Around a year ago, FKA Mag opened its pages to the public with a single idea: Transformation through fashion-led storytelling
Four issues later, that idea has only grown, spilling into new formats, new faces, and an ever-expanding archive of culture, conversation, and creation. So, for our first-ever Anniversary Issue, what better theme than the dinner party? Because when you strip it all down, the anatomy of a great magazine isn’t so different from that of a great gathering You start with a theme, agonize over the guest list, obsess over lighting, music, and menu, then pray it all feels effortless when the doorbell rings
A magazine, like a dinner party, isn’t just about what’s on the table. It’s about the entire experience: the taste, the tone, and the rhythm of how it unfolds
From our inaugural issue playlist curated by the one and only Jack Colton Clark, to an IG masterclass in expression and aesthetic curation by Katrina Lee, Tylese Rideout, and Samantha Del Rosal, and a delicious review of the impeccable Lady Wong Patisserie by yours truly, together they showcase what it means to be a host of unapologetic and undeniable taste. I want to sincerely thank you for pulling up a chair this past year and for continuing to come back hungry What began as a scrappy (and slightly overambitious) idea has now set the table four issues strong With each release, you’ve shown up, glass in hand, craving something thoughtful, stylish (obvi), and maybe just a little indulgent.
So here’s to more parties, more pages, and many more courses of fashion-led storytelling
If this is only year one, just imagine next year’s party!
JACK COLTON CLARK
THE PARTY STARTS HERE.
INTRODUCING FKA DINNER PARTY, OUR INAUGURAL ISSUE PLAYLIST FOR OUR FIRST-ANNIVERSARY DINNER PARTY ISSUE, CURATED BY OUR FIRST OFFICIAL ISSUE MUSIC COLLABORATOR, THE ONE AND ONLY JACK COLTON CLARK: MOTHER CABRINI BAND MEMBER, CERTIFIED COOL-BOY, AND MUSIC ORACLE.
IN CRAFTING THIS SONIC MASTERPIECE TO PERFECTLY COMPLETE ANY DINNER PARTY, JACK DIDN’T JUST BUILD A PLAYLIST, HE BUILT A BACKDROP. A SLIGHTLY UNHINGED, DEEPLY GLAMOROUS DINNER PARTY IN MUSIC FORM. FROM MADONNA TO BOWIE TO A$AP ROCKY, EVERY TRACK IS A COURSE IN ITSELF, LEADING RIGHT INTO THE NEXT DISH.
WHETHER YOU WANT TO FLIRT WITH YOUR SEATMATE TO PRINCE, LOSE CONTROL AFTER YOUR SECOND GLASS TO BALTRA, OR GO FULL OUT AND MAKE A TOAST WITH GAGA AND CHIC PLAYING IN THE BACK (ONE OF MY PERSONAL FAVORITE ADDITIONS), THIS ISN’T JUST BACKGROUND MUSIC. IT’S A SONIC TABLESCAPE FOR EVERYTHING FROM PRE-DINNER DRINKS TO POST-DINNER DANCING ON THE FURNITURE. DELICIOUSLY, CURATED CHAOS.
THE TRUTH IS, NO MATTER HOW GOOD THE SEATING CHART IS OR HOW PERFECTLY CURATED THE MENU MIGHT BE, A DINNER PARTY IS REALLY ONLY AS GOOD AS ITS SOUNDTRACK. MUSIC SETS THE TONE BEFORE THE FIRST GUEST ARRIVES AND IS THE LAST THING THEY REMEMBER AS THEY DANCE OUT THE DOOR. IT’S THE SILENT GLUE THAT HOLDS THE CHAOS TOGETHER. THE RIGHT PLAYLIST DOESN’T JUST FILL THOSE AWKARD GAPS IN CONVERSATION, IT DOES THE TALKING FOR YOU AND GIVES EVERY BITE AND GLANCE ITS OWN CINEMATIC FLAIR.
IT’S THE MOOD-SETTER, THE MATCH-STRIKE, AND THE UNSPOKEN HOST ALL IN ONE. EVERY GREAT DINNER PARTY NEEDS A GREAT SOUNDTRACK; AND WITH JACK, WE’VE CREATED JUST THAT.
Photographed and Edited by Amelia Ferguson
Styled and Creative Directed by Kweku Andoh
Jack wears a jacket from Harley’s Vintage Clothing Store and pants from Fallen Angel Vintage Boutique
Photographed by Amelia Ferguson
Edited by Kweku Andoh and Amelia Ferguson
Styled and Creative
Directed by Kweku Andoh
ears a top from Fallen Angel Vintage Boutique sourced by Isabel “Star” Suschitz
Illustrations by Isabella “Mini” Acuña
A Love Letter to Lady Wong, The Objects of My Confection
Picture me: Baggy black jeans, J Crew loafers (both my undeniable wardrobe staples), and, let’s be honest, probably a black or white T-shirt because iykyk. I’m melting. It’s the beginning of April in New York, which means the weather is having an identity crisis. One minute it’s spring, the next it’s summer, in hell. The subway’s just spat me out, I’m sweating, vaguely irritated, and running on sheer editorial willpower. Why? Because I’m on a mission: Two East Village bakeries, one assignment, and hopefully a top-tier dessert that will be the perfect finishing addition to this Dinner Party Issue. After all, no dinner party is complete without dessert. Good dessert.
Now, let’s talk about the first bakery. I won’t name names, but let’s just say it rhymed with one of mine (you’ll get no more than that). And while the hype was loud, the experience was... quiet. Like quiet in flavor and energy. For lack of a better term, the vibe was off. The staff greeted me with uninterested and slight annoyance at me being so early. And the desserts? Exactly what you’d expect from a viral IG shop: All talk, very minimal taste. A tragic Instagram-to-table flop.
But then ... Then.
I walked no more than a block down to my second stop: Lady Wong Patisserie
The difference was instant Tucked unassumingly into a stretch of East Village calm, the shop felt like a hidden oasis, air-conditioned, serene, and glowing in soft light, quite literally like the inside of a jewelry box holding precious gems. I was greeted, more like rescued, by one of the incredible chefs who, despite my very sweaty, very chaotic entrance, met me with a calm that can only be described as East Village zen
Now the desserts? Works Of Art
Truly. These weren’t just desserts, they were miniature sculptures. Incredibly picturesque, toting delicate textures and rich colors that truly looked too pretty to eat. But eat them I did. Because at Lady Wong, the beauty isn’t just for show. Truthfully I walked in with one goal: their famous Black Sesame Passionfruit Entremet. But I walked out with 3 boxes of six handpicked desserts instead. Now for each of these 6 delicacies I can truthfully say: That first bite? Euphoric. That sixth bite? Gone. That sense of guilt for finishing something so beautiful? Overcome only by the knowledge that I had 5 more to try.
So, before I get into my very passionate breakdown of each of the twelve pieces I devoured and reviewed, please understand: Lady Wong is my hidden gem. Not just of the East Village. Not just of downtown. But of Manhattan. Period. If I could, I would potentially hyphenate my last name to Wong. I will argue with strangers about it in the street and dream about these desserts until I die. But don’t just take my word for it. Turn the page, read my reviews, then go to their East Village or equally delightful 50th Street location and order something. Anything. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed
Yours truly, Kweku
Andoh -Wong
Caramelized Biscoff Raspberry (White heart-shaped confection) Rich, creamy, and toasty. The biscoff brings the warmth, the raspberry keeps it fresh, and the sesame mousse ties it all together. Would take the trek 10x over just for this, without question.
Strawberry Yuzu Mille Crêpes Slice
Soft layers meet citrus; The yuzu cream cuts through the strawberry in the best way. Bright, refreshing, and light enough to justify a second slice.
A definite crowd-pleaser.
Strawberry Guava Entremet
The vanilla mousse is light, the guava hits with just enough tang, and the almond sponge anchors it all. It's elegant without being too precious and sweet, but never too sweet. A solid pick for anyone who wants flavor and form in equal measure.
Black Sesame Petit Gateau
Incredibly rich and perfectly layered.
The black sesame mousse is smooth and balanced by a sharp, sweet, and tangy passionfruit caramel that makes the whole thing pop. Nothing short of excellence.
All Photography by Amelia Ferguson
Edited by Kweku Andoh and Amelia Ferguson
Styled and Creative Directed by Kweku Andoh
1st Look: Kweku wears all clothing from his own wardrobe and a vintage pin from Fallen Angel Vintage Boutique sourced by Isabel “Star” Suschitz
2nd Look: Kweku wears all clothing and accessories from his own wardrobe
Matcha Pandan Mille Crêpes Slice
The layers are soft and delicate, with the pandan adding the perfect hint of sweetness. It’s soft, earthy, aromatic, and just sweet enough.
Matcha Pandan Tart Bites
Compact but full of flavor. The tart shell has the perfect snap, and the pandan ganache on top brings it all home.
Not too sweet, not too bitter, but without a doubt satisfying and easily addictive.
SIDNEY’S
Feed Me. Curating A Taste for Digitial Aesthetics
Curatingtheperfectdinnerpartyisanactofintention:Themood,the menu,theguestlist,etc Everythingservesapurposeandeverydetailisan importantaspectoftheaestheticandvibecuratedtodeterminehow everyonecomestogether Butinthedigitalage,I’dliketothink(andargue) there’sanotherformofmodernhosting:TheInstagramfeed.Simplyput,ifa dinnerpartyisaboutsettingatransientvibe,thentheformidableIGgridis aboutsettingandimplementinganundeniableperpetualaesthetic.Carefully constructed,yes Butalsomeanttofeelcompletelyeffortless
Contrarytowhatthemediaandself-helpTikTokerssay,socialmediaisn’t allaboutcloutandvalidating-approval Formanyofusit’saboutenergy, aesthetic,taste,andasclicheasitmaysound,self-expression.It’sabout invitingpeopleintoyourworld,onesquareatatime,andmakingthemfeel something.Justlikeagreathost,agreatIGcreatorknowshowtobalance curationwitheffortlessindividualityandundeniableaesthetictocreatean atmospherethatlingerslongafterthelastscroll.
ForourDinnerPartyIssue,wetappedthreeofthemostsensational socialinfluencerswebelievedoexactlythat;givingthemaseatatthetable andaskingeachofthemhowtheycurateandhosttheirfeedslikethe perfectdinnerparty:withintention,voice,andtheperfectbalanceof curationandmagic.Theseaestheticandculturalcurators’postsin themselvesfeellikeevents,hostedbygridsyoudon’tjustfollow,butstudy EverytimetheypostevenIstopmid-scroll,lefttakingnotesofthenewest dropfromtheirundeniabledigitalworld Tome,it’snotjustcontentit’sa masterclassinartdirectionandaesthetic.
Thesethreeembodythreedistinctphilosophiesofdigitalself-curation: romanticism,realism,andradiantchaos.Theyflowlikecoursesatthesame table,eachservingadifferentflavorofinspiration,butplatingitwiththe sameunmistakableintention.Withoutoverusingtheword“It-Girl”,I’llinstead endmyintroductionoftheseladieswiththefollowing: They’retheguestsyouhopewillshowupandthehostsyoupraywillinvite youback
Photography & Editing by Amelia Ferguson
Creative and Fashion Direction by Kweku Andoh
Words by Kweku Andoh, Tylese Rideout, Samantha Del Rosal, and Katrina Lee
“I am a firm believer that if you just post & repost content that you were drawn to, even for a split second, it will aesthetically please someone else.”
-Tylese
Photographed and Edited by Amelia Ferguson
Creative Directed and Styled by Kweku Andoh Tylese wears a vintage Givenchy Blazer from Harley’s Vintage Clothing Store Rings from the stylist’s own collection Heels from Tylese’s own wardrobe and a Necklace from Fallen Angel Vintage Boutique sourced by Isabel “Star” Suschitz
If your IG grid had a moodboard title, what would it be right now?
This is a difficult question as my content changes by the hour, but I think it would be “The Fire This Feeds ” Yes, the wordplay is intentional This title encapsulates the food you will often find on my page, how justice-oriented I truly am, and how I often post art from various artists Not only is the post going on a “feed,” but all of the content I am posting is likely “feeding” my soul in some way, shape, or form. When it comes to posting, are you more focused on spontaneity + vibes or all about curation with a method to the madness?
To be honest, I am not really concerned with curating a particular aesthetic on my feed. I know, this is a hot take. I am a firm believer that if you just post/repost content that you were drawn to, even for a split second, it will aesthetically please someone else I find that my “aesthetic” content is often broken up with reels, flyers, and posters that I find engaging or important All of these pieces of content, no matter how pretty or unpretty they are, are a reflection of me When you are authentic to your vibe, it becomes a whole aesthetic in itself
What’s the difference between a photo that lives on your story vs. your grid?
There are exceptions to this, but I have noticed that I like to capture periods of time on the grid, and instant moments on the feed For example, I captured all of graduation week in photos and curated a dump for the feed A delicious moment with friends on a night out can just live on the story for twenty four hours Of course, If I think a single photo or moment is particularly captivating, I will grant it immortality. What’s your favorite compliment someone’s ever given you about your IG?
One of my very close family friends, Khari, told me that my instagram feed looks like “An underground New York art gallery.” I was smiling for the rest of the day. When it comes to your feed do you like to stay loyal to the aesthetic, or are you all about a rebrand? If I notice a certain color or color family highlighted in recent grid posts, I will try and maintain the theme for consistency That said, I am not going to delete or archive posts that I do not think fits into the family I will just go ahead and post it anyway and live with the slight discomfort I also think the anti-aesthetic trend that was popular for a while is pretty in tune with my personality, so I try to live within that space too What’s the most “you” post you’ve ever made the one that just feels totally you?
I am so glad you asked this A post on my feed from August 2024 The cover photo is my friends sitting on a vibrant yellow and orange picnic blanket I am pretty sure that it was at a book club meeting This particular photo, and the whole dump honestly, was the catalyst of the whole warm theme of my Instagram. Also, this dump has every single thing that I really love in it. It has my friends/community, nature, books, experiences, travel, cats, and more. It is very Tylese.
“Of course, If I think a single photo or moment is particularly captivating, I will grant it immortality.“
- Tylese
“When you are authentic to your vibe, it becomes a whole aesthetic in itself.“ -Tylese
What post on your feed feels like the centerpiece, your absolute favorite, or the one that everything else revolves around?
My favorite post on my feed is a photo of one of my best friends, Eliza, and this young boy. They are both watching a video component of the Edges of Ailey exhibit that was displayed at the Whitney Museum. They have these very retro headphones on and they are watching the dance on this very small screen. It was a moment where they were forced to really pay attention with no distractions. Their focus is undeniable. I just couldn't help but take a picture. That is why the curators are experts. If your feed were the ultimate curated dinner party, what songs would be on the playlist? This is funny, but I have a playlist on Spotify called “Tylese’s Room” and it is on repeat all day Just to name a few: “MANGO” by KAMAUU and Adi Oasis, “Shine” by Cleo Sol, “Golden” by Jill Scott, and “Envious” by SAULT
If your Instagram feed was a dinner party, what’s her vibe, what’s she wearing, and what’s her drink of choice?
Ok, so imagine: Greenpoint, Brooklyn brownstone apartment, warm candle lighting, beautiful dark brown plates and bowls with gold silverware Linen clothing
Solange in the background Dry Pinot Noir in hand Deep belly laughs My perfectly curated night
Give me 4 dinner party guests you’d invite solely based on their IG vibe. No context, just feed energy. I am really struggling with four, but the first one that came to mind is: @iamzoefoster. Her feed and digital energy are absolutely stunning. We have completely different visual aesthetics, as she is a bit more minimal than I am, but I am always drawn to her account for content and inspiration. It is so wonderfully curated, but so authentic at the same time. I can only hope I embody the same. What’s your go-to recipe for the perfect caption? If there is a caption at all, it is whatever I first thought when I saw all of the selected photos at that very moment I do not hesitate either because I will be there all day I also think that it makes my instagram more authentic because, if you know me, you can hear me saying those exact words Why does curating your digital world matter to you? Do you see it as self-expression, art, performance — or something else entirely?
Believe it or not, curating for a particular intention has not really crossed my mind I just really love the idea of cultivating a community of people that live in a multiplicity of places Social media, particularly Instagram, is a place for the hype girls. We can like eachother’s stories, leave comments, swipe up, etc. I feel like I know so many friends through Instagram, and I have never met them in person. It is the idea that we share music taste, cuisine, clothing style, and a desire for human rights for all that brings us together. That sense of community is really what keeps me on social media and posting content.
“I feel like I’ve rebranded as I’ve grow into myself; now I feel like I couldn’t rebrand if I tried! “
- Samantha
Photographed and Edited by Amelia Ferguson
Creative Directed by Kweku Andoh
Samantha wears a Burberry Coat and Manolo Heels from Samantha’s own wardrobe and a Necklace from Fallen Angel Vintage Boutique sourced by Isabel “Star” Suschitz Makeup by Caroline Hyde
“I Wanna Go
by Britney Spears”
- Samantha on her feed as
a playlist.
If your IG grid had a moodboard title, what would it be right now?
“She’s sunburnt and needs cold wine ” All my Pinterest board titles are very specific When it comes to posting, are you more focused on spontaneity + vibes or all about curation with a method to the madness? I like to go off of color actually; I like to switch color focus throughout the seasons! What’s the difference between a photo that lives on your story vs. your grid?
Story posts for me are always multiple posts I like to share; things that interest me like tablescapes or small things I found interesting. Grid posts are really just my fave pics from those moments..
What’s your favorite compliment someone’s ever given you about your IG? That they like my style When it comes to your feed do you like to stay loyal to the aesthetic, or are you all about a rebrand?
I feel like I’ve rebranded as I’ve grown into myself; now I feel like I couldn’t rebrand if I tried!
What’s the most “you” post you’ve ever made — the one that just feels totally you?
My food post from Japan because i love food and travel content; that’s all I consume, so i really feel like that’s my fav post What post on your feed feels like the centerpiece, your absolute favorite, or the one that everything else revolves around? Food again! I only throw myself in there so i don’t get mistaken for a grocery store. If your feed were the ultimate curated dinner party, what songs would be on the playlist?
“I wanna go” by Britney Spears. If your Instagram feed was a dinner party, what’s her vibe, what’s she wearing, and what’s her drink of choice?
She’s the host She’s cooking for 12, she’s setting up the drinking games, and she’s taking tequila shots! What’s your go-to recipe for the perfect caption?
I just go off of whatever makes sense, I think my hidden talent is captions Why does curating your digital world matter to you? Do you see it as self-expression, art, performance — or something else entirely?
It’s just my creative outlet.. I do it for me, like a scrapbook (I love to scrapbook), so it’s a way to save memories in a format that is pretty (to me).
“I think my hidden talent is captions...“
- Samantha
“I don’t believe in rebranding, only in evolving.“
- Katrina
Photographed and Edited by Amelia Ferguson
Creative Directed by Kweku Andoh
Wardrobe Curation by Kweku Andoh
Katrina wears a Blazer from The Girls World Vintage Shop an Isabel Marant Skirt from Harley’s Vintage Clothing Store Watch and Heels from Katrina’s own wardrobe and a Necklace from Fallen Angel Vintage Boutique sourced by Isabel “Star” Suschitz
“Curating my feed keeps me mindful and creative; it’s both canvas and mirror.“
- Katrina
If your IG grid had a moodboard title, what would it be right now?
“The Romantics Never Die” When it comes to posting, are you more focused on spontaneity + vibes or all about curation with a method to the madness? I dance between the two; it all comes down to my mood and I try not to overthink it
What’s the difference between a photo that lives on your story vs. your grid?
A Story photo documents in-the-moment yet fleeting memories, a quick glimpse into my life My grid, however, is a love letter to friends, family, and followers, telling a more permanent and meaningful story What’s your favorite compliment someone’s ever given you about your IG?
When someone told me my grid feels like a beautifully curated world; they said it made them feel they belonged, that they could reach for something just within their grasp That little moment of connection is everything When it comes to your feed do you like to stay loyal to the aesthetic, or are you all about a rebrand?
I don’t believe in rebranding, only in evolving My sense of beauty and aesthetic changes. As long as you stay loyal to yourself, your feed, and the way you capture and see the world, the world will evolve with you. What’s the most “you” post you’ve ever made — the one that just feels totally you?
Every time I post about hobbies and passions, whether it’s horse-riding or kickboxing. Those moments feel pure, genuine, and utterly me. Funnily enough, that’s not what my algorithm rewards: it prefers more surfacelevel expressions of creativity and perhaps a touch of sexuality, which I’m no stranger to What post on your feed feels like the centerpiece, your absolute favorite, or the one that everything else revolves around?
There’s this one photo I took of my dad refueling his Harley one summer afternoon; it was before I left for college, before I started adulthood, and before things got complicated If your feed were the ultimate curated dinner party, what songs would be on the playlist?
“The Girl from Ipanema” by Stan Getz , “Move” by Adam Port, Keinemusik, “Under the Influence” by Chris Brown , “The Abyss” by The Weeknd and Lana Del Rey, “Florida Kilos” by Lana Del Rey If your Instagram feed was a dinner party, what’s her vibe, what’s she wearing, and what’s her drink of choice? She’s chic, mysterious, and carefree She wears a white off-the-shoulder top, a messy updo, statement gold earrings, rings, and bracelets. Her drink of choice is an Amaretto Sour.
Give me 4 dinner party guests you’d invite solely based on their IG vibe. No context, just feed energy. @Syrienna , @hitomirose , @Isabellaelei, @thatschic What’s your go-to recipe for the perfect caption? It really is simple science. I keep a Notes list full of little inspirations, maybe a drink name, a line from a book or movie, or just a phrase that comes to mind
Why does curating your digital world matter to you? Do you see it as self-expression, art, performance or something else entirely?
I see it as a mix of self-expression and quiet performance It’s how I show the world who I am (my perspective, my passions, the little moments I treasure) and in doing so, I shape my own story Curating my feed keeps me mindful and creative; it’s both canvas and mirror
“I
see it as a mix of self-expression and quiet performance. It’s how I show the world who I am, my perspective, my passions, the little moments I treasure, and in doing so, I shape my own story.“
- Katrina
