Vivienne Westwood Trunk Show at EM & Co Review

There are a lot of reasons I like British designer Vivienne Westwood. The most obvious is the haute couture wedding gown worn by Carrie Bradshaw in the recent movie Sex and the City. That wedding dress has become widely recognized as one of the movie’s most iconic features. Westwood has won awards for her services in fashion, as well as her three-time win as British Designer of the Year. That’s why when I received an invitation to the Vivienne Westwood Trunk Show, held locally here in Los Angeles by EM & Co, I had to attend. The event was held just before the holidays in late November 2008. The clothes at the show were select pieces bought specifically for the store representing the fall 2008 and spring 2009 collections. Items from the Anglomania collection were worn by models who added to the eye candy of the gallery-like boutique. The catered event hosted a DJ and was sponsored by Modern Luxury’s Angeleno Magazine. It featured an Absinthe Bar from Mata Hari Absinthe Bohemian, Vodka cocktails from Marani Premium Vodka, and appetizers from Tasca Wine Bar.

The styles shown for the spring ’09 collection are the most representative pieces from the collection that show the essence of Vivienne Westwood’s styling and direction for spring ’09. We buy the collection pretty extensively, so the pieces shown represent about 70% of the styles in the collection (many of the styles are available in different colors & fabrics). -EM & Co Rep-

One of the highlights of the evening was the arrival of celebrity painter Biago Black’s painting of Vivienne Westwood. It is the latest piece in his collection currently at EM & Co, featuring iconic women. The large format captures the larger-than-life influence that these women have in defining style and creativity.

Biagio Black’s artwork, displayed at various special events in Paris and on both the East and West Coasts, has most recently been displayed at the “little black dress” charity event in Los Angeles. His art has been tied to fashion since 2005, when he first participated in “The Many Faces of LA Fashion Week” event presented by Ford Models and GM and an earlier ‘little black dress’ charity event. Black’s celebrity portraits have become collector items. -EM & Co Rep-

The event was packed with recognizable faces, including current and former members of the Pussy Cat Dolls (Melody and Carmit Bachar), not to mention Diva Zappa, Billy Duffy (The Cure), Dallas Harrison (VH1’s “Rock of Love” & “Charm School with Sharon Osbourne”), and more. Celebrity stylists, including several representatives from both print (People, Genlux, Beverly Hills Times,CA Apparel News) and online magazines (ifashionnetwork.com and Chic Today) were in attendance.

EM & Co supplies fashion-conscious shoppers with a well orchestrated mix of fashions from world class designers (i.e., Vivienne Westwood, Iodice, JC de Castelbajac, Beatriz), as well as innovative styles from emerging L.A. talent. Featuring over 30 lines from around the world in its gallery-like space, EM & Co is also an active supporter of local talent, hosting monthly art exhibits and other events featuring local artists and designers. Located on West Third Street for over three years, the boutique has established a fast-growing loyal following among celebrities and stylists who regularly come to find unique pieces and a well edited selection to suit many styles. EM & Co carries lines from around the world, including Ilaria Nistri, Luis Da Gama, Made, Twinset, Iro, Jean Paul Gaultier jeans line, Beatriz, Aoyama Itchome, Earth, Badgley Mishka, as well as local designers who create one-of-a-kind pieces: Galadriel Mattei, Kiki Designs Jewelry, Micha necklaces and bracelets, and casual chic pieces from Viereck). 90% of the jewelry in the store is from LA designers.

Guests enjoyed vodka cocktails from Marani Vodka and sampled powerful absinthe concoctions at the Mata Hari Absinthe bar. The truffle home-made potato chips and delicious risotto appetizers were provided by Tasca Wine Bar and Restaurant, located on West Third Street. The make-up for the three models that featured Vivienne Westwood styles throughout the evening was provided by the Make Up Art Group; the hair styles were done by William Williams of Hair by William.

Reviewed by Kaylene Peoples

Interview with Costume Designer of “The Starter Wife” – Agata Maskiewics

Interview with Costume Designer of “The Starter Wife” – Agata Maskiewics

Just how does a costume designer develop a character’s wardrobe? Agata Maskiewics, the lead stylist of Debra Messing’s character, “Molly Kagen,” shares her experience with Agenda . Styling a top actress like Messing on a hit mini-series that received 10 Emmy Award nominations, well, this Polish costume designer is fulfilling her dream. With her own unique “start” in the fashion industry, from the bottom up, Maskiewics talks about her inspiration, the role of a costume designer, and two common sense fashion philosophies to live by.

Where do you get your inspiration in styling Debra Messing’s character on “The Starter Wife?”

A lot of my inspiration for Debra’s character comes from fashion magazines. I look throughjust about all of them and try to find a way to incorporate those pages and the runway looks into the wardrobe of Debra’s character, Molly Kagen. I also love watching women in Beverly Hills; Molly’s character is a combination of the many varieties of shopping and lunching ladies of Los Angeles. And since our production is in LA, I’ve had the incredible privilege to create Molly’s look by pulling from the latest offerings at high-end designer boutiques and upscale department stores.

How involved are you with the script for each episode? How far in advance do you plan Messing’s outfits?

Making a TV show is a very collaborative experience; I usually get the script for an episode two weeks in advance of filming. After reading through the script and making notes, we typically have a few meetings with the producers, director, and writer so we can discuss how best to get their ideas across. Some outfits I have in my mind for weeks, just waiting for the right scene and occasion to use them. I also have photos from earlier fittings and pick up different pieces of clothing a few days ahead of time, but the complete wardrobe for the episode pretty much comes together at the last possible moment.

What type of satisfaction do you get from being the lead stylist on such a popular show?

I must say my job is a tremendous amount of fun, even though there are certainly times of chaos. I love working with beautiful clothes and shopping, so that alone is a wonderful perk of the job. I really like seeing my ideas visualized on the screen and take a lot of satisfaction from that. And being able to design a show like “The Starter Wife” has been an amazing experience because I’ve had the opportunity to create fashionable looks along with a range of costumes for the many fantasy scenes Molly has throughout the season. Those are always a lot of fun and a challenge to figure out with each new script.

How has your education and experience led you up to this point?

I started working in the film & TV industry after graduating from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, where I studied fashion design. Before that I went to art school in Poland, which is where I was born and raised. I started as an intern on a feature film and worked my way up holding various positions in the costume department. I think the experience of starting at the bottom and working my way up the ranks through the years has taught me just as much as my schooling. There is definitely something to be said for on the job training, and sometimes the best thing is to just get in the trenches and get that experience.

What other television shows or events have you worked as a stylist?

I have worked as an assistant designer on many different projects, the most notable being “CSI.” I then was the costume designer for “CSI: NY” and “Close to Home.”

What type of advice would you give someone who wants to be a celebrity stylist?

I’m not really a stylist; I am a costume designer. Although the two are often confused, there is quite a difference between them. As a costume designer my challenge is to help create a character through what the actor wears. I don’t actually style celebrities. However, my advice for either area would be to make sure you have a passion for this line of work, the hours are long, and it’s not a glamorous lifestyle. It can be rewarding, however, and I am lucky enough to love what I do.

What are your fashion philosophies?

There are two main philosophies that I preach when it comes to fashion. One, make sure that whatever you are wearing fits you properly; nothing ruins an outfit faster than a bad fit. Luckily, it’s easy and relatively inexpensive to get the necessary fix, as any good dry cleaner can easily make basic alterations that will make all the difference. And two, always wear your clothes with confidence. Whether you are dressed in high-end designer pieces or a great find from the thrift store, walk tall and with a dazzling smile. Nothing sells a look better than confidence.

Elana Pruitt

Great New Look for your Getaway . . . or Even Staying Home

JAGGED Is the Great New Look for your Getaway . . .

or Even Staying Home

I just had the best haircut ever – from Jeffrey Jagged. Hey, with a name like that, he’s GOT to be a hot stylist! And he is!

Jeffrey Jagged got his start in New York City in the early 90s, styling wigs for some of the colorful downtown “glitterati.” He was also a fashion stylist in the Big Apple, where he rubbed elbows with celebrity stylists Danilo, Rodney Groves, and Oribe. After classes at NYU, the Fashion Institute of Technology, and The Aveda Institute, Jeffrey did more training with Bumble and Bumble, Vidal Sassoon, and Goldwell.

In 2002, Jeffrey moved to Los Angeles. His work as a freelance stylist includes clients such asGuess, Ed Hardy, Nike, Napoleon Perdis Cosmetics, and Too-Faced Cosmetics. His work appeared inRollingStone, InStyle, American Salon, and Australian Marie Claire. With his “passion for fashion,” Jeffrey has also worked Fashion Week in New York City, working under the inimitable Bob Recine.

As part of the Hollywood scene, Jeffrey worked on television shows such as America’s Next Top Model, Europe’s Next Top Model, hosted by Heidi Klum, Australia’s Next Top Model, Search for the Next Pussycat Doll, Girlicious, and The Ellen Degeneres Show. He has also been in front of the camera, hosting beauty segments on live local TV, as well as on the Telemundo network. In addition, he has written beauty columns for Westside Woman.

What he likes best though, is making clients look fabulous and super hot. Jeffrey has a rare combination of creative vision, technical flexibility and contemporary sensibility. Some of his celebrity clientele includeNicole and Kimberly from the Pussycat Dolls, INXS, Terri Nunn/Berlin, Blair Underwood, Kelly Hu, JC Chavez, Joey Fatone, Debi Mazar, Kirstie Clements (editor-in-chief of Australian Vogue), Navi Rawat, Jayma Mays, Jamie Chung, Brian Krause, Bree Turner, and Emily Harper.

So whether you are off for a vacation or just staying home, why not treat yourself to a fab new cut or color from Jeffrey. And make sure you tell him Marilyn Anderson from Agenda Magazine sent you. You’ll get extra special TLC and a great look for the spring to put a spring in your step! Call for an appointment with Jeffrey Jagged at:

The Bungalow
8310 Beverly Blvd,
Los Angeles
323.655.4040 / www.Jeffreyjagged.com

Ash Gupta – A Skilled Photographer with Multiple Disciplines

Ash Gupta – A Skilled Photographer with Multiple Disciplines

“A fashion photographer must be good in multiple photography disciplines. You need to be a portrait photographer as well as be able to create images for the advertising market.” —Ash Gupta—

From offering tips like—“Determine whether you’re shooting a personality or shooting fashion,”—to knowing when to use proper metering to aid tonality of an image, Ash Gupta is indeed a skilled practitioner when it comes to photography. Gupta has shot several celebrities, countless fashion editorials, and magazine covers. Lately you can see his work with some of the biggest icons in the music industry, but with each shoot, whether a celebrity or just a person wanting a beautiful portrait, Gupta always treats each subject with special attention and care.

Ash Gupta’s work is gallery-worthy and was just recently celebrated April 22, 2009 at an event put on by Signature LA Direct Magazinewith several celebrities in attendance (BailLing, Max Ryan, Michael Hirshensen). The appreciation of his photography grows with each published shoot, and celebrities and art-lovers alike are becoming fans exponentially!

“Rules are meant to be broken, but before you break the rules, you must first know what they are.”

Ash Gupta continues to shoot beautiful pictures and his work is critically acclaimed. He is often compared to Helmut Newton with his attention to environment, story, and most importantly “angst”—often giving him the edge over other fashion photographers. However, inspite of his growing international appeal, Gupta continues to mentor up-and-coming photographers with his innovative Studio 838—helping them to avoid common pitfalls and offering tools to expedite the success of their careers.

“To be a successful fashion photographer you must also have a love of fine design clothes – without it you will never achieve the heights that bring success.”

In celebration of spring 2009, Agenda Magazine‘s Ash Gupta presents “The Complete Spring Look.”

See the editorial.

By Kaylene Peoples

Spring Fashion on a Budget Featuring Lindy Flowers

I’m Lindy Flowers and I’m going to show you how to stretch your dollar and still keep up with the current spring trends by taking something you already have in your closet, a simple tank top and a pair of jeans, and show you how to wear them three different ways.

My first look is a hip—trendy—casual look. I’m wearing a pair of flat sandals along with a vest, which is a huge trend for the spring season. Around my neck I have a Doll House necklace and I’m carrying a Charlie Lapson crocodile handbag, and to top it off, I put on a pair off inexpensive sunglasses from Forever 21.

For my second look I’m headed out to lunch with the girls. On my feet I have a pair of neutral colored low-healed patent-leather pumps by Stuart Weitzman paired back with another huge trend for the spring season, a lightweight trench coat. This one by Michael Kors. On my eyes, a pair of Chanel sunglasses, I’m carrying a Nordstrom handbag, and to pull together my whole look, this beautiful Shankari necklace.

And for my third look, I’m heading out for a night on the town. On my feet I’m wearing a pair of metallic strappy stilettos, and I’ve layered my jewelry, including this beautiful bangle from LENA made from recycled coins. To complete my look, I’m carrying a purse just big enough to hold a cell phone and a tube of lipstick for those touchups. Now I’ve shown you three completely different looks using just a pair of jeans and a simple camisole, this one by Itty Bitty Bra found in the Intimate Apparel Department.

Next, take a little black dress out of your closet, and I’ll show you how to use this spring’s accessories. I took a pair ofcomfortable flat sandals, a few pieces of simple jewelry, a bracelet and necklace from Jules Smith, and a statement ring from Vintage Glo. As my handbag, I’m carrying an inexpensive multi-colored tote just large enough to fit a towel, magazine, and sunscreen. And Finally to complete my look, I’ve added a pair of Tom Ford sunglasses, and I’m off to the pool!

For my second look I’m headed off to the office. I replaced my flat sandals with a classic pump, put on a chic cashmere cardigan, and a simple pair of drop-earrings. For a splash of color, I added a red handbag by HOBO. Off to the office I go!

For my third look I’m headed off to an upscale (evening) event. I put on some sexy, strappy sandals, added some couture jewelry—some vintage—some new, and a stylish clutch. So don’t be afraid to be creative when you’re out there shopping.

Lindy Flowers

New Face of the Month – Sarah Svetlana Levis

Sarah Svetlana Levis was born in a very small town called Babruysk, Belarus near Minsk. She moved to Minnesota when she was 4 and that is where she grew up, ultimately relocating to Los Angeles at 18 years of age. She went to school to become a forensic psychologist.

Best Friends

Dogs Sasha, Penelope, and Maizy Louise

Describe Yourself

I’m a total tomboy. I like to climb things, collect rocks and get dirty. I never bring a towel to the beach—a real beach bum sits on the sand.

Favorite Food

Veggie Orange Chicken from Kung Pao Bistro

Favorite Color

Yellow

What’s New?

6-page editorial in Roll’s – Paris, France

8 pages – British Editorial

Croation/Eastern European Billboard, “The Winter Clash,” European X Games

LA QUA Hair Campaign

Ambrose Hotel, Santa Monica, CA Advertisement

Interview questions by Jeff Linett of Studio 838

Ash Gupta Studio 838 – July 2009

Ash Gupta and Studio 838 have been busy creative bees since the Spring 2009 issue of Agenda Magazine. With a jam packed schedule of photo shoots and magazine features, we’re having a hard time keeping up with it all. However, Ash can certainly organize it all with his entourage of photographers, photo editors, and assistants. Lately studio 838 has photographed Anya Monzikova (Get Out! and Deal or No Deal); Miss World (Ksenia Shukhinova); and a slew of breathtaking editorials, not to mention our own editor’s cover shot.

In this issue, “Celebrating 5 Years of Agenda Magazine,” Ash introduces the face of the month in addition to studio 838’s issue-based glowingfashion editorials—the purpose to spotlight aspiring models. This issue features Sarah Svetlana Levis, photographed by Jeff Linett for studio 838.

You can follow Ash Gupta and Studio 838 onwww.twitter.com/studio838 and www.twitter.com/agendamag.

See the editorial.

Plus-Size Fashion Trends for Summer 2009

Plus-Size Fashion Trends for Summer 2009

Summer is in full force and I figured I would go over some plus size fashion “must have” trends for your summer wardrobe. These “must have” fashion trends are for every occasion, not just your summer vacation. They are for your everyday activities including work, rest, and play.

The Maxi: Plus size Maxi Dresses are everywhere this season and are a huge fashion trend for summer 2009. If you are thinking that you cannot wear a Maxi Dress, think again. With all of the different styles and pattern variations, you are sure to find a Plus Size Maxi Dress that is right for your figure. Maxi Dresses are the plus size woman’s best friend and work to perfectly conceal some minor figure flaws in the most figure-flattering way. Flirty, romantic, and stylish, these dresses can be worn for every occasion this summer, from shopping with the girls to a romantic summer night out on the town. Check out the Melody Maxi Dress available in black, purple, coral, and electric blue.

Ruffles: Feminine and flirty ruffles are a definite “must have” fashion trend this season. Look for soft, romantic style blouses and dresses with accents of single to layered ruffles. If not worn right, ruffles can be bad for a plus size person because they tend to emphasize parts of our body that we do not want to call attention to. Stick to ruffles that are small and follow the trim of the garment, and they will actually work to elongate your body and give you a slimmer silhouette. Ruffle trim wrap dresses are gorgeous and a perfect “must have” this season. For the perfect ruffled top option, check out the Nikki Checkered Plus-Size Top available in white/black check or pink/black check.

Work Wear: As divas, we must always dress to impress and dress for success. To stay trendy and cool at work on these hot summer days, opt out on the typical 3-piece suit and go for something with a little less fabric. Vests are a “must have” this season and can coordinate with virtually anything. For work pair a vest with a classic white button up shirt and pencil skirt. If you must wear a blazer to work, look for styles with one-button waist closures and narrow lapels made of all-season fabrics like rayon tweeds and light blends. Stay away from the typical black this season and go for perhaps chocolate or khaki. Why not be daring and go for white? In the work wear department SWAKdesigns.com has got you covered. Check out the Alicia Plus-Size Shirt Dress available in a variety of classic colors or their Classic Fit Trousers in black or tan/brown.

Trendy Active Wear: Anyone who thinks plus-sized women are inactive and do nothing but sit around on their butts all day is dead wrong and should join me and my plus-sized pals for a taste of BOOTCAMP. Working out is an everyday activity for plus-sized women in an effort to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Wearing comfy, yet attractive active wear helps boost your confidence and makes you feel good while exercising. Looking good is feeling good. Be sure to choose your active wear wisely. Pick items that are made of breathable fabrics like cotton blends and are not too tight or bulky. Stylish tees, tanks, leggings, or bike shorts are good combinations for day-to-day workouts; but for pure comfort, look into loosely cut plus-size yoga wear in bright summer colors. For some super cute, trendy active wear styles, check out the new Zen Yoga Wear Collection and the Aimee Plus-size Sweat Pants. There you have it! Some of the “must have” plus-size fashion trends for summer 2009.

Please be sure to check our website often as we are adding new items to our summer collection daily. If there is a plus-size fashion trend that you feel we are missing out on in our collection, please feel free to leave us a comment below. Happy summer!

Danielle Line, Plus-Size Model and Guest Writer for Sealed with a Kiss Designs (SWAK Designs, Plus-Size clothing) has built her career around her passion, embracing her own unique beauty and plus-sized body. Sealed with a Kiss Designs http://www.SWAKdesigns.comis a leading manufacturer of affordable and trendy plus size fashions.

By Danielle Line

September 2009 Face of the Month – Arshiya Parmar

Arshiya Parmar is a model who moved around a lot. Born in the capitol city of New Delhi, India, at age six she moved to New Zealand. At age ten she lived in Australia, and at age 12 she finally settled in the United States in California.

What does your name mean?

Well, apparently Arshiya is a Persian boy name, but my parents didn’t know that when they named me. It means a gift from the sky . . . too bad for them it’s a gift you can’t return.

What’s your secret talent?

I can out hula hoop anyone!

Something weird about you . . .

My hazel eyes change color in the sunlight. Indoors they look brown but outdoors they can look green.

Your biggest fear?

Mazes. I’d freak out if i ever got lost in one.

Something embarrassing?

I’m addicted to the History Channel and the Carl Sagan Cosmosseries.

Something you’ve always wanted to try?

I’ve always wanted to ride an elephant. They’re HUGE, but kind of cute, too.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Acting in a soap opera would be amazing. I grew up watching “The Bold and the Beautiful,” and it would be surreal to be a part of that.

How would you describe yourself?

I’m a dork, I’m cheesy, but I love it.

Who’s your secret crush?

It’s not so secret. It’s Jon Stewart because he’s goofy and witty as hell.

Who do you consider the epitome of beauty?

Definitely Catherina Zeta Zones. She’s regal yet sexy AND a brunette!

August 2009 Recap and Ash Gupta Studio 838

August was a fruitful month for Ash and Studio 838. creating campaign images for the launch of eco-conscious clothing line Degree Six, as well as a shooting model/actress Kim Smith whose face and figure have been featured for Victoria’s Secret, Mac and Jac, Abercrombie & Fitch, Harper’s Bazaar, and Andrew Marc. Smith also took part in two of Paul Marciano’s Guess? campaigns back in 2000.

And young Hollywood was never too far with Kevin Zegers, who is starring opposite Hilary Duff as Clyde Barlow in The Story of Bonnie and Clyde. Jennifer Lawrence will be starring in Guillermo Arriaga’s directorial debut, The Burning Plain, opposite Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger, also on the studio shoot deck.

Ash was also busy shooting the cover and pictoral for international editions of Maxim Magazine, and the first part of an experimental photo-couture project with designer Maggie Barry, as well as a progressive, ethnocentric fashion editorial for Desi Club, which will complement shooting Miss India, Ami Vashi. A unique subject includes the steamy shoot with two of Paris’ most prominent art dealers at one of Los Angeles’ most famous residences. Also photograped was Russian “it” model, Kira Dikthyar.

Ash conducted productive meetings with Ursula and more of the “Deal or No Deal” girls. To top it all off, there was a celebration with an end-of-season private party at Ash’s residence, rounding out a fairly warm August.