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Katie Jackson

Fashion, MSM Online

Alexa Chung for AG Jeans

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By Katie Jackson Alexa Chung can add fashion designer to her already exceptionally impressive resume. The model, TV host, and author has collaborated with luxury denim brand AG Jeans to create a coveted collection that hit Miami retailers this past January. The collection is comprised of 21 pieces featuring vintage-inspired overalls, mod dresses, chic everyday ‘tees and high waisted jeans. “The collection is inherently the missing pieces of my dream denim wardrobe, which, as ever, is predominantly inspired by a late Sixties, early Seventies aesthetic,” says Chung. The British style icon aims for the collection to become timeless and classic closet staples. Chung is the latest in a series of successful collaborative partners with AG, including celebrity stylist Cher Coulter, men’s golf label Travis Mathew, and textile studio Liberty Art Fabrics. When searching for the next partner, AG knew Chung was the perfect fit. “Our goal was to partner with someone who has a unique view on fashion and paves her own path in order to bring a fresh take on denim,” said Sam Ku, Creative Director of AG. “After countless back and forth internal discussions, we trusted our instincts and chose to pursue a collaboration with Alexa Chung. As a modern day fashion icon, Alexa is a muse to some of the most incredible fashion designers in the world, yet remains real and accessible to the everyday woman looking to her as a fashion influence and inspiration.” The excitement and desire to collaborate was mutual. After visiting the AG offices and factory, Chung fell in love with the experts of denim technology. “I found the trip incredibly inspiring and an opportunity to learn about denim and make things I had been dreaming about finding.” With the successful collaboration, Chung desires to make designing full-time and a part of her future. After perusing the collection, it does not appear like that will be a difficult feat for Chung. The campaign was shot by Angelo Pennetta in Los Angeles, and styled and modeled by Chung. The collection is available at all AG Jeans locations, online at agjeans.com, and through all retail partners

Makeup & Hair, MSM Online, Shows & Events

Miss Colombia Paulina Vega Crowned Miss Universe 2014

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By Katie Jackson The stunning Miss Colombia Paulina Vega has been crowned Miss Universe 2014, with Miss USA Nia Sanchez as the runner-up. Vega blew away the panel of celebrity judges, including Kristin Cavallari, Emilio Estefan, DeSean Jackson, Lisa Vanderpump, William Levy, Manny Pacquiao, Nina Garcia, Giancarlo Stanton, Rob Dyrdek, and Louise Roe with her talents, charisma, intelligence, and obvious beauty. Taking place at the Florida International University Arena, the 63rd Annual Miss Universe Pageant began with each contestant greeting the judges and audience in lavish costumes representing each of their countries. Then, almost immediately after, the beauties were whittled down from 88 to just 15. The contestants strutted their fabulous figures in the bikini round, and were quickly narrowed down to the top 10. The remaining ladies stunned in evening gowns ranging from silver and sparkling to red and daring. Throughout the pageant, unforgettable live performances were put on by Prince Royce, Gavin DeGraw, and Nick Jonas who had audience members and viewers swooning when he walked off the stage to serenade girlfriend Olivia Culpo in the audience with his smash hit “Jealous.” Culpo, who was Miss Universe 2012, was Jonas’s muse behind the song. After the top 5 were announced, Miss Jamaica, Miss Ukraine, Miss Netherlands, Miss USA, and Miss Colombia moved on to the question and answer round. Though all the contestants gave wonderful answers, it was Vega that came out on top. During the nerve-racking Q&A, Vega completely wowed the judges, especially when answering what she thought Colombia had contributed to the world. “I believe that my country has been an example to be followed for the rest of the countries,” she said. “We are preserving people, and we continue fighting. Today, we are world leaders in many different parts.” After she was announced the winner, Vega was crowned by Miss Universe 2013 Grabriela Isler with the $300,000 topaz and sapphire studded headpiece. Vega is the first winner to wear the stunning new New York City-skyline inspired crown designed by DIC. Immediately after the pageant, Vega and Miss Universe owner Donald Trump answered questions during a press conference held at the Trump National Doral. Vega beamed as she told press that she will wear the crown with “pride and excitement.” When asked what his biggest piece of advice was for Vega, Trump answered, “she has to remain grounded.” For more on Miss Universe 2014 Paulina Vega, visit missuniverse.com

Fashion, The Issue

Paul Andrew at Capretto Shoes

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By Katie Jackson  Miami heel addicts received a very special treat when CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner Paul Andrew made an in-store appearance at Capretto Shoes during Art Basel. The beloved South Miami shoe boutique was filled with adoring guests who were able to mingle with, and even receive a quick shoe fitting from, the famous footwear and accessory designer. The British born and now US-based designer certainly has a lot to celebrate. Launching his eponymous line of luxury women’s shoes in Spring 2013, and becoming the first shoe designer to win the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, complete with $300,000 and mentoring from some of the most powerful influencers in the industry, Andrew is definitely a rising force. But after perusing Andrew’s latest collection, it is extremely evident why the designer is so successful. Receiving inspiration from a Henri Matisse exhibit called The Cut Outs at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Andrew’s Spring 2015 collection focuses on the juxtaposition of elegant patterns, bright hues, and intriguing cuts. “The idea of layering different textures and materials with matte and shine and different colorations, that’s really the inspiration behind this season,” says Andrew. While it is clear that the appearance of Andrew’s collection is supremely alluring, the design element of his shoes is even more so. Using only the finest manufacturing in Italy in addition to superior materials, Andrew creates shoes that are the epitome of style and luxury. “What I am aiming to do is create the most comfortable but sexy shoe in the market. I did an amazing survey with about 500 different women internationally to understand what is the fit of now. The arch is a very different shape, there is a lot more padding in the insole, so you sort of sink into this cushion, and the heel is positioned in a very specific place.” Though Andrew has traveled to many places across the globe, this is his first time visiting Miami. After arriving late in the evening the night before his Capretto appearance, Andrew says with enthusiasm that he has already fallen in love with the Magic City. “I love the vibe here. It’s a totally different feeling than New York, and I’m really happy to be here.” Photography Courtesy of WORLD RED EYE Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.  

Fashion, Shows & Events, The Issue

Celebrating DVF’s The Woman I Wanted to Be

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By Katie Jackson Many wish they could peek into the minds of those who have found true happiness and success, hoping to come to understand the pathway in which they earned their desired goals. But to be offered a glimpse into the life of a woman who is not only brilliantly successful and heavily admired, but is also kind, genuine, and immensely passionate, is a true rarity. Diane von Furstenberg gave those who not only adore her designs, but those who adore and admire her, the chance to understand exactly how she became the woman she wanted to be. Even better, the legendary designer made sure to come and celebrate her tome during Art Basel right here in the Magic City. In her memoir, the woman responsible for creating the beloved wrap dress delves into detail about her journey to becoming one of the most respected forces in the fashion industry. Included in The Woman I Wanted to Be are also intimate details about von Furstenberg’s love life, children, how she overcame cancer, and her feelings about aging. “In a sense I feel more beautiful than I have ever felt because my life is full, my children and grandchildren are my pride, and so is the body of my work. I have traveled the world, seen so much beauty in nature, met so many people. I cannot pretend that I am younger than I am, and truly I feel that I have lived so fully that I should be twice my age.” Already a best seller, The Woman I Wanted to Be has garnered an extensive amount of attention. And despite her busy schedule—shooting her “E!” reality show “House of DVF” included—von Furstenberg headed to Miami during Art Basel to celebrate with those who fell in love with her story. With cameras in tow, the designer made a stop at Books & Books in Bal Harbour Shops on December 2nd for a discussion led by entertainment journalist Ana Remos. The very next night, von Furstenberg signed copies of her book in her Aventura Mall boutique. Packed to the brim, the designer’s pop up was filled with attendees sipping champagne and enjoying hors de ‘oeuvres while patiently waiting to have a moment with the legend. With The Woman I Wanted to Be, readers will walk away with truly remarkable wisdom from the woman who not only created an empire, but also created a platform that truly empowers women everywhere. Click here to view post on the January/February 2015 issue.  

Fashion, MSM Online, Shows & Events

The Best Dressed from the 2015 Golden Globes Red Carpet

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By Katie Jackson Glistening gowns, bold hues, and timeless black and white elegance dominated the red carpet at last night’s 72nd annual Golden Globe Awards. Though award season has just begun, the stars have already started major fashion trends. From Jennifer Aniston’s classic appearance to Julianne Moore’s show stopping ensemble, here are our favorite looks straight from the Golden Globes red carpet. Reese Witherspoon Embracing the alluring sparkle trend, Reese Witherspoon appeared ultra-glam in a fitted Calvin Klein Collection silver column gown. Emma Stone Emma Stone looked ravishing as she ditched a gown for a chic and modern Lanvin jumpsuit, complete with a crystal bodice and dramatic black bow. Kate Hudson Kate Hudson looked absolutely breathtaking in a plunging white mermaid Versace gown. Naomi Watts Naomi Watts had heads turning for her bold yellow Gucci column gown and eye-catching Bulgari diamond serpent necklace.     Julianne Moore In one of the most talked about ensembles of the evening, Julianne Moore stunned in a custom sparkling Givenchy Couture by Ricardo Tisci gown, complete with feather detailing. Jennifer Aniston The always-sophisticated Jennifer Aniston radiated elegance in a glittering black Saint Laurent gown and sparkling black and gold jewels. Jessica Chastain Jessica Chastain’s sexy and sultry copper Gucci gown and side-swept hair puts a modern twist on old Hollywood glamour. Salma Hayek Salma Hayek looked exquisite in a swoon-worthy strapless white Alexander McQueen gown and standout silver belt. Taylor Schilling The Orange is the New Black star captivated in a bold, fitted and flared crimson Ralph Lauren gown. Amy Adams In a one-shouldered lavender number, Amy Adams breaks the red carpet mold in Atelier Versace.     Amal Clooney For her first red carpet debut, Amal Clooney stepped out in a timeless black Dior Haute Couture gown complete with Harry Winston jewels and, as her husband revealed, white opera-length gloves that the newlywed sewed herself. Jenna Dewan Tatum Jenna Dewan Tatum is another beauty that brightened up the red carpet in a yellow Carolina Herrera gown. Photography Courtesy of E! Network

Arts, Fashion, MSM Online

Champagne Ruinart at Cavalli Miami

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By Katie Jackson On Friday evening, Champagne Ruinart gave a special presentation of a new limited edition bottle at Cavalli Restaurant and Lounge during Art Basel. Miami VIP’s sipped on champagne and cocktails while lounging in the ultra-chic upper level. Artistic displays of the Ruinart bottles combined with Cavalli’s sophisticated luxe-lounge truly embodied the ultimate night out on the Beach.    

Arts, Fashion, MSM Online

AG Jeans “Art of Jeans” Art Basel-Inspired Event

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By Katie Jackson Last Thursday evening, AG Jeans hosted their Art Basel-inspired event “Art of Jeans” at their Aventura Mall location. The luxury jean brand displayed uniquely eye-catching denim-inspired pieces alongside other paintings by local Miami artists. Attendees sipped on complimentary cocktails and noshed on adorable bite-sized “AG” inspired cupcakes and cake pops while DJ Bre provided live beats. Giveaways by LUSH were the perfect addition as attendees perused the eclectic artwork. The pieces were then auctioned off in-store with proceeds given to local art-related charities. With artistic luxury denim, LUSH, and philanthropy, it was Art Basel done perfectly.

Fashion 101

The Fashionista’s Diary

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  MIAMI FASHION BLOGGER LAUREN ASHLEY PATAO GIVES FASHION BLOGGING NEW MEANING By Katie Jackson Photography by IMANI OGDEN  Update: Patao is no longer moving to Pittsburgh and will continue to live and blog in Miami.  Miami fashion blogger Lauren Ashley Patao has certainly accomplished a lot in her short twenty years. After launching her personal style and beauty blog “The Fashionista’s Diary” a little under a year ago, Patao quickly became one of the most popular fashion bloggers in Miami. Now with high-profile collaborations, the creation of her Instagram-based boutique “TFD Closet,”(@tfdcloset) –where she sells her highly coveted clothes and accessories at discounted prices— and her digital book “Tips from TFD,” Patao’s blog has become a bona- fide brand. While she is certainly a force to be reckoned with in the blogging community, perhaps what makes Patao so unique is her drive to inspire others. Patao uses her blog as a platform to share a message with her followers—a message of anti-bullying, self-love, and overall genuine positivity. After admiring popular fashion blogs like “The Blonde Salad” and “Sincerely, Jules,” Patao knew that she wanted to start a blog of her own.“I’ve always loved fashion and writing, so it was a way to do the two things that I love the most,” says Patao. While nervous to enter into such a competitive industry, Patao knew that she had to follow her passion and take the plunge. “I decided that I was just going to go for it.” With the help of her mother, Patao came up with the perfect name that she felt represented her and her vision. “We knew it was going to be an outfit diary, an evolution of my style. And we also talked about how my friends and family have always called me ‘the fashionista.’ It just sort of clicked for both of us—it was ‘The Fashionista’s Diary.’” Just last January, Patao launched her blog and began sharing her flirty and feminine style. “I’m very colorful. I wear a lot of colors and a lot of girly prints. And I really like to do affordable looks so that people can recreate the outfits without spending a lot of money.” Patao’s trendy and budget-friendly blog quickly skyrocketed into massive popularity, accumulating over thirteen thousand followers on Instagram alone. Patao attributes her immediate success to hard work and endless dedication. “I really just hustled and worked my butt off. I think when you really want something you can make it happen, and for me, it’s my number one, it’s my baby. If it’s not doing well, I work even harder.” The success of her blog led to an Instagram-based boutique and a digital book—“Tips from TFD”—that Patao wrote to help other aspiring bloggers achieve the same success. “It’s forty pages of great tips that can really help other bloggers grow. It’s what I did to help myself grow.” But Patao’s desire to guide and inspire doesn’t end there. Through collaborations with Le Motto by She She Bon Bon—a clothing company that promotes positivity and anti- bullying through the use of unique inspirational quotes on stylish ‘Tees—Patao has taken an active stance against bullying. “So many people that I’ve known have been bullied. I was bullied in high school. We can’t change it, but we can help spread the word and hopefully make it disappear one day.” In addition, Patao hosts numerous clothing drives and events with local boutiques that benefit Miami charities. “I won’t do an event unless it’s benefiting something greater than myself,” says Patao. Sadly for the Miami blogosphere, Patao will be relocating to Pittsburgh in the spring for school, but promises that she will not leave her Miami roots behind. “I’m from Miami and my family is in Miami, so I’ll definitely be back and forth.” Patao is excited for the new journey and for all the changes that it will bring to her fall wardrobe. “It’ll be really great for my style because I’ll be able to sport lighter fall items in Miami, and the heavy fall and winter trends in Pittsburgh.” Though Patao’s success is quite evident, she remains humble, kind, and most importantly, extremely passionate—even going as far as taking over a spare room in her parents’ home and creating what she calls her blog office. “The way I look at it is, that in order for me to inspire, I have to be inspired. So I need to have a space where I can sit and say, ‘I can get this blog post done.’” With an entire wall containing numerous uplifting quotes and fashion prints and illustrations including sunglasses, shoes, and purses, Patao gets all the inspiration she needs. “I always say, if you can’t buy the purse, you might as well put it on your wall in a print!” Click here to view post on November/December 2014 issue.  

Accessories, Fashion, The Issue

Orianne Collins Jewellery: Glamorous Design with a Cause

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 By Katie Jackson Orianne Collins-Mejjati plays many roles, including an active philanthropist, insightfully creative designer, and most importantly, a mother of three young children. She fuses all three of these roles into her jewelry line, Orianne Collins Jewellery. Now with a boutique located in the burgeoning Design District, her customers are given an eclectic selection of carefully designed pieces that are both timelessly elegant and trendy, all while supporting a profoundly meaningful cause. Collins-Mejjati discovered her love for design in 2003 after working with different brands on special collaborations for the Little Dreams Foundation, the philanthropic organization that she co-founded with ex-husband Phil Collins. With the enormous success of a charm bracelet she had co-designed with Van Cleef & Arpels, she knew that it was time to branch out on her own. “I always wanted to be a fashion designer, and this project made me think that this is something that I really want to do. So I started my own company in 2006.” Inspired by everything around her, Collins-Mejjati can often be found with a pen and sketchbook creating her next piece. “I’m inspired by my travels, by my friends, by the people around me. I don’t want to miss anything. Sometimes it just happens in the middle of the night and I have to have my crayons and start to sketch.” This inspiration wholly translates into her line, with specific destinations even influencing entire collections. After witnessing the beautiful architec- ture in Morocco, Collins-Mejjati was motivated to create her Tales collection. “It’s like the magic from my travels,” she says. Offering a variety of intricately designed rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces for women, Collins-Mejjati also provides pieces for men and children. “I have children, and I create a lot of pieces for them. They test the jewelry, and I know it’s unbreakable. With kids it has to be unbreakable!” With children’s collections filled with adorable charm, like the Glitter and Yummylicious collections, there are plenty of pieces that would make any child’s heart melt. For men, Collins-Mejjati created collections that include sophisticated rings and cufflinks. “Men need some nice jewelry, so I try to offer them some- thing original.” Even with the tremendous success of her line, Collins-Mejjati is always determined to give back. In addition to co-founding and chairing the Little Dreams Foundation, she makes sure that many of the proceeds from her line go directly to the organization. “I create and donate a lot of pieces for auctions, and one hundred percent of the proceeds go to the Little Dreams Foundation.” Collins-Mejjati is confident that Miami is the place to grow her jewelry line and foundation, even opening her boutique in the heart of the up- and-coming Design District. “I think it is going to be the place to be. It’s going to be like SoHo in New York—how it was not very well known, but then became this hip place to go.” When customers enter her boutique, Collins-Mejjati wants to ensure that they feel welcome and know that there this is a piece of jewelry for them. “Everyone is my target customer, and I try to make pieces of jewelry that will reach everybody.” In developing a growing brand that promotes and engages in philanthropy while simultaneously making customers—women, men, and children—feel special, Collins-Mejjati has surely achieved her goal. Orianne Collins Jewellery is located in the Design District at 90 Northeast 39th Street, Miami FL, 33137. To purchase or view Orianne Collins Jewellery online, visit oriannecollins.com. Photography by IMANI OGDEN Stylist: ANNIE VALDIVIA (DOLCE AND GABBANA) Hair: FRANK IZQUIERDO (IGK HAIR, SLS HOTEL)    Click here to view post on the November/December 2014 issue.  

Arts, Fashion

Wynwood & Aquarella Swimwear

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EXUDE THE ULTIMATE “MIAMI COOL” By Katie Jackson The Wynwood Art District is surely becoming the new epicenter for Miami art and entertainment. Since taking over what used to be a run-down warehouse district, developers and land owners transformed Wynwood into a place that gives artists permission to create fabulous artwork that are showcased on the exterior and interior walls of the buildings within the District. Now with a multitude of art galleries, retails shops, and hot spots for nightlight and the performing arts, Wynwood is the new “it” place in Miami. Visitors can stop at the vegan-friendly Jugofresh or dine at the delicious R House, grab a drink at SHOTS or Wood Tavern all while experiencing some of the most fantastic art displays that Miami has to offer. Wynwood has become such a hot commodity that famous celebrities, models, and designers have all made appearances, even going as far as producing photo shoots and commercials. Beyoncé posted multiple photos of her adventures in the art district on her Instagram account while Kim Kardashian famously fell off of a bike while filming a commercial right in front of one of the graffiti-covered walls. It has even become a new favorite spot for Miami fashion bloggers, who use the gorgeous art-covered walls as backdrops for their latest posts. The collaboration of Aquarella Swimwear and the Wynwood Art District made perfect sense for a photo shoot. Both on the rise, and having a unique take on art and fashion in expression, the art district and swimwear label have a lot in common. Both embody a new, young, artsy-meets-chic attitude, and exude a confident style that is completely captivating the minds of many, if not all, Miamians. Photography by HAMID KOOTVAL Makeup & Hair YESINIA VARGAS Stylist JENNIFER SCLAFANI  Click here to view post on the Sept/Oct 2014 issue.

Culinary

Sake Room

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  By Katie Jackson With its delectable Japanese cuisine, trendy ambiance, and one of the largest selections of sake in South Florida, Sake Room will surely please the eye and the palate. Owner and chef Mario Cicilia infuses his Japanese cuisine with deliciously unique flavors from his Caribbean background, making the delectable food truly irresistible. Take your taste buds to heaven with the Dr. Phillips Roll or Spicy Crab Roll, or try the uniquely divine sun dried Tomato and Avocado Roll or the Lemon Tuna Roll. Sake Room also offers many exquisite and fully cooked meals like Chicken, Beef, or Salmon Skewers that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a sushi lover, sake fanatic, or love trying temptingly distinctive dishes, the innovative Sake Room is an absolute must-go. Click here to view post on the July/August 2014 issue.

Cover Stories, Fashion, Interviews, Swimwear

Jessica Bleier Cover Shoot: High Fashion Chic Meets An Easygoing Spirit

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 Click Here To View Full Story & Images In Our July/August Issue PHOTOGRAPHED BY IMANI OGDEN/INTERVIEWED & STYLED BY KATIE JACKSON/MAKEUP BY ESTHER JIMENEZ/HAIR BY FRANK CATANESE/ SET ASSISTANT-STEPHAN USECHE/SWIMWEAR BY RED CARTER/JEWELRY BY CATTIVA  BOUTIQUE/SUNGLASSES BY EDWARD BEINER/SHOES BY STEVE MADDEN/JESSICA REPRESENTED BY FRONT MANAGEMENT From countless spreads in high fashion magazines, to strutting down the runway for numerous years in fashion shows and traveling across the world for photo shoots, Jessica Bleier has certainly cemented her career as a high fashion model. Starting her career at just 11 years old, the Miami native is now a bona fide star. She continues to push creative boundaries, even recently starring as the beautiful love interest of Latin pop singer Chayanne in the music video for his hit single “Humanos a Marte,”proving that her possibilities are endless. But apart from her success, stunning good looks, and ridiculously close resemblance to Angelina Jolie, Bleier is insanely down to earth, making her not only lovable for her work, but for who she is as a person. Bleier’s first run-in with a modeling agency came when she was just in middle school. After being bullied by her classmates for her height, Bleier’s mother decided to take her to a modeling agency in South Beach to prove to her that tall is beautiful. “She wanted to show me that, one day, you can make something of your height,” says Bleier. After being signed immediately to the agency, Bleier was already traveling for work. “My mom would come with me everywhere, we went to places like Italy and Paris,” says Bleier. Despite Bleier’s early success, her career came to a halt when she decided to attend college at the University of Florida to study history. But after graduating during the recession, Bleier found it difficult to find work. While searching for a job in her field, Bleier decided to give modeling another shot to generate some extra income. “One thing led to another and it turned into a full time thing,” says Bleier. After moving back to Miami and signing with Front Model Management, Bleier was catapulted back into the modeling scene, doing fashion shows and photo shoots in Miami and across the world. But this high fashion model loves living the low-key life. Apart from spending time with her high-school sweetheart and fiancé, Bleier loves to garden and read books. “I read constantly,” says Bleier. She also likes to explore the burgeoning art and design districts. “I absolutely love to dance. But other than that I’m more of a low-key, go to a bar, have a beer and hangout type of person.” Bleier also makes sure to get her daily exercise by doing fun activities she truly enjoys. “I have a very active lifestyle. I take my dog for one hour walks, and my fiancé and I like to go kayaking.” Bleier’s one guilty pleasure? Pizza. “My fiancé is in the restaurant business. His parents own Steve’s Pizza, so he manages that. It’s good and bad because every night I fight the urge to eat pizza, which I usually end up eating pizza once every day!” she says while laughing. Although her modeling photos and videos are all over the media and internet, Bleier prefers to stay away from all the social media hype surrounding her career. “I feel like I was supposed to be born at another time. I love real conversation, and just, seeing a person’s face and engaging their reaction.” While it’s obvious that Bleier is a powerful force in the modeling world, what seems most attractive about her is the pure effervescence that shines through Bleier’s approachable spirit.

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