Voir Fashion Issue 24: Turning Up The Heat! starring Bebe Rexha

Summer 2019

N o 24

Welcome to Issue 24 Turning up the heat!

As UK temperatures soar into the… early 20s, we are turning up the heat at Voir. We are excited to present to you an issue that is bursting with attitude (the positive kind), uniqueness and integrity. As you know, we’re all about pushing boundaries, and we proudly feature an inspiring and international collection of go-getters, rule-breakers and risk-takers who are transcending their chosen field on their way to the top.

Owning the rightful position of centre stage in this ensemble, is none other than Bebe Rexha, a self-proclaimed sexy, unapologetic and honest woman. From the moment she stepped into our studio to grace us with her presence (and 3 stunning covers by the way) we knew she was no ordinary artist. Full to the brim of that all-American confidence, it didn’t take long for her to demonstrate why she is our muse and ambassador for Issue 24, epitomising the Voir ‘daring to be different’ ethos and ‘unafraid to dream’ mindset. We get up-close-and-personal in our exclusive editorial ‘Undeniably Bebe’ to uncover what inspiration lies behind a sugar free diet and a slice of chocolate cake.

Continuing this spirit of go-gettedness (is there even such a word?), we decided to ‘Go for Gold’ with British cyclist and Olympic hopeful Amber Joseph. In true motivation mode, Amber shares secrets of her hidden talents, career goals and why “If you stop pedalling, you’ll fall over!” There is certainly a lot more to this young athlete than track and field.

Streetwear takes us to our next maven, namely Giuliano Calza, better known under the brand GCDS. Inspiration is this man’s middle name as he carves out collection after collection and continues to ignite the following of today’s ‘cool kids’. It isn’t just that he has managed to secure himself a spot on the Business of Fashion 500 for his progressiveness in fashion, through his designs, he speaks a language that people can identify with. Think ‘Marijuana 4:20’ for a shade of lipstick, and ‘Miami Milf’ for a nail polish under the brand’s cruelty-free, gender fluid cosmetics, and it is easy to see what the fuss is about.

We have our usual offering of seasonal trends, carved up and served on a slate of deliciousness that is Hip&Runway; a ‘Hi-Vis’ fashion editorial by Toby Shaw, making sure you get seen this summer; and an exclusive up-close-and-personal with contemporary art’s new enfant terrible: Andreea Robescu.

Andreea reinforces the tone of this issue that “It’s all about attitude, it’s about owning your voice and celebrating who you are.”

Last but not least makeup artist and entrepreneur Anna Priadka of Makeup54 and beauty photographer Jen Wilding have collaborated with us to help you discover your ‘Rocket Girl’ - for when you are ready to burn out your fuse. That’s not before we invite you to turn up the heat! xx

Jyoti Matoo Editor-In-Chief jm@voirfashion.co.uk

Words by Hannah Oulton

A new season brings a sense of new beginnings, a time for fresh-starts whilst appreciating what has been and embracing who we are right now. The SS19 runways showed us just that. We saw the most body-positive, racially diverse and gender-inclusive runway to date, with sustainable fashion fast becoming the hottest topic in the industry and returning trends packaged in new guises.

It’s high time for some Summer Lovin’.

When runway trends start to hit the high-street, those high-summer feels are real. It’s suddenly all barbecues and beaches, festivals and weddings, suntans and spritz… it’s a hard life, but someone’s got to live it.

Vacation Vibes

Summer means sunshine and oh-so-chic styling. The SS19 runway brought a plethora of Riviera-esque fashion, creating the perfect mood-board for anyone’s vacation wardrobe...

Chanel literally brought the French Riviera to Paris, featuring sand and fake waves: welcome to the C-side. Nautical stripes, straw accessories and precious pearls screamed summer-sass. Jacquemus brought us shades of blue with raffia accessories, Chloé styled quintessential layers with rope belts, Rejina Pyo gave us pastel gingham high-waisted swimwear and Oscar de la Renta showed flowing silk, oversized kaftans and jewellery straight from the sea. Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside…

Wedding wow-factor

Stacked with weddings this summer? Worry not, there’s style guidance a-plenty from this season’s runways. Shades of summer came in beige and sunset hues. Choose timeless tailoring like Stella McCartney and Mara Hoffman with the addition of bold, contrasting accessories for wow-factor. Why not take a classic dress and add a feature? Go for the bow detail like Miu Miu and Emilia Wickstead or make like Fendi and Louis Vuitton with a statement belt. A bit more daring? Make your wedding guest outfit unique, choosing popping prints in feminine silhouettes with statement pieces from Loewe, Erdem and Marni.

Subtle or bold, you’ll be a show-stopper this wedding season.

White-out White may be the bridal shade of choice, but this year it’s the ultimate colour for high-summer dressing. White is all over the high streets already, and it’s no surprise. Jil Sander brought tailored lines and oversized dresses, Zimmerman gave us lace kaftan-style jumpsuits and their iconic frill-finished dresses and 3.1 Phillip Lim had all the staple tailoring we need for SS19. Simply add your fave pair of espadrilles and some over-sized hairclips; the jobs a good-un.

Festival Feels

No summer is complete without festival fashion. Whether you’re donning your Glasto-glitter or accenting your going-out look, SS19 has everything you need. Texture is an eye-catcher year-on-year.

Add some crochet with Chloé and Carolina Herrera’s ankle-sweeping dresses, or lace with Marco de Vincenzo’s camis and Christopher Kane’s mini dresses for a subtle nod to the trend. Go fanatic for fringing with an embellished fringe belt like Altuzarra or all-out head-to-toe look like Ports 1961. And, let’s face it, it wouldn’t be festival-style without feathers, so this year think bold and beautiful.

Take inspo from Rochas and Valentino…Rio’s Carnival got nothing on us, girl!

Noughties Nostalgia In the true essence of fashion trends, what goes around comes around. Whilst the nostalgic nod to the noughties was prevalent for SS19, the take was fresh and cute. Remember the military trend? It’s back for a timeless-take.

Patch-pockets, refined tailored separates and classic shades. Burberry brought the investment trench, Tory Burch exhibited utilitarian-esque shirts and Givenchy gave us all the feels for combats again.

Hello youth!

The flashback doesn’t stop there. Tie-dye came with a touch of early noughties bohemia in an abundance of shades. Calvin Klein was bold, Prada and No. 21 in glow-stick neon.

California dreams meets The Mickey Mouse club red carpet. If you know, you know.

And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, denim on denim is back people! Bleached was the twist for SS19, but the gems brought to us

by Off White, Isabel Marant (that playsuit though) and Alberta Ferretti have got us deep in the Justin and Britney double denim daydreams.

Whether you take your new season step from the increasing representation of real body-shape and ethnicity on the runway, summer styling in simplistic palettes, or welcoming back the trends we thought had passed, there’s one thing for sure: your summer style is yours, however you wish to wear it.

Time to own it.

Styling & Concept: Jyoti Matoo Art Director/Photographer: Luke Walwyn Retoucher: Fani Martin Production Manager: Veronica Wong Diffa Hair stylist: Kazue Deki Make Up Artist: Brittany Paige Nail Artist: Aliyah Johnson Finesse Nails London Videography: James John, Marvyn Sinclair Styling Assistants: Kymberley Holmes Eden Charkani, Sachin Gogna Editorial Assistants: Anna Hutchence Pippa Simmonds, Samera Al-Sarouri

Interview by Jyoti Matoo Words by Pippa Simmonds

Bebe Rexha has a particular way of owning a room the moment she steps into it. She’s a boss, and she knows what she wants. Anyone who marches into a shoot, greeting the stylist with a loud: “Are you dressing me? Oh my god, you’re hot!” is someone we’ve got time for here at Voir.

Sexy. Unapologetic. Honest. Bebe Rexha’s choice of adjectives when asked to describe herself in 3 words unintentionally recapitulate the way she enters the room in which we meet. Full of that American confidence, Bebe waltzes in, with nearly the entirety of her face covered by a pair of black sunglasses. Decked out in a patent puffer coat and leggings, she epitomises that cool, off-duty look we all strive for. She’s not off duty though, she’s got a packed day of shooting, filming and interviewing – and she’s full to the brim with enthusiasm for it.

Bebe’s anthemic single, ‘Last Hurrah’ (inspired by a fellow songwriter’s personal experience - involving a sugar-free diet and a slice of chocolate cake) was released mid-February, and wholly summarises a mindset that all of us are guilty of. “If that’s not me, I don’t know what is,” she explains of the concept behind the track. “It’s just so relatable: drinking, smoking, going back to an ex… we all have these vices.”

And she’s not wrong. Ever found yourself vowing never to drink again the hazy morning after a heavy night? Us, too. And if you’re wondering what Bebe’s best hangover advice is: Carbs.

Green Crystal Chainmail Corset Dress with Crystal and Feather Detail: Disney Villains x The Blonds POA. Neon Yellow Thigh High Sock Boots: PrettyLittleThing ‘Floating Emeralds’ – Emerald and Diamond Ring set in 18k white gold. Exceptional Pieces Collection & ‘Dreams in Green’ – Emerald and Diamond Bracelet set in 18k white gold. Exceptional Pieces Collection: Shirin Uma - POA Pink Rhinestone Earrings: Stylist’s own

SS19 Vinyl Ruffled Biker Jacket: ANNAKIKI Diavolina Sunglasses in Neon Green: Poppy Lissiman Lucite Electric green plexiglass logo earrings: GCDS ‘Better Late-X Than Never’ Vinyl High Waisted Leggings: So Monroe ‘Floating Emeralds’ – Emerald and Diamond Ring set in 18k white gold, Exceptional Pieces Collection: Shirin Uma POA

Of her song writing process, Bebe describes how inspiration is key, and creatively, ideas can often spring to mind at the most inconvenient of times.

“I could be in the bathtub… and something might just hit me. Just recently, I was on a plane when I had an idea that I just had to get down. I was literally recording things on my phone, hoping people wouldn’t think I was crazy. I think I got away with it.” If hits like ‘Last Hurrah’ and ‘I’m a Mess’ are anything to go on, it’s working for Bebe; crazy or not. After all, they’ve earned her a Grammy nomination and the means to buy herself her very first house; two things she counts amongst her biggest achievements to date.

But it’s not all awards shows and ‘last hurrah’s’.

An issue close to Bebe’s heart is the representation and backing of women, particularly within the judgemental, competitive environment that is the music industry. She credits her mum for helping her navigate this throughout her career, but admits that she would have benefitted from some other sort of support system when she was starting out. In true Bebe style (undeniably no-nonsense, always), she found a way to overcome this for today’s female artists and creators – in the form of Women in Harmony. She set up the Women in Harmony initiative in order to unite female creatives in the music industry in a space where they are able to talk to each other, share experiences and give and receive advice.

Past attendees include Rita Ora, Charli XCX and JoJo - so it’s safe to say the whole thing has been something of a success.

Still, Bebe’s social focus doesn’t lie solely with the other industry top dogs. In fact, she’s been known to call up fans for a chat live on her Instagram before. “Why do I do that?” She asks, perhaps nodding towards the fact that the answer is quite obvious: “Without my fans, I wouldn’t be in the position that I’m in. They are the most important thing.” She gushes, “They keep me afloat.”. It’s true that much of Bebe’s success can be put down to a loyal worldwide fanbase, but she confesses that her favourite city to perform in is still her home turf, New York, where she grew as an artist and developed that unique Bebe panache we know and love.

Style-wise, her muses include the likes of Gwen Stefani, Madonna, Debbie Harry (“She was just always incredible”) and even, if slightly less directly, Marilyn Monroe. To summarise: “Anybody who is loud and kind of…themselves.”.

Of course, Bebe fits this brief perfectly herself, fearlessly throwing her own ideas into the mix when it comes to our cover shoot. Owning every look we capture, she assertively introduces her own choice of poses, angles and concepts in a visual dialogue that harnesses her personal style, and a self-assurance that underscores her route to success.

In terms of a second album, Bebe hints that we can expect one towards the end of the summer, having just released the single ‘Call You Mine’ with The Chainsmokers. “I’ve been working hard on it [the album], and I’m very proud!”

Bebe has previously clarified that her poorest personality trait is impatience (her New Year’s Resolution this year was to improve on that; “It hasn’t worked!”), it’s clear that Bebe is about as itching to get the album out there as her fanbase are to hear it – and rightly so.

MINI CIAO BAG - Pink mini woven shoulder bag featuring top handles, logo to the front, a gold-tone chain shoulder strap, a main internal compartment, a woven design and graphic embellishment to the front: GCDS Chingy Bling Pants Pink: Dyspnea Boner Bodice in Pink: Dyspnea Peter Pan Love Jacket: Rosamosario Pink Feathered Heels: Missguided ‘So Ruby’ – Ruby and Diamond Earrings set in 18k white gold, Exceptional Pieces Collection: Shirin Uma - POA ‘Eternal Eight’ – signature design diamond eternity ring set in 18k white gold, Lifestyle Collection: Shirin Uma - POA Bespoke Eternity Ring – round brilliant cut diamonds set in 18k white gold, available in different carat weights: Shirin Uma - POA

Most of us can divulge aiming for a level of cool confidence comparable to Bebe’s. She’s the definition of sassy, and part of a generation of talent offering their audience a more positive, inclusive influence; be it in the form of Women in Harmony, or of yelling “You wish you’d dressed my fat ass!” at the throng of designers who refused to clothe her US size 8 figure for the Grammy’s, labelling her ‘too big’.

Either way: Bebe’s got feist, and she’s not afraid to use it.

SS19 Words by Pippa Simmonds, Montages by Samera Al-Sarouri.

VALENTINO

GABRIELA HEARST

VALENTINO

Pleats have been a slow burner ever since 2016’s midi skirt return, and they were in abundance on SS19 catwalks - in all forms. Brandon Maxwell showcased high neck, maxi-length accordion pleat gowns, while Issey Miyake continued their patented Pleats Please collection (first launched in 1993), with a collection of wide pleated dresses, skirts and jackets. Valentino brought us a holiday-ready take on the trend, with slitted skirts and deep V-neck dresses – paired, of course, with an oversized straw sun hat.

BRANDON MAXWELL

VALENTINO

ISSEY MIYAKE

BRANDON MAXWELL

RODARTE

Nothing says summer – particularly if we’re talking festival season – like crochet. All things woven dominated the SS19 shows, including beach cover-up style dresses from Jil Sander and Tory Burch, and intricately woven frocks at Rodarte. It doesn’t have to be limited to full length numbers though (especially in the heat of high summer) - a woven cropped top paired with denim shorts or a flowy midi skirt will definitely cut the mustard.

RODARTE

plilipp plein MARYAM NASSIR ZADEH

givenchy

TORY BURCH

JIL SANDER

TORY BURCH

Mary Katrantzou

NICOPANDA

SAINT LAURENT

NICOPANDA

LONGCHAMP

LONGCHAMP

Suede, fringing and a Stetson – a fashionista’s western rule of three.

Longchamp, Nicopanda and Saint Laurent jumped on the (horse-drawn) bandwagon for Spring/Summer, presenting tasselled two-pieces and neon hats, sexed up with see-through fabrics and thigh-grazing minis. A statement fringed piece is a festival must have – no matter who tries to tell you that tassels have had their day.

NICOPANDA

CHRISTOPHER KANE Erdem

Christopher Kane’s Sex in Nature collection was at the forefront of the lace trend, with models donning cut out dresses, crops and skirts. Victoria Beckham showcased wearable lace-trimmed camis in deep V-neck shapes (easily translated into your summer wardrobe – think ‘jeans and a nice top’). Elsewhere, Off-White layered a flowing lace skirt over a sporty bodysuit – taking athleisure to the next level.

Erdem

Simone Rocha

OFF_WHITE

CHRISTOPHER KANE

VICTORIA BECKHAM

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Give your outfit a regal twist with some scarf-print garb. Silky scarfstyle shirts have been circling for a while, but it’s time to take the trend to the next level. Over at Richard Quinn, models walked in floor length silky gowns; while Tory Burch fused scarf prints into a bomberjacket-skirt two piece. Oscar de la Renta literally tied a scarf around Bella Hadid’s waist - sarong style - so this trend can be effortlessly carried into your holiday packing list. marine serre

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

RICHARD QUINN

TORY BURCH

RICHARD QUINN

CUSHNIE

JEREMY SCOTT

EMILIA WICKSTEAD

CUSHNIE

EMPORIO ARMANI

HOUSE OF HOLLAND OFF-WHITE

BRANDON MAXWELL

So you thought the neon trend was out? Think again. Everyone was sceptical when this one first emerged, probably due to unavoidably haunting flashbacks of 80’s legwarmers.

Nevertheless, the trend seems to be becoming more and more of a musthave. Brandon Maxwell effortlessly slayed the craze, in super-short pink silk numbers; while Jeremy Scott (in true style) plastered his with patches reading ‘REVOLT’, ‘RESIST’ and ‘FUTURE’. Cushnie did cutesy neons, with high-neck, floor-length silhouettes and pleated pops of yellow. You won’t be struggling to get your hands on a highlighter-hued staple for a while whatever your budget.

Styling & Concept: Jyoti Matoo Photographer: Toby Shaw Model: Han Sol Production Manager: Veronica Wong Diffa Make Up Artist: Abbie May Styling Assistants: Eden Charkani, Sachin Gogna

Demi Crystal Bandeau: Nikita Karizma Red Vinyl Crop Long Sleeve Jacket & Red Vinyl Detail Mini Skirt: PrettyLittleThing Diamante Hand Bag: Topshop Skinny Demon Sunglasses in Lilac: Poppy Lissiman Neon Yellow Hoop Earrings: Freedom Jewellery Shayla Neon Green Lycra Lace Up Stiletto Heels: SIMMI London Diamante Belt: Stylist’s own

Blue Lace up Jumpsuit: DiDu POA Yellow Strap Heels: Public Desire Neon Yellow Hoop Earrings: Freedom Jewellery

Green Corset and Trousers: DiDu Space Party Sunglasses in Pearl: Poppy Lissiman Pink beaded handbag & Silver Strappy Shoes: Stylist’s own

Grey Long Harper Marabou Jacket: Nikita Karizma Neon Lime Bralette: Topshop Lilac Transparent Straight Leg Trouser & Lilac Transparent Crop Jacket PrettyLittleThing Elton Sunglasses in Pink: Poppy Lissiman Shayla Neon Green Lycra Lace Up Stiletto Heels: SIMMI London Diamante Phone Bag: Stylist’s own

Bad Reputation Scoop Neck Vinyl Mini Dress in Pink: Oh Polly Pearly pink and pastel blue trompe l’oeil belt handbag with drawn-on textiles: EDDA Pink Feather Boa: EDDA Yellow Belt: Missguided Green Chain Earrings: Freedom Jewellery

Voir’s fashion reporter Pippa Simmonds gets up close and personal with co-founder and creative director of high fashion brand GCDS, Giuliano Calza, to discuss creative freedom, an international approach to fashion, and true Italian craftsmanship.

“Giuro che domani smetti” translates directly to “I swear I’ll quit tomorrow” - a familiar phrase for many of us, I’m sure. This particular idiom was also the original thought process behind Italianborn streetwear brand GCDS. Nowadays, the acronym stands for ‘God Can’t Destroy Streetwear’, which (for the monolinguals amongst us) rolls off the tongue just slightly more smoothly than the former; and has an edgy ring to it that perfectly verbalises the brand’s ethos.

Giuliano Calza

While GCDS offers a funky, athleisure-streetwear exterior, they are by no means limited to this.

For SS19, the high fashion label, which is the brain child of designer Giuliano Calza, sent more practical designs down the runway. Boiler suits, m25-workman-esque hi-vis trousers and summer-holiday-friendly neutral bucket hats prevailed. Incidentally, this was the same show that the internet went wild for after models took to the runway sporting three boobs beneath their GCDS crop tops. At the time, Calza’s mother had breast cancer, and after a creative brainstorm with his team, envisioning ‘the future of the beach front’, he thought: “maybe in the future, they’re going to have a third one!”

GCDS SS19

GCDS’ AW19 collection was peppered with influences from just about every era: 60’s mini cuts (and matching high-ponytails), 80’s shoulder pads and Working Girl suiting – and even a collaboration with Polly Pocket. The common ground between the multitude of themes explored in the show, however, is that unmistakeable Calza touch. Although, it’s hard to pin down exactly how he manages to make suits, ruffles and patent leather stand out from a sea of designers dipping their toes in the very same trends. Intrigued? You should be.

For most, working alongside a sibling may seem like a pretty daunting prospect, but Giuliano Calza has held the title of creative director since the brand’s launch in 2015, whilst his brother, Giordano, works as the company’s CEO. “[working with Giordano] is great! I completely trust him and can focus on the creative side without worrying.” Giuliano spent time at university in Milan, followed by Shanghai, before launching his brand. He describes how this experience allowed him to distance himself from ‘European clichés’ and just see a bit more of the world. “I was able to explore an exceptional market and cultural landscape that not many designers can consider in their creative process,” Calza tells us. “I’ve had the opportunity to see the best of both worlds.”

Whilst Calza’s travels have undoubtedly had great influence on what GCDS is today, maintaining an element of Italian classic-ness has always been imperative.

GCDS AW19/20

Calza Brothers

Dua Lipa

“I produce everything in Italy because I feel deeply connected to the place where I grew up,” he explains. “At the same time, I did expand my experience worldwide, so this influence is at the core [of GCDS].” This experience has resulted in what Calza calls: ‘Italian craftsmanship, mixed with an inclusive and international approach’.

To name a few of the Milan-based label’s latest victories, research by Launchmetrics and Lyst recently named them the second most searched Italian brand online. 2018 also saw Giuliano Calza secure himself a spot on the BoF 500 (“the definitive professional index of the people shaping the $2.4 trillion fashion industry”), as well as the release of their cruelty free, gender fluid line of cosmetic products. The line was designed for a unisex customer; and contains four very GCDS lipstick shades, named with ‘today’s vocabulary’ in mind, whilst ‘avoiding pretentiousness’: HYPE, MARIJUANA 4:20, VELVET D.I.C.K and BLINGHOE. Next up for GCDS beauty? Nail polish: “’Miami Milf’ is my favourite shade!”

Famous faces in favour of the brand include Ariana Grande and Dua Lipa (who have both donned GCDS garb in their music videos), as well as Bella Hadid, Sita Abellan and influencer/fellow Italian businessperson Chiara Ferrangi.

Their archive of models includes Winnie Harlow and Chinq Pink; and each online order placed comes with a mini GCDS pack of matches, condom, sticker or cookie – so Giuliano Calza is, unquestionably, a man who knows his own brand.

So, what’s next for GCDS? “World domination!” Calza jokes.

“Sure, we’re planning some ambitious projects. Store openings, a comprehensive brand-wide sustainability plan, and always working to create something special for the youth.” To see some of his glorious creations in action – head to the editorial ‘Undeniably Bebe’ where she rocks GCDS for Voir’s cover shoot.

Giuliano in Paris

Giuliano & Gilda Ambrosio GCDS Cosmetics

by Jen Wilding MUA & Creative Direction: Anna Priadka using Makeup54 Models: Maissane Abdelkader Raihanna Thompson Make Up Assistant: Danielle Yates Photographic Assistant: James Davey Retouching: Fani Martin

Eyes: Metallic Powder in Rose Gold from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Reflect Glitter in 3D SILVER from M.A.C Cosmetics Climax Mascara from NARS Cosmetics Glitter in Transparent Pink from M.A.C Cosmetics Lips: DISCO TOPPER in GLITTERBALL from Makeup54

Eyes: Metallic Powder in SILVER from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Reflects Glitter 3d Sliver from M.A.C Cosmetics

Lips DISCO RED in JERRY from Makeup54 Clear Lipglass from M.A.C Cosmetics

Eyes: Metallic Powder in SILVER from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Climax Mascara from NARS Cosmetics Glitter Royal Blue from Kryolan Lips: DISCO TOPPER in GLITTERBALL from Makeup54 Reflect Glitter 3d Silver from M.A.C Cosmetics

Eyes: Metallic Powder in Rose Gold from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Reflect Glitter in Transparent Pink from M.A.C Cosmetics Dual Intensity Eyeshadow in Calisto from NARS Cosmetics Rose Glitter from Kryolan Lips: DISCO PINK in ROSS from Makeup54 PINK GLITTER from Kryolan

Eyes: Metallic Powder in SILVER from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Reflects Glitter 3d Sliver from M.A.C Cosmetics

Lips: DISCO PINK in ROSS from Makeup54 Lipglass in Clear from M.A.C Cosmetics Eyes: Metallic Powder in Rose Gold from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Reflect Glitter in Transparent Pink from M.A.C Cosmetics Dual Intensity Eyeshadow in Calisto from NARS Cosmetics Rose Glitter from Kryolan

Eyes: Metallic Powder in SILVER from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Climax Mascara from NARS Cosmetics Glitter Royal Blue from Kryolan Lips: DISCO TOPPER in GLITTERBALL from Makeup54 Reflect Glitter 3d Silver from M.A.C Cosmetics

Eyes: Metallic Powder in Rose Gold from Mehron Makeup Mixing Medium from Mehron Makeup Reflect Glitter in Transparent Pink from M.A.C Cosmetics Dual Intensity Eyeshadow in Calisto from NARS Cosmetics ROSE GLITTER from Kryolan Lips: DISCO TOPPER in GLITTERBALL from Makeup54

Interview and words by Pippa Simmonds

Perhaps due to her 6-day-per-week training schedule, or maybe just as a result of living by the saying: “If you stop pedalling, you’ll fall over!”

- Amber Joseph is best described as fully charged.

It’s hard to imagine her in any other state than the energetic, animated one in which she meets the Voir team. We talk motivation, hidden talents and career goals…

Despite her gruelling training routine at the World Cycling Centre in Switzerland, where she is currently based, there’s one thing that always keeps Amber going: “Winning!” she beams.

“And the fact that there are so many people that believe in me and support me. I know that I can do it, because they tell me I can do it.” The latter is exactly what charmed Amber about the sport in the first place, “I fell in love with the cycling community,” she explains. “When I started, everyone just wanted to help me, everyone wants to help everyone!”

Amber began her journey by cycling for Great Britain after being shortlisted for sprint. She cycled there for a year as a first-year junior, but knew that endurance cycling was more up her street. It wasn’t until she was approached by her home country, Barbados, that Amber really started to live her best-cycling-life. She took home a silver at the Pan American Games, an impressive result considering that it was her first ever international junior race. Riding for Barbados suits Amber well – she grew up there, half her family reside there, and it’s always had a special place in her heart.

Poppy Lissiman - Coco Husk Sunglasses, Neon Green PEACE + CHAOS - Lime Cycling Shorts PrettyLittleThing - Red Ruffle Mesh Plunge Bodysuit Turquoise Belt - Stylist’s Own CHIC - Neon Yellow Strap Heels

NIKE - Nike FE/NOM Flyknit Women’s Sports Bra, Blue and Red Ella Loca - Puta Chain Waist Belt Ella Loca - Fuego Purse Missguided - Clear Neon Yellow Trim Rain Mac I SAW IT FIRST - Brown Leopard Print Cycling Shorts PrettyLittleThing - Lime chunky Block Heel Mule

For an athlete so young, Amber is wise beyond her years. She understands the importance of the support system that surrounds her, and is driven too by the other young cyclists she trains with. So, when we ask if there’s someone she looks up to within the cycling world: “Everyone.

We put ourselves through ridiculous work every day to get better and better. For me, that’s inspiring.” Amber’s 6 days of training per week usually entails a mixture of cycling (surprise) and gym, “sometimes double days, sometimes triple days. It depends.” So, emphasis on the ‘ridiculous’. She’s got her methods though, Amber’s pre-race playlist is a mix of Bashment, Reggae and Soca tunes, which ensure she enters every competition or training session fully hyped and ready to go.

The World Cycling Academy isn’t all fitness and flaxseed, though. They have fun, be it the lakeside barbecues they have during their few free hours (the hours that aren’t spent recovering, that is), or Amber showing off her party trick: hypermobility (“I whip out my hands and everyone’s like, ‘Woaaaaaaah!’”) And while Amber ‘eats the right things’ in the lead up to a race to maximise performance, she’ll always celebrate with a rack of ribs afterwards – a girl after our own heart.

Brave Soul - Blue iridescent Short Rain Mac PrettyLittleThing - Shape Neon PInk Buckle Detail Unitard Missguided - Leopard Utility Belt Truffle - Neon Orange Perspex Heels Poppy Lissiman - Skinny Demon Sunglasses, Lilac

But Amber is thinking ahead, too. When she retires from cycling, her dream is to head home to Barbados and set up an academy for young cyclists. “I want to make it easier for children, especially girls, to get into the sport.” She enthuses.

“I found it hard. When I was in Barbados, I’d never ridden a bike before. Then I came here [England], and cycling was everywhere. I just want to make it more accessible, because it’s such an amazing sport.”

In the meantime, Amber’s goal is to get to the very top, and she’s hoping to appear in the 2020 Olympics. “I want to be a World Champion, Olympic Champion, Commonwealth Champion. I want to be the best.” This girl has big dreams, and we’ve got a sneaky feeling she’s going to achieve every single one of them.

Interview and words by Lizzy Greenwood

Andreea Robescu, the multidisciplinary Barcelona-based artist, is shaking up the way we view digital and print artwork. Her striking images are arresting, playful and provocative. Collaborating with Sephora and Levi Strauss, her artistry has unsurprisingly captivated huge names and she has produced and reimagined magazine covers and designer campaigns with a fresh and exciting flair, lashings of colour and oodles of fun. “It’s all about attitude, it’s about owning your voice and celebrating who you are.”

Her love of art stemmed from an innate curiosity about different art forms and a childhood surrounded by a creative family.

After studying for a degree in architecture, she went on to pursue a career in interior design, but quickly discovered she was more passionate about illustration and graphic design. Her partner, Andrei Robu, also played a large role in her artistic development, and much of her inspiration and courage to pursue a full-time career was because of him.

Her art aims to push boundaries around how the body and facial features are illustrated through photography and within the fashion industry, often playing with eyebrows and lips, the typical facial outlets of expression. Her collaborations came about organically, after freelancing for a number

of years, “I had the opportunity to create all the artwork for the Major League Baseball Assembly festival and part of my work was used to customise Levi’s merchandise.

I’ve worked with Sephora a few times now and I believe we’re just a good match and keep finding ways of collaborating.” Bold colours and abstract shapes dominate Andreea’s pieces, using everything in her armoury, from acrylic to markers, pencils to ink, digital to analog. Her work explores typography and colour, reimagining editorial campaigns like Céline, Mulberry, Burberry and Chanel with her charismatic and infectiously playful panache.

Andreea’s bold aesthetic challenges artistic norms; “the art world was always very patriarchal, both in terms of who had the opportunity to show and sell their work and how the female subjects were depicted.”

She aims to reclaim that, and show the world a different perspective, with her updated female gaze. ‘Strong Women’ is an animation series that championed female empowerment; one illustrating a woman from a low-angle, depicting dominance and authority, with power shoulders to match, a short skirt and swinging hips, emblazoned with ‘NOT FOR GRABS’ – take note, Trump. The choice of moving animations demonstrate how women are constantly in flux, unable and resistant to being captured with a single image.

When asked whether art is intrinsically political she responded, “I believe art is more cultural rather than political. We all have different backgrounds and life experiences that are reflected in the art we create and unfortunately there’s always a link between some sort of pain or injustice and the creative arts. For many, I believe art is a form of coping with things around them or a method of bringing down society imposed ideas and stereotypes.” The images are deliberately raw and unfinished and ooze a “give no fuck kind of energy”, purposefully displacing preconceived notions of what high-art should be.

Andreea’s recalcitrant aesthetic is unforgettable and captivating: her art is “a conversation and not a final product and the beauty of it, is in that it has no rules.”

British Indian designer Nikita Karizma on entrepreneurship, Paris Hilton and the future of fashion…

With the likes of Rita Ora, Bebe Rexha and Christina Aguilera among her celebrity fanbase, Nikita Karizma’s name is a fabulous play on what her brand is full to the brim of.

Her whole life has been a flurry of fashion, with her grandparents starting a clothing business in Kenya that has led to three generations of Karizma charm within fragmented areas of the wider fashion industry. Upon graduating from London College of Fashion in 2011, Nikita soon earned herself her very first fashion pay check off the back of her graduate collection: a commission for Little Mix (arguably not a bad way to start her post-graduation life). With that pay check, Nikita began to build her eponymous brand.

Since what you might call her ‘big break’, Nikita has been steadily but modestly taking custom orders from big name after big name. In fact, it was the scale of these orders that prompted her to start the business in the first place – she needed to facilitate them somehow. Nikita has always worked in close proximity to her family’s business, which she tells us definitely has its perks.

Her Wembley studio is perched within the two floors above the Asian clothing company owned by her parents, allowing her access to their in-store tailor, as well as their extensive knowledge on the minds and needs of VIP clients.

“My parents have dressed Bollywood stars, so they’ve helped me understand how to service and understand the needs of my own clients. But we’re very separate, most of the time,” she insists, “Our spaces are very different.”

Nikita recalls how growing up in this environment allowed her a pretty deep comprehension into the inner-workings of a fashion business, an advantage that not all fashion graduates can enjoy. She is definitely what we’d call a Girl Boss, counting entrepreneurship not just as part of the job, but as a hobby too (after the street dance and news reporting that kept her entertained during her school years). Nikita’s delight in entrepreneurship is not only gratifying for herself, but for her business. After all, it’s landed her some pretty important deals when it comes to production.

In terms of the design process, Nikita most notably takes from the creativity demonstrated by so many British women when it comes to their personal style.

She compares London’s famously inventive fashion scene to that of other destinations she frequents, LA included: “When I travel, I always look back and think about how women in London are so independent with their style,” she explains, “Elsewhere, style can be so generic, so trend-led.”

Interview and words by Pippa Simmonds

And generic is not something Nikita strives for when creating, as she tells us how she always insists that her team give everything they design a twist - be it off the back of a trend, or as an entirely new concept. The bringing-to-life of these designs starts with a mixture of sketching, external research and mannequin draping; with fabric being a very important element in the development of each and every piece.

She mainly sources fabrics from Europe and Asia, and focuses on how everything moves, falls and drapes as a starting point for her designs.

In Nikita’s mind, things are changing for fashion designers. What she describes as ‘Those Alexander McQueen moments’ - a classic genre of success story in which a designer would graduate, to then be spotted by an editor somewhere in the sphere and end up on the runways all in the space of a couple of years – are becoming few and far between. “Designers are just a bit more independent now… there’s more opportunity for them to actually grow a functioning, normal business, working directly with their consumers as well as influencers and celebrities.” She counts these celebrity endorsements among the things that have helped her business not only grow, but to stand alone.

Outside of the glamorous, celebrity-certified realm in which Nikita Karizma exists, her team also designs a diffusion line. She defines these pieces as influencerworthy, but accessible to those with a lower budget – with the price point being under £150. The lines cross over, however, and Nikita’s team are constantly stirring ideas between the two, through meticulous testing, fittings and grading. She even allows her studio team members to try each of the designs for fit and comfort, so, refreshingly, Nikita is always catering for real women; not just a one-size-fits-all mannequin.

Nikita notes Hailey Bieber and Paris Hilton (who, may we add, was recently spotted sporting one of her designs), as her muses when it comes to her own personal style. This is sometimes translated into her designs, but she reveals that she allows her team a degree of creative liberty to present their own ideas for designs: “I like giving them space to create and mess around in our studio.”. But who, we ask, is the Nikita Karizma woman they are creating for? “She’s independently minded, and she is happy within. She’s expressive with her style, she’s not afraid to exist outside of traditional beauty ideals.”

Nikita now has bases in both London and LA, and works with factories and suppliers in Asia and Europe. Her meticulous attention to detail in all elements of her empire-in-progress is what makes her so distinctive as a young designer. Be it her scrupulous understanding of her own business, the freedom she permits her team, or the overall versatility of her brand - Nikita caters for a celebrity following, as well as the everyday woman. The best part? She knows exactly what she’s doing.

Words by Lizzy Greenwood

9,900 people on average per month still search ‘What is Brexit’ and hun, the feeling is mutual. So, what the f**k is going on? What does Brexit (deal or no-deal) mean for fashion? Designers, entrepreneurship and innovation?

Overwhelmingly (90% to be exact), members of the British Fashion Council pledged their allegiance to tribe Remain. This is hardly surprising seeing that ¾ of materials used in the UK are imported. Britain’s departure from the EU could signal a raise in importation and exportation tariffs that range from 11-20% that will likely hit consumers the hardest by compensating that increased rate, and new designers struggling to foot the bill with limited or non-existent EU funding.

FASHION AND THE U.K. ECONOMY The fashion industry is not something to be sniffed at. According to Fashion Roundtable, the creative industries ‘make £91.8 billion a year for the UK, that’s £10.5 million an hour. Fashion is the largest component of the creative industries.’ Britain employs around 900,000 workers within fashion (the same as the financial sector), and is the third largest contributor to the British economy, bringing in almost £30 billion annually.

EU FUNDED PROJECTS One of the saddest facets of the departure would be the demise and potential cessation of EU funded projects, entrepreneurship initiatives and Erasmus schemes which allow students to live, work and study within the EU. It is most likely that this would only be the case with a no-deal Brexit. The government is analysing the ‘no-deal contingency plan’ published on 30 January 2019, where the European Commission proposed a draft regulation that would ‘allow the UK to continue participating in EU programmes in 2019, in return for continuing to contribute to the 2019 budget.’ The government has also promised that UK organisations ‘will continue to receive funding over their project’s lifetimes if they have successfully bid into EU-funded programmes before we leave the EU.’ If the UK were to break away without a deal however, it would also leave the EU budget.

GROWING UNCERTAINTY, INCREASED COMPETITION The UK Fashion Council (UKFC) estimates around 70% of workers in the industry are from the European Union. With ever-growing uncertainty, it is predicted that there will be a substantial loss in workforce and a mass exodus of shop and warehouse personnel, designers and delivery drivers and the pool of skilled workers is likely to dramatically decrease. If the UK moves towards a skillsbased immigration process to substitute for the free movement of people, this means an increase in competition with its cheaper and more-skilled European counterparts. There is an implementation period lasting until December 2020 which allows businesses and organisations stability and some time to prepare for the new relationship between the UK and the EU. But without a deal, businesses may need to take action before October 31st 2019.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES What’s great is that Brexit may encourage more international consumers... probably because the value of the pound is decreasing. Bittersweet, I think we’d all agree. A weaker pound however, creates some fertile ground for international investors to choose to invest in British designers whose work is now relatively cheaper than before, although this might be offset by the higher cost of materials. Importing fabrics may garner extra-bureaucracy, higher prices and potential shipping delays which would predominantly impact smaller and emerging fashion designers and entrepreneurs rather than big multinational corporations. Despite tariffs being likely to increase, just in time (JIT) businesses could regain autonomy by setting their own tariff rates internationally, rather than abiding by EU predetermined stipulations.

MADE IN BRITAIN Some British businesses are benefitting from the ‘Made in Britain’ phenomenon.

For example, Gloria Fashions - now part of Fashion Enter, manufacture for Whistles, Mulberry and ASOS, and have even piqued interest from retail giants like Tesco and Arcadia. A thriving enterprise, they welcome this opportunity to provide the ‘Made in Britain’ label with open arms. This could elicit a necessary shift from cheaper, unethical and often exploitative outsourced labour to a utilisation of home-grown British handiwork and skillsets. With an emphasis on British manufacturing, this will decrease fashion’s unfathomable carbon footprint with less air travel transporting smaller component pieces reaching far overseas. Again, this could be hugely beneficial both for the environment and British industry.

ETHICAL CONSUMPTION We should use this shift to capitalise on this growing incentive. Currently, our industries cannot compete with quicker and cheaper outsourced labour, but this shouldn’t be considered an issue. We have a modern predisposition to base our purchases on price rather than quality or longevity when we should be striving to produce and consume superior, non-exploitative garments, with smaller environmental impacts. Companies are now looking to utilise exclusively British workforces, materials and craftsmanship which seek to challenge and raise industry standards; look at websites like ‘Let’s Make It Here’ – a free database for designers, brands and retailers who want the convenience of manufacturing closer to home, or events run by ‘Make it British’ which promote British industry and manufacturing. An increase in price maybe, but an increase in integrity knows no value.

PATRONAGE In the worst case scenario, where no deal is agreed, there are literally hundreds of acceleration schemes and initiatives based within the UK which will not be affected. Check out the Grants for the Arts; the Arts Council England Funding is a program dedicated to supporting art organisations and individuals in dance, visual arts, theatre, literature, music and more. They provide funds focussed on ‘fostering innovation and development within the creative industries including art, fashion, design and more, with a further focus on the development of young people in the sectors coupled with collaboration between countries and cultures.

Within this are grants and programmes run on a rolling basis with new calls coming out regularly; the majority are business relevant including the Artists’ International Development Fund.’ Look at the Wayra run ‘ASOS Accelerator’ programme which focusses on early-stage companies and entrepreneurs in the fashion and creative industries, and JD Works, based in Manchester, who intake 7 early and late-stage companies at a time and provide access to experts in one of the UK’s most successful clothing and fashion retailers.

Creativity knows no borders. The fashion industry will always continue to thrive and flourish, even in the face of political and economic uncertainty.

Illustration research by Samera Al-Sarouri Graphic Illustrations by Luke Walwyn

World renowned astrologer Joanna Hope (whose clients include the Osbournes, Caroline Flack and the Housewives of Cheshire) provides an insight into what awaits us in summer 2019.

For Private bookings with Joanna Hope head to Psychicwish.co.uk @Hopepsychic

Summer 2019

July 23 - Aug 22 Attracting success and influential people to your side, the gifted Leo will surely start to soar.

Professional expertise coupled with your humorous personality is a combination hard to beat.

‘Dreams to reality’ is your motto, as Jupiter is working magic in your career sector and love life. Your wish for a more fulfilling life is about to come true as prosperity takes you onwards and upwards to shine like the star that you are. Leos work well in the limelight and can bring a warm and loving heart to the table for everyone to share in their success. It’s time to expand your personal world by adopting a time to play policy. Go out and socialise, you just never know who you could meet. Jupiter is bringing you gifts of love and happiness with a partner who you can share your life with. Inspirational as you are Leo, you will be surrounded by others that can truly bring out what is great in the world, and in yourself. So don’t hold back, be that fierce, unstoppable force - you are ruled by the Sun, so shine your golden light on all.

Virgo, think lucky. You are back in the driving seat; fresh ideas abound as a true sense of personal freedom presents itself. You can embrace opportunity as it knocks, and travel features in taking you to foreign lands, setting the scene of beauty and tranquillity. As a perfectionist, you can afford to be fussy and treat yourself to your body-beautiful routines.

Your beauty is defined by your attention to detail, and you’ll be feeling on top of the world when you see the results. Be creative and let your inner designer out, trust your instincts for what is pleasing and beautiful and it will be mirrored back to you tenfold. It’s no time to be conservative with your career - take the reins and steer yourself to success by being confident in yourself and what your vision is for the future, the time is now so go for it. Your love life will be getting plenty of attention as you open your heart and allow love to flourish. A certain someone will let you know the sky is the limit if you want to take the next step. Be daring, be bold, love is on the menu and you can cosmic order!

Aug 23 - Sept 22

Sept 23 - Oct 22 You are a success story, and what a wonderful world you make it. Pleasurable experiences and coincidences shape the world around you as you become a lead player and important people flock to your side. Surrounded by good influences, you can select choices to make a true heaven here on earth as your kindness and love for others comes to the fore. Uplifting and inspired experiences in your love life allow you to settle down and feel real love. Your generosity and compassion impresses family and friends and they will support you in your quest to develop and truly become what you are meant to be. A whole lotta love comes to mind in everything you do, and it’s this brand of loving that throws open the doors of success for you. An excellent time to take action, new horizons beckon you and you enjoy friendships and beauty in your work. You are an inspiration to others and all the forces of success are conspiring for you to take the world by storm.

Oct 23 - Nov 21 You succeed by being independent and taking the lead, as the time for spiritual and emotional renewal is here.

Events conspire to take you to the top and if you play your cards right, you can harness your destiny and reveal a whole new you. It’s time to throw away the rule book and reinvent the way you see yourself; you are intuitive, attractive and have a taste for the finer things in life and now the world is your oyster. As you take a journey into your creative self and come back with a treasure trove of ideas, you will inspire yourself and others into a world of imagination and can use it to write your own success story. Whirlwind romances, love in abundance comes your way as you explore the world around you and you fire up your passion and desire. A time where commitment may well be important to you and you can find that special someone. Get excited Scorpio, your soulmate awaits.

Nov 22 - Dec 21 You are spontaneous and inventive, Sagittarius. The archer is setting a target for you - and it will be a bullseye. Your sense of being on a mission will kick in and your career will certainly benefit as those big dreams start to come true. Goals are within reach, and all that hard work will pay off as you reap the rewards. Love and relationships will feel good as you have an equality within your partnerships that will allow plans to take shape - and you can look forward to the future with optimism and enthusiasm. Your keen eye for all that is beautiful will see you making changes in the home and with your personal self, so you can trust your impeccable taste to improve and rejuvenate your life and looks. All eyes will be on you as you soar to your destination, so walk the runway and let everyone bask in your beauty.

Dec 22 - Jan 19 Personal ambitions come to the fore as you blend the spiritual with the practical and come up with a winwin master-plan. You are especially drawn to all that is usually hidden or mysterious and will uncover an unseen world just waiting to be accessed, you delight in the feeling of being at one with yourself. Make your vision board, manifest your dreams. It is time to really grasp what you are truly looking for. ‘Seek and ye will find’ is your motto now and your destiny is just waiting in the wings ready to put you on the world stage so you can find lasting happiness and true fulfilment. Finance will certainly be very secure, and you can have more disposable income to enjoy the fruits of life. Love may well be on your mind so trust the course of true love as it will never fail you. Self-love and self-acceptance will be the right formula to create a love life full of joy and happiness.

Jan 20 - Feb 18 Transformation is your keyword Aquarius as you light up your life with the new and untried. Create the life you want with positive thinking and you can reap the rewards that Jupiter the planet of blessings can give you. Explore your talents and travel a path of luck and prosperity. Take chances, be courageous and follow your dreams as your own personal star is in ascendant and you can activate your potential with a little zest and enthusiasm. There is no time like the present to go out there and show the world who you are and what you have to offer, it will be well received and you will be amazed with all the positive feedback you get that encourages you to share your amazing talented self with others. Your love life will become more stable and your power to attract will be electric. This is the time to go out and about as you will find that special someone or they will find you so expect the unexpected to occur in ways that will delight and inspire you.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Dream, dream, dream, Pisces, spiritual wisdom is coming to your aid now as you discover the world around you in the most enlightening way. New opportunities come as a result of your past efforts and hard work, and you can begin to reach a stage in your life where the true benefits of who you really are as a true professional start to be seen.

Emotional and beautiful Pisces, you have an abundance of love to share with the world and the world is waiting - so daring to be different in your career is a must. Don’t be afraid to reach for the stars as your powerful creative mind can reach them! Your love life will become meaningful; love will find you in the most unexpected way. You have the ability to love at the deepest level, so swim in those uncharted waters you have been hesitating to dive into. A real sense of purpose can be revealed in your love life that will beckon you on to being in an equal partnership with so much in common, you can find yourself with your true love.

March 21 - April 19

Jupiter the planet of blessings is featuring in your love life, so marriage and commitment may well be on the cards. Take advantage of this wonderful planet and go for your dream lover and don’t look back. Now is the time to have faith in love and realise your dreams of future happiness. Treat yourself to some luxury and pampering, you deserve it Taurus. Career is looking up for the ambitious Taurus and you can spread your wings and realise your potential. Your finances can improve as your down to earth approach can help you amass your fortune. If you are contemplating a change in your career, then now is the time as you can count on luck being with you. New talents can be developed, so be confident and shoot for the stars.

April 20 - May 20

May the good times roll for you Aries. A busy social time is ahead and you can count on your amazing friends to enhance your social life. Opportunity knocks around every corner and you never know who you could meet. Socialise and get out and about, meet everyone with a smile to increase your luck. Venus, the Goddess of Love, is active in your sign so make the most of her beautiful influence to meet that special someone; a dream date if you are single and heightened romance in a current relationship. Your beauty will be enhanced so be daring with your look, enhance your image as Venus is making everything beautiful for you. Your career is going to receive a boost so you can set the stage for promotion, moneymaking plans will bring success so be ambitious, be confident in your abilities and you will surely rise to the top.

May 21 - June 20

Your spiritual sky is going to open and for those of you who dream big there are no limits. Your entrepreneurial spirit can cast a spell on others as your enthusiasm is infectious, brilliant ideas abound and you can expect the unexpected as reaching your goals is closer than you think. The world is waiting for you, setting the stage for you with glittering success, you are a celebrity in your world, with your great ideas and impeccable taste your audience awaits as your creativity reaches new heights. Partners support and enhance your dreams, finances become abundant, technology is featured as it’s a big world out there and bringing your vision to all will certainly make it a more beautiful place.

Love and romance may well be on your mind as admirers flock to impress you, emotional security will come through positive changes beyond your control and will reveal a true love match.

June 21 - July 22

The winged messenger of the Gods, Mercury your ruler, wishes Happy Birthday to the incredible twins, bringing news that Mars is giving you an extra energy boost paving the way to success and all your hard work will pay off. Life is looking up for the Gemini and you will look and feel more glamorous. As summer is fully underway you can literally smell the scent of sweet success. A born communicator, it’s time to put your voice to the test and impress those around you with your expertise, empowering others with your knowledge. Mercury will assist you to openly communicate your feelings and express your heart’s desires. Your romantic love life will benefit and you will feel blessed. For those of you who are single, the chances of meeting ‘the one’ are increased and yourself confidence can soar as you feel loved and desired.

Words by Hayley Barnes, Montages by Lida Kritikou

As Kim Kardashian turned up to the Met Gala in the ultimate wet look custom Thierry Mugler dress – it was also all over the catwalk.

Victoria Beckham’s Spring ready-to-wear show was all about cool and elegance – a stripped-back chic wet look. International hairstylist and icon Guido Palau explained “it’s a little bit shiny and a little bit wet - it’s a boyish thing”.

Get the look with Redken Guts 10 Volume Spray to get those comb marks, and Redken Diamond Oil for a damp, poolside look. Wet glossy skin also paraded at the shows – apply a few dabs of M.A.C Lip Conditioner for a beach day gleam, or Pat McGrath’s Skin Fetish all over the high points of the face.

Bright, brighter, brightest!

Highly pigmented blocks of colour were another high-summer trend at this year’s shows.

Hellessy pressed M.A.C’s So Chaud lipstick into lips using the remaining to swipe onto the cheeks for added passion.

Brands donned their summer season looks with a bright block of blue on the lids – mirroring warmer clothes with the hope of warmer, clearer blue skies, and at Ashish, makeup artist Isamaya French ‘wanted the eye makeup to look like it had been sweated off at an all-night rave.’

Get the look with NARS Single Eyeshadows in Domination, Baby Jane and Duoro; or for the Rodarte look use velvety Powermatte Pigment in Don’t Stop. Keep the skin minimal and let the pigment do the talking.

Berry tinted lips stained over runways back in the SS19 shows, seen here at Francesca Libertore, Jonathan Simkhai, and Paul Costelloe.

Makeup artist Grace Lee for Simkhai “juxtaposed the ethereal white and yellow fabrics in the Edwardian-inspired collection with a flushed cheek or berry-stained lip.”

Try out the butter-wouldn’t-melt look yourself with Maybelline’s brand new burgundy-purple Superstay Matte Ink City Edition Liquid Lipstick in Composer or with Giorgio Armani’s Lip Magnet in Peony.

Words by Pippa Simmonds, Montages by Lida Kritikou

SS19 catwalks saw the (revamped) hoop make its high fashion reappearance.

We all know that a good pair of hoops can always take an otherwise lacklustre outfit to the next level, but there’s scope to take this classic accessory off the chart this summer. Monse accessorised with statement two-tone linked hoops, while Balenciaga took a more chavvychic approach with their oversized, strass-encrusted heart shaped trimming.

Jacquemus mixed it up with an array of sparkly, 3D, and king-sized art deco twists on the trend.

What better way to give your summer wardrobe an edge than with the addition of a chain or two? At Alexander McQueen, models donned them harness-style over sharp suiting, while Monse took a practical approach – as the strap for a dress. Off White’s industrial-sized chains were strewn across the neck, fastened to collars, and Oscar de la Renta used gold, bug-shaped neckwear to compliment an otherwise delicate ombre red gown.

They’re also populating the high street shelves right now, so why not give the trend a try?

After all, punk never dies.

SS19 saw a profusion of funky shapes when it came to accessorising, with Mickey Mouse even making an appearance in the shape of a Gucci handbag.

Elsewhere, Louis Vuitton made a statement with a cross-body that was more reminiscent of an Easter egg than a bag (yes, it did look good enough to eat).

Armani models walked with what looked like uber-extra office-slippy wallets on their arms, and Oscar de la Renta’s carried ball-shaped bags by a curtain-esque rope and tassel. While these styles clearly weren’t designed with practicality in mind, they’re definitely the crème de la crème to any holiday ensemble.

Here’s a heads up – you’re going to want to invest in some groovy headgear if you haven’t already. Do it Prada-style with a regal padded headband, or take a leaf out of Tom Ford’s book and go for a full headwrap. If that’s not your thing, perhaps Philip Lim’s oversized bucket hats are more up your street, or Moschino’s lopsided boaters if there’s a wedding in your summer line-up.

Whatever the occasion, your outfit is always going to benefit from the addition of some head décor this summer.

If the likes of Valentino, Tod’s and Simone Rocha don’t fall into your price range, maybe it’s time dig into your childhood dressing up box for a pair of these feathery kicks. This trend is jam packed with noughties nostalgia (circa-Paris Hilton), but in the form of a chunky flatform sandals and moccasins, they’ve definitely had a modern makeover.

This season’s sunglass trend: space-age specs. Rick Owens’ were ski-goggle-like, Prada’s were encrusted with 60’s looking coloured circles (and paired with the aforementioned padded headband – a killer combo), while Stella McCartney’s were more dad than Doc. If we’re lucky enough to see a British summer this year, make sure you’re armed with a pair of these bad boys to see you through.

Voir Fashion Magazine - daring to be different.

Voir is an online publication issued on a quarterly basis.

Issue 24 Turning Up The Heat! was forged by: Jyoti Matoo Editor-In-Chief / Stylist jm@voirfashion.co.uk Luke Walwyn Art Director/Photographer art@voirfashion.co.uk Veronica Wong Diffa Editor’s Assistant Felix Laurens Brand Liaison creative@voirfashion.co.uk WRITERS, ARTISTS & CREATIVES Fani Martin: Retoucher Hannah Oulton Eden Charkani Sachin Gogna Anna Hutchence Pippa Simmonds Hayley Barnes Lizzy Greenwood Samera Al-Sarouri Sasha Green Lida Kritikou Aisha Shaban Toby Shaw Jen Wilding James Davey Anna Priadka: MUA & brand founder of Makeup54 Danielle Yates MUA Assistant Brooke Simons MUA Abbie May MUA Brittany Paige MUA Kazue Deki Hair Stylist Aliyah Johnson Finesse Nails London James John BTS Video Marvyn Sinclair: BTS Video B Camera Joanna Hope Psychic Kymberley Holmes: Hair Stylist Karolina Ziółko Bethany FIeld Maissane Abdelkader Raihanna Thompson Han Sol

Special Thank You to the following: Bebe Rexha Amber Joseph The Blonds GCDS Annakiki Nikita Karizma PEACE + CHAOS Nike Dyspnea Rosamosario Shirin Uma Poppy Lissiman Di Du Dolapo Alafe - Aluko Marianne Tupelo For creative submissions creative@voirfashion.co.uk art@voirfashion.co.uk For collaborations and advertising opportunities: jm@voirfashion.co.uk For general enquiries editorial@voirfashion.co.uk For beauty enquiries beauty@voirfashion.co.uk