Modish Muse Faux Fur & Lace.pdf

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𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗜𝗦𝗛 𝗠𝗨𝗦𝗘

October 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

Editor's Note

It is a principle we’ve woven throughout this issue. Our fashion stories explore this dichotomy, from the rugged heritage of equestrianinspired tailoring to the bold glamour of metallics and faux fur.

Our beauty feature, the “Tired Glam Glow-Up,” champions a different kind of strength: the confidence to be flawfully perfect, with blurred lips and a luminous complexion that speaks more of vitality than vanity.

(Editor-in-Chief )

William C. Grayson Jr. There is a particular kind of magic to autumn. It’s a season that asks us to be bold —to mirror the brilliant, turning leaves— while also inviting us to turn inward, to find warmth and substance as the days grow shorter. This month, as we lean into the richness of fall, our pages are guided by a powerful, dual theme: Leading with Heart.

This idea found its purest expression in our captivating cover feature, the remarkable equestrian and philanthropist, Katelyn Cartwright. To watch Katelyn with her champion horse, Galopin, is to witness a masterclass in grace under pressure. It is a partnership built not on dominance, but on profound mutual respect, unwavering discipline, and yes, immense heart. In our conversation, she speaks of “bending heritage”—of honouring the timeless traditions of her sport while fearlessly innovating for its future. This delicate balance, this blend of strength and sensitivity, is the very essence of modern elegance.

Ultimately, to lead with heart is to move through the world with intention, passion, and grace. It is about the choices we make, the clothes we wear that make us feel powerful, and the compassion we extend to others and to ourselves.

MODISH MUSE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF William Grayson EDITOR ASSISTANT Leslie Davis CULTURE Dakota Sommerville ENTERTAINMENT Ruben Gore FASHION EDITOR Nikki Fiveash FASHION EDITOR Raheen Correll FASHION EDITOR Da Don DESIGN AND LAYOUT Leslie Harrington PHOTOGRAPHER John Wardell

This October, we hope this issue inspires you to find your own rhythm, to embrace the bold and the thoughtful, and to lead with your whole heart.

With grace, William C. Grayson Jr. Editor-in-Chief

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Editor’s Letter

p.28 RVA Fashion Week: More Than a Runway

P.10 Katelyn Cartwright The Young Equestrian Carrying a Legacy and Breaking Barriers

P.07 Leading with Heart. A Conversation with Lisa Subrize

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A New Dawn For Marvel’s First Family

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The Art of the Reset: Wellness for the Season

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2. What’s one of the biggest lessons you’ve carried into your business from your previous leadership experience?

The power of the right team. Most companies don’t fail because they don’t have good ideas — they fail because they don’t have the right people in place to support the mission. I saw that over and over. So I built my company to be the kind of team I wish more people had access to — strategic, trustworthy, experienced, and deeply committed to our clients’ success.

3. You’ve experienced incredible personal loss recently, with the passing of both your father and your stepmother within six months.

How has grief shaped your journey as a leader and a business owner?

Grief has a way of peeling back everything nonessential. It forces you to get real — fast — about what matters. I’ve always led from the heart, but these recent losses brought a new layer of empathy and perspective. They reminded me that behind every CEO, every entrepreneur, is a person with real emotions, real struggles, and a life happening outside of boardrooms and business plans.

What people don’t always see is that many business owners are quietly carrying the weight of personal pain — while still trying to keep their dreams alive. At Leading with Lisa, we may not be able to ease the burden of personal grief, but we are fiercely committed to making the business side of life easier. We help people hold onto their dreams when life gets heavy. And more than that — we help change the trajectory of the businesses we touch. That’s incredibly fulfilling. Watching someone go from barely surviving to thriving, from overlooked to funded, from lost to aligned — that’s the kind of work that fills your soul.

4. You’ve built an incredible support system around you. Can you talk about the role of relationships in your life and business?

Relationships mean everything — not just in business, but in life.

I’ve always believed that success isn’t something you achieve alone; it’s a community effort, built from the support, wisdom, and love of incredible people around you.

Leading with Heart — A Conversation with Lisa Subrize 1. Lisa, you’ve built a name for yourself in so many arenas — from helping businesses become investment ready, to building award‑winning partnerships such as your Leading with Lisa podcast collaboration with Modish Muse Magazine, to being honored as Modish Muse Podcast’s Correspondent of the Year. After a childhood marked by triumph over tragedy, how did your early life shape the visionary you’ve become today?

Losing my mom at a very young age changed the way I saw life. It gave me the foresight to never take gifts or opportunities for granted and to live with intentionality — no regrets. That kind of loss plants a seed early: time is precious, so make it count.

So I did. Over the years, I built a life that allowed me to use everything I’ve learned to help others — especially business owners who risk it all to follow their dreams. I’ve worked across high‑stakes industries and led through global crises. Being a healthcare executive during the pandemic was like working in finance during the Great Recession — intense, transformational, and deeply humbling. I knew I wanted my next chapter to be about giving back. I created Leading with Lisa as a way to help others avoid the mistakes that keep great people and great businesses from growing.

I’m incredibly blessed to have powerful people in my circle who inspire, elevate, and support me — like Kristyl Nelson, co-Founder and Global Chief Operating Officer of Kindah Enterprise. Kristyl is a visionary, building pathways to wealth through luxury hospitality developments around the world. Earlier this year, I had the honor of serving as Mistress of Ceremonies for the Kindah Capital Gala, in partnership with the Monte Carlo Polo Federation, in Monaco. The event unveiled plans for Kindah’s flagship project — High Life Resort & Spa in Negril, Jamaica — and its exclusive polo club. Sharing that moment with Kristyl was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when purpose and partnership align.

Then there’s Ron West, founder of Rush Fitness and a two‑time Man of the Year in the DC‑Maryland‑Virginia area. Ron’s dedication to physical transformation and community wellness is matched by his genuine spirit. Our partnership goes beyond business; it’s about mindset shifts, empowerment, and building communities that thrive.

I’m also fortunate to collaborate with Michael Lombard, internationally renowned fashion designer and icon. It has been my honor to sit front row at his New York Fashion Week shows — experiences that are nothing short of spectacular. Michael’s creative genius shines through every collection, combining bold innovation with timeless elegance. His shows are immersive celebrations of artistry and vision, and witnessing them up close has been both inspiring and empowering. Beyond his extraordinary talent, Michael has been a trusted advisor since the early days of my company, offering guidance and encouragement that have deeply influenced my journey as a leader.

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Gilda Mizrahi, owner of Signature Boutique, is not only a cherished friend but a true partner in my journey. She has an extraordinary ability to help me show up as the most elegant and authentic version of myself, always reminding me that glamour is as much about soul as it is about appearance.

Over the years, Gilda and I have teamed up on numerous occasions to host events, and I’ve been proud to serve as Mistress of Ceremonies for many of them. Watching her business grow and expand in such meaningful and impactful ways has been incredibly ins

And last but certainly not least, Roger Gore, founder of Alisar Vodka. Roger is a visionary entrepreneur and a dear collaborator. Together, we’ve created dynamic content and unforgettable experiences — including our joint feature on Fox 5’s Lion Lunch Hour. His dedication to excellence, culture, and celebration has been a true inspiration. I was also recently honored to be selected by Roger as an inaugural nominee for the prestigious Alisar Vodka RISE Awards, which recognize individuals who embody the values of Respect, Inspire, Support, and Empower. That nomination meant so much because it reflects the essence of everything I strive for in my work and in how I show up for others.

These relationships are the backbone of my journey. Their belief in me, their partnership, and their friendship remind me that I’m never walking alone.

Together, we create, uplift, and rise — and that’s the true meaning of success.

5. Let’s talk about your recent wins — from being recognized as Correspondent of the Year to starring in an independent film, Believe It or Not: Miracles Still Happen. How has this new season of success impacted you?

It’s been a whirlwind — in the best way. The podcast partnership with Modish Muse has opened so many doors, and being recognized as Correspondent of the Year was such an honor. Then to step into acting with Believe It or Not: Miracles Still Happen was something I never expected — but I’m so glad I said yes.

Every win feels like a seed I get to plant into someone else’s success.

Because what lights me up isn’t the spotlight — it’s what I can do with it. I get to give back, create platforms for others, and help business owners dream bigger. That’s what makes this season so fulfilling.

So when I say Leading with Lisa, I mean leading with values. Everything we do is about helping others lead well — from the inside out.

7. What’s new and exciting for you right now?

We’ve just revamped our Rapid Growth Accelerator to be even more impactful. That includes our New Business Accelerator Roadmap, which lays the groundwork for sustainable growth, and our Investment Readiness Program, which has already helped businesses unlock millions in funding.

We’ve made it our mission to change lives — and we’re doing just that.

There’s something so powerful about helping people turn possibility into reality. Helping someone who once felt stuck gain momentum and start thriving — that keeps me going. We’re not just building companies. We’re building legacies. ⸻

Editor’s Note Lisa’s story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of community. From helping businesses and nonprofits become investmentready to building award-winning partnerships — including the Leading with Lisa podcast collaboration with Modish Muse Magazine, which earned her the title of Correspondent of the Year — she’s not just making moves, she’s creating meaningful impact.

We know this is just the beginning. Lisa’s journey is unfolding in powerful ways, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.

If you’re ready to take your business or nonprofit to the next level, explore http://www.leadingwithlisa.com for expert guidance on launching, growing, and optimizing your venture.

Plus, stay connected and inspired by following Lisa on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn (@leadingwithlisa), and get behind-the-scenes access on TikTok (@leadingwithlisa.com).

Trust us — you’ll want to be along for the ride.

6. Your brand, Leading with Lisa, is so much more than a name. What does it stand for?

It’s actually an acronym — LISA stands for: • Lifelong Learning • Integrity • Strength • Awareness

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Katelyn Cartwright The Young Equestrian Carrying a Legacy and Breaking Barriers In the world of equestrian sports, where grace meets grit, a new generation of riders is emerging, bringing with them fresh perspectives and inspiring stories. At the forefront is 16year-old Katelyn Cartwright, a rider whose talent in the saddle is matched only by the profound legacy she carries and the barriers she is breaking.

From her home in Troy, Michigan, Katelyn’s influence extends across the national stage. You can find her competing at premier venues like the World Equestrian Center in Ohio and the famed Lamplight Equestrian Center in Chicago, places where champions are made. But her journey began much earlier, at the age of eight, when a childhood passion quickly evolved into a serious discipline.

What makes Katelyn’s story particularly captivating is her partnership with her horse, a majestic exGrand Prix jumper known around the barn as Everest, or “EV.” With the imposing show name Filou Van Kojakhoeve, Everest is not just any horse; he is a seasoned athlete who once competed at the sport's highest level (1.50m). Their partnership is a beautiful balance of youthful ambition and veteran experience, a testament to Katelyn’s skill and fearless dedication.

But Katelyn’s connection to horses runs far deeper than the show ring. It’s a bond written in her DNA, passed down through generations. Her love for these magnificent animals is a living inheritance from her maternal great-great-grandfather, Walter “Papa Sweet” Underwood of Union Springs, Alabama.

Born in the early 1900s, “Papa Sweet” was a renowned horse trainer and whisperer, a true master of his craft whose earnings from training and sharecropping supported his entire family. Katelyn doesn’t just ride for herself; she rides with the spirit of a lineage that understands horses on a soulful level.

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This rich heritage makes her accomplishments all the more significant.

As one of the few African American females in the competitive equestrian sphere, Katelyn’s growing collection of ribbons and accolades represents more than just personal victory. Each win is a powerful statement, a step toward greater diversity and inclusion in a sport where representation matters. She is not only honoring her past but also paving the way for a more inclusive future.‌ Katelyn Cartwright is more than a rising star in equestrian sports. She is a symbol of legacy, a beacon of progress, and a reminder that passion, when paired with purpose, is unstoppable. With the formidable Everest by her side and the strength of her ancestors in her heart, Katelyn is a name you’ll want to remember, both for the heights she is sure to reach and the inspiring path she is creating along the way.

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BALTIMORE METGALA 2025: TIMELESS 17

Beyond the Gown: The Baltimore MET Gala 2025 Weaves a Tapestry of Time, Taste, and Community HANOVER, MD – Forget everything you think you know about regional galas. On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Baltimore MET Gala returned, not merely as a fashion show, but as a fully realized cultural statement.

Held at the impeccably modern The Hall at Maryland Live! Casino, the event transformed a three-story, 75,000-square-foot space into a living diorama for its ambitious 2025 theme: “Timeless — The Evolution of Style: Past, Present, Future.”

Under the visionary production of The Curators of Culture—LaRian Finney of The Finn Group and Derrick Chase of Chase Executive Holdings—the evening was a masterclass in how to merge highglamour with profound purpose. This was not an event that simply looked beautiful; it was one that felt significant, a multisensory journey through the narratives that shape our style and our society.

A Theme Brought to Life The scope of “Timeless” was vast, but the execution was meticulously detailed. From the moment guests arrived, they were immersed.

Thematic soundscapes shifted as one moved through the space, while artistic installations from DMV-based talents like Ernest Shaw and Ainsley Burrows provided visual anchors, connecting historical echoes to futuristic visions.

The true heartbeat of the theme, however, was found on the runway.

Designers like Lana Rae, Jody Davis Designs, and fashion curator Earle Bannister himself presented collections that served as sartorial time machines.

Bannister, in pre-gala interviews, spoke of “bridging eras,” and his work did just that—a 1920s-inspired beaded flapper dress might be reimagined in recycled tech fabrics, while a sharp, futuristic suit cut referenced the impeccable tailoring of a bygone era. It was a powerful reminder that fashion is never created in a vacuum, but is a constant dialogue across time.

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A Feast for All Senses In a bold move, the Gala’s culinary experience was elevated from mere sustenance to an integral part of the storytelling.

Curated by Azikiwe “Zik” DeVeaux, creator of the celebrated Black-Owned Restaurant Tour (BORT), the food was a sensory journey in itself. Each bite and sip was thoughtfully designed to complement the "Past, Present, Future" narrative, making the dinner service not an intermission, but a main act.

The Substance Behind the Spectacle Where the Baltimore MET Gala truly sets itself apart is in its unwavering commitment to community upliftment. The glitz is not the end goal; it’s the amplifier. This year’s honorees grounded the evening in tangible civic progress.

The Gala paid tribute to the developers of the Justice Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center, recognizing their work in creating equitable spaces. In the culinary world, the owner of the beloved “Holy Moly” food truck was celebrated with the Culinary Icon Award, a testament to the vibrant, grassroots food culture that defines Baltimore. These honors ensured the event was a reflection of community aspirations, not just an escape from them.

Why This Gala Matters Now In an era of globalized fashion and homogenized events, the Baltimore MET Gala is a defiantly local triumph. It proves that a event can have the polish and scale of a national production while being deeply rooted in its own soil. It’s a platform for DMV-based designers, artists, and chefs to gain visibility on a prestigious stage.

Furthermore, it positions fashion at the center of a crucial cultural dialogue—about heritage, identity, and our collective future. By bringing creative voices together with community change-makers, the Gala fosters a unique ecosystem where art and activism walk hand-in-hand, all dressed to impress.

The Final Takeaway The 2025 Baltimore MET Gala was more than an elegant evening; it was a landmark cultural moment for the region. It successfully honored the legacy of style, interpreted the dynamism of the present, and cast a hopeful, stylish vision for the future. With its powerful blend of artistry, philanthropy, and fashion, it hasn’t just raised the bar—it has created a new blueprint for what a gala can and should be.

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MODISH MUSE THE TOP THE TOP LOOKS LOOKS FOR FOR DC DC FASHION FASHION WEEK WEEK RUNWAY RUNWAY

The Dream Unfolds: A Tapestry of Style DC's 2025 fashion scene is a fusion of bold self-expression and sophisticated tailoring. Think vibrant jewel tones, retro-meetsmodern silhouettes, and statement accessories. The prevailing ethos is confident individuality, encouraging everyone to wear what truly makes them feel powerful and joyful.

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MAGAZINE

RVA Fashion Week: More Than a Runway Interview with Jimmy Budd Executive Producer and Founder For 17 years, RVA Fashion Week has been a cornerstone of Richmond's creative scene, transforming from a student-led project into a nationally recognized brand. But if you think it's just about runway shows, you’ve got it all wrong. At its heart, RVA Fashion Week is a collaborative, community-driven event, a launchpad for local talent, and a testament to the city’s unique fashion identity.

Jimmy Budd, the event's co-founder and executive producer, has been at the helm since day one. A University of Richmond student at the time, he and a small group of classmates founded the event with a clear vision: to create a platform for fashion creatives so they wouldn't have to leave Richmond to pursue their careers. “We wanted to highlight what the city was capable of and show the world what Richmond was about,” Budd says.

Over the years, the event has evolved from a small, local gathering to a full-fledged week of events, complete with educational workshops and philanthropic partnerships. Budd points to this evolution as the most significant change. "We've gone from simply producing shows to focusing on education and community integration," he explains.

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Richmond's Unique Fashion Identity Budd describes Richmond's fashion scene as a "vibrant melting pot" of styles, a place where unique and creative expression is celebrated. Unlike larger fashion hubs, the Richmond community is highly collaborative and supportive.

"The willingness of people to be expressive with their personal vision is what truly sets us apart," he says. This creative freedom has allowed designers to thrive, with many using RVA Fashion Week as a springboard for careers in bigger markets. The event’s open-call process for models and designers further reflects this inclusive ethos, with no height or size requirements and an emphasis on creativity and a unique point of view.

The Business of Fashion

A New Focus: Quality Over Quantity In a major strategic shift, Budd recently announced the cancellation of the fall show to focus on a single, more "grandiose" spring event. This decision was driven by the desire to give the all-volunteer leadership team a break from the intense, year-round pressure of producing two full weeks of events.

"The amount of time, energy, and pressure our team endures... spreads us thin already," Budd explains. The change allows the team to "be more effective in our planning, strategy, and execution." The move also helps RVA Fashion Week expand its support for community partners, such as Mostly Sugar, a local media partner that recently launched its own event series, "The Culture Is Couture." "This decision was made with the focus of helping RVAFW grow its footprint organically throughout the community we serve," says Budd.

Running RVA Fashion Week is no small feat. The event is selffunded, with Budd financing it himself and relying on strategic partnerships. His experience as the General Manager of Vagabond, a popular Richmond event venue, has been invaluable. "It truly educates me on what my strengths and weaknesses are," he says, adding that his business partner, Lester Johnson of Mama J’s, has been instrumental in his growth.

This business acumen allows Budd to navigate the complex logistics of producing the event, from scouting venues to securing sponsorships. While the challenges for emerging designers in Richmond remain—namely, making a living—RVA Fashion Week provides a crucial platform, offering not only visibility but also year-round educational workshops to help creatives succeed.

The Unspoken Rule: Hospitality First One of the most surprising things about RVA Fashion Week is its core principle: hospitality. Budd says his mantra for the team is simple: "Treat people the way you want to be treated." He adopted this philosophy early on after hearing "horror stories" from bigger fashion weeks, where toxic energy and egos were rampant.

This focus on a supportive, non-toxic environment has had a profound impact. "We continue to attract hundreds of people each year who wish to volunteer and help elevate the RVAFW experience," Budd notes. This volunteer-driven model is a key part of the event's identity and success.

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Looking to the Future Over the past 17 years, RVA Fashion Week has had an "invaluable" cultural and economic impact on Richmond. It has helped to put the city "on the map as an unbelievably creative and diverse hub," according to Budd. Looking ahead, he sees the event continuing to grow its footprint, expanding its educational initiatives, and strengthening its ties with the community.

For any young person in Richmond aspiring to a career in fashion, Budd's advice is simple: "Network relentlessly and do not be afraid to fail." He encourages aspiring creatives to find mentors, collaborate with others, and stay true to their unique vision.

As RVA Fashion Week shifts to a single, powerful annual event, its mission remains the same: to be a force for good, a showcase for local talent, and a proud reflection of the creative spirit that defines Richmond. It's more than a show; it's a movement.

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MODISH MUSE

A New Dawn For Marvel’s First Family THEY’VE NEVER LOOKED BETTER Movie Review Fantastic Four First Steps has finally made its way to theaters and it's been a long time coming for Marvel’s First Family. Over the years they never had a proper adaptation. I did like the first two movies, those were my introduction to that team but was not a fan of Fant4stic. Then when Disney bought Fox there was a big chance that Kevin Feige could finally do these characters justice.

Matt Shankman who was the showrunner of Wandavision did a great job with the aesthetics and he’s a big fan of the Fantastic Four so it's a match made in heaven. I just saw it so I’ll be giving my spoiler review on First Steps so if you haven’t seen it you’ve been warned. With that out of the way let’s dive in

Mister Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch and the Thing face their most daunting challenge yet as they defend Earth from Galactus and Silver Surfer.

The movie has a very 60s retro-futuristic aesthetic kinda like the Jetsons; it's not set in the MCU but it works in the film’s favor. Able to be standalone and not be plagued with the million dollar question: like where have the Fantastic Four been all this time? I liked the cast. Everyone was skeptical about Pedro Pascal but I think he did a great job with Reed Richards, an improvement over John Krasinski No hate for the actor, I just didn’t like his performance. The Thing looked fantastic! Molded him after his appearance in the Jack Kirby run beyond that he didn’t have much to do. Johnny Storm was great; he was the MVP of the movie getting Silver Surfer on their side by deciphering her language. But Sue Storm was the standout of the movie. I really liked Vannesa Kirby in Mission Impossible Fallout. Out of the 4 Sue Storm never had a good adaptation but here Kirby knocked it out of the park.

Galactus looked fantastic! He’s basically one to one to his comic counterpart and really liked the design. His voice felt very threatening. Dude really spent the whole movie trying to eat a baby. Now this is where I have issues with First Steps. Galactus did not eat the planet. I felt like this could’ve been a golden opportunity to spice things up. Usually you have your world ending threats but there’s no real stakes since the heroes win. But here since it's not in Earth 616 Galactus could’ve easily eaten Earth just to show how powerful he is. But no he lost to Sue Storm. Everyone was struggling but somehow she was able to push him through the portal. I get that she’s the most powerful member of the 4 but it just felt anticlimactic. Imma have to put Galactus on fraud watch. On one hand we get to spend more time in that universe however it could’ve been executed so much better. And the runtime was too short.

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So there are two post credit scenes for First Steps one more important with major implications for Avengers Doomsday & Secret Wars. So we jump to 4 years after they saved Earth from Galactus. Sue is reading books to a much older Franklin then we get RDJ’s Dr Doom pulling up at their crib while Franklin is reaching for his face. I think we can presume that this Dr Doom is from that universe 828. Earlier there was a flag for Latveria but Doom was not present so he already hates the Fantastic Four especially Reed Richards. My takeaway was he took his mask off. Is Franklin healing his face? That’s been a big head scratcher for me ever since RDJ was announced as Dr. Doom the mask is a huge part of his character. I got a theory on how it all makes sense. What if he pulls a Reverse Flash pretending to be Tony Stark.

He throws the heroes off then when you least expect it he betrays them killing a few along the way.

As for how Franklin factors into his plans we know that incursions are gonna play a key role in Doomsday and Franklin is considered one of the most powerful characters in Marvel. He was able to resurrect Sue Storm right after she died pushing Galactus through that portal. I can see him manipulating Franklin into doing his bidding, forming his own Avengers team all with the sole purpose of dethroning Loki.

THE FIRST STEPS OF A LEGACY THE NEW FANTASTIC FOUR FILM IS HERE AND IT’S RETRO-FUTERASTIC TRIP

I mean he’s literally holding the multiverse together. and that’s why we see the Fantastic Four’s ship at the end of the Thunderbolts to warn everybody about the incursions. I can also see him assembling his own Avengers team

Review by Ruben Comics

Fantastic Four: First Steps succeeds in reintroducing Marvel’s First Family with style, heart, and a clear respect for their comic book roots. The retro-futuristic aesthetic, strong casting choices, and particularly Vanessa Kirby’s commanding performance as Sue Storm help elevate the film above past attempts. However, its rushed pacing and anticlimactic resolution with Galactus prevent it from reaching its full potential. Still, as both a standalone adventure and a stepping stone toward larger multiversal stakes, First Steps establishes a promising foundation for the Fantastic Four’s future in Marvel’s cinematic landscape.

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The Art of the Reset: Wellness for the Season As the last of the summer roses bow their heads and the light turns to liquid gold, a profound shift whispers through the air. Autumn doesn’t ask for our attention; it commands it. This is the season of the graceful release, the elegant letting go. And what could be more modish than turning inward, embracing this natural transition as the ultimate form of self-care?

This isn't about fighting the change, but about moving with it. It’s about mastering the art of the reset—curating a personal wellness practice that is as intentional and refined as your wardrobe. Let’s explore how to harmonize your routine with the rhythm of the season.

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The Canvas: Skincare for the Shift

Just as you wouldn't wear linen in November, your summer skincare routine needs a seasonal edit. The cooler air and central heating can strip moisture, leaving your complexion feeling tight and lackluster. The goal? A dewy, resilient glow that defies the elements. · Phase Out the Lightweight: Gently retire your foaming cleansers and light gel moisturizers. It’s time to welcome cream-based cleansers that melt away the day without compromising your skin’s barrier. · Embrace the Serum: This is your skincare workhorse. Look for a hyaluronic acid serum to drink up hydration, followed by a vitamin C serum to combat the dullness that can come with shorter days. Apply to damp skin for a potent boost. · Seal it In with Richness: Swap your light lotion for a nutrient-dense moisturizer. Ingredients like ceramides, squalane, and shea butter will create a protective veil, locking in moisture and fortifying your skin against the wind and cold. · Don’t Forget the Lip & Hand Ballet: A luxe, nourishing lip balm and a rich hand cream are non-negotiable accessories now. Keep them in your favorite tote and apply with the same intention as you would a spritz of perfume.

The Ritual: Mindful Practices for a Busy World Autumn teaches us the beauty of slowing down. The frantic energy of summer gives way to a more contemplative pace. Weaving mindfulness into your day isn't a chore; it’s a chic commitment to your inner calm. · The Cuppa Ceremony: Transform your morning coffee or afternoon tea from a grab-and-go into a sacred pause. Feel the warmth of the mug in your hands. Inhale the earthy scent of chai or the robust aroma of coffee. For those five minutes, just be. · A Walk with Intention: This is not about counting steps. It’s a sensory experience. Notice the crunch of leaves underfoot, the sharp, clean scent of the air, the intricate architecture of bare branches against a grey sky. Leave your phone in your pocket and simply witness the world in its transitional glory. · The Page-Turner Practice: As the evenings draw in, trade screen time for the tactile pleasure of a book. Create a cozy nook with a soft blanket and a single lamp. Let reading become your wind-down ritual, a storiescape that soothes the mind before sleep.

The Sanctuary: Cultivating Calm at Home Your environment is an extension of your wellbeing. This season, curate your home to be a sanctuary—a soft place to land as the world outside grows crisp and cool. · The Sensory Switch: Introduce the scents of the season with a premium soy candle or an essential oil diffuser. Notes of sandalwood, vetiver, amber, or a hint of cinnamon and clove will ground your space in warmth and comfort. · Textural Layering: Just as you layer your clothing, layer your home.

Drape a chunky knit throw over your sofa, add a velvet cushion, and lay down a plush rug. These textures signal to your nervous system that it’s time to relax and feel secure. · Create a Tech-Free Corner: Designate a small space—a chair by the window, a spot on the floor with a favorite rug—as a digital detox zone.

This is for journaling, sipping tea, or simply staring out the window, daydreaming. Protect this space fiercely.

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This autumn, let your wellness routine be a testament to your style—not just in what you wear, but in how you live. It’s a conscious choice to move with grace, nurture your spirit, and find profound beauty in the gentle art of letting go. After all, the most modish muse you can listen to is the quiet, steady whisper of your own well-being.

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AND FROSTED METALLICS FROSTED METALLICS AND FALL 2025’S 2025’S ETHEREAL ETHEREAL 202’S 202’S BLURRED FALL

ETHEREAL EDGE ETHEREAL EDGE

Frosted Metallics and Blurred Lips: Fall 2025’s Ethereal Edge As the runway lights dim on Spring/Summer 2025 and the chill of autumn beckons, beauty’s narrative shifts from sun-kissed minimalism to a poetic interplay of frost and diffusion. Fall/Winter 2025 makeup trends, spotlighted at New York, London, Milan, and Paris Fashion Weeks, embrace a “grunge glam” revival—think Ke$ha core meets refined romance, where subculture nods collide with wearable elegance. At the forefront: frosted metallics that evoke icy dawn light, and blurred lips that whisper of just-kissed imperfection. These aren’t relics of Y2K excess; they’re modernized with skin-first philosophies, sustainable formulas, and a nod to diversity in shade ranges for every undertone. Drawing from shows like Richard Quinn’s snowy London spectacle and Christopher John Rogers’ metallic gleam, this season’s looks balance boldness with blur, proving makeup can be both armor and aura.

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BLURRED LIPS:

THE ROMANTIC WHISPER

F

rosted metallics lead the charge, transforming lids and lips into shimmering veils that catch the fleeting fall sun.

No longer chunky ‘90s frosts, these are sheer washes of icy pink, silver, taupe, or holographic lavender—diffused for a “wet look” that’s futuristic yet forgiving. At Harris Reed’s Fall 2025 show, spiky lashes framed gold-shadowed eyes with goth subversion, while Mame Kurogouchi’s chrome lips gleamed like liquid metal, blending polished silver and reflective bronze. Makeup artist Gilbert Soliz of MAC Cosmetics calls it “early 2000s shimmer with a cool-girl edge,” pairing ethereal sheens with rich liner for contrast.

On the runways, this trend manifested in “magical veils of diamonds” on neutral lids at Pat McGrath’s Miu Miu backstage, where prismatic toppers amplified the frost without overwhelming.

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FROSTED METALLICS: THE ICY DAWN How to Wear It: Start with a primer like Pat McGrath Labs’ Intensifeyes Artistry Wand to lock in longevity—essential for fall’s variable weather. Sweep a sheer metallic shadow (try Natasha Denona’s Mini Eyeshadow Palette in metallic neutrals) across the lid with a fluffy brush for diffusion, then layer loose glitter like Makeup By Mario’s Master Crystal Reflector in Citrine for multidimensional pop. For lips, line with a pearlescent pencil (Victoria Beckham’s Satin Kajal in silver) and top with gloss for that “futuristic, not dated” finish Soliz champions. On deeper skin tones, warm bronze metallics add glow without ashiness; for fair complexions, icy silvers mimic fresh snow. Pair with velvet matte skin—blurred foundation via a setting spray like Pat McGrath’s Longwear Blurring—to ground the shimmer. This look thrives in low light, turning coffee runs into editorial moments.

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THE ETHEREAL EDGE: A SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY MANIFESTO Complementing the frost is the blurred lip, a sultry evolution of summer’s clean girl aesthetic into fall’s “tired glam.” Far from precise contours, these are diffused edges in vampy berries, plums, and oxbloods—smudged for a romantic, worn-in vibe that feels intentional yet undone. At Versace, near-black berry lips straddled moody romance, while Tom Ford’s glossy oxblood pouts evoked timeless drama. Influencer Golloria George dubs it “soft-focus elegance,” blending velvety textures with dreamy diffusion for an evolution of TikTok’s no-makeup makeup.

Makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench at Richard Quinn layered frosted greys with blurred plums, creating a “post-blizzard glow” that’s equal parts ethereal and edgy.

How to Nail It: Prep with a hydrating balm to prevent feathering, then outline loosely with a lip liner in deep cherry (Fenty Beauty’s Uncensored). Fill with a satin lipstick like Lancôme’s L’Absolu Rouge Drama Matte in Plum Addiction, and blur edges by tapping with a finger or smudging brush for that “just-kissed” sheer—Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury’s technique for Morticia Addams-inspired allure. For inclusivity, brands like Stila’s Calligraphy Lip Stain in Amelia offer buildable plums across undertones. Layer a velvet blur balm (Simihaze Beauty’s Matte Lipstick Balm) for comfort, as velvet mattes return in hydrating formulas. Anchor with “boy blush” in cinnamon bronzers on cheeks, replacing coquettish pinks for a natural flush.

Sustainability threads through these trends: Frosted metallics favor recyclable mica pigments, while blurred lips lean on clean, long-wear stains from organic bases—reducing packaging waste in line with 2025’s eco-push. Together, they form fall’s beauty manifesto: frost for fantasy, blur for humanity. As Allure notes, these looks “brighten, blur, and built to last,” raging against machine-perfected ideals with playful rebellion. In a season of transition, let your face frost over like morning dew—soft, diffused, and utterly magnetic.

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Silicon & Cashmere: How AI Is Crafting Fashion’s Most Conscious Fall Yet In the quiet revolution sweeping the ateliers and tech labs alike, artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a designer’s most discerning collaborator. This autumn, the most compelling collections aren’t just beautiful; they’re intelligent, ethical, and intuitively aligned with the world we want to inhabit.

The light shifts. The air sharpens. As we reach for that first layer of wool, that timeless trench, that perfectly weighted silk scarf, something more profound is afoot than a simple seasonal transition. This year, the very fabric of fashion is being rewoven—thread by digital thread—into something smarter, more responsive, and radically more responsible.

Welcome to the era of the intelligent wardrobe, where artificial intelligence, the industry’s most talked-about and perhaps most misunderstood muse, is quietly revolutionizing everything from the sketchbook to the closet.

The Silent Partner in the Atelier Behind the scenes, a transformation is underway. The traditional design process, often reliant on countless physical samples and intuitive forecasts, is being elegantly upended. We’ve seen designers like Stella McCartney and Collina Strada utilize AI tools to generate thousands of print and silhouette variations in an afternoon, accelerating creativity while drastically reducing the sample waste that has long been fashion’s dirty secret.

Gone are the days of AI as a cold, impersonal force. In the hands of visionary designers, it has become an instrument of exquisite precision and surprising poetry. Imagine a cashmere coat, its silhouette conceived by an algorithm that studied a century of iconic fall fashion, its pattern cut with zero-waste precision, and its rich, earthy hue achieved with botanicals identified by machine learning to reduce water use by half.

This is not a speculative future; it is the reality of fall’s most coveted pieces.

“It’s like having a co-creator who never sleeps, who can process the entire history of design in moments,” notes a creative director from a leading sustainable house, who prefers to remain anonymous. This isn’t about replacing the artist’s hand, but about amplifying it. The algorithm can suggest a dart, a seam, a proportion that a human might not consider, optimizing not just for aesthetics, but for material efficiency. The result? Collections that are born of a beautiful, sustainable logic.

The New Textures of Autumn This season, runways and lookbooks are whispering of alchemy.

The textures we crave—the nubby weaves, the butter-soft leathers, the fluid drapes—are increasingly born of innovation.

Piñatex, derived from pineapple leaves, is being tailored into exquisite boots and bags. Recycled polyester, spun from ocean plastic, is now luxuriously indistinct from its virgin counterpart, perfect for a sleek, city-weight trench.

The true magic happens when AI enters the material equation.

Brands are now using predictive systems to analyze the durability, drape, and environmental impact of new bio-fabrics before a single thread is spun. This means the deep-crimson tweed of your dream blazer is not only stunning but was also selected because the data confirmed its lower carbon footprint compared to traditional alternatives. This is conscious consumption, refined to a science.

Your Closet, Now Clairvoyant Perhaps the most intimate evolution is happening in how we choose. The frustration of online shopping—the returns, the misfits, the pieces that hang unworn—is being systematically solved. AI-powered styling platforms, like the ones integrated by Net-a-Porter and Mytheresa, are evolving into digital stylists with an almost psychic understanding of your personal lexicon of style.

They cross-reference your past purchases with your saved images, the weather in your city, and even the subtle shift in your aesthetic preferences. The result? A curated edit of pieces you are statistically destined to love and, crucially, to keep. This moves us beyond the impulsive churn of fast fashion and toward a more considered, lasting relationship with what we own. It’s the antithesis of the overflowing closet; it is the edited, cherished capsule, perfected.

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The Promise of a Perfect Fit & A Clear Conscience The holy grail of digital fashion—the virtual fit—is now a reality. Advanced avatars mirror our bodies down to the millimeter, allowing us to try on a bias-cut silk dress or a structured blazer from our living rooms. This technology, once clunky, is now so precise it can show how a fabric will gather at the elbow or skim over the hip. The environmental payoff is monumental: a significant reduction in the carbon cost of returns, a persistent plague of e-commerce.

Furthermore, a new demand for radical transparency is being met with blockchain and AI. With a simple scan of a QR code, you can trace your shearling-trimmed jacket’s journey from a regenerative farm to the finished product in your hands, verifying every ethical claim. This isn’t just supply chain management; it’s storytelling. It’s the narrative of a garment, and it’s a story the modern consumer is increasingly eager to hear.

The Promise of a Perfect Fit & A Clear Conscience Of course, no revolution is without its complexities. The energy required to power this digital transformation is a valid concern, pushing tech companies toward renewable energy and more efficient data centers. And the question of homogenization—will AI lead to a sea of algorithmic, same-looking clothes?

—lingers.

Yet, the most brilliant designers are treating AI not as a crutch but as a catalyst. It handles the data, the optimization, the forecasting, freeing the human mind to do what it does best: imagine, create, and instill a collection with soul. The future of fashion lies in this symbiotic dance between human intuition and machine intelligence.

As the leaves turn, so does the page. This autumn, the most sophisticated statement you can make is to embrace an intelligence that is as much about conscience as it is about couture. It’s a world where the most luxurious fabric is not silk or cashmere, but clarity itself—the knowledge that what we wear is a product of both beautiful artistry and beautiful logic.

The forecast is clear: the future of fashion will be designed with code, crafted with conscience, and worn with wisdom.

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Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. photo by Kasper

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