VPRCOMM Magazine Premiere Issue

VPRCOMM Magazine No 1

Lily Gatins on Avant-Garde

The Everything France Issue Explore The New Anouska Hempel Designs Monsieur George

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VPRCOMM MAGAZINE © 2020 Vprcommag All right reserved,

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editor@vprcommag.com www.vprcommag.com Printed in Sacramento CA, USA | www.vprcommag.com A Publication Vprcommag Magazine

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FIRST EDITION ISSUE

VPRCOMM MAGAZINE E D I TO R I N CH I E F / A D R I ELY N C H R I S T I Ed i to r i a l V P RCO M M M AGA ZI N E

Vprcomm Magazine has been a goal of mine for quite sometime now, and yes, right I decided to take the leap smack dab in the middle of the COVID-19 crisis. Who would be so crazy to launch a magazine in the middle of a pandemic? Me, that’s who. I am one of those people who take risks and although this is a risk, it is also a love and obession of mine. I wanted to create the first issue to show my love and desire of France. I’ve always wanted to do something along the lines of French Girl Chic but never had the chance until now. I had a lot of help from my U.K. Editor at Large with this project and I couldn’t be more thankful or proud to have her on my team. This issue has everything from beauty, fashion, travel, food and more. So it is with my esteemed hope and gratitude that you enjoy reading!

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VPRCOMM Magazine

Adrielyn A D R I ELY N C H R I S T I Ed i to r i n C h i ef Vp rco m m Ma ga z i n e

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

A D RIE LY N C HRIST I E D I T O R@ V P R C O M M A G. C O M

C R E AT I V E D I R EC TO R S

A D RIE LY N C HRIST I DAISY SE LLS

CONTENT

U. K . E D I TO R AT L A RG E

DAISY SE LLS WEST COAST FASHION EDITOR

GA LINA ANTO NOVA FA S H I O N / M E D I A CO O R D I N ATO R

Escaping In Red

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Anouska Hempel Designs

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RAC HAE L STANLE Y CONTRIBUTORS

LU C Y D HO G , E VAN P EC K ,

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J O D I E C A MP B E LL, O LGA GASNIE R

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C H RI S T I N A VALE RIE HE NNINGSTAD SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tasty French Food

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French Beauty

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Top Hotels in Paris

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Wear and Share

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Cover Story

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French Fashion

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Editorials

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VP RCO MMAG PUBL ISH ES ON LY QUA L ITY CO NT ENT REL ATIN G TO TH E SUSTA IN A BL E LU XU RY LI FESTYL E. FROM FA SH ION TO TRAVEL AND EV E RTH IN G E L SE IN BETW EE N .

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ESCAPING IN RED B Y EVA N P E C K - FA SH IO N P HO T O G R A P H E R

Escaping in Red

‘Escaping in Red’ draws inspiration from Tabitha Cholet’s original dance piece and movement for ‘Red for Liberation’ ; allowing me to carve a new concept for this editorial whilst continuing on her incredible story and vision.

The theme of ‘Ode to French Beauty’ of this, the inaugural issue, drove me to want to use red throughout the series. A red lip is, without question, a makeup bag staple and long ingrained element in the creation of French beauty. This theme also inspired me to use more flow, red toned clothing and to shoot on film to give the images a natural, French feel to them which contrasted with the harsh red colour covering the subjects body. The editorial is based on the classic look of red is a strong and provoking colour that often grabs peoples attention.

MODEL: Tabitha Chloet @TABITHACHOLET

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“‘Red Is Liberation’ draws inspiration from Tabitha Cholet’s original dance piece and movement for ‘Red for Liberation’ ; allowing me to carve a new concept for this editorial whilst continuing on her incredible story and vision.’

So why not use this colour to promote the feeling of freedom and breaking from ones self and releasing the body into a free state? I chose to use film for the series as I wanted to portray the pure, rawness of film to further implement the idea of freedom being beautiful and a sense of purity for the self. Throughout this series of images I wanted to show the development of the subject becoming more free, showing more movement and fluidity.

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Furthermore I wanted to introduce the colour red to represent freedom, doing this in a way that as the editorial series progresses what started as red lipstick, begins to move over the body and break from the norms of the lip line, shadowing a sense of breaking free and movement within the images. By the end of the editorial the subject is covered in red, posing naked in her most free state; Liberation Is Red.

Evan Peck - Fashion Photographer Moving to London and starting my career as a fashion photographer has enabled me to open up many opportunities and collaborate with other creatives, developing myself as a creative. Originally from Suffolk, a small countryside county I found it hard to explore my passion and move forward within the creative industry. Now hoping to create interesting and captivating imagery of fashion pieces through multi-mediums in my own style and aesthetic.

For More of my work: @EVANPECKPHOTO WWW.EVANPECK.COM

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Anouska Hempel Designs Monsieur George

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Travel Done The French Way

By Daisy Sells

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A New 5-star Luxury Boutique Hotel in Paris

Anouska Hempel’s style reflects the modernity she has absorbed throughout her travels around the world.

As a lady, a couturier, a businesswoman, designer and world adventurer, she plunges heart and soul into her passion for architecture and interior design, now second nature in her work.

Anouska designed Blakes Hotel in London, where she pioneered the boutique hotel concept and to this day, Blakes is still the singular benchmark for this style of hotel. She went on to create the Hempel Hotel, which features the hallmarks of her minimalist design – again, a first of its kind in London. Both of these hotels remain celebrated for their unique styles.

Anouska Hempel went on to design the flagship Louis Vuitton store in Paris, the breath-taking Duxton Six Senses in Singapore, Blakes Amsterdam, Grosvenor House Suites on London’s Park Lane and more recently, The Franklin Hotel in Knightsbridge. Her magic touch can be found in homes, hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, yachts and garden landscapes across the world, attracting an international following of pop stars, actors, heads of state and royalty. A new chapter thus begins with her signature design in Monsieur George, a brand new address in which she has been able to express her vivid imagination, revealing fresh, sparkling dimensions of her impressive design talent.

Her imagination draws on inspiration from far beyond the shores of England. She designed Monsieur George as a reflection of her recent work in Turkey where she renovated a palace on the Bosphorus, and also from her work on her hotel in Rabat. Combining a variety of genres, Anouska has employed all of her experience, talents, and skills in the design of this amazing hotel, creating a new Blakes in Paris…

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“Monsieur George is of very elegant origins. He comes to lunch every day, rather like Clement Freud used to at The Wolseley London. Monsieur George is particularly fond of a taste of Brie de Meaux with a shot of brandy and a cigar. He sits with a swordstick wearing a dark green velvet jacket, surrounding himself with his favorite things. The staff dance in attendance, the morning papers are scattered on a side table, the aroma of espresso comes from the bar, and a Madeleine sits waiting on a silver plate. He sets his fedora down upon his well-travelled, beaten up crocodile notebook, and so his day has begun…” – an extract from Anouska Hempel’s inspira19° tion for Monsieur George.

We might all be stuck in our own worlds, but, take heart – you’re not actually missing anything and no one is having more fun than you!!

I’m not necessarily known for my upbeat, wishfully thinking attitude, but, when it comes to #travelporn, I’m entirely onboard. This month, I’m lusting after Paris’ latest ‘boutique hôtel de luxe,’ Monsieur George. Celebrated designer, Anouska Hempel, has added her notoriously unique signature to the little black book of Paris’ elite with boutique hotel, Monsieur George. The hotel has been on the watchlist of every Parisienne insider for months and, finally, its opening date rolled around only to be thwarted by the global crisis – COVID 19. What should have been accompanied by resounding fanfare, March 2020, is the latest in a new line of hotels and indisputably an interior design masterpiece. Monsieur George is as secret as it is charming and will open under the glowing lights of the Champs-Élysées.

Launched in March 2020, the hotel offers a calm, refreshing shelter from the hustle and bustle of the busy ChampsÉlysées. Shining like a precious jewel within the crown of modern hospitality, it features 46 rooms and 3 suites set in Haussmann-style architecture, providing travellers with all the style and elegance befitting its historic location. Monsieur George, on Rue Washington, is a natural choice. The intrinsic history of the surrounding districts forms an integral part of the adventure associated with the hotel.

In acknowledgement of the illustrious first president of the United States – George Washington – Monsieur George is located on the street that was named in his honour, and reflects a degree of the character, charm and personality of this great man who so greatly impacted history. Knowing that it would take an extraordinary personality to breathe life into this special project, the hotel’s owners chose one of the most mysterious, inspired and talented designers in the world – Anouska Hempel. She was given the task of creating Monsieur George as a timeless yet modern hotel, bar and restaurant, offering a “family home” atmosphere within the busy milieu of Paris’s 8th arrondissement.

Monsieur George Reception Welcome to 5-star luxury.... Beyond the majestic, stony façade of Paris and through the discreet gates, a warm welcome is extended to each and every guest of Monsieur George.

An intimate, comfortable ambiance is immediately established, through use of abundant greenery, natural lighting, and gloriously sumptuous materials: marbles, thick piled velvets, and large mirrors.

Upon arrival, art deco steel doors invite you in, where you will be greeted by the sight of spectacular Indian lanterns hanging from the ceiling of the expansive lobby, from the new Anouska Hempel Design collection. Satisfy your wanderlust by curling up with one of the hotel’s many travel books, while smartly suited waiters serve you coffee and plates laden high with sweets.

At Monsieur George, every space is designed to ensure that your stay in Paris is wonderfully unique. Everything has been well thought out to make you feel at home, to experience a very personal, Parisian welcome with detail-orientated and seamless service.

With classic dormer windows, the rooms are all carefully designed as beautiful retreats set across 6 floors. Each floor has its own style, and each room its own unique ambiance and charm. Well-designed, simple and warm, each is an elegant space designed to please the many tastes and needs of the cosmopolitan traveller.

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Rooms range from 16m2 for a Classic room, to up to 22 m2 for an Executive room, to 24 m2 for a Deluxe room.

The Chequers rooms are named after Chequers, the 16th century country manor house residence for UK Prime Ministers, and where Dame Margaret Thatcher spent the happiest summers of her 11-year reign.

The Chequers rooms feature a delightful flooring pattern, with rough-hewn stamps making it look like a chequer board. The bathrooms are marked by their crittall windows and sliding lighting, enhancing the style of the room. Avant-garde black lacquer and biscuit-colours infuse these rooms, invigorated by the strength of Anouska Hempel’s design.

The Windsor suite and room, named after the Duke of Windsor and Mrs. Simpson, feature grey taffeta curtains, billowing velvets and gold églomisé mirrored furniture, made bespoke. These small, beautiful details catch the romantic past of a bygone era. From top to bottom, the suite and room ooze romance and glamour, much like the world-famous couple. The Windsor suite and room can also be transformed into one large single suite, for guests looking for a little extra space.

The top floor rooms – sized up to 35 m2 and including terraces – were inspired by lofty visions of floating white clouds. The Benjamin Franklin rooms and suite are named after Benjamin Franklin, the American polymath and one of the founding fathers of the United States; Franklin was also a leading writer, printer, philosopher, scientist, inventor, humourist, statesman and diplomat. These intimate Parisian attic rooms are all designed in gleaming white-on-white with pale grey motifs, and muslin under-curtains from Kerala that fly out through the small gabled windows at the top of the house. The lighting is soft, romantic and very evocative of Paris.

The Marly rooms and suite – a 45 m2 duplex with its own private garden – are fit for a king, and are a haven of luscious greens, inspired by the iconic French gardens of Marly, created for Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles. The green colour theme and textiles carry through from the bedroom into the bathroom, where dark green jasmine-scented candles hide discreetly behind a myriad of partitions and screens. Emerald greens, jade greens and deep forest greens reflect off the surfaces, suggesting unknown depths.

Extraordinary polished jades mix into the bedroom walls and onto the floors, to contain and sustain this lovely calm, yet eerily exotic ambience, bordered by shimmering silver glass and dark green chevron details.

Large lanterns twinkle Grand Theatre-style inside the four-poster beds and a myriad of patterns float across the room when this beautiful lantern is turned on at night.

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The top floor rooms – sized up to 35 m2 and including terraces – were inspired by lofty visions of floating white clouds. The Benjamin Franklin rooms and suite are named after Benjamin Franklin, the American polymath and one of the founding fathers of the United States; Franklin was also a leading writer, printer, philosopher, scientist, inventor, humourist, statesman and diplomat. These intimate Parisian attic rooms are all designed in gleaming white-on-white with pale grey motifs, and muslin under-curtains from Kerala that fly out through the small gabled windows at the top of the house. The lighting is soft, romantic and very evocative of Paris.

The Marly rooms and suite – a 45 m2 duplex with its own private garden – are fit for a king, and are a haven of luscious greens, inspired by the iconic French gardens of Marly, created for Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles. The green colour theme and textiles carry through from the bedroom into the bathroom, where dark green jasmine-scented candles hide discreetly behind a myriad of partitions and screens. Emerald greens, jade greens and deep forest greens reflect off the surfaces, suggesting unknown depths.

Extraordinary polished jades mix into the bedroom walls and onto the floors, to contain and sustain this lovely calm, yet eerily exotic ambience, bordered by shimmering silver glass and dark green chevron details. Large lanterns twinkle Grand Theatre-style inside the four-poster beds and a myriad of patterns float across the room when this beautiful lantern is turned on at night.

Leading through from the private garden of the Marly suite is a serene courtyard, where guests can enjoy the Parisian afternoon sun, or perhaps retreat to for an evening aperitif, seated at one of the outside tables and surrounded by lush greenery. The focal point of the courtyard is a decorative green enamel stove, an intriguing Art Deco artifact that adds a quirky touch to this enchanting outside space.

The 24-hour Galanga Restaurant & Bar, named after a rare ginger plant, offers a comfortable environment for allday dining, inviting Parisians and hotel visitors to enjoy special moments in Paris with refreshing breakfasts, lunches, snacks, aperitifs, afternoon teas, dinners and nightcaps, mixed for clients at any time. The restaurant can be found down a leafy walkway, lit by lanterns, where impeccable staff wait to serve you.

Menus are constantly updated by a young, enthusiastic duo: Head Chef Thomas Danigo and Premier Second Chef Simon Pinault, both under 30 years of age, but already very experienced. Together, they combine freshness, creativity, and tradition. They offer a full range of dishes from simple meals to world-renowned cuisine and are committed to delivering an interesting culinary experience.

The bar, meanwhile, sits within the restaurant area and offers an impressive cocktail menu with traditional drinks and numerous house creations, which will surprise amateurs as well as more experienced clientele seeking new concoctions.

Located near the kitchen is the Monsieur George Wine Cellar – housing a very special selection of the most amazing clarets of Bordeaux and other world-renowned wines, carefully preserved and made available for the “Table d’Amis.” This is a private dining area within the cellar itself, where guests can enjoy special moments in private, setting the world to rights while enjoying a glass of fine wine and a delicious platter of speciality cheeses.

Put Your French Foodie Foot Forward

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BY DA I SY S E L L S V PRCO M M AG

In the basement, a spa, created by yoga club Le Tigre (the ultimate benchmark for health and well-being), offers custom programmes including special yoga courses, fitness sessions, therapeutic massages, and a wide variety of aesthetic services. There is also a gym, a sauna and a hammam.

Enjoy a stay at the newly opened Monsieur George and experience Paris at its best!

MONSIEUR GEORGE 17 Rue Washington 75008 Paris www.monsieurgeorge.com “When you wander along Rue Washington, you suddenly come across the glorious, gorgeous, sensational, extraordinary Monsieur George. Top hat and tails, feathers from beyond, a twinkling fantasy of a bohemian rhapsody in deepest, darkest green. Coco Chanel resided within this setting. Mata Hari had her heyday here. Gregory Peck left his Brasserie, Les Deux Magots, to sit on Audrey Hepburn’s lap, and Lady Gaga has just moved in – and within this scenario enters Monsieur George....” Anouska Hempel

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AFÉ LOMI COFFEE / BRUNCH / TAKE AWA/ WIFI This artisan coffee roaster has been supplying some of the city’s most discerning hotels, restaurants and cafés for years. Come and sample their fine brews – espresso and drip filtered – in this cute café located in a forgotten part of the 18th. 3ter rue Marcadet, 75018 | www.cafelomi.com

CHAMBELLAND BREAD / GLUTEN FREE / ORGANIC / TAKE AWAY / TERRACE Dedicated to gluten-free breads, tarts and other pastries, this bakery makes its own flour with buckwheat and rice sourced from producers in the Camargue, and on the Pô plain in Italy, which are then milled in their dedicated mill in the south of France. 14 rue Ternaux, 75011 | www.chambelland.com

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RESTAURANTS DU PAIN & DES IDÉES BREAD / BREAKFAST / COFFEE / ORGANIC / TERRACE Some of the best bread and viennoiseries you’ll find in Paris – and now serving coffee – from passionate baker Christophe Vasseur, and located in one of the city’s original old bakeries. 34 rue Yves-Toudic, 75010 | www.dupainetdesidees.com

Du Pain

JACQUES GÉNIN CAKES / CHOCOLATE / TEA ROOM A minimal temple to Jacques Génin’s awe-inspiring chocolates and confectionery. His equally good cakes can be sampled in the tea room.

133 rue de Turenne, 75003 | jacquesgenin.fr BOULANGERIE BRUN BREAD / CAKES Located on a big intersection out in the 13th, this bakery took home the prize for the best baguette in Paris in 2017, and so wins the honour of supplying the President at the Élysée Palace for a year. Test the crusty baguette tradition for yourself. 193 rue de Tolbiac, 75013.

Jacques Genin

LA MANUFACTURE DU CHOCOLAT ALAIN DUCASSE CHOCOLATE One of the very few artisanal chocolate makers in France to master the entire process, from sourcing then roasting the cocoa beans to hand-making each superb individual chocolate. 40 rue de la Roquette, 75011 | www.lechocolat-alainducasse.com

LES NIÇOIS BAR / GROCERY / MODERN FRENCH / SMALL PLATES / TAKE AWAY Come here for a quick fix of sunshine and insouciance, and a taste of Mediterranean classics such as pan bagnat, salad Nicoise, or pissaladière, washed down with a glass of rosé. PS: You can also play petanque in the basement! 7 rue Lacharrière, 75011 | www.lesnicois.com

MIZNON 5 MEDITERRANEAN / TAKE AWAY Everyone’s excited about this Israeli street food canteen set up by respected Tel-Aviv restaurateur Eyal Shani. Line up for your fresh pita filled with a daily changing menu of everything from steak and egg, stuffed cabbage, to ratatouille and lamb kebab. 22 rue des Ecouffes, 75004 | www.facebook. com/miznonparis

LA POINTE DU GROUIN CLASSIC FRENCH / BUDGET / NON-STOP / TERRACE An eccentric but gourmet spot from chef Thierry Breton draws the crowds with an excellent seasonal menu of small plates, at low prices. And the bread is baked on site too. 8 rue de Belzunce, 75010 | www. lapointedugrouin.com

SAUVAGE 6 MODERN EURO / WINE BAR Chef-owner Sébastien Leroy expresses all his artistry in this wonderful little cave à manger. From a small kitchen at the back, he orchestrates symphonies of flavour across a short blackboard menu and a natural wine list. 60 rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006

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Boulangerie brun

CLAUS BREAKFAST / COFFEE / TAKE AWAY / WIFI This stylish café specialises in Frühstück (that’s breakfast in German) and is just across the street

CAFÉ FOUFOU BREAKFAST / BRUNCH / COFFEE / JUICE / ORGANIC / TERRACE All-day organic breakfasts – eggs anyway, scones, porridge, toast – and a wide selection of fruit and vegetable juices made to order, plus great coffee! There’s even dedicated parking for your bike. 10 rue Oberkampf, 75011

WALY-FAY 7 AFRO-CARRIBBEAN Twenty years on, this elegant restaurant keeps on sharing the love, and the pleasures of “soul food” from the Carribbean and West Africa: accra, boudin, mafé, thiep, yassa, n’dole… paired with French wines, and a long list of rum! 6 rue Godefroy-Cavaignac, 75011

CHEZ OMAR 9 ALGERIAN Omar Guerda was one of the first to introduce North African flavours to Parisians. Since the ’70s, everyone from next-door neighbours and international artists have been rubbing shoulders and enjoying great couscous at his Marais restaurant. 7 rue de Bretagne, 75003 | chez-omar.com

POP IN BAR / GRUNGY / LIVE MUSIC Still going strong after two decades, this much-loved temple to indie music is always a good idea. Bands and DJs play in the basement. 105 rue Amelot, 75011 | www.popin.fr

Paris Views Photographer: Marie Dashkova IG: www.instagram.com/melodyphoto FB: www.facebook.com/marie.dashkova WB: http://melodyphoto

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Celebrity Shopping With Alessandro Ruocco

By West Coast Fashion Editor Galina Antonova

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Alessandro and Huda Kattan

Okay, we know this article isn’t about French fashion, but we couldn’t pass up talking about Alessandro Ruocco. Alessandro is the go to stylist for celebrities and we just had to expose our readers to him. Alessandro began working as with fashion designers at the ripe age of 16 years old. During his university years he studied fashion at Accademia della Moda in Naples on a scholarship. He graduated in 2008 and immediately started to work between Naples, Paris and Milan. In 2012 he opened his first concept store, Wonderland Capri, a mix of unique vintage goodies and new designers. Shortly after opening the store became the “go to” place for socialites and celebrities, he then started stying for major magazines and celebrities.

Even though the store absorbs much of his time, he’s also a fashion consultant, designer of upcycled brand “Sun of a Beach”, marketing advisor for many brands and also artistic director together with founder Ludovica virga of the brand House of Mua Mua.

Wonderland is a concept store that mixes vintage, from the best labels (dolce&gabbana, Lanvin,Thierry Mugler, Vivienne Westwood, Chanel, Hermès, Céline, Pucci,Valentino etc) with new designers that they search from all over the globe. It has become the new it place for fashionistas, fashion bloggers and for everyone who’s a lil bit different from that “capri-clichè”.

It’s a simple quite and fun place when you can talk to the personal and enjoy good music (obviously vintage) a nice view and shopping quality at very good prices.

Among shoppers are Kris Jenner, Kym K, Dallas Austin, Balthazar Ghetty, Jesse Jo Stark, Katy Perry and so on.

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Eat Macaron’s!

A staple at any French Bakery, macaron’s (pronounced: ma·kr·aan). This majestic pastry as it is known today, composed of two almond meringue discs filled with a layer of buttercream, jam, or ganache filling, was originally called the “Gerbet” or the

If All Else Fails; Act French!

Sit outside at your local cafe and sip a Noisette nwah|Zett. Une noisette is the French equivalent of the Italian macchiato.

It’s a shot of espresso with a drop or two of milk or cream and served in the same espresso cup that café is served in

“Paris macaron.”

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Hop on your bike and ride to the nearest bakery. You’ll definitely feel like a Parisian

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If you’re not so lucky to live in a chic Parisian apartment such as the one piciured, then fake it and decorate your living space like a Parisian

Shop for flowers like a Parisian at your local farmers market!

YO UR S M A L L C A P T IO N T YP E H ER E

French Beauty

Traditional/Aurey Tautou

laid back

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Rocker

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Ode to French Beauty

Face

For the face, I apply - and only very sparingly - a couple dots of my Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation.

This helps to even out my complexion a little, without trying to smother every single pimple or spot of redness. The luminous silk foundation is also perfect for adding that extra little bit of sheen - especially if you’re feeling particularly Parisian today.

BY J O D I E C AMPBELL

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Starts from within

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Base

The French are fans of minimalistic make-up, so: forget your high-coverage foundation, bronzing powder and incandescent under-eye concealer. This takes some getting used to: if you’re used to an air-brushed complexion, 0 eye-bags and sculptured cheek-bones, embracing pure, unadulterated parisian chic is no walk under the Arc de Triomphe. To ease this transition, however, are two fabulously French recommendations: the Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Moisturiser, and the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo. The French certainly know how to do dewy - these two moisturisers leave your skin feeling, and looking, plump and hydrated (not sticky and heavy, or dry and flaky). It’s no wonder the French have so many beautiful nouns and adjectives to define this look: from fraicheur (freshness) to éclat (radiance).

To achieve that coveted Bambi-eyed look a little more naturally, therefore, one can opt for sculpting blurred/soft eye-liner flicks using a chocolate-brown pencil. This can also be added a millimetre or so from the lower lash line, to give the illusion of bigger eyes. Alternatively, an intense, clear-cut flick is equally Parisienne, often sported by the likes of it-girl, Lily-Rose Depp, and the Brit connoisseur of French style, Alexa Chung.

For the lids, opt for airy pastels or flesh-coloured tones - even a dash of concealer will do. If you’re feeling a little more moody, however, go for more reddish/bronzed/ brown tones, but keep them light in application and around the entire circumference of the eye, so as to imitate slightly more pronounced eye-sockets as opposed to smokeyeye-slip-up.

The French have a proverb which goes: quand on a pas ce que l’on aime, il faut aimer ce que l’on a.

It translates directly as: when one doesn’t have what one loves, it’s necessary to love what one has. Such applies as much to beauty as it does to life. Ageing, sleep deprivation, UV rays and the dry, recirculated air of our quarantine cabins - all of these undesirable and unavoidable phenomenons are unkind to the best of us.

It is important, therefore, in spite of what our beauty ideals entail and whether we deem ourselves reflective of those, that we ought to love, and take responsibility for, what we have. And that includes our skin.

The skin, like many of us women, is the most complex organ of all - and the largest. And thus, as the French often attest, it is important, with regards to skincare, to start from within. Lockdown provides the perfect time to rajeunir: that is, to form new, clean, and conscious, habits. Plus, its a great way to conjure some kind of a routine, especially if quarantine has you feeling restless and unproductive (like the best of us). Drink lots of water, forgo processed foods, throw in some yoga shapes. Establish an evening skincare regime even if you haven’t so much as donned a slather of lipbalm or soaked up a single ray today. My current skin-saving favourite is the Pixi Glow Tonic: at a pretty modest £18, this product is perhaps the best 250ml of liquid I have ever purchased. And that includes wine.

an night-time look may incorporate a little je ne sais quoi, their day-time looks command clean lines and seductive simplicity.

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Brows

Simple, simple, simple. Put down chunky brow pencils or pomades. Embrace your brows: their gaps, their stray hairs, the way they recede at the beginning or the end. For piece of mind, simply brush through some clear or tinted brow mascara - or, if you’re feeling extra funky, fresh and Parisienne: opts for the likes of vaseline, soap, or the fabulously multi-use Elizabeth Arden’s 8 hour cream (a firm recommendation - this fixes just about everything, I’d lather it all over my problems like butter if I could).

37° And, as much as you want to, leave the bronzer alone: the French take an enhancement perspective on makeup that is, if you don’t have it, don’t put it there. Or, in other words: quand on a pas ce que l’on aime, il faut aimer ce que l’on a. Makeup is simply a tool with which you complement, or intensify, what you already have: this prevents any additional glam looking staged or over-done. The face is meant to be seamless; unaffected.

You may, however, pick up your blush brush. That is: we may not be born contoured, but our noses and ears are, rather naturally, nibbled by harsh winds; our cheeks flushed by compliments or embarrassment. The French particularly love their hearty, rich tones, as full-bellied as their chateaupneuf du papes. As such, I often dot my vampy, red lipstick and blend this in as blusher. It works a treat (and saves you having to fork out for a blusher, too).

My final addition, I must confess, normally constitutes some faux freckles. Yes, while this completely defeats the whole Parisian don’t fake it till you make it mantra, I must allow an exception for freckles. Why? Because freckles don’t contort your face in any way: and, actually, make any foundation/concealer you do apply all the more natural. In other words: your *freckles* are showing through, so you technically didn’t apply any anyway? Right?

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Eyes I find it particularly hard not to cave in and carry out a full glam, smokey eye look - even in the lesser demands of mother nature’s daylight hours. But, as I said before, the French are all about minimalism: and while a Parisi-

4. Lips The simplicity of the eyes allows for a pop of colour on the lips. The traditionally French go-to, however, is that of a vampy red lip. What is their obsession with such rouged lèvres? My only guess is that of its symbolism: this furiously full-blooded yet flush and rosy tone delivers immediate connotations of sexuality, dominance, self-assurance. Females of times far gone smothered concoctions of red ochre and wax as their very own brand of war paint. It was once condemned by a British government - this war paint being confused for witchcraft - and has made its debut, and re-debut, on many a Queen, actress, model, muse, activist.

Or perhaps its just good for hiding that Châteauneufdu-Pape stain after one too many a glass: la sorcellerie, non?

THE HERITAGE OF CHANTECALLE

by Lucie Dhog

Known for their pioneering formulas and use of botanical ingredients, Chantecaille redefines luxury with a philanthropic slant. Founder Sylvie Chantecaille turned her passions for beauty and environmental responsibility into a family-run global brand that has set a standard in natural skincare and cosmetics since the mid-90s.

At the core of Chantecaille’s ethos is a focus on the relationship between nature and science.

The brand uses their platform to help protect endangered animals; they work closely with organisations like the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Elephant Family, as well as their own ‘Africa’s Vanishing Species’ initiative.

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Chantecaille’s aesthetic focuses on products that nourish the skin whilst achieving a flawless finish. Their skincare range is based on extracts of rose de mai, a precious flower that blooms for only two weeks in May, at which point the petals are harvested at their peak and gently water-distilled to maintain its high concentration of Vitamin C. Foundations are lightweight, with innovative formulas like the Just Skin Tinted Moisturiser, fusing a velvet-textured sheer base with thyme and butterfly bush extracts for their antioxidant properties.

Chantecaille was one of the first in the industry to source pure and natural botanical ingredients, with extracts from plant stem cells used for their anti ageing properties in beautiful formulations that stay true to every aspect of Sylvie’s vision.

Hydrating lip colours and silky eyeshadow pans from their limited edition collections are embossed to highlight at-risk animals; the brand donates a portion of the proceeds from sales to ethical causes that work to protect some of our most endangered species, from elephants to monarch butterflies, sea turtles, wolves, cheetahs, tigers, lions, honey bees, and the diminishing coral reefs.

Rarely do we see an independent cruelty-free luxury brand with an all encompassing environmental ethos. With super-charged natural products and a clear conscience, Chantecaille is truly unparalleled in the beauty industry.

The Little Little Black Book of Beauty FOR FACIALS

Joëlle Ciocco Dubbed as the best facial by celebrities (fans include Natalie Portman and Carine Roitfeld) and industry insiders, Joëlle’s magic touch is one of Paris’ best-kept beauty secrets. Here you can enjoy a gentle treatment that leaves you smooth, glowing and plumped-up for at least three days. It’s perfect for those who are jetlagged or generally feeling puffy and tired.

Visit Joelle-Ciocco.com

FOR BEAUTY CARE

Buly Store Stocking everything from pretty toothpastes to luxe hand creams and perfumes, there are two of these you must check out if you’re on the hunt for new beauty finds. One can be found on Rue Saintonge while the other is based on Rue Bonaparte. Insiders recommend visiting the one on Rue Saintonge for the ultimate Parisian experience. With a coffee bar inside, they’re set to open a spa in September and are introducing ‘Le Comptoir des Services,’ where you can bring anything you’ve brought for engraving and personalisation – you can get your treats wrapped in luxe, leather fabrics, too.

Visit Buly1893.com

FOR A GREAT CUT 40°

Delphine Courteille Parisians claim that some women come especially from Brazil, America and Italy to have their haircut here. Not only are you in impeccably safe hands, the salon itself feels very private and luxe and is located in a courtyard set off the beaten track for extra peace. Expect to leave with that cool-girl texture you’ve always craved and a slick cut that looks ultra-glossy. Side note: Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities too, as rumour has it this salon is a hit with some top A-listers.

Visit DelphineCourteille.com

By Daisy Sells Vprcommag

FOR YOGA OR BOXING

Chez Simone If you want to take on yoga or up your fitness, head to Chez Simone’s chic apartment where you can take different workshops with pro trainers. Warm, welcome and calming, the whole environment motivates you to feel good and relax – no matter your skillset. There’s also the addition of FRESH skincare and body treats post-workout, along with acai bowls and aperitif boards to keep you going.

Visit ChezSimone.fr

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FOR BEAUTY STAPLES & TOP-UPS

Visit: Le Bon Marche Founded in 1852, this art deco department store is wellknown for providing shoppers with the ultimate shopping experience. It remains a mecca to Parisians and tourists looking to fill their wardrobes and beauty kits. Expect to find everything from your go-to Diptyque fragrance right through to niche brands you’ve never heard of and pretty packaging that makes for the ultimate present. Just be sure to reserve a whole day for a visit here – you could find yourself hooked for hours.

Visit LeBonMarche.com

FOR SOLO SPA DAYS

FOR HAIR TREATMENTS & COLOUR

Christophe Robin

Hammam Pacha If you’ve ever wanted to try a Turkish bath, head to Hammam Pacha. Featuring colourful tiles (keep your phone handy), a beautiful steam room and treatments that vary from facials to intense, deep massages, you’ll instantly unwind in this zen environment. Pop in for a quick treatment or stay for the whole day – the choice is yours.

Visit HammamPacha.com

Haircare meets wellness at Christophe Robin’s beautiful salon located at 16 Rue Bachaumount, 75002. With incredible scalp massages and luxe treatments on offer, it’s the place for intense treatments that leave your hair feeling revitalised and fresh. Book in for the full reclining chair experience if you’re in need of serious relaxation. Our favourite bit? If you want to pop in and try the world-renowned products you can. Assistants will come and help you suds up before you blow dry at your own convenience – ideal if you’re time-poor or just want to get a feel for the brand.

Visit ChristopheRobin.co.uk FOR THAI MASSAGE & CHINESE MEDICINE Ladda Massage

FOR LUXE TREATMENTS

Nuxe Spa Elegant and cosy, the Nuxe Spa is a luxe space dedicated to beauty and wellbeing.

The ultimate place to relax and unwind, head here when you have a whole day to switch off and enjoy the facilities fully. Treatments use the spa’s signature products for an addictive, coconut scent that lingers all day long. Whether you opt for a massage, facial or mani/pedi, you’ll get the highest service possible with amazing results to boot.

Visit Fr.Nuxe.com

Located on a rooftop in Paris, this is definitely the place to go if you like your massages in private, serene spots. Delivering deep Thai massages along with reflexology, they have a huge terrace where you can enjoy some relaxation and tea post-treatment – heaven.

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FOR SPINNING CLASSES

Dynamo Think of this as the French version of Soul Cycle – intense, fun classes that run both morning and night with a mood-boosting soundtrack that keeps you going through the burn. The classes are 50 minutes long and focus on fast-paced cardio, muscle toning and working the biceps and triceps. Prices start from 15 euros but can vary depending on whether you purchase a pack all at once.

You’re guaranteed to walk out feeling invigorated, and a little shaky – but in the best possible way.

Visit Dynamo-Cycling.com

FOR FRENCH PHARMACY FINDS

Oh My Cream Store If you’re in a rush or doing a whistle-stop tour of the city, get your fill of French pharmacy buys here at this aesthetically-pleasing store. It has every product for your skincare needs – from niche to well-known. You’ll want everything on the shelves for the covetable packaging and pharmaceutical formulas.

En.OhMyCream.com

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ow that we have infinitely more time on our hands, there really is no excuse NOT to be researching and getting responsible with our personal and health care…

Time to get WILD and embrace the new, fully biodegradable, and compostable refill deodorant.

Getting Personal With Morrana 44°

Notorious for challenging the cosmetics industry with their range of sustainable refillable bathroom products, creative studio, Morrama, have created the Wild deodorant to have minimal impact on the environment, featuring a refill made of 100% recyclable bamboo pulp, whilst maintaining the design qualities that inspire customers to impact positive change to their daily lives.

Over 250 million deodorants are bought in the UK every year, with the average lifespan of a typical plastic deodorant pack lasting over 400 years after it has been used. Wild aims to change this fact for the better.

Wild’s deodorant design is minimal and intuitive. The case slides apart to remove and insert the refill and the user experience is not compromised by its sustainability factors.. Made from bamboo pulp, the refills 45° are 100% plastic-free and are fully recyclable once a user is finished with them. It’s completely natural and organic ingredients also mean the deodorant itself is considered to technically be edible.

BY DAI SY SELLS VPRCOM M M AGA ZI N E

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Travel Top 5 Spots to Stay While in France

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Jo Barnard, founder of Morrama, comments, “Refillable deodorants are not a new thing, but no one has yet been able to make the refills 100% plastic free. Year after year we use and discard bathroom products without considering what happens to them. So we took on the challenge to develop a refill that has zero impact on the environment once it has been used. Paper pulp molding has provided us with the answer, enabling a bespoke design for the refill that works in conjunction with the case. We are really proud of the innovative way we have been able rethink cosmetic packaging - one of the industry’s’ biggest polluters - and to have a more positive environmental impact. We designed the WILD deodorant with every minor detail taken into consideration. From the size, shape, colour and ease of user experience, through to its recyclability and sustainable credentials. It has been designed as a truly premium product experience, but at an affordable price.”

By Daisy Sells

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With an aluminium and recycled plastic case, WILD is a unisex deodorant available in a number of colours and scents - including Rose Blush, Coconut Dreams, and Mint Fresh – and is designed to be used again and again; significantly reducing the impact consumers are having on the planet.

The WILD deodorant products can be sent out direct to customers and are small enough to fit in a UK large letter size, saving over £2 per pack in postage.

Preorder a WILD deodorant here: www.wearewild.com

Kube Hoiel Paris

Wandering around the communal spaces and corridors of this deliciously quirky Paris hotel I could see snatches of each sin…greed heavily revolved around banknotes, anger around red black and revolvers and lust was like immersing yourself inside a racy corset! The unique pristine pure white lounge has to be seen to be believed and the friendly staff and the general tongue-in-cheek but relaxed atmosphere also add to the experience. A novel and very hip hotel in Paris which cannot fail to inject a bit of fun into your stay!

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W

e may be grounded, but, one of my favourite pastimes during this apocalyptic time is finding #travelporn to help me idle away the time.

For our first issue of VPRCOMMAG, we are channelling our inner Parisienne and finding new places to lay our hats, when we have hats which can be laid.

For some truly eccentric options, here are our top five spots for sleeping in the city…

Vice Versa Hotel A cake themed room you say? Fantastic! This 4-star exceptionally rated Paris gem is kitsch and conceptual from the floorboards to rafters so it may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it sure was mine. Vice Versa Hotel‘s seven floors are themed each representing one of the seven deadly sins, I stayed with the gluttons and my bed was a cupcake and my lamps were teapots – happy days indeed! The 15th arr. location is also pretty fabulous, only a short walk from Convention Metro Station which will take you directly to the Champs Elysées – a great choice for romance, monuments and city walks.

Hotel Crayon Rouge A wonderfully flamboyant mid-range but exceptionally rated hotel in Paris which is about as far away from a sterile chain hotel as you can possibly get. Think of the Hotel Crayon Rouge like the perfect French macaron; small, colourful, and bursting with individual flavour! It’s also located in an outstanding area located in the historic centre of Paris, right next to Palais Royal and within walking distance of all the Parisian favourites such as the Musée de Louvre, Notre Dame and the River Seine. The wonderfully trendy retro/modern interiors at this hip Paris hotel offer more than a whiff of seventies nostalgia, and a riot of tangy colour schemes, imaginative printed wallpapers and retro flea market finds, offering a true visual feast. Expect a laid-back but chic guesthouse ambiance, oh and a marvellous wine bar too!

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25hours Hotel Terminus Nord The perfect combination of classic architecture and a hip atmosphere, this fun and funky 4-star hotel is located within one of the busiest parts of Paris. Marketed as a new-gen lifestyle hotel it’s surrounded by shops, swanky restaurants, and only a short walk from the Louvre, it has a wonderful central location. Aside from comfortable beds and delicious food, each room at 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord also benefits from a rainfall showerhead – adding an element of luxury and relaxation to your stay.

The rooms have incredibly unique deocr (think lashings of quirkiness mixed with hi-tech comforts) and the fusion restaurant and cocktail bar are cosy yet comfortable, giving you a sense of home away from home, and views of the city can be seen from every window. You also have the benefit of an onsite fusion restaurant, a fun cocktail bar, bicycles for rent and free Mini hire, depending on your needs.

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Kube Hotel One for all the trendy jet-setters and party-goers out there, this ultra-cool and highly rated conceptual Paris design hotel can be found in the lively Chapelle district not too far from Moulin Rouge, Sacré Coeur and the beautiful Montmartre district (and only a 2-minute walk from La Chapelle Metro station which provides direct access to Gare du Nord and Stade de France). Don’t be fooled by the Kube Hotel‘s classic stone-built exterior, it cunningly belies the bold and futuristic delights waiting just inside.

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Check-in at the wonderful perspex cube reception (located in the courtyard) and step through the hotel doors to find a multi-faceted Plexi-glass cube adorned with funky faux sofas, hanging perspex ‘bubble’ chairs, colourful bean bags, designer furniture and plasma screens creating a wonderfully eclectic contemporary kitsch ambiance (think Boogie Nights and Saturday Night Fever mixed with Blade Runner or Space Odyssey!).

The rooms are pretty high-tech too and many are home to funky hanging beds and more lashings of perspex.

Although arguably the hotel’s real show stopper, is its very own Ice Bar carved out of 25 tons of ice, where at minus ten degrees Celsius, visitors – and random celebrities – can sup on vodka-based cocktails well into the early hours!

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Actually the boat is more like a catamaran and the highly-rated Off Paris Seine has two rows rooms stacked over two levels but connected by a narrow stretch of a sky-lit communal space complete with a swimming pool, a bar and a sun deck adorned by lounge chairs. The room decor is equally as fancy with modern minimalist decor, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs. Opt for a suite and expect feature in-room soaking tubs or four-poster beds. All rooms at this very cool Parisian hotel offer either gorgeous river or docks views (of course)!

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Off Paris Seine An ultra-chic 4-star hotel/boat hybrid that is currently making waves in Paris. Moored on the beautiful Seine River on the newly trendy Left Bank (just a 4 minutes’ walk from Austerlitz metro/RER station and 2 km from Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris) the city’s latest designer hotel offering is the French capital’s first floating hotel and this being Paris they’ve gone all out.

I N T ERV I EW BY DA I SY S EL L S A RT I S T RO SA L I E OA K M A N

I am forever in awe of the courage and passion that comes from the people around me. I would describe as a menagerie of the unconventional. Whether it be music, art, theatre or performance, we all have something in common, art is our language and our love. The first artist that I could think of is a true commentator of the world around, she inspires those around her to explore themselves and boldly follow your desires. Meet Rosalie Oakman…

• Tell us a little bit about you…

Always a tricky one to answer. Don’t really know what to say! I’m 25. I was born and raised in France to an English father and a French mum with two sisters and grew up in the countryside quite far from everything. The remoteness was, now I think back, really a chance for me and my art. I finished a bachelor last year in The BeauxArts de Angers and came to London to do another Bachelors Degree in textile design at Chelsea College of Art. I am a kind of eternal student at the moment, it gives me the time to experiment and learn things ... and you always need time in Art. • What inspires you?

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I’m like a child seeing things for the first time.

Everything is inspiring. You can catch me often gazing at very basic objects, places... even plants … but the thing that really turns me on is people. They are so fascinating.

• Can you share with us your creative journey to where you are now?

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Art with Rosalie Oakman

Sure! It all started back in (December) 2013, so not that long ago. I had just come back from the U.K. were I got declined for a job which I really wanted, my feelings and depression left me searching for the “meaning of life,” something Which seemed very far from me then and is still so now. I got a Job in Paris as a receptionist in Clarins.

I was always doodling on the phone or just by boredom.

The days could be quite long. Some people working there took an interest in my activity and encouraged me to do more, I also got told off by my boss for doing that because it was not matching the image of the brand. I was 19 then.

After working there for about six months my colleagues and friends pushed me to do Art, to go and study Art because I had something. I couldn’t see it my self and was searching for a “serious life quest”, studying law, business, management being able to make my family proud and to pay the bills without a fear of tomorrow. Turns out Art is the most serious and fulfilling thing I’ve ever done. And so this is were my creative journey begins. Then I got into a foundation in Arts in LISAA Paris .. I really struggled at first working In a bar at the same time and juggling with both things. The course was quite intense and it was hard for me to keep on working. I was terrible at drawing -life drawing, people ..

I could only do coloured doodles. But I wanted it, I wanted it so badly that I worked and worked. And suddenly things happened, they changed and I got better at it.

After that I went to the Beaux-Arts D’Angers were i studied 4years. I was, however, battling myself and a massive depression, entered a really dark phase for quite a while.

When I graduated I left France and everyone that I had there just because I know that I have to be here and study and work here. Even if I don’t really know the why’s.

• What has been the inspiration behind your recent work?

I have phases. And it always a question of time. At the moment I’m working/helping out a family during covid-19. So I don’t have much time and it is precious. I installed a painting studio in my bathroom, I’m painting a nude (self-portrait) of a women putting her thong on in the bathroom.. I’m also painting a portrait of another women. Just got caught by her gaze. On the textile part I’m doing loads of embroidery sample to get better at it and learn new techniques. I created a mask with one of those embroideries, and I am thinking of doing quite a few. I’m also drawing quite a bit mostly around the female body.

Representing women, alone, facing themselves.

• How would you define your style and how has it evolved over the years?

I don’t think I really have a style. I think - and I hopethat my images are rough and create emotion. Whatever they are, because they do that for me. They are life. I’ve been told that I paint in a rough, dirty way .. that it’s messy but somehow brings the quality of it. I’m trying to draw the most faithfully as I can and I never know how a drawing will finish. My embroidery is very minutions at the moment I am trying to get deeper in it. The evolution over those last five years and a half have been spectacularfor me. I swear I couldn’t draw before, I couldn’t paint or stitch.. so something happened yes. Things have evolved but I don’t have enough distance to speak properly about it now.

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tive arts?

For that I would need a career in the creative arts. And my journey is just starting:) I’d say to whoever and whenever you are in your journey to never give up on yourself and work for it. If you do it, it will work something will happen never let go. Might sound utopian but it is a thing.

• What 3 words describe your work?

People, driven and scattered.

Passion, hectic and vibrant I don’t really know three words might need to think about this one • Where do you see yourself in five years time?

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The covid situation is putting a vail on things. I have to lift it and figure out what I’ll be doing and what will be sustainable after that. Ideally I would love to work as an artist and as a textile designer, creating all the time and living a hectic life of Art. • Do you have a favourite medium to work in?

I love everything. Until I can get my hands dirty, play with materials and Colors .. you’ve got me going.

• How is the current COVID crisis affecting your creativity?

As I said I am working full time in a family keeping their two little ones. They asked me and I thought that being helpful in that period even on this small scale was a good thing to do. So I moved in with them, created that studio in my bathroom .. now it’s hard to find the time and space I would like to create but as soon as I see an opportunity I take it. So I’m now getting up really early to work before work and I work on my lunch breaks and on weekends. So this period is really hectic!!

• What advice can you give those seeking a career in the crea-

• Who or what is your greatest inspiration?

Tough one, well I’d say people inspire me the most.

• Can you share 3 things people don’t know about you?

If I told you about it what would be the point? The most violent things or things that are not meant to be known I always put and apply in my work. So they get discovered quite quickly.

• What is art?

Art is life.

• How do you seek out opportunities?

I talk and meet people. I go up to them. I try and sometimes it works.

• What does your work aim to say?

It a scream, I don’t know what it is screaming but it is an absolute necessity to me in every way possible.

• Which artists and designers who inspire you?

Schiele, J.Saville, F. Kupka, L. Freud, F. Bacon, I. Van Herpen, T. Mugler,

• How does your work comment on current social or political issues?

• How do you navigate the art world?

(It depends of the representation and materials used. But it is very often linked to social movements even if I don’t do it on purpose. Nowadays I’m representing the violent -and not so violent- truth of loneliness and criticising the ridiculous aspect of us not really knowing what we are doing and trying to maintain that mask, that illusion of normality/ and if I may use the term absurd/superficial mask of a normal cool life on social media

I don’t navigate .. I live.

• Which current art world trends are you following?

I’m looking at everything.. I don’t follow trends I don’t believe in that. I believe it what amazes me. And it is a lot of things. At the moment I have a huge fascination on painting and on the techniques some contemporary artists have to create such beautiful volume and textures to represent face and bodies of people.

https://issuu.com/rosalie.oakman/docs/2020final

If you want names of www.rosalieoakman.wixsite.com/rosalieoakman

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Vprcomm Magazine Culture

Wear and Share When London-based creative brand agency Perq Studio wanted to find a smart solution to provide support to the NHS and raise awareness of their hard work, founder and strategist Laura Gifford turned to what she knows best - design.

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Perq Studio’s design team pulled together a solution to show their appreciation and quickly provide immediate relief for our heroic healthcare workers during the COVID-19 crisis. They quickly set up a fundraising campaign called the ‘Wear and Share’ collection to bring together great design for a good cause,and help shape the world for good.

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This was Perq Studio’s own unique way of showing their own gratitude and thanks: “Just like the rest of Britain, the Perq Studio team has been overwhelmed by the level of commitment our NHS heroes are demonstrating day after day as we navigate this crisis. We were racking our brains trying to find a way we could show our support, while honouring their requests for us all to stay home.”

Perq Studio’s partnered up and collaborated with the ethically led and sustainable textile initiative, A.M. Custom Clothing. Together, they have launched a range of high quality tees and totes in bold royal blue fair-trade cotton, emblazoned with a minimalist illustrative heart logo on the front and a dual message of #ThanksHealthHeroes and ‘Stay Home’ on the back to continue promoting this important message.

BY DA I SY S ELLS

The design and web development of this new collection was a pro-bono contribution by the creative agency, along with the products and labour donated at cost to raise funds for the NHS Charities COVID-19 Urgent Appeal.

Applying strategic thinking and creative skills, Perq’s team hope their ‘Wear and Share’ initiative will not only help raise money to support the NHS, but also encourage a sense of community within a disconnected society.

Support the NHS and join the ‘Wear and Share’ initiative.

V P RCO M M AG

The New Normal for London Fashion Week

By Daisy Sells

Caroline Rush CBE, BFC Chief Executive commented: “It is essential to look at the future and the opportunity to change, collaborate and innovate. Many of our businesses have always embraced London Fashion Week as a platform for not just fashion but for its influence on society, identity and culture. The current pandemic is leading us all to reflect more poignantly on the society we live in and how we want to live our lives and build businesses when we get through this.

The other side of this crisis, we hope will be about sustainability, creativity and product that you value, respect, cherish. By creating a cultural fashion week platform, we are adapting digital innovation to best fit our needs today and something to build on as a global showcase for the future. Designers will be able to share their stories, and for those that have them, their collections, with a wider global community; we hope that as well as personal perspectives on this difficult time, there will be inspiration in bucketloads. It is what British fashion is known for.”

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F

or an industry that, to the casual observer, might seem rather fickle and unpredictable, the concept of declaring a trend that will remain constant for an entire year is not only unprecedented but unimaginable too.

So, when The British Fashion Council announced last week that, for the next twelve months, ALL London Fashion Weeks would be merging into an entirely new entity, multiple influential minds were boggled.

The first event of the seasons to be tested and affected will be, what, historically, would have been London Fashion Week Men’s and will take a new form, as a digital-only platform in light of the current environment. The women’s and men’s wear collections will be integrated and curated on to a digital platform www.londonfashionweek.co.uk which will relaunch and be for both trade and consumer audiences; embracing the cultural commentary, creativity and humorous spirit for which British fashion and London are known for.

London Fashion Week June 2020 will put storytelling at its heart and give a voice to British fashion businesses and creatives, allowing them to tell their stories in these extraordinary times by tapping into London’s cultural zeitgeist and highlighting its position as a global multi-cultural city. Bringing the fashion community together, the platform will host exclusive multimedia content from designers, creatives, artists and brand partners, enabling collaboration and bringing together fashion, culture and technology.

We may all have fallen through the looking glass, but, s ome things are infinitely more stuck in their ways and I fear that ‘The great divide’, which one can only assume that BFC are trying to bridge, may, in fact, be reinforced as the fashion industry’s ego learns how to welcome and accommodate the expansion of LFW to the public whilst the new initiative comes in to effect.

This new digital experience will be another step forward for LFWs as it will be entirely open to a global public and trade audience, working as a meet-up point, networking opportunity, communal virtual work hub as well as offering streams of interviews, podcasts, designer diaries, webinars and digital showrooms.

“The current pandemic is leading us all to reflect more poignantly on the society we live in and how we want to live our lives and build businesses when we get through this. The other side of this crisis, we hope will be about sustainability, creativity and product that you value, respect, cherish.”

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Even those with the credentials claiming fashion insider insights hidden behind there oversized sunglasses have trouble keeping up with the evolving fashion weeks/months, pre season/season, cruise/street/lookbook schedule which is slowly infiltrating every month of our diaries.

The aim is to continue having four events a year in January, February, June and September. It’s yet to be confirmed whether the September event will also have a physical iteration and will depend on the social distancing norms and overall situation in the U.K. at the time. With London being the first city in the June fashion week calendar, the announcement could set a precedent for Milan, Paris and New York to follow.

We are set on course for unchartered waters, and only time will tell. For the fashion industry, the concept of pre-empting future trends is expected, however, the future is shifting and we shall have to wait as the influencers of tomorrow predict what the new black turns out to be.

You’ll find updates on the new normal in London Fashion Week on the new digital platform: LFW Gender Neutral

The Avante Garde Life Of Lily Gatins

By Adrielyn Christi

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Credits: Creative Director, Stylist& Model @ lilygatins Photographers @abdmstudio

Art @studiochamberlin Wearing One of A Kind Zipper Dress @heartlessrevival Hair @ginger_at_vanmichael @vanmichaelsalon ��� @apeacefulanarchy Ear & nose pear pieces @inaurem__

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“I just wake up and say “This is who I am today.� I think everyone needs to have a signature. Not only with your personality, but the way you look aesthetically too.�

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International street style artist, model and muse, Lily Gatins was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, an island nation known for arts and fashions saturated in vibrant colors. Her eye-catching style is not just a fashio satement, but a reflection of who she is. It’s an expression of her artistic sense. Gatins doesn’t try to think about what she wears and doesn’t make an effort to plan a unique outfit or not look like anyone else. “I just wake up and say “This is who I am today.” I think everyone needs to have a signature. Not only with your personality, but the way you look aesthetically too.”

When traveling to France or New York for fashion weeks, Gatins is a regular with the press. Because of forward dressing, she is often saught out to be photographed but notes that it’s not something that she seeks out deliberately. “It annoys me if I see the photographer is not looking at the image as a beautiful image but instead commercially. I try to stay in the spotlight to show people around the world that 72° there are other street style looks besides commercial street style looks.”

As a young girl, lily modeled briefly, but soon realized her true passion was in creating and styling. Lily has worked with mutiple artists on set and currenltly has many projects in the works but due to COVID-19 has had to put them on pause.

Lily calls Atlanta her home but France is her second home as this is where her main fashion influence comes Paris based designer Rei Kawakubo. Although she is not a trendsette,r, Lily states,” her garments are pieces of art. Collectible items that don’t have shelf life. You could mix and match pieces form collections that happened ten years ago and current collections.”

“My purpose in my career is to give exposure to underground avant-garde designers from all over the world that don’t have the ability to travel overseas , feature their creations during fashion weeks due to lack of financial sponsorship and sometimes support from their communities or families.”

In regards to fashion, Lily feels there are two sides of fashion; the commercial side where ready-to-wear needs to produce sales in the everyday market and then you have avant garde and couture designers that are pushing forward.

It seems that black really is Gatins’happiest color and it says alot about her. Lily states: “I can’t identify with color because black is like my second skin. I don’t think about the combination of colors.

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“To me it’s shapes and structures when I look at garments. I’m looking at the shape and how I feel instead of “Do I wear green or pink?” So color doesn’t synchronize with mood for me, shape does. Being happy to me doesn’t mean I have to wear pink or yellow, instead it means do I wear something fitted or loose. Fitted is happy and confident, but loose is spiritual comfort.”

Cedits: Wearing @vonistudio Creative Director/ stylist / model @ lilygatins Photography by @abdmstudio Shoes @keikomiyakoshi

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Creative Director, Stylist & Model @lilygatins Photographers @abdmstudio Photo retoucher @matthew. geovany Wearing @caroline.ohrt Mask and Clear Top Custom made scultured neck peice by@zapah_lab

Skirt made out of black spoons @thefashionsculptor Black One Shoulder Top @siyunism_ Hair @ginger_at_vanmichael@vanmichaelsalon Nails @curetnails

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Creative Director, Stylist & Model @ lilygatins Photographers @abdmstudio Photo Retouchers @matthew.geovany Wearing Crystal Top, mask and bracelet @getmanjewelry Latex Top and socks by @vexclothing Skirt @commedesgarcons pants @ dobs_ny Illustrations@reallyimperfect MUA @tatianakazana Hair @ginger_at_vanmichael @vanmichaelsalon Nails @tsaynails

5 French Fashion Brands You Must Know

By Galina Antonova

Sézane

Maison Cleo

3. Sézane is a simple yet high quality created brand that was born in Paris and crafted offering women luxury quality French fashion at a fair price. https://www.sezane.com/us

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1. Luxury French designer Isabel Marant is the epitome of French fashion. Isabel dresses women for their real lives – walking down the street or zipping off on a scooter. https://www.isabelmarant. com/us

4. Mother-daugter duo of Maison Cleo work to create simple but worked pieces. Everything is handmade and always with beautiful materials. That is the goal for the brand to make the everything made in France accessible to everyone. https://www.maisoncleo.com

Yse 2. Produced responsibly, close to France, Ysé is a brand by women, for women. Ysé is an affordable alternative for luxury french lingerie and swimwear. https://www.yse-lingerie.com/ en/

Sessun 5. Ethical and sustainable brand, Sessun creates quality, yet luxury clothing made in France. https://en.sessun.com

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Symbols of Luxury Smashed in Paris Yellow Vest Protests

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe met with police near the Champs Elysees toward the end of the day to thank them for their work. He described the situation as “extremely tense” and “unacceptable. “The acts committed today aren’t caused by protesters, but looters, incendiary individuals and criminals,” Philippe said in a tweet. “No cause can justify such violence.”

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Interior Minister Christophe Castaner earlier condemned the violence on Twitter, saying that masked “professionals of destruction and disorder” infiltrated the protests. Castaner urged police forces to give a firm response to the violence and a total of 121 people were arrested on Saturday.

By Daisy Sells The entire fashion world shuddered last month as its usually glittering city, Paris, bore the brunt of frustrated masses.

On the Champs Elysees, store-front windows of Bulgari, as well as fashion brands Boss and Lacoste were smashed, while the Fouquet’s restaurant was vandalised with graffiti saying “Sarko broke everything,” a reference to the former President Nicolas Sarkozy, who famously celebrated his 2007 presidential victory at the expensive eatery as “Yellow Vests” took to the streets.

Along with an estimated 10,000 peaceful protestors, The French capital was also the scene of around 1,500 “ultra-violent,” activists rallying against climate change.

The so-called Yellow Vests, named after drivers’ safety jackets, started demonstrating around the country at the end of November. The protests were initially triggered by a planned increase in gasoline taxes, but the movement has morphed into a mixed bag of demands, from the cancellation of a lower speed limit on secondary roads to President Emmanuel Macron’s resignation.

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Henrietta Ferguson Luxury Tours X Paris The fact that you are reading this, the first issue of VPRCOMMMAG, is proof positive that, despite having no set plans for the near future, we believe that we are charging forward. In that spirit, we’re indulging in a little travel porn to get us through…

In the micro community that I live in I met someone who not only shares my first (official) name, but, my old profession too. Two doors down is the now “inhouse” office of Henrietta Ferguson, a luxury tour company who craft experiences in extraordinary places. These are some of the things that give you a little glimpse of the wide world that is still out there…

What are the most surreal places to visit?

Nimbin in Australia near Byron Bay Do you have to be rich to travel the world?

It depends how you wish to travel and for how long.

What are some common items savvy travellers bring with them (that less-savvy travellers don’t)?

Always take a second credit card as a back up. It is taking longer now a days for credit card companies to replace stolen and lost cc on holiday. Always take a physical copy of your passport and save a copy to the cloud.

What are some things tour operators won’t tell you?

If there is a convention at the hotel/resort and if there is scaffolding around the hotel.

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Where are the best places to travel alone?

The UK Who makes the best travel bags?

Tumi - not aesthetically beautiful but durable and functional Who is the most interesting person that you have ever been seated next to on a plane?

I have met some incredibly lovely and fascinating people on planes but probably the most interesting person was Christopher Booker, one of the founders and Editor of the satirical magazine Private Eye. He was charming, hilarious and incredibly knowledgable. The journey literally flew by!

How do you pack a suit?

1. Turn one half of the jacket inside out. Turn the shoulder completely inside out, but do not pull the sleeve through.

2. Place the jacket half that is not turned inside out carefully inside the other half, pushing it right into the inside-out shoulder.

3. The invisible, non sensitive lining of the jacket is now facing outward. Both shoulders, being one inside the other, are protected against pressure.

4. Folded once in the middle, a jacket now becomes a handy-size, non sensitive package that fits into any holdall.

What’s the best way to sleep on a plane?

In first class.

What are some of the best travel locations that most people have not heard of?

Chefchaouen, Morocco (the blue city) Chichcastenango in Guatemala What are the best airport hacks?

Book a VIP meet and greet. They will meet you as you leave the plane and accompany you through passport control and customs much faster and take you to your driver as you exit customs. The other option is 83° to book the Black Service offering discerning travellers in First or Business class a seamless experience with which to enjoy air travel. All Heathrow VIP guests will have private entrance and exit to Heathrow Airport and transition through security and/or immigration occurs within our suite. Check-in and baggage processes are handled, whilst guests simply relax in individual private lounges to enjoy a food and beverage service. Private chauffeured vehicles transfer guests to and from the chosen aircraft and guests are welcomed or greeted near the aircraft door. The vehicles provided by either Mercedes V class for larger groups, or the latest BMW 7-series for smaller groups. Throughout; privacy, discretion and luxury are assured - guests do not have to queue or walk long distances as other passengers do.When it is time to board the flight, guests are driven to the aircraft by private chauffeured vehicles.

How do you get a flight upgrade?

Airmiles What’s the best city in the world?

London Which airline is best?

After much debate it was decided that the best airline is Cathay Pacific

WE ASKED YOU WHAT SHOULD REPLACE FASHION WEEK? FASHIONFEATURE Here’s what you had to say 15April 2020 TextJessica Heron-Langton What should replace fashion week instagram coronavirus

From people questioning whether the once biannual event has grown out of control (seriously, do we really need the pre-fall and cruise shows?) and the pressures this places on those working in the industry, to the inarguable amount of damage it wreaks on the environment, the debate surrounding the future of Fashion Week has raged over the course of the last few years.

Now, the conversation has been taken out of our hands. The coronavirus outbreak has seen a huge number of Fashion Weeks cancelled or postponed, with the next major menswear season, set to take place in June, no longer happening. The question of ‘should we cancel fashion week?’ has quickly switched to ‘what should replace fashion week’ and ‘where do we go from here?’

Over on Dazed Fashion’s Instagram, it’s a question we put to you – unsurprisingly, we were overwhelmed by the response. Here’s what you had to say.

Which airline is best?

After much debate it was decided that the best airline is Cathay Pacific What are the most beautiful beaches in the world?

The Emerald coast and Bahia in Brazil.

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What are the most beautiful places in the world?

It totally depends on your emotions and moment in time. For a single twenty something it could be exploring the beauty of some of the many extraordinary Islands of Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, for a romantic couple it could be the beauty and tranquility of Mauritius or the Seychelles, for a family it could be the unbelievable scenery and lifestyle of the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast and for the adventurous and more intrepid, the literally ice breaking moments of a cruise around the Alaska coastline. I have been fortunate to experience the beauty in many continents, including the excitement of travelling to relatively tourist free destinations. The definition of beauty is really subjective and completely beholden to the traveller and whether they are ready to appreciate their time in a destination.

What are the best apps for travel?

VAMOOS Where should I go now?

Stay at home and reconnect with your family and friends in the beautiful British Isles.

As luck would have it, the lovely Henrietta has a penchant for Paris. So, if you’re planning a quickie, we will leave you in her capable hands… Paris Tour Henrietta is the Founder of Henrietta Ferguson Luxury Tours, a private luxury tour business specialising in the most sublime experiences families and private parties can enjoy during their time in the UK&I, France, Italy, Spain & The Netherlands. She is a proud Brit who was educated in Bristol but also in Madrid, which ignited her creative spirit and curiosity for international travel, culture and history. She has spent much of her professional and personal time travelling to the exotic, the offbeat, the popular and the truly bizarre locations and wonders of the world. When she is not working or exploring internationally, you can often find her and her phenomenal family creating fun & havoc in West London!

@cynthiamerhej Comme des Garçons AW20 fashion showPhotography Christina Fragkou THERE DOESN’T NEED TO BE SO MANY EVENTS “No more pre-collections, no more capsule collections, no more celebrity collaboration, no more sales. Just two collections at the fair price.” @b0utet “Fashion year! One show is more than enough given that there are so many designers to choose from!” @fanmmon EXPLORE OTHER AVENUES 85° “Digital and physical alternatives have to be explored following a reset of the preconceived must-do of the industry while keeping creativity and commerce in balance. There isn’t one magic solution but plenty of actions to take.” @alban_adam “Democratisation of the front row is what is gonna happen. The virtual abilities to show clothes are limited, but I’m sure we will see a software used for displaying the forthcoming collections.” @madeleineholth “No more pre-collections, no more capsule collections, no more celebrity collaboration, no more sales. Just two collections at the fair price ”– @b0utet MOVE FASHION WEEK ONLINE “They should definitely move on to digital formats, such as creative fashion films or live-streams without them being actual shows with crowds. It’s time to highlight the damage caused to the environment with such events, and question the overall point of a performance where a live studio audience is too busy taking pictures and recording videos on their phones.” @mauricio.alejandr0 “I agree with the idea of virtual shows, social media, and web platforms. Every part of this chain must be flexible, creative, open-minded! But everything begins from the brands. The brands must look again at their beginning, their philosophy. Everything is a circle to the DNA of the labels.” @he_m_n_oid “Be creative with a virtual show. Brands should use the money to pay the staff more, right down to the talented intern.” @swalbrook Trashy muse virtual avatar fashion show Virtual fashion show by Trashy MuseCourtesy of Trashy Muse UTILISE OTHER CREATIVE INDUSTRIES “Use artists! Fashion illustration, photography, filmmakers, animators etc. Display your shows with new creativity.” @venicewytch Gucci AW20 14 Backstage at Gucci AW20Photography Giacomo Cabrini NO MORE FASHION WEEK “It’s sad, but fashion, as is, should be extinct” @dianakcury TURN IT INTO REALITY TV (!)

“A reality TV show with bad designers being jailed and good ones going on to next season…”

Photoshoot took place in the 1st arrondissemen on the famous for its restaurants rue Montorgueil and under the roof of the main transport hub of Paris, called Châtelet.

Aline is a famous parisian model, sophisticated and elegant. She has a great sense of style, so she created totally different looks: the first was a white blouse and a tweed skirt, and the second - oversized jacket that she transformed to a dress which she combined with a yellow boots, and third was terracotta combi with an accent on the neck in a mixed chain.

Photographer: Olga Khlybova-Gasnier @aglography Model: Aline @alinebnr Makeup artist Masha Dontsova @muahmashadontsova Videographer @joachim.gasnier_videographer

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During summer Paris attracts tourists and locals to the pearl of the 1st arrondissement - Tuileries Gardens, where the biggest fair takes place. Together with Solene, parisian model we made a walk in the park, enjoyed “Barbe à papa” (French: for Cotton candy) and rested near the fountains.

Photographer: Olga Khlybova-Gasnier @aglography Model: Solene @so_vsl Makeup artist Masha Dontsova @muahmashadontsova

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Fille de Mode de Luxe CREDITS: LOCATION: Brasserie “Les Co-pains De Montmartre” @lescopainsdemontmartre. PARIS, FRANCE Photographer: Christina V Henningstad @christina_henningstad Model : Anastasia Kulakova @ana_andersaale MUAH & Art Director: Serguei Chatel @ serguei_chatel Wardrobe Stylist: Margarita Lagozha @ mezhgalaktic

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Hat - 12 STOREEZ Sunglasses - LE SPECS Blouses - ZARA Top - ALICE+OLIVIA Skirt - RACHEL COMEY Belt - MANGO Tights - CALZEDONIA Scarves - FRANCO FERRARI Gloves - VINTAGE Shoes - JEFFREY CAMPBELL Make-up - GEKA GmbH

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Hat - RUSLAN BAGINSKIY Blouses - EQUIPMENT Vest - ZARA Belt - FREE PEOPLE Scarves - FRANCO FERRARI Gloves - ACNE STUDIOS Pants - CUSTOMMADE Shoes - UTERQUE Make-up - GEKA GmbH

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Hat - 8BY YOOX Coat - I AM STUDIO Shoes -N21 Make-up - GEKA Gmb

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Vintage mood Photographer: Varlamova Jane

Vintage mood

IG: www.instagram.com/varlamova_jane WB: varlamova_jane Stylist: Ignatovich Darya WB: ignatovich.style Female Model: Zaitseva Karina WB: @rina.glam Female Model: Zemtsova Anastasia IG: www.instagram.com/anastasia__stu WB: anastasia__stu Makeup Artist: @Kseny_bakaeva Bakaeva Ksenia WB: @kseny_bakaeva Bakaeva Ksenia

Lingerie Oysho

Earrings H&M Necklace Vintage Robe Donatello Viorano

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Throwback

Photographer: Gianmarco Balbi IG:www.instagram.com/gianmarcobalbi/ WB: www.gianmarcobalbi.com

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Bonjour Paris with Khloë Terae in France

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Photographer: Mariana Cattoir IG: marianacattoir Assistant: Mlle Lescoublet WB: fashiontimes.pariswalkers Wardrobe Credits: Fashion Nova Chanel

JUMPSUIT: XOXO SHOES: Guess GLOVES: Vintage

It Was All in Vain Female Model: Jayde Rankin Photographer: Violet Rankin Wardrobe Stylist/Makeup Artist/Hair Stylist: JDR

SHIRT: Vera Wang SHORTS: Scorpio Rising HAT: Amazon SOCKS: Nordstrom SHOES: Birkenstock

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JACKET: Ralph Lauren SKIRT: Yves Saint Laurent SHOES: Doc Marten

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Place des Vosges Model: Antonina Photographer: thehorus IG: http://instagram.com/thehorus69 WB: thehorus69

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Amely is a famous parisian advertising model, who everyone can see on the billboards in Paris or see on TV. She is also a mom of a little boy. After having a cup of coffe in a Kitsune cafe together we took some photographs in a decorated Paris during Christmas time on the Place Vendôme and in the Tuileries Gardens. Her positive mood and attitude you can see through lifestyle photos.

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Photographer: Olga Khlybova-Gasnier @aglography Model: @curlyamely

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Couple photoshoot of the Matthieu and Inès. Two different styles and moods. Streetstyle total black looks and electric blue suit and dress.

Photographer: Olga Khlybova-Gasnier @aglography Models: Matthieu @matthieu.de.pallares Inès @ines.castelot Makeup artist: Masha Dontsova @ muahmashadontsova CAFE AU LAIT

Model: Yuliia Belova Colussi @yulia. colussi Photographer: Christina V Henningstad @christina_henningstad MakUp & Hair: Serguei Chatel @serguei_chatel Assistant: Milana Arsoeva @milana_arsoeva WardrobeStylist: Margarita Lagozha @ fmezhgalaktic

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By Daisy Sells

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Cop for that As the world continues to live in an unpredictable reality, alliances and intiatives have begun to emerge for the chaos. The Hand Back campaign is born of a group of musicians and creatives whose entire way of life has been upturned by the global pandemic, COVID-19. Not one of the 14 strong team, based in six countries, are used to quiet or isolated situations. The best word that describes them is troubadours. They are the ones running ahead of the campaign, spreading the word and rabble raising for a cause that they believe will make a difference, not just for a moment, but, for an age. All items available at The Troubadour www.troubadourlondon.com

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Lets Talk Toxic Free Fashion

By Daisy Sells

Asked about the future of #ToxicFreeFashion, Monki has laid out a 5 point plan: 100% Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals — meaning, there is no hazardous chemicals used in our supply chain.

Traceability of the input of chemicals used in all H&M Group production for commercial goods.

Policy engagement to push legislation and support public policies promoting progressive chemical management.

Share information with customers and work with a ‘right to know’ Including full public disclosure of wastewater discharge test data.

We promote innovation and the development of better chemicals and technologies to enable the use of better chemicals in the supply chain. Clean factories with restricted chemicals phased-out in the whole production site and, 100% Common Industry tools and standards.

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Toxic free fashion; It’s a phrase that we are all getting familiar with thanks to the fashion blogs and influencers.

What is casually being coined as a #buzzword is, in fact, an important issue which directly affects all of us. It’s important to know that some chemicals are safe but some (the hazardous ones), can be dangerous for you, for animals and for the planet.

The passionate commitment to responsible and sustainable practices runs through every stage of the brands’s manufacturing process. Since September 2018 they have sourced 100% of their cotton sustainably. It’s 137° a small step towards a big goal: recycled or other sustainably sourced materials only by 2030. And in the long run, it’s a step towards contributing to a more sustainable way of doing fashion. But at the same time, sustainably sourced cotton is an important step. The fibre is key in what we do as a fashion brand, so while we’re humble in the face of the challenges ahead, we’re also happy to say we promote the change that is starting to happen in the cotton industry.

But what does sustainably sourced cotton actually mean? It means looking for in their sourcing process, is cotton produced by methods that reduce the environmental footprint in a significant way, and improve cotton production as a whole. At Monki, that means either organic cotton, recycled cotton or responsibly grown cotton sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative.

Read more about Better Cotton and BCI at www.bettercotton.org

Far from being just another brand to jump on a bandwagon, my go to wardrobe reviver, Swedish born, Monki, was founded on a commitment to toxic free fashion and to ensuring none of the harmful kind of chemicals are used to produce the products which I covet.

Sustainably sourced? Organic? Better? Recycled? What’s the difference?

Confused? Yes, it’s can seem complex. But it’s not as confusing as it seems, once you figure this out: sustainably sourced cotton is to organic, recycled or Better Cotton what the word fruit is to pears, oranges and apples. They are all fruits. Great fruits. Just different types.

Back in 2011, Monki partnered with H&M Group and signed a commitment to phase out hazardous chemicals within their textile supply chains by 2020. The brand also have sustainability commitment assessments that include a set of requirements concerning the safety of chemical handling and storage, as well as environmental requirements such as the treatment of wastewater and the handling of hazardous waste for every organisation that they work with.

The Better Cotton Initiative exists to make global cotton production as a whole better, and more quickly. That is awesome too, in a different way.

Recycled cotton helps make fashion circular, a necessary step going forward. Basically, three cool things.

As far as the ongoing discussion about how affordable fashion often translates to #fastfashion, #throwawayfashion and ethical compromises, Monki is a shining example of what can be achieved when design, social awareness, ethical fashion and a passion to create all work in tandem.

Check out Monki’s ethos, in their own words “The Lazy Loop” #whatsinmyclothes #monkistyle

www.monki.com

U.K. Editor at Large Daisy Sells

Daisy is the VPRCOMMMAG Editor at Large and Creative Director based in London, UK. Having spent over a decade flirting with both the press and media in-crowds in London, she has joined the VPR team to infuse her decidedly passionate, inquisitive, and often controversial voice with the LA based editorial team. Daisy is never one to shy away from the questions and has built her career by challenging the world around her and pushing the usual society boundaries by drawing inspiration from all walks of life from pop-culture, fashion, political and social issues or global events. Daisy is unconventional, determined and infuriatingly curious.

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“They” say, ‘the best laid plans…’ but, for the project that my Editor in Chief and I first discussed, our plans to create a place where we could take our passion for words and our determination to report and explore the culture, events, political conflicts, evolution of social interaction and internal debates and the nuances that weave them together. What we did not plan for was a global pandemic.

After nine months, six fashion weeks and very little sleep, we discovered that neither of us were ones to back down. Along with a slowly growing army of writers and collaborators we took the ballsy ‘If you jump, I jump, Jack…’ approach and charged head on into the challenge of creating the magazine that is in front of you.

There are few things that I find peace and inspiration in, but words are one of them. With the support and trust of the boss, I have got to research and deliver the many sides of every story and, what’s more, I have been given the chance to be part of a rapidly diminishing club. I will get to see my name in print as VPRCOMMAG’s Editor at Large and Creative Director based in London, UK. I pledge to always argue and debate the situations and topics which affect the world around me and, I’m pretty sure that I am in exactly the place to be able to do it.”

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