York City and additional sensation from London to Seoul. It is an interpretation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream through a disco (yes, disco!) fantasy, featuring 70s hits, roller skates, feathers and of course, disco balls. The audience is right in the action too and can even dance along to the famous 70s hits. I attended the Donkey Show recently with some friends and want to share our experience with you. Even before entering the venue, we were mingling with the characters walking down the street and couldn’t miss the 70s bouncer
at the door. As soon as we got inside we were directed to the dance floor, where the disco ball was spinning and the lights were flashing. Our attention was immediately drawn to the men in small, tight, sequined metallic shorts, whose bodies were doused in gold glitter. They were sending quick waves and blowing kisses our way as they were breaking it down on top of large silver boxes in the middle of the floor. They even made their way over to dance with the “audience.” I put this in quotations because as soon as we set foot on the dance floor we were not in the year 2009, but had become part of the 70s disco club Oberon. For about the first 45 minutes everyone was encouraged to dance and loosen up to the 70s tunes from the groovy DJ. The characters mingled, offering dances and conversing, making us feel we were truly transported back to the 1970s disco experience. We were able to recognize the characters and stories before the actual performance really began. The song and dance began, but the audience was still involved. People who bought table seats did not miss out either, because the characters jumped on top of tables, climbed on railings, and sifted through the tables. The Donkey Show was definitely a raunchy take on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, incorporating song and dance made popular in the 70s and mixing sexuality and humor. It was truly an experience that anyone who attends would enjoy. Those who grew up during the time will be taken back to their days in the disco, and those (like myself) who only knew of the 70s as disco music and bell bottoms will experience a culture that they never could have actually imagined before. It was a captivating performance that essentially melded the audience into the play, almost making the viewers forget they weren’t in fact at a disco club. One can expect to be humming a tune like “We Are Family” while shaking the glitter off on the wayout – and for days afterwards! Logo artwork and photography courtesy of the American Repertory Theater.
| TRENDS |
Spring 2010:
Retro Returns
by Holly Stephens
T
his coming spring is all about a playful yet romantic twist of vintage and retro trends inspired by the carefree lifestyles of the 1970s. It’s time to bring together a whole new relaxed fit for your wardrobe, stimulated by an era that included tranquil colors, wool knits, and worn-in embellishments. Spring 2010 is guaranteed to evoke confidence by revamping favored classics with a spin-off of cultured attitudes.
Fabrics Fabrics are all about comfort and draping. Cottons, linens, and light wools work to mimic distressed retro textiles creating versatility in combination with silky chiffons, satins, and crepes. Plaid weaves will be featured in a variety of shirts, skirts, and light jackets. A nostalgic knitwear feel will echo throughout the season with macramĂŠ, raschel, rib, jersey, pique, and meshed webbings.
Accessories Accessories complete the retro mood of Spring 2010, with the appearance of fringed purses and boots, platformed sandal pumps, peep-toe Mary Janes, thin leather belts, feathered earrings, and oversized gold jewelry. These must-have embellishments will add that modern angle to set off the season’s retro and relaxed components.
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Colors Vibrant turquoises, plums, and corals add a sense of excitement for this spring when paired up with neutrals. Tarnished grays, pale yellows, soft army greens, and ashy pinks provide a unique combination while meshing with bold colors. These basics also create a soft alternative for more cautious shoppers looking for more versatile pieces. Experts from top trend-setting publications encourage dimmed yellows, gray-tone blues, champagnes, and crimsons combined on textiles to mimic the tranquility of calm ocean sunsets, the rising sun, and the serene energy arising from dry landscapes.
Clothing Fit & Silhouettes Styles for Spring 2010 will lose the confined and elegant structures featured this fall and will gravitate toward a romantic and relaxed fit. Waistlines will be lifted not only in skirts and dresses but additionally in jeans, dress pants, and the newly revived rompers. Details include drawstrings, knotting, braids, doubled v-necks, pleats, twists, neckline detailing, and delicate ruffles. Cotton petticoats, t-shirt and oxford dresses, soft button-ups, distressed tees, double-breasted trench coats, and oversized cardigans will serve as staple pieces in an up-to-date wardrobe for Spring 2010.
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