Rebelicious Magazine Issue 13 by Rebelicious Magazine

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EDITOR'S NOTE

#13 | JUNE/JULY 2013 WWW.REBELICIOUSMAGAZINE.COM

For this issue of Rebelicious, we welcome the turquoisehaired beauty Cassia Sparkle to the cover! Have a read of her feature to find out more about the different aspects of her career, her thoughts on tattoos becoming the next trend and her distinctive look as an alternative mermaid.

Also in this issue we have interviews with Candy Geisha, Boom! Boom! Baby!, Lady Marlene, Ginger Snap Dragon Photography, Finch Bespoke and Alternative Jewellery, Evie Wolfe, Drea Rose DeVille, Chantal Claret and H.A.M. 'NY Ink' and 'America's Worst Tattoos' star Megan Massacre talks about her style inspirations, the worst tattoos she's had to cover up, the difference in tattoo cultures between New York and London and lots more, plus Burlesque troupe The Folly Mixtures tell us about their collaboration with Zombie Boy, their residency at Madame JoJo's and why they love performing. See how to get the Viola Collective look in our fashion and beauty section, read about Pleaser USA's newest collection of extreme high heels, plus find out how to win a Bettie Page purse and matching coin purse thanks to Sourpuss Clothing in Editor's Picks! Enjoy the new issue and be sure to check out the next one which will be released in August! Dominique xx

KEEP IN TOUCH! Email us rebeliciousmag@gmail.com Editor's Instagram @Dom_rebeliciousmag 'Like' us on Facebook www.facebook.com/rebeliciousmagazine Tweet us @rebeliciousmag Follow our Pinterest boards www.pinterest.com/rebeliciousmag Follow us on Tumblr www.rebeliciousmagazine.tumblr.com

ON THE COVER DESIGNER: LADY VIOLET HAIR: MARTHA MONOXIDE PHOTO: THROUGH THE GLASS PHOTOGRAPHY MODEL: CASSIA SPARKLE EDITOR Dominique Marshall dominique@rebeliciousmagazine.com CONTRIBUTORS Victoria Elizabeth handsoffthesteeringwheel.blogspot.co.uk Heather McDaid indulge-sound.com Temira Decay yellowbubbles.com Lenore Loveface lenorelovelace.wordpress.com SPECIAL THANKS TO Calyn Williams & Deidre @Sourpuss Clothing, Nina Porthoff @Obsidian Publicity, Love Hate Social Club London, Charis Talbot, Candy Geisha, Bijou But Deadly, Temira Decay, Devon Warren @ Pleaser USA, and everyone else that helped with this issue! Based in the UK Published online via Issuu.com Printed in the USA by Magcloud Publishing

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Contents 32 Cassia Sparkle

14 Doll House

26 War And Peace

44 Elasticity

58 ...In A Cherry Tree

FASHION

COVER FEATURE

VOLUME

6 Editor's Picks

32 Cassia Sparkle

10 Chantal Claret

7 Rebel Radar: Pleaser USA

EXPOSED

12 H.A.M

40 Megan Massacre

14 Doll House

9 Get The Look: Viola Collective 20 Boom! Boom! Baby! 22 Candy Geisha 24 Finch Bespoke And Alternative Jewellery

38 The Folly Mixtures 50 Lady Marlene 52 Evie Wolfe 54 Ginger Snap Dragon Photography 56 Drea Rose DeVille

EDITORIALS

26 War And Peace 44 Elasticity 58 ...In A Cherry Tree

EDITOR'S PICKS

ABBEY DAWN SAY CHEESE CROP TOP £18.39 WWW.BLUEBANANA.COM

NECESSARY EVIL VESNA HALTERNECK DRESS £34.99 WWW.KATESCLOTHING.CO.UK

IRON FIST DISTANT MEMORY STUDDED HANDBAG £54.99 WWW.BLUEBANANA.COM

WIN A BETTIE PAGE PURSE AND COIN PURSE COURTESY OF SOURPUSS CLOTHING! The Dollface Bettie purse and coin purse by Sourpuss Clothing are sure to make your engine purr! Matte black vinyl decked out with pearlized chartreuse twinstripe & diamond detail make this duo a must have for all you V8 vixens! Fancy getting your hands on both of these items? Visit the 'competitions' page on our website REBELICIOUSMAGAZINE.COM to find out how!

DOLLY COOL ZAP! RING £6.60 WWW.FLAMING13.COM

CLUMSYKATE HOMEWARD BOUND CUSHION £22 WWW.ETSY.COM/SHOP/CLUMSYKATE

Officially licensed Bettie Page items. Also available in black/ red & black/turquoise.

SOURPUSS CLOTHING PAPERDOLL BOLT TOXIC TOP $42 WWW.SOURPUSSCLOTHING.COM 6 | REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE

PIECES OF THE PAST CAT LADY MARY JANE WEDGES £28 PIECES-OF-THE-PAST.MYSHOPIFY.COM

Purse retail price: $50 Coin purse retail price: $20 sourpussclothing.com

REBEL RADAR

SEXIER THAN EVER Constantly in pursuit to meet consumer demands for extraordinary and unconventional footwear, PLEASER USA recently launched a collection destined to go BEYOND your expectations... Inspired by the fetish lifestyle, the new BEYOND shoe from their Pleaser line has a ten-inch stiletto heel made on the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest onepiece molded unit bottom ever created. Though this Beyond collection is the newest addition to the Pleaser shoe family, this shoe has a fetish edge that beckons to the Devious line. The shoeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s base, with a six and a quarter inch platform, comes in edgy clear, chrome and solid black, red and white. Metal studs, curvaceous wrap-around straps, lace-up ankle booties and Mary Jane pumps are just some of the few styles that can be viewed on www.pleaserusa.com. Also available now is the long awaited BEYOND-3028, a thigh-high lace-up boot featuring buckle and strap detailing and a full inner side zipper. BEYOND-3028 is one of the most outrageous styles yet to wet your appetite!

VISIT WWW.PLEASERUSA.COM TO VIEW THIS COLLECTION & MORE

Want To Be Featured in Rebelicious?

Fancy seeing your work featured in future issues of Rebelicious? Head to rebeliciousmagazine.com/submissions for our current submissions guidelines!

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GET THE LOOK: VIOLA COLLECTIVE 5 – Delivering powerful colour that glides on smoothly, Pyschedelic Sister is a 24/7 GlideOn Eye Pencil which has a long-lasting finish to ensure the bright purple cream stays put, whether just lining the eyes or going for a multi-hued effect. [Urban Decay - $19] 6 – Though it has an understated sheen, Gemma is a brilliant Colour Balm that hydrates, rejuvenates and smooths lip contours to add volume and definition packed into a pink violet lipstick that has a luxe, satin finish. [Stila - $22] 7 – Emerge from mainstream makeup and paint your lips Fierce, a bright blue purple lipgloss that gives off plenty of shine to make your pout look full without feeling sticky, which draws the attention to you instead of the product. [Illamasqua – £14] 8 – Generate your own sparkle with Violet Body Glitter, a cosmetic grade ultra-fine glitter that is safe for application on the skin - though it should only be put around eyes or lips - and can even augment existing tattoo designs. [Glimmer Body Art - $3]

When it comes to envisioning futuristic inspired fashion, VIOLET proudly represents unlimited inspiration and imagination, stimulating intellect as well as dream activity. The colour is also noted for its individuality and is best suited for a personality that likewise enjoys doing their own thing, motivating inner self-love, inciting innovation and doing so without building up the ego. Violet brings harmony not only to your spiritual side but to your sense of style as well – it is a favourable hue for artists, musicians and writers in particular. If incorporating a bit of enlightenment and a consciousness of modesty seems oldfashioned, violet is also indicative of being a distinguished individual who is motivated by creativity. If communicating that you prefer the finer quality in life without sending a message of arrogance, utilize this guide to invoke emotion and allowing your compassionate nature to shine forth. 1 – There is nothing shy about Daphne, a deep violet eyeshadow that has a matte finish and is heavily pigmented, serving as a multi-functioning product which allows users to effortlessly shade, highlight or line the eyes. [NARS - $24]

3 – Dramatic eyes do not always have to be surrounded by loads of colour; a pair of premium Elegant False Eyelashes in a brilliant mystic purple can bring just as much emphasis, particularly the graduated volume and sharply tapered edges. [Zink Color - $9.99]

2 – Formulated to resist smudging and creasing, Aqua Cream has a rich violet sheen condensed into an elastic texture that blends easily and gives off a luminous glow that will last even under extreme conditions. [Make Up Forever - $23]

4 – Creating a professional look can be achieved with Fancy Violet; an innovative eyeliner which provides a blast of metallic amethyst by way of a flocked tip on the brush that permits precision, consistency and intensity in a single step. [Sephora - $12]

9 – An effervescent manicure is one that has a renewed appearance and the ability to resist chipping, and when you have tediously applied shimmering coats of bright violet varnish, it is a relief to know Poke will not go anywhere as you go about your day. [Illamasqua - $17] 10 – Foster your adventure for finding a personal fragrance and dive into Fields of Flowers Violet Blossom, an eau de toilette that embodies the unique bouquet of the flower it was named after and allows you to experiment using a novel product. [Philosophy - $37.50] 11 – Seamlessly uniting retro structure and futuristic design yields the Glitter Galaxy Handbag, where sparkle vinyl in royal violet is contrasted by strips of white and silver rivets for a truly intergalactic piece that you can store all your favorite cosmetics in. [Hold Fast Handbags - $140] 12 – After reformulating their iconic line of semi-permanent hair colour, I can honestly say that Manic Panic deserves recognition as a vegan hair dye that has concentrated colour, one of my favourites being Ultra Violet for its powerful purple punch with underlying red tones. [Manic Panic - $13.95] WORDS: LENORE LOVEFACE

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VOLUME

CHANTAL CLARET

Music is becoming future-focussed. Every musician and their dog seems to be evolving their music into new territory with a heavy dose of electronics and any twist to make them appear a new revelation. But, let’s not forget the past. CHANTAL CLARET is one who has taken the opportunity to revamp the bounce and beats of the sixties and bring a whole dose of sass to proceedings, bringing the colour and live quality that we can only imagine the era held. With her solo debut in ‘The One, The Only...’ released in the UK, a good number of months after its American release, we too can bask in her soulful slant on such an iconic era, with a rocky attitude to boot. WORDS: HEATHER MCDAID 10 | REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE

VOLUME “2013 has been pretty damned interesting so far,” begins Chantal. “It honestly seems like people are going bonkers and losing their damned minds. Professionally it is going pretty damned well, but on a personal level it seems like this is the year of the creeps and people are really showing themselves, which is kind of a blessing in disguise. But quite interesting...” “It seems as though it is a bit of a secret,” she adds, turning to the UK release of her record. “The people that do know about it seem to like it but otherwise it is kind of your and my little secret, which is okay with me! I would rather have that then to have had a shitload of money pumped into it and it be a failure. It isn’t a failure if no one knows about it, right?” The last word that would ever spring to mind for Chantal is a failure, as her effortless energy shines through on the record to create some banging hits (it’s here we’d add, ‘Pop Pop Bang Bang’ is the catchiest chorus about shooting someone you’ll come across anywhere). The music proves very different to that of her previous band Morningwood but how, now, does her music represent her as an artist? “This 100000% represents me more than Morningwood did,” she notes. “My old band was a combination of two very different personalities and this is just one personality - mine. So, it is un-watered down me concentrated Chantie! I got to make music drawing from musical styles that I absolutely love and write songs about things I have wanted to write songs about. So that is nice.” To the musical styles she so evidently loves and draws from, Chantal explains, “This is the first kind of music that I fell in love with when I was conscious enough to start picking music for myself. When I was a teenager I got really into the music and culture of the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. And that is still what I listen to till this day. Then came Britpop of course but beyond that my iTunes hasn’t expanded exponentially since then. [I love] entertainers, performers and people I believe. When everything wasn’t perfect, I like hooks and pops and quirks and clever rhymes and lyrics and sex and strength and a little bit of jazz hands.” On a first listen, the album screams ‘big and bold with a sixties vibe’; dozens of listens in and it still holds it. “Well the big and bold is me,” says Chantal. “I don’t intend to be big and bold I guess that is just what I like. Although there is something to be said for subtlety and quietness, that is just not who I am and definitely not how I like to perform. And yes I was very conscious of wanting to make songs sound like they were written in the 60’s but recorded now.

“MY OLD BAND WAS A COMBINATION OF PERSONALITIES AND THIS IS JUST ONE PERSONALITY - MINE." “The hardest part was really finding the right people to work with. I kissed a lot of frogs until I found a few princes who really understood what I was trying to do. I didn’t want the songs to sound like they were recorded in a basement or a tin can. I wanted them to be big and booming and strong and have a hip-hop low end that would make them relevant. Only a few people got that when I tried to explain it to them like Rob Kleiner, Mher Filian and Exit… ultimately that is who I worked with.” The opening track transports you through time to a rammed, sweaty club 60 years back. But do her live shows reflect that same vibe? “These shows are really fucking fun for me to perform! I don’t know - Morningwood was fun but I had to work really hard to make them fun, if that makes any sense. It took years and years to figure out how to make them fun. These songs are really a pleasure to perform and sing - there is just so much energy on that stage and I love that it is coming from all angles, from the girls singing and dancing with me to the guys playing with me. It makes me so damned happy. I love energy and I knew that this show would be awesome, but I didn’t know how awesome until it all came together.” The love of the music of the era is clear by this point, but does that extend to the clothes? Chantal, when we’ve seen her, has always gone bold with the colours and shapes of her attire. “Yes!” she beams. “I have never been fashion forward - that is just not what interests me. All of my fashion icons are

from the past and those are the things I am most attracted to. I like taking things from the past and tweaking them slightly to make them modern. Same with music, clothes, etc. I didn’t realize that was my M.O. until after I made the record and was trying to describe album artwork to someone and I was like “OH, THAT’S JUST WHAT I LIKE TO DO WITH EVERYTHING!” And if she were to slot into the sixties culture, where does she feel she’d best suit? “MOD, MOD, MOD! I would have been a mod. I grew up as a teenager going to mod clubs; I dressed like a mod, danced like a mod, listened to mod music. I would have lived in London in the swinging 60s and it would have been stellar. Then maybe I would have come over to NYC and been a part of the Factory; I am not partial to heroin though...” Abandoning the sixties and returning to the year of 2013, what should everyone expect from Chantal? “I would really love to come to the UK and play some shows - that is my fantasy. Beyond that I am just spending this summer writing my record and writing for other people as I am signed to BMG now, so I am working nonstop on writing for other people.” And a parting message for fans? “HELLO!! Thank you for being a friend. Buy my record if you haven’t already and come and see me play if I am playing within 300 to 3000 miles from you! Danke.” chantalclaret.com

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VOLUME

NEW MUSIC: H.A.M H.A.M. are an up-and-coming London based band that is building a reputation for their great energy on stage, and combining indie tastes with catchy danceable tunes. Three fourths of H.A.M. hail from the North, York specifically, while bassist George TD is originally from South London. He is joined by lead singer Harry Wright, guitarist Tom Armstrong and Neil Andrews on drums. They have an exciting new three track EP coming out in July, aptly named ‘The EP.” With new songs ‘Ghost Writer’, ‘Catalogue Hideous’ and ‘Black Fog’, these boys have got it right with their evolving mix of melodic dance tunes and indie pop sound. We sat down with the band while they practiced to hear more about their inspirations, what makes them different and what their plans are for the future. WORDS: VICTORIA ELIZABETH PHOTO: GARY MORRISROE VICTORIA: SO BOYS, TELL ME A BIT ABOUT YOURSELVES. WHO IS H.A.M.? Harry Wright: We’ve been characterised in lots of different ways. We like to mix indie pop sounds with groovy dance bits. We get told that we make good hooks and songs that stick in peoples’ heads. We’ve also been compared to Foals and Bloc Party’s Silent Alarm. We have moody bangers like the track, ‘Lies,’ ‘Untitled’ and one on the new EP called ‘Ghost Writer.’ Then we also have indie pop style stuff like ‘Catalogue Hideous’ and ‘Black Fog,’ which are also new, as well as slower dance tunes like ‘True Love.’ It’s just a really nice mix that you have to see live to appreciate. VICTORIA: HOW DID YOU ALL MEET EACH OTHER AND GET STARTED? Tom Armstrong: Well Harry and I got together first in York, just playing in my bedroom about a year and a half ago. We started playing around York with a former bassist and drummer but they were based up there and we wanted to move on. So we moved

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down here to London and met these other two gentlemen, Neil and George. Since then it’s been a steady thing that’s growing nicely. We’ve been playing venues in London now for a while and are really getting going. VICTORIA: WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS MUSICALLY, EITHER INDIVIDUALLY OR AS A GROUP? Harry: I like all sorts of music. I like a lot of dance music, house and techno. And old 90’s Hip Hop, anything that’s really good. Tom and I are massive fans of bands that were popular around from 2006 and before. I think of bands like Tame Impala, who are amazing. We also all love the Strokes; it’s what we grew up on so it’s a bit nostalgic. Their first album was the best. Neil Andrews: Drumming-wise I would always go for Stuart Copeland from The Police. I also like the Talking Heads a lot. George TD: When I’m trying to write a bass line for this band, most of what pops into of my head is stuff I’ve listened to from the earlier

VOLUME

Arctic Monkeys albums. They have similar shapes and grooves as well because we have the same set up with two guitarists, drums and bass.

least in my mind, maybe that’s because I’m playing them. Some of the riff these guys write, they stick and catch you. This sort of thing has been done before, just not in the way we do it.

VICTORIA: WHAT MAKES H.A.M. STAND OUT AMONGST ALL THE OTHER BANDS THAT ARE IN LONDON AT THE MOMENT?

VICTORIA: WHERE DO YOU GUYS SEE EACH OTHER AS A BAND IN THE FUTURE?

Neil: Personally I would say it’s with our song writing, which I think is really spot on. We have a good rock melody and people can move to our music, dance about and jam. Our music is serious but we like to party as well. We like to have fun. We can’t take ourselves too seriously.

Harry: We hope to be playing as many gigs as possible for as many people as we can. We want to play all around the UK and have big crowds in front of us. Obviously we have this new EP coming out in July as well, so stay tuned for that.

Harry: We’ve got a good sound and you have to see us live because we bring the energy. You will dance yourself off and rock the fuck out to it. We also like to play smaller and more intimate venues so we can connect with people more. George: And we never ever do covers, which is nice. We like to think our songs are strong enough to leave an impression on people. At

Tom: Come to one of our shows and see us in action, that’s where we’ll be! Make sure to check out H.A.M.’s new EP in July and stay tuned to hear more about their promotional launch gig for it. For more H.A.M. go to www.weareham.co.uk

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Doll House PHOTOGRAPHER : TWITCH PHOTOS MUAS : ALICE BIZARRE AND THE WOOD WITCH ACCESSORY DESIGNER : FATS AND SMALL CLOTHING DESIGNER : LACE AND DEBAUCHERY/ GOTHIC BURLESQUE MODELS : AMBER SKYLINE, MI YAH, CHARLOTTTE, GEORGIASCARLETT AND ATHERDES

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PHOTOGRAPHER : TWITCH PHOTOS MUAS : ALICE BIZARRE AND THE WOOD WITCH ACCESSORY DESIGNER : FATS AND SMALL CLOTHING DESIGNER : LACE AND DEBAUCHERY/GOTHIC BURLESQUE MODELS : AMBER SKYLINE, MI YAH, CHARLOTTTE, GEORGIASCARLETT AND ATHERDES

Doll House

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FASHION

Boom! Boom! baby! What was it that inspired you to start up Boom Boom Baby, and where does the name originate? Boom Boom Baby was something I started years ago after leaving college. I was working in an alternative clothing shop at the time and saw there was a gap in the market for custom corsetry. I began taking commissions and before I knew it I had enough work to leave my full time job. I originally started trading under a different name but realized that the name implied I just did corsetry, which is not the case, so I decided to change the name after a few years. Boom! Boom! Baby! is something that just came to me one night… I thought it had a nice ring to it.

ever client with a body Barbie would kill for! I made her lingerie for an exhibition in London. She is an amazing character so I made an outfit to match this. If you could create a custom outfit for anyone in the world, who would it be and why? I would love to make something for Lady GaGa. I love her style as it mixes fashion and costume and is not always about being beautiful; it’s about making a statement.

From the drawing board to the finished product, do you always have a set way of working on your designs, or do you tend to just go with the flow when a new idea strikes? When it comes to coming up with a new design I normally create a mood board of the look and mood I am aiming for. The next step is a combination of drawing and playing with ideas on my mannequin. I enjoy doing it this way as it gives me a good idea of how it will look in real life and I think it's good for the client to get a better idea too. It also makes it easier to show any other alternative design ideas. What/who inspires you the most? I'm inspired by all kinds of things; I'm a bit of a geek when it comes to all things fashion and costume related. I love to people watch and am interested in all kinds of styles and how people express themselves through fashion. I love designers like Westwood and McQueen who combine elements of fashion and costume to create true couture. I'm also a big fan of period costumes and old fashioned circus costumes; Ive started to collect pieces and find it truly fascinating how these pieces were constructed and the silhouettes they give. Are there any designs that stand out as personal favourites of yours? Everything I make has a bit of me in it; I’ve been really lucky in having a variety of work. For me the ones that stick in mind are the challenging ones, which have not just been challenging creatively but also technically. I recently made a half man, half woman costume which was such a hard thing to get my head around - but the result was completely worth it. Another favourite is an octopus corset with tentacles wrapped around the neck. Each sucker was hand painted with an octopus silhouette wrapped around the body; I got rather attached to him and named him Claude. Clementine, the living fashion doll, was another favourite. She is my smallest 20 | REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE

more fashionable in the last few years there has been an increasing amount of massproduced corsets becoming available. For me I don’t have a problem with a cheaper option being available, not everyone can afford a hand made item every time and it means that when you do it’s more of a treat. The problem I do have with it is the conditions they are made in are often poor for the workers and they are paid very little. Unfortunately a lot of the mass-produced corsets out there are a cheap and badly made version of a designer corset which can often confuse the buyer. They are also sold as steel boned corsets which although technically they are, the cheap materials used will not give the same effect and look as a proper corset. I think that this is true of so much clothing nowadays and it’s up to us as a buyer to think about what we are buying and how it is made. What advice would you give to anyone that wants to start buying/wearing corsets? My advice would be to shop around. There are so many designers out there and I think it’s important to work with someone who you think could bring your design to life. I think it’s a good idea to try on a few corsets first too, this way you can see what shapes and styles suit your body type and also how it feels to wear a corset.

Since starting in 2004, you’ve been a part of many fashion shows, music videos, photoshoots, exhibitions and more. Over the years, have there been any experiences in particular that have stood out for you, whether they were good or bad? They have all been an experience in their own way; a fashion show I did a few years ago sticks in my mind. I took a load of us from Norwich on a little road trip to London to perform at a fetish club. It was so exciting putting the looks together, choosing the make up and music and creating an act. It took weeks of preparation and was over in minutes! It was very satisfying though and of coarse we all got to party after! I really enjoy being part of photo-shoots, I love watching a whole concept come together and being part of a creative team. What are your thoughts on the handmade vs. mass-produced corsetry debate? I think with anything there will always be a cheaper option, with corsetry becoming

Can you tell us a bit about any new designs you’re currently working on/recently released? I’ve got lots of exciting custom work on just now; I have a poodle costume to make which involves a lot of pom poms! I also am working on a new completely striped costume for a client, I couldn’t find the fabric she wanted so I’ve made it, it’s taken a long time to do but now I’m making the costume it’s completely worth it. I’m working on a few collaborations with photographers as well. I’m planning a vintage circus shoot just now and I adore early circus costumes, so it will be a lot of recreating this look with my own spin on it. What are your plans for the rest of 2013? My plans for this year are to continue as I am. I feel really lucky to have a job I enjoy so much and that has such variety. I would like to continue with mainly doing custom work but also do my own limited edition line. I’m hoping to work on this very soon, I want to create a line that is not just corsetry and incorporates other elements too. www.boomboombabyboutique.com

FASHION

THIS PAGE PHOTO AND MODEL: ANNA SWICZENIUK PHOTOGRAPHY PREVIOUS PAGE PHOTO: JOSEPH O'BRIEN MODEL / MUA AND HAIR: CERVENA FOX

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FASHION

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FASHION

Candy Geisha Can you tell us a bit about why you started Candy Geisha? It is purely all about right timing and good coincidence. After having been making accessories for myself for years, I started toying with the idea of setting up my own workshop and selling my products to any willing victims out there whom, like me, enjoy expressing themselves visually. Then one day, I saw on my Facebook newsfeed that my friend Violet White was desperately looking for a set of tsumami kanzashi (traditional Japanese hair adornments). I set myself a challenge and decided to create a pair of hair sticks with PVC and foam kanzashi blossoms for her there and then. Luckily, she felt very enthusiastic about the concept. This was back in the spring of 2011. The rest is history! Let’s say that not only is Candy Geisha my personal creative outlet but it is also the culminating point of my career. I have created a universe where I can be myself, merge all my creative and crafting skills and share my enthusiasm for playful personal fashion styles. What was the inspiration behind your newest collection ‘Deadly Cute’? ‘Deadly Cute’, like any other of my collections and creations, is certainly a reflection of what goes on in this head of mine. It is a mixture of pure fun; my unconditional love for all that is dark and spooky as well as cute Japanese artworks and fluffiness. There might be a lot more twisted concepts underneath the innocence and childishness of my designs. But like many other human beings, I have many layers and so does ‘Deadly Cute’. On the surface, it is all about a spooky cute aesthetic but the main idea behind it is definitely deeper and more sinister. Throughout my long years of studying fashion design, theatre design, make-up and special effects for the performing arts, I always favoured the darker characters when it came to designing and give them life. I always granted them a sense of seduction and beauty. If you were a born predatory and evil creature, your best chance to succeed would be if you appeared appealing to your victims’ senses. We have a saying in France: “La beauté du diable”, the beauty of the devil. So the moral is, don’t be fooled! I may appear to be cute, but deep down I am cursed and deadly! So if you feel as

you can identify to such a statement, I have created little characters and iconic elements for you to wear high and proud. Our Little Shooting Star of Doom, Melty Cross and heart come in the shape of t-shirts, printed tights and laser cut printed acrylic accessories. Do you have any pieces that stand out as personal favourites? Instantly I will have to say ‘Cream Puff’! It is our acrylic bow necklace. I am particularly fond of the lines and feel that I created with this design. It is so cute and yet so versatile and ageless. And so far has proved to be a good conversation starter. Definitely an eye-grabbing piece! How would you describe your own personal clothing style? Definitely schizophrenic and multi faceted! But always the reflection of whom I am on the day. There might be some constants such as fabric, materials and texture that I favour the most but when it comes to style, it can range from being a big pastel explosion of fluffiness to being the queen of darkness and a touch of cyber futuristic humanoid in the middle. If you could create a custom item for anyone in the world, who would it be and why? Oh my word! There are so many people who inspire me on a daily basis. Right now I am lucky to have on board twelve amazing models as well as two styling/review team members. So funny you should ask this question as my next project is to create something inspired by each of them. They are definitely inspirational individuals. I feel so lucky! You can find out all about them on our Facebook page. We have created a photo album dedicated to our Candy Geisha girls and soon there will be an entire section dedicated to each of them on our website. I also love Florrie Clarke. She writes a brilliant personal style blog as well as being an accomplished artist. I have created a mini collection inspired by Florrie and her universe. But all shall be revealed in the current of July!

vs. Menacing, Future vs. Past. So maybe I shall explore more classics of 18th century French art and fashion and strike them with my whimsical wand as always to give them a Candy Geisha twist. Rococo is the word. Oh and Baroque! What has been the main highlight of running Candy Geisha? Well I can safely say ‘so far so good’ but as for the highlight of this year, I think it is all the amazing collaboration projects that clothing designers such as Violaceous Latex and Kiss Me Kill have offered me. But I feel as if 2013 will be a succession of culminating points and highlights! If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? Certainly not a better job as it is such a really cool and refreshing publication. But I guess if I had total creative license, I would turn the place into a glittery landscape where whimsical unicorns run around by day and thirsty vampires, chased by space pirates turned vampire hunters, rampage the place by night. So, am I hired? What can we expect from you during the rest of 2013? Certainly expect many more acrylics, synthetic and shiny goodies to adorn your hair, neck, ears and arms. There will be more exciting collaborative work with other creative people and designers as well as a Candy Geisha physical presence at various shows and event. Our first pop up shop made its appearance at MCM London Comic Con in May; the next one shall be Hyper Japan in Earl’s Court on 25-27 July. We will be updating our calendar with many more events so watch this space! www.candygeisha.com IMAGES: NEIL MCCARTY MODEL: KITTY BLUE MUA & STYLING: MISS WHIMSICAL CUPCAKE CLOTHING: CANDY GEISHA AND MODEL'S OWN ACCESSORIES: CANDY GEISHA

Are there any design styles/concepts that you would love to explore in the future? It’s all about polarities for me. Cute REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE | 23

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FINCH BESPOKE AND ALTERNATIVE JEWELLERY

What inspired you to start up Finch? I started selling some of my jewellery at craft fairs and then I branched out and created my own online stores and it just grew from there.

to explore junkyard, decay, skulls, machines etc. and create work around this theme, maybe branch out into making accessories, such as bags etc.

Do you have any pieces that stand out as personal favourites? I have just started working with metal clay and I have made myself a cooper bird`s skull cameo necklace.

What has been the main highlight of running Finch? Selling jewellery to people all over the world as it`s an amazing feeling to think that someone is wearing something I created.

If you could create a custom item for anyone in the world, who would it be and why? I’ve made a metal clay Jesus Cameo with black pearl Rosary, which was done for Tarrie B Murphy from My Ruin, as My Ruin’s music gives me strength through dark and difficult times in my life. Are there any design styles/concepts that you would love to explore in the future? I would love to use different materials and experiment to create one off pieces. Maybe 24 | REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE

If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? Ooo! That’s a hard question! I would produce an issue on up and coming artists, models, designer and musicians, as it is so difficult getting noticed and finding opportunities to showcase and promote your work. What can we expect from you during the rest of 2013? Just continuing to build up my business. I will be applying to put my work in

showcase exhibitions and I’m hoping to sell my work in alternative shops/ tattooists.

www.debbiefinch.co.uk

WAR AND PEACE MODEL: SARA GEHRER PHOTOGRAPHER: TEMIRA DECAY | YELLOW BUBBLES WARDROBE/MUAH: SPOILED CHERRY

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WAR AND PEACE MODEL: SARA GEHRER PHOTOGRAPHER: TEMIRA DECAY | YELLOW BUBBLES WARDROBE/MUAH: SPOILED CHERRY

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A model, makeup artist, musician and underwater performer/cosplayer, CASSIA SPARKLE is definitely on top of her creative game. We talk to Cassia about the different aspects of her career, her thoughts on tattoos becoming the next trend and her distinctive look as an alternative mermaid...

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"...IT FEELS LIKE IF YOU ARE AN ALTERNATIVE MODEL THESE DAYS WITHOUT ANY TATTOOS, YOU GET LESS ATTENTION. I WOULD NEVER GET SLEEVES OR ADD MORE INK JUST FOR SHOW..."

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How and when did your adventure into alternative modeling begin? It all started when a local designer, Fashion Whore Clothing, approached me. She was planning a shoot and asked me to model. She’s a great designer that works with new faces all the time, so it was great exposure and a magical experience! I fell in love with it instantly. Did becoming a model inspire your current look? Yes because I had an image I had to stick to; people would recognize me from my hair and appearance. I’ve had blue/ green hair for about five years now, and I stuck to it after those first few shoots. You’re signature trademark is obviously your mermaidlike hair! Do you think you will ever experiment with a different colour, and if so, what colour? Hmmm! Well that’s a tough decision… I say never say never, but I like to change it up from time to time and add pink in there or other colours. It’s hard to part with the blue though, it just matches everything I own and wear so perfectly! What sparked your initial love of mermaids? When I was little I was obsessed with the ocean and used to compete in swimming professionally. My parents gave me the nickname of the siren. I have been obsessed ever since and now because of my hair even strangers call me a mermaid! What advice would you give to anyone wanting to become a model? You need to be ambitious and driven. That is the first step, because putting yourself out there can require time and commitment. I make sure to dedicate time to my fan page everyday, to answer questions and post photos. This also makes you self-efficient, and therefore ahead of the game. Always be open minded and positive to the new experiences that this world has to offer you. You’re also a musician, painter, literature geek and a makeup artist. Is being creative something you’ve always enjoyed? Well I come from a family of artists, so they have always supported creativity. Right now I’m concentrating on recording solo material actually, and it makes me giddy even thinking about it! Can you tell us a bit about your current tattoos and what they mean to you? I have an Alice In Wonderland back tattoo going up my spine; it’s a darker Tim Burton inspired piece. Then I have my mermaid leg piece I got recently based on a drawing by Audrey Kawasaki; I identify myself with the persona of a mermaid more and more these days. My rose reminds me of my grandmother as they are her favourite flowers, I used to garden with her. The bows on my elbows are made to turn me into a modern doll, and the quote on my ribs represents a moving occult quote about artistic possession. The mirror on my neck represents my love for make up and beauty. What are your thoughts on tattoos becoming the next ‘trendy’ thing? It’s funny because it feels like if you are an alternative model these days without any tattoos, you get less attention. I would never get sleeves or add more ink

just for show; I always take the time to think about what I want and believe me, that in itself takes quite a long time. The body is a temple and if you want to decorate it and beautify it, than it should not be with random art. I always think to myself - well okay am I going to love this ten years from now? What advice would you give to anyone wanting a tattoo? If you are hesitating on an idea/concept or piece, than do not get it. You need to be sure of yourself that you will love this piece on you no matter what, it will in a way represent and reflect aspects of who you are, and that is really important. I’ve had many friends that have gotten tattoos on a whim, and regret it almost immediately after. Do you have any pre-shoot rituals? I draw and sketch most of my concepts before bringing them to life. And since I’m my own make up artist for my shoots, I usually sit in front of my antique vanity listening to some Billie Holiday, and hum her songs while applying make up. What has been the funniest thing to happen during a photo shoot? Oh gosh, well this one time I was shooting at night, sneaking and secretly slinking beside a movie set for Silent hill 2. Me and the photographer were so careful as to not catch the security’s attention… that itself was quite funny. Also the chocolate shoot I did in France, I had to have an assistant constantly drip chocolate in my mouth and hands. REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE | 35

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Do you have any favourite themes to shoot? I love shooting conceptual shoots, where it’s not just a backdrop and outfit, but accessories, props, custom lighting, even extra actors! Usually those shots turn out amazing, like the one with my sushi mermaid. And of course as you may assume, I love shooting anything mermaid related! What has been the most extravagant concept you have worked with so far? When I was in Paris shooting with Krystal Forrest, the photographer had organized a huge team for us. There was make up, two people doing hair, a furniture designer who made an amazing heart shaped couch and amazing latex! The space was huge too. Is there anyone that you would love to collaborate with in the future? I would love to work with Steve Prue, Michellexstar is a big favourite of mine, and Frizzy Cube. What would you say has been your biggest achievement since your modelling career began? I’ve worked with so many amazing people and designers it’s such a hard thing to narrow down, but I think getting sponsored by Manic Panic hair dye was hands down my biggest pat on the back. Do you have any major plans or goals for the rest of 2013? I’m planning to invest more time in recording and music, the shoots that I am planning are all conceptual and need time and planning so there will be less shoots, but bigger ideas. I’m currently planning a cosplay themed shoot with Dawnamatrix that will be jaw dropping! If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? I think I would do an issue with street fashion! Just normal gals and fellows looking fabulous in their everyday activities! I’m personally a big fan of urban wear and the creativity that goes with it. Finally, is there anything you would like to say to our readers? Never stop believing in yourself. I’ve had many obstacles stand in my way, and I refuse to let up to them. You have one life and you owe it to yourself to be the best that you can be! www.facebook.com/CassiaSparkle

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"...BECAUSE OF MY HAIR EVEN STRANGERS CALL ME A MERMAID!"

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Folly Mixtures Under The Spotlight THE FOLLY MIXTURES are a quintet Burlesque troupe based in London who are shaking things up with their lively style and personality. Felixy Splits, Ooh La Lou, Liberty Sweet, Bettsie Bon Bon and Angie Sylvia make up this unique group of beautiful women who are transforming the meaning of putting on a show whilst keeping a light-hearted spirit about it all. They have travelled all around Europe and have a resident show every month at Madame Jojo’s in London. Their June 6th and 7th shows with Zombie Boy, who you may recognize from Lady Gaga’s ‘Born This Way’ video, will be their first collaboration at the Leicester Square Theatre. I met with Ooh La Lou and Felixy Splits of the group to chat about how they became Burlesque dancers, their upcoming show with Zombie Boy and what their favourite things are about performing on stage. Victoria Elizabeth: So tell me, what inspired both of you to get into the Burlesque scene? Felixy Splits: Well we’ve both grown up doing musical theatre. I went on an audition and got into a troupe, which Ooh La Lou later joined. And I just loved it straight away, the tongue-in-cheek, the sexy part and the satire. All these things combine with Burlesque and Cabaret, so you can be sexy but be funny at 38 | REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE

the same time. When people hear the word ‘Burlesque,’ they immediately think striptease but it’s not. Striptease was only involved in the 1930’s and 40’s. Burlesque was about being theatrical with amazing costumes and being funny. And so I was really interested in changing peoples’ perceptions of what it’s about. It’s about being a tease and giving the audience what they want rather than being scantily clad, which is hard for people to realize unless they come to a show.

Ooh La Lou: For me, Felixy Splits actually auditioned me for the original troupe Hurly Burley, which was seven years ago now. I like the fact that in Burlesque it’s your choice you choose the character, the costume, the music. Coming from musical theatre, I was taught that you are given your costume, you have to do your dance steps exactly as they’re taught, and you can’t do anything wrong. Whereas with Burlesque it’s much more free so you can have fun with it. You

EXPOSED have complete creative control and that’s what I love about the Folly Mixtures, it’s completely done and decided by us. Victoria: I was really intrigued by each of your names and wanted to know the story behind them. How did you both find your personas or characters that you play on stage? Ooh La Lou: Well Burlesque names usually come in two parts, so some people choose a flower and a gemstone or an old fashioned name and something that they really like. Mine slightly breaks the rules because my name is Sarah Lou and that turned into Ooh La Lou. Felixy Splits: Mine was actually chosen for me but as soon as I heard it, it just clicked. When we first started we didn’t do full striptease and my first Burlesque act was a tap dance and I do the split at the end of that. I only bring it out now if people request it but a part of that act is how I got my name. And it is me, I am Felixy Splits. Victoria: Tell me how you ladies met and formed the Folly Mixtures? Felixy Splits: A few of us performed with a troupe called Hurly Burley back seven years ago, and that went on to do a much more commercial show. The original girls wanted the carry on and keep on creating classic Cabaret and Burlesque but with a contemporary twist. We didn’t want to be someone’s back-up dancers; we wanted it to be equal so we formed this Burlesque girl group called the Folly Mixtures. Ooh La Lou: It’s almost a bit like a puzzle and we’re all separate pieces but we all fit together into a picture. We decided from the beginning that we wanted to push the fact that we are all different. There are a lot of dance groups out there where they all look the same in height and build. We really didn’t want that. We wanted a mixture of personalities and styles so every person is completely different in their own way, but then we all come together and do these group acts. There is something for everyone, hence the Folly Mixtures. Victoria: What do you think makes the Folly Mixtures so different from other Burlesque shows? Felixy Splits: There are not that many troupes around actually, that is the big difference. There’s people who collaborate and do shows together but we are so much more than that. We rehearse together at least once every single week at my house. So we’re not just solo performers who are thrown together, we are very much a solid unit. We are all

good at communicating with each other and we respect each other so much. Ooh La Lou: It helps that we are all best mates, more like sisters because we spend so much time together. That definitely helps because you see that chemistry on stage. It’s also that this is a joint venture, it’s not just one person going, ‘the next act will be this, and here are your dance steps.’ Everything is done as a collaboration. Victoria: What would you girls say is your favourite show that you’ve ever done? Felixy Splits: I loved doing Bestival, not just because of the show but the whole festival atmosphere. We’ve been so lucky to go to Amsterdam, Moscow, all over but I still love doing Madame Jojo’s. It’s like our residency and the show there is all put on by us. I think because we always get such a good crowd there and Lauri Hagan, who hosts the show there for us, always does a phenomenal job at getting the crowd excited to see us. Ooh La Lou: I think you’re right, we’ve done so much and been so lucky in three years but ultimately that is our home and our residency. We strive to make it better every month and see what else we can do. We want everyone to have fun so we always think how to include audience participation as well. Victoria: So tell me a bit about the show with Zombie Boy, which is your first collaboration together. Ooh La Lou: It first started when we met Zombie Boy in Moscow. He had been performing there the night before and it was a chance meeting in the hotel lobby when we had a chat. We didn’t want to stray too much from what the Folly Mixtures are and didn’t want to just be super sexy, sultry and no fun. So there’s still some funny bits and comedy in there. Zombie Boy comes from a background of working in freak shows and clowning so everything is tailor made to fit in with the theme of the show. Some of the group acts will be little skits and then there will be solo acts as well. Felixy Splits: Lauri Hagan is hosting us as a voodoo witch Cabaret character. We also have an amazing special guest act, a girl name Jo Foley, who does aerial hoop and is incredible. She does amazing bendy stuff on her hoop, which is amazing. There’s going to be a few gross moments, a few funny moments and a few hot moments. I think it’s going to be fun. We didn’t want anyone who comes to see our residency to say, ‘oh it’s the same show but in Leicester Square Theatre.’ We really worked hard to put it together and make it different.

Victoria: What other artists do you think The Folly Mixtures would want to work with in the future? Ooh La Lou: I would have to say the cast of ‘Briefs’, an amazing boylesque circus troupe from Australia! Also years ago we did a show in Helsinki and we were on the same bill as someone called Satan’s Angel, who is one of the original Burlesque dancers. She’s now in her 70’s I think and she’s still tassel twirling with fire. Look her up, she’s a legend. And to meet her was absolutely amazing. Anyone with that kind of status would be amazing to work with. Felixy Splits: I’d like to work with a really good live band and possibly have them learn a show and do it with us. That would be amazing. We really love musicians anyway and would love to do that in the future. Victoria: Another one of the girls, Liberty Sweets, does a tribute act to Betty Page. Apart from her is there another historical figure you would love to play on stage? Ooh La Lou: Well I already do a Barbie act, which doesn’t count as a historical figure but she is iconic. I have a six-foot Barbie box that I come out of with a little dog. And Barbie is distraught that she has Ken but he’s only the size of a doll and she can’t really do much. But when Barbie takes her clothes off she’s all plastic and hasn’t got any of those bits anyway so that’s the irony of it and the joke at the end. We also do a Marie Antoinette act together that’s quite fun. Felixy Splits: I do a tribute act to Barbara Windsor as well, who is an actress from the Carry On movies. They’re iconic British comedies known for a lot of tongue-in-cheek and innuendos. Anyone can see the films but there’s a clean side and a dirty side to the jokes. She featured in a lot of them and was a different character in each of the films but was always known as Babs. So I do a Babs act that’s based on three different characters of hers. So we do a few little flashes from the past. The Folly Mixtures will be very busy this summer with plenty of upcoming show dates so check out their calendar here http://www.thefollymixtures.co.uk/page2.htm and stay tuned with Rebelicious to find out how the Zombie Boy show went!

Interview: Victoria Elizabeth Photo: Steve Hart

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MEGAN MASSACRE Takes London By Storm You may know bite-sized tattoo artist and beauty MEGAN MASSACRE from the popular TV show NY Ink and the recently released America’s Worst Tattoos, where she is making waves with her colourful and eclectic style of tattooing. When she’s not tattooing at the Wooster Street Social Club in New York City - where NY Ink is shot - she also models, makes multimedia art and is one half of DJ duo Letz Massacre with her boyfriend Joe Letz. She recently came to London to take part in the Great British Tattoo Show, and to guest tattoo at her boss Ami James’ flagship shop, Love Hate Social Club. From her fiery orange hair and energetic attitude to her quirky little teal dress, Megan was as entertaining and lively in person as she is on camera. She sat down with us to chat about her style inspirations, worst tattoo cover-up experience, and how she juggles her crazy schedule. Victoria Elizabeth: So Megan, you have worked on NY Ink and America’s Worst Tattoos, and you’ve tattooed in New York City for the past 3 year. What would you say is the difference between NYC Tattoo culture and what you have experienced here in London? Megan Massacre: To be honest, I don’t think I have an overall experience of Tattoo culture yet because I’m really lucky to come here and be able to work at Love Hate Social Club. Ami James, my boss in New York, owns Miami Ink and now owns this shop too so I really just get to come and hang out with my friends here. This is also the first time I’ve been to London and actually been here for longer than a day. So this is really my first time tattooing here and I’m still just taking it all in. I will say that I have had such a good time tattooing here clientele-wise. They’re not nitpicky kinds of clients, they’re great tattoo clients, which is really refreshing to know because not all places have those. New York does, but London does too obviously. One thing I will say culture-wise is this. What being at the Great British Tattoo Show taught me is that it’s the same here as it is in New York, as it is in Philadelphia and everywhere else - tattooists are all about respect. Especially the old school ones but I think they should instil that in the younger ones as well. You could be an amazing tattoo artist but if you’re a dickhead or are just disrespectful then no one is going to want anything to do with you. It definitely pays to be a nice and respectful person in this industry or they’ll definitely shut you out. It’s pretty typical around tattooists and I can see

that here as well. I imagine that the roots of tattooing in London are much older than they are in America so it makes sense. Victoria: It’s a bit difficult to characterize your tattoo style; it’s very eclectic and colourful. How would you define it? Megan: To be honest my style is really evolving, and it’s evolving very fast because I’m influenced by so many different things and I don’t really keep constraints. Right now colour portraiture is very popular but ten years ago it didn’t exist. That’s how fast it evolves. And it’s getting faster because of how popular tattooing has become. So instead of people who were just bikers and gang members learning to tattoo because this was part of their world, now there are art students or fine art painters, graphic designers with that art background that are making tattooing that much better really fast.

I really like doing a combination of styles. I love working in colour, and especially bright colours. There are also times that I like working in dingy, dark colours. It depends on the piece and what it calls for. When a customer comes in and sits down with me, I don’t draw the tattoo until they’re here. I want to know what they like, where they are putting it on their body, what other tattoos they have etc. Victoria: So you’ve been on America’s Worst Tattoos, which means you must have seen some pretty bad work out there. What would you say was the most difficult tattoo you had to cover up? Megan: There’s this one tattoo on that show, which already aired in America but is actually airing here right now. In one of the upcoming episodes a woman was getting tattoos covered with her fiancé because they were getting married and they both had horrible chest tattoos. She had two

"YOU HAVE TO CONSTANTLY EVOLVE TO KEEP UP WITH THE TIMES. I’M LIKE A LITTLE SPONGE." You have to constantly evolve to keep up with the times. I’m like a little sponge. Like this morning I was taking pictures of Portobello Market. We walked around for an hour early in the morning and people were opening up all the antique stalls and I literally just had my camera out, taking pictures in all angles and every light of everything because I get so much inspiration just from what I see.

tattoos on her chest, which for a woman is a very feminine spot. On one side she had a cowboy boot filled with French fries, and on the other side she had a hot dog with a little face playing a guitar, with a Native American headdress that’s sitting in a pocket that says ‘I heart Nashville’. Think about how much stuff that was, and it was big and very dark.

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"...IF YOU HAVE IDEAS DON'T BE SCARED TO DO THEM. IF IT FAILS, WHO CARES?" Cover-ups are hard and I look at every one and say, “oh boy,” but this one I was like, “I don’t know if I can do this.” I literally didn’t know because not every tattoo can be covered up. And I looked at this one and was like, “Do you really want me to cover this up? Really, on television?” I was literally sweating bullets the entire time, hoping it would work. She had to get an entire chest piece, which is what she wanted. I did a bunch of Autumn leaves in oranges, reds, and yellows all across and in the background I did blues and greens. It was very colourful but also earthy and it came out really cool. It took me two sessions to finish her tattoo totalling fourteen hours or so. Victoria: I guess the best-case scenario is to not have to do a cover-up, especially something like what you just described. Megan: It’s a really interesting time now that people are getting a lot of cover-ups. Tattooing has been on TV now for eight years, and in that time it has become so much trendier that not only are people getting more tattoos but also so many people want to learn how to do them. A lot of people don’t want to go through the process of learning properly because unfortunately tattoo equipment is very accessible so people who think they can teach themselves 42 | REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE

end up doing it. And because people don’t know any better, they think their tattoo is very good. That’s one of the major reasons why I’m so happy to do the America’s Worst Tattoos show. This way I can show people the difference between a good tattoo and a bad one. It’s not really about style, it’s about execution. It’s really important to research your artists. Research, research, research! And don’t look for discounts. If a place is good and you feel good when you’re there, you shouldn’t be trying to get a discount. Victoria: What kind of advice would you give younger girls who are just getting into tattoo culture or thinking about getting one? Megan: As a young girl who got tattooed and was a bit pressured into it by working in the industry, I would say it’s really important to think about what you want to get as your first tattoo because it’s the hardest one. Once you start you’re like ready to go with a million ideas but the most important thing is to make sure you’re getting it by a tattoo artist who does good work, and also to educate yourself. Make sure you get something timeless in meaning because everybody’s tattoos twenty years from now are not going to look as good as when they were first done. And the idea is that if you still like what the

Photo: MichellexStar

tattoo means then you’re going to like it no matter what. And girls, even if you want to be edgy and punky, when you’re forty you’re not going to want to be edgy and punky. So get something that’s feminine. It always will look nicer. Get something that fits the shape of your body and will look good later on. Victoria: It seems that you’re really quite busy lately, whether you’re tattooing, modelling, being on television, making multi-media art or DJing with your boyfriend. How do you manage to juggle all those things so well? Megan: I’m always spread way too thin. Before I started the tattoo shows, I mostly did tattooing and modelling. I started modelling about three years after I started tattooing. It started off as just a hobby with my friends who did photo shoots so I got into it and it just kind of happened. But since starting the TV shows, I’ve cut down on modelling because it was just so many hours to shoot the show. We would be shooting 10-12 hours a day, five days or more a week. I still do cut down on modelling because everything I did was a bit alternative and getting on TV changes things in a lot of ways. It’s strange because TV is a fun little thing I do but I’m not a gloater. I’ve seen

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some people do it and it gives me something I call ‘idiot shivers.’ How I manage it is I’ve become quite an adult since I’ve started travelling and doing all these different things. To be honest with you, being a tattooist and never having a ‘real’ job, I never had someone telling me to wake up at a certain time everyday, or a regular pay check. I never really had to have any rules. So when I first started doing TV and stuff I almost quit because I didn’t want to do it. But what it taught me was that if you really want to accomplish things, it’s about scheduling your life and discipline. I maybe get four hours of sleep every night here but I still have to get up and get ready and be on time. It’s about having a schedule and trust me I am not that person. I am the living proof that someone who is the complete opposite can be that person when they have to be. You’re never too young to start, and if you have ideas don’t be scared to do them. And if it fails, who cares? There are no limits on what you can do. Doesn’t matter where you’re born or what position you’re in. Don’t worry about how you’re going to do it, just know that you will. http://www.meganmassacre.com/ Catch Megan on Season 3 of NY Ink and America’s Worst Tattoos, which premiered on TLC in the UK this May. Interview by: Victoria Elizabeth REBELICIOUS MAGAZINE | 43

PHOTOGRAPHER: KENCREDIBLE, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEN PENN STYLIST: JESSICA ROWELL FOR J-CHAN'S DESIGNS [JCHANSDESIGNS.COM] MAKEUP ARTISTRY & HAIR STYLING: JESSICA ROWELL CLOTHING: STUDDED & CAGED BY J-CHAN'S DESIGNS [ETSY.COM/SHOP/JCHANSDESIGNS] MODEL: VALERI KIMBRO

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Lady Marlene

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What inspired you to become a part of the alternative modelling world? I have always loved the idea of modelling even at such a young age. I was also in love with fashion from clothes to hair and makeup and would even do a lot of designing. As I reached my teens I turned more into the high fashion part of it all, like the images you would see in Vogue. The images were breathtaking and I knew I had to be a part of it. Do you have any pre-shoot rituals? Not really, I try to stretch before and make sure I eat and drink plenty of water. The last thing I would want to do is pass out! What’s the funniest thing to happen during a shoot? Oh gosh! Besides the fact I am a bit clumsy and I tend to almost fall over in the middle of my poses, I would say the time I lost my wig while shooting. I was doing a shoot with Chris Epperson and I was lying down with my wig and wig cap on underneath… I got up and my wig fell off completely. I remember telling him thank god it wasn’t our first time working together because that would definitely be an awkward moment! What are your favourite fashion styles/themes? I wouldn’t say I have a favourite because I have a huge appreciation for each and every one! But if I had to pick I would say the more gothic macabre fashion/themes.

ABOVE/BELOW PHOTOS: CHRIS EPPERSON PHOTOGRAPHY

For those that follow you online, they’ll know that you undergo corset training. What inspired you to start this and how is the training going at the moment? I got inspired from modelling in corsets. I really fell in love with them and I had to learn more. My main goal for corset training is to learn healthy ways of wearing one and not passing out! It’s going great so far but unfortunately with my crazy schedule I haven’t been able to do it as often I would like. What would be the main piece of advice you would give to anyone wanting to start corset training? Be patient and don’t rush. Corset training takes months or years to get to your goal measurement and if you rush you can really harm yourself. What has been your biggest achievement so far in your career? My biggest achievement is being able to work with all the amazing photographers and designers. I never thought I would be where I am today and I am so blessed for it. Is there anyone in particular that you would love to collaborate with one day? Natalie Shau! Her work is to die for and if I ever got the chance to work with her that would be a dream come true! Do you have any goals that you’re working towards this year? My goals for this year is to really break out of my comfort zone, pushing myself to keep going and to do bigger and better things! If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? Oh gosh! Probably do a whole issue of macabre fashion and corsets on every page and possibly a beauty section for all the crazy colourful hair lovers! Finally, is there anything you would like to say to the Rebelicious readers? I hope everyone enjoys this issue and whatever dream or passion you have, don’t be afraid to go after it! Don’t let fear hold you back from the possibility of experiencing something great! www.facebook.com/OfficiallyLadyMarlene

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THIS PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: JOHN COLSON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/JOHNCOLSONPHOTO WWW.JOHNCOLSON.COM/BLOG RIGHT PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: SJIMAGE WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/UK.SJIMAGE

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Can you tell us a bit about what influenced you to become an alternative model? I wish I had a more interesting answer, but if I’m being honest I just sort of fell into it. I had modelled commercially for some time and was approached on several occasions by lingerie companies with corset ranges. I fell in love with them, and restarted my portfolio as an alternative model. Do you have any pre-shoot rituals? Oh yes! I drink a bucket of tea (not literally, but I would if I owned a bucket) and then have a mad panic about making my train on time. As well as modelling you’re also an opera singer, have theatre experience and have done guest vocals for bands. When did this all begin for you and does it translate into your modelling work at all? I can’t actually remember a time when I was not singing. Though I love modelling, opera will always be my greatest passion; it inspires me on so many levels. It probably does filter through to my modelling style. I tend to prefer bombastic looks and classically inspired costumes, though the hard rock chick in me rebels every so often. What’s the funniest thing to happen during a shoot? Oh lord, so many things. I once lost a pair of designer earrings in my cleavage,

and as I was already corseted up we had a hell of a time trying to rescue them, that was pretty funny. There are also plenty of stories from location shoots to tell, but no-one wants to hear about me running half naked through the Derbyshire woodland.

USA though, and it may be a while before I can fund a trip over there. Pulling a few names out of thin air, Neil Snape, Laura Dark, Gracefully Wicked, Aesthetic Alchemy and the glorious models Kerosene Deluxe and Babylon Salome.

What are your favourite fashion styles/ themes? Wow, that is a hard one. I’m a goth at heart, but I’m terribly addicted to the Avant-Garde. I’ve had My Little Ponies hung from a tree made of hair on my head, I’ve balanced goose feathers all over me and worn cling-film as a dress - if I don’t show up everywhere absurdly overdressed, I don’t consider the day a success.

Do you have any goals that you’re working towards this year? As always, I’ll take what comes to me. I feel lucky just to be doing this without asking for any more, but hopefully I will be back on the music scene by the end of the year - since I moved to Nottingham, reconnecting has been difficult.

What has been your biggest achievement so far in your career? That is difficult to answer. I suppose it would be being signed to UK agency Spirit Models a year ago, and then being signed with Nocturnal recently as representation for when I tour abroad, not so much because I consider them great achievements just for myself, but because I feel I am a small part of the legitimization of the alternative modelling industry, especially in the UK. It’s a great thing to be a part of. Is there anyone in particular that you would love to collaborate with one day? Oh yes, so many people! Many of them are over in the

If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? Probably fill it with naked ladies. Or use it to further my campaign for world domination, but I do love naked ladies. Finally, is there anything you would like to say to the Rebelicious readers? Be happy with who you are, don’t ridicule your own body (it’s the only one you have), be kind to animals and listen to the band KALEDON. They are awesome. www.eviewolfe.co.uk

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Ginger Snap dragon Photography What inspired you to become a photographer? I love being able to capture things as I see them. I love art in all its forms, but what captivates me about photography is the way that it gives us access to the different perspectives that people have about various subjects and the world around them. I find the uniqueness of people’s faces fascinating and that’s really what inspired me to move into portrait work. What are some of the main concepts/ themes that you like to explore? I can’t really pin down any consistent themes or concepts, I enjoy quite theatrical looking images with heavy make-up etc. but they very rarely share any other similarity than that. I mainly do beauty portrait work and have had the privilege to work with some amazing models that have all inspired me in different ways. But I also enjoy experimenting with

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photography and seeing what I can create in the moment rather than over planning anything. Are there any concepts that you would like to experiment with in the future? I’d like to experiment with more emotion in my portrait work, to create a small narrative within an image, to tell stories and explore how people’s faces can communicate ideas and experiences. I’ve been looking to work in more natural light to force myself not to manipulate the way someone’s face appears by lighting them in a certain way, to create evocative emotional portraits as opposed to static beauty portraits. Don’t get me wrong, I have great fun in my little studio set up but I like to push myself to improve and to get out of my comfort zones to keep myself learning and progressing.

Where do you draw your inspiration from? My inspiration can come from literally anywhere. I’ve been inspired by a wide variety of things since I started photography, from movies and a TV shows to Lego Minifigs and Gummy Bears. I am a terribly curious person, I spend a great deal of my time looking and thinking and exploring so I can find creative ideas all over the place. I started as a nature photographer and I still very much enjoy taking photographs at interesting things in the natural world and I get a great deal of inspiration from being out in nature, sometimes from the plants and trees and sometimes just from being away from the chaos of modern life. People’s faces also give me inspiration. When I’m looking for models to collaborate with I’m not really interested if they have loads of experience or if they fall into a certain category (whether they are agency standard or alternative etc)

EXPOSED it’s whether their face inspires me to want to create something. It’s not so much about being pretty, it’s about the concept or story that my mind creates when I look at them that makes me want to photograph them. Has anything strange/out of the ordinary happened during a photoshoot? I’ve had a model climbing trees in 5 inch spiked heels, I’ve had a model covered in black goo and feathers and I’ve had a model dressed as possibly the sexiest zombie I’ve ever seen. I’ve learned to expect the unexpected and to always be prepared for things to get weird. There was one time when I got so involved in a photoshoot that I nearly forgot to pick up my son from school, but I’ve learned from that to now and always have an alarm; getting in the photographic zone can be an all-encompassing thing! If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? I would probably do a double feature on women in extreme sports and women involved in cosplay. I’ve been really inspired by two models that I’ve worked with by their involvement in both areas. Lauren Jenkins AKA Midnight Bliss is a mountain biker and downhill racer and I’d love to know more about the sport and what it’s like to be involved in it, and Kaela John AKA Lady Noctis is an amazing cosplayer, and as ‘geekery’ becomes more and more in the public eye and as it seems to be moving more into the mainstream, it would be interesting to get an insider’s perspective. Plus you could have loads of cool photos of badass women on bikes and awesome costumes. If you could do a shoot with anyone in the world, who would you pick and why them? Initially when I read this question my first answer was Ophelia Overdose because she is so creative and such a captivating model that I think it would be awesome to work with her. However the more I thought about it, I realised that if I could shoot with ANYONE in the world it would probably be Tilda Swinton because I think she is simply amazing; she has the ability to be anything and nothing at the same time. She can be completely beautiful but look completely alien all in the same image. She effortlessly moves between feminine beauty and total androgyny and she has a face that completely captivates me. Do you have any major goals that you hope to achieve this year? I am really working on my use of light this year and working hard to make my images more complex and dynamic in terms of technicality if not subject. My main goal I think is to create a series of images based around one concept. I’m still debating what that subject will be but I want to take one concept and really pull it to pieces in a series of different works. I think it will force me to think in greater depth as to what I want to use my photography for and where I want to take it in the future. www.facebook.com/gingersnapdragonphotography [LEFT PHOTO] MODEL/MUA/CONCEPT: MEMORY OF A SOUL (Search 'memory_of_a_soul' on Facebook) [TOP] MODEL: ABI ROSE (www.facebook.com/AbiRoseAlternativeModel) MUA: MASTERPIECE FX (www.facebook.com/MasterpieceFx) WIG: GEISHA WIGS (www.facebook.com/geishawigsuk) [BOTTOM] MODEL: KIRSTY WALTERS MUA: MASTERPIECE FX (www.facebook.com/MasterpieceFx) LEATHER GAUNTLETS: LYDIA WALL MILLINERY (www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LydiaWallMillinery)

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Drea Rose DeVille

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EXPOSED Can you tell us what influenced you to become an alternative model? I was actually a child model with ford for years but stopped when I was 9. It wasn’t until I had a friend in photography school that I got back into it and found a new passion. Do you have any pre-shoot rituals? My only pre shoot ritual involves me and my favourite lady mary jane ;) What’s the funniest thing to happen during a shoot? A couple years ago I was shooting for the dead glamour girls calendar. It was Gemini zombie babes for the month of june so we were on the beach decked out in our finest gore. The other model and I were getting our pose on when a dead fish washed up on shore. Rather than freak out and squirm we ended up using him in our beach picnic set! We named him and everything it was precious. What are your favourite fashion styles/themes? My favourite theme to shoot is horror. With the horror genre you can incorporate it into almost any theme. It allows me to get in touch with the darkest parts of my imagination while creating stunning art! What has been your biggest achievement so far in your career? My biggest achievement would have to be placing in the top three for the cats meow magazine’s banner girl competition. Though I had been published many times before this was particularly exciting because the community had to vote. Just seeing the overwhelming response I got warmed my heart and boosted my ego! Is there anyone in particular that you would love to collaborate with one day? There are so many people that I would love to work with!! Amelia Nightmare is a huge inspiration to me. She’s able to transform herself into anything role with ease and is a stunning lady. There are also so many designers I would love to collaborate with such as Ashley rose custom designs. Her work stands out and is so original and cheeky! Do you have any goals that you’re working towards this year? I have been working hard and hope to take my career to the next level by landing a cover! If you could be in charge of Rebelicious for a week, what would you do? I would hold an event that allowed up and coming models to network with bigger names in the industry. Finally, is there anything you would like to say to the Rebelicious readers? Keep your heads up high, fists to the sky and be as badass as you can! www.facebook.com/DreaRoseDeVille PHOTOS: CHRIS CHAN WWW.ALTOVENUE.COM

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...In A Cherry Tree PHOTOGRAPHER: KYLIE FAYE MODEL: LAUREN RUTH WARD MUA: CAROLYN THOMBS ASSISTANT: JESSICA HOLLAND

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...In A Cherry Tree PHOTOGRAPHER: KYLIE FAYE MODEL: LAUREN RUTH WARD MUA: CAROLYN THOMBS ASSISTANT: JESSICA HOLLAND

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