RUNWAY INTERNATIONAL & AUSTRIAN DESIGN

RUNWAY INTERNATIONAL & AUSTRIAN DESIGN

| 2. May 2017 | Fashion

RUNWAY Fashion store

RUNWAY International & Austrian Design is a Fashion store in Vienna that looks outside the box, explores the international market, searches for the extraordinary and presents new, innovative and exciting designers to the Austrian fashion scene.

The concept-store is well renowned in Vienna as a hot-spot for fashionistas and trend lovers, who enjoy cool and exceptional fashion in avant-garde and exclusive street style. “RUNWAY”s attention is set on high manufacturing quality and innovative design ideas. Additionally, ever-changing ‘store-in-store’ pop-ups from accessories designers and artists provide a diverse touch.

Austrian designers count on our good reputation and for international designers, we provide an established concept-store, well bedded in the heart of Vienna’s avant-garde district, close to the MuseumsQartier. And our city itself is known as a highly interesting, economical hub between western and eastern Europe.

The latest added designers for spring / summer 2017 are:

AMATEUR (Women)

From avant-garde to smart casual can be found in the new summer collection by the label’s designer Birgit Rampula. The core elements of the current collection of 2017 are over-dimensional prints and abstract patterns which were developed from drawings of the designer herself and her four year old daughter Mila. These patterns on the material are manufactured in a minimalistic way and stand for easiness, naturalness, and freedom.

ARC MINUTE (Men)

Arc Minute is a contemporary London based menswear brand basing its creation on an equation used for fine measurements. Their embedded philosophy is to create looks that resonate with urban living and future generations. Their core belief lies in the small details, like using minimalistic designs that make bold statements.

++ Plus ++

Charity work is a big part of the brand ethos. They donate 10% of their profits to a variety of charities.

CONCEPTO (Women)

The label is a contemporary brand founded in 2013 to create something unique, that can make people feel extraordinary. The label stands for powerful women, based on minimalist lines, unconventional cuts, and unique combinations. Today, they have a solid brand that promotes innovative fashion with a clear, smart design and a high focus on quality.

The headquarter is based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania – here is also the workshop where each original piece is designed and manually created with care, while the leather jackets are meticulously hand-painted.

KAMEN (Women)

The handcrafted collection from KAMEN unites minimalistic approaches and timeless design. The focus of these small collections and Individual pieces lie on urbanity, reserved colors, extraordinary materials and the play with geometrical forms and clear lines. All these characteristics support the identity of the basic-oriented collections made of viscose, cotton, linen fabric as well as wool and these materials also complete the concept of “back to basics”.

LUCCA & MARTY (Men)

The in 2015 founded Label originally specialized in men’s fashion and accessories but extended their assortment with their Women’s collection.

The typical shape, the triangle can be found in and on every design, the logo and other matters, such as the packing and boxes, as the designers strove for a characteristic style of the brand. All garments and items are completely handcrafted, as the typical “Lucca & Marty” customer not only buys clothes but mainly art.

STUDIO GAMPE BERLIN (Women)

Designer Melanie Gampe offers extraordinary fashion for extraordinary women! The regular doesn’t interest the designer, but instead, she searches for the special, the surprising. Her style is shaped by geometrical cuts, dynamic silhouettes, cool elegance or the multi-functionality of pieces. She always has her focus on the female body and how to set it in the scene in the most effective and aesthetic way.

Studio Gampe Berlin is multifunctional avant-garde fashion, with treasured, detailed work, exclusively produced in Berlin in limited series.

To know more about Runway Vienna, please visit: Runway Vienna

 

Photo Credits:

1,2,3: Concepto

4: Studio Gampe

FACE LACE BY PHYLLIS COHEN

FACE LACE BY PHYLLIS COHEN

| 28. April 2017 | Fashion

Face Lace by Phyllis Cohen

Phyllis Cohen started her career as a Fashion Illustrator. Whilst attending the prestigious Art Centre College in California, her style caught the attention of fashion photography students who encouraged her to do makeup for their photoshoots.  Upon completion of her illustration course, she graduated with two portfolios: one for makeup and one for illustration.

When did you decide to study illustration?

I studied fashion illustration straight after high school at the art center in Pasadena California. After a year of study, I thought it would also be useful to learn fashion design to understand clothes better and went to the fashion institute of design, and Merchandising in downtown LA. I was terrible at pattern cutting but quite enjoyed learning to drape fabric. The teachers said I had interesting ideas, but my designs looked all very two dimensional, as I was used to designing on paper only.

Tell us about your fascination with faces?

I have always drawn faces since I was little. On my illustration course, we had many portraits drawing classes. I loved these and felt it is an essential skill to understand how lighting works on faces. Makeup essentially mimics how the shadow falls on beautiful facial features.

How your master's in Fine art influence your career today?

I went to a very Conceptual Art school for my Master's degree in Fine Art in London, the same school as Damien Hirst. I learned to really study art history, art theory, psychology, social science, and especially perceptual science to understand how the eye and the brain work together to see "beauty". This research into perceptual science rekindled my love of makeup as it gave such a new and clear insight into how makeup works. It is easy to find out what we are supposed to do to contour and highlight the face, but perceptual science can explain why highlighting and shading on areas of the Face fools the eye. Sometimes I see some pretty crazy tutorials of how to do shading and think the person doing them

Really has no idea- they have just put shading in an area of the face where it would be dark on a man and therefore made the face look masculine.

What does beauty mean to you?

Scientists have finally figured out the way to program a computer to see "beauty" the way humans do. They did it by getting the computers to see the facial features individually then put them together. Contrary to popular belief, it is not just about perfectly proportioned features- this, in fact, makes a face kind of "forgettable " and indistinctive. We find beauty in the individual features and the way they uniquely fit together. I like this theory very much. It ties more into the fun of makeup- to enhance one or more of your features to really stand out in a unique way.

Beauty is something that is constantly changing, how would you define it today?

I like the way fashion dictates different focal points of color each season. Of course, this keeps the cosmetics industry exciting, but it is also OK to stick with a classic look that can be subtly updated with a slightly different texture.

How did you enter in the fashion world?

I was very lucky that the school where I studied fashion

Illustration all those years ago also had a fantastic fashion photography department. I started doing makeup for fashion photography doing heir class assignments. When they graduated and began to get work they continued to use me for paid work.

Tell us about your experience in the as a makeup artist

In LA when I started as both MUA and illustrator the bulk of the work was music, celebrities and a very tiny bit of fashion. I had Fed my love of fashion on a diet of Italian and French Vogue magazines. So when some of the photographer’s friends set up In Milan I decided to try my luck there as well. I got some great editorial work there, and Jen went to London for what I thought would be a one month trip.

I ended up staying for 30 years. I love the way, the English celebrates the eccentric it gives British fashion the best edge! I arrived in London at the height of the New

A romantic era whose stars loved intricate detailed painterly makeup. Unbeknownst to me, I arrived in London at exactly the perfect time for my career

Tell us about face lace?

The idea of face lace started in the '80s when I used to make colored latex pieces with crystals to use on catwalk shows for Zandra Rhodes. After 25 years I figured out the materials to use to make them with technology. I saw that again makeup artists were beginning to make their own pieces for catwalk drama so I thought now is the time to make this a business.

Which material do you use to create face lace?

I use a combination of very thin vinyl and hypoallergenic adhesive

Which inspiration you use at the moment you create a new piece?

Right now I  looking at renaissance grotesque decorations and I always play around with new materials, for summer I have used a lot of holographic materials as they look so amazing in the sunlight

To know more about Phyllis, please visit: Face Lace

 

Credits:

Karin Berndl

Oob Mag

Matthew Shave

FASHION DESIGNER MARICAR TUAZON

FASHION DESIGNER MARICAR TUAZON

| 26. April 2017 | Designers

Fashion Designer Maricar Tuazon

Maricar Tuazon is a talented designer, who has worked in retail for a number of international brands, today she has her own brand Maricar Tuazon and she is also the co-founder of a creative hub called Latoutou. Today we had the opportunity to talk to her, to know more about her brand and Latoutou.

For those who don’t know you, tell us about your background

I am the Founder and Creative Director of Maricar Tuazon and also, currently the Co-Founder of a creative hub called Latoutou.

I've worked in retail for a number of international brands before I started the solo design venture. I quit my job and left my post as a Merchandise Manager and have decided to do something different, a creative hub called Latoutou- with my long-time friend who is a fashion designer. Latoutou is a platform for sustainable fashion. Our goal is to bring the amazing works of a talented group of women artisans from Asian countries and introduce their products to the US market. It is sad to think that most of these women together with their skills and talents are remained trapped in their local communities and left behind by the global fashion economy. One of our objectives of creating the platform is to peddle ethically produced items that would at least help them to showcase their creations.

In February 2017, I created my own label, Maricar Tuazon. It's an up and coming accessory line that values Timelessness + Sophistication.

I grew up surrounded by paintings at home. My grandfather was a calligrapher and my brother was an artist, who have both served as my huge inspirations. They exposed me to the beauty of conceptual arts at an early age.

When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer?

When I was working in retail,  There were times that I would feel frustrated seeing tons of merchandise sitting in an area of the store that would end up being placed in the clearance section and remained not being sold.   "if they only have changed the color combination of this item" "If they have put more details on it....this merchandise could have been sold " Those are things usually runs through my mind, I recall.  I find it funny because I don't have a degree in fashion design, why I should know better right? 🙂 and that's when the thoughts of becoming a fashion designer triggered. I would want to create pieces that I don't usually see in the boutiques.

What’s it like being in the Fashion industry?

The normal perception about the fashion industry is Fashion Week- that looks like an endless parade of beautiful models, colorful clothes and glamorous parties. But behind all those is the passion, hard work and sacrifices of a designer.

How is the fashion industry in Los Angeles?

Art is all around you in the LA fashion district. A Californian capital that I call both home and workplace. There's a real opportunity here for startups as there are no set rules on how to succeed in the industry and I would say it becoming as one of the major style destinations because of it's "cool factor" atmosphere.

What was your first job in the fashion industry?

I started as a Management Trainee when I was 20 for a local fashion brand when I graduated from college. I was so driven to learn the business side of the industry. Although I had the desires of braking into the creative field during that time as I planned to take a fashion design course, I knew that having the tool of understanding the numbers, business, and communications are very essential for every designer who would want to take the route of creating their own label.

Talk about the changes in your life since you’ve your own Brand?

It has been a continuous learning process for me;  From fashion retail to my starting my own label, MARICAR TUAZON --which is the first foray in the world of design.  I find it amazing when there were times that I and my team would work overnight to complete the latest collection. It's difficult to find people who are willing to join you in your journey at a start-up age, so I feel blessed to have that collaborative effort, support, and energy from my team.

Right now, We've been working on our numerous initiatives to put our products out in the market and this includes officially launching the brand. The difference between working for a brand and starting up your own is that you have room for trial and error and unlimited freedom to experiment and be much more creative.

How do you choose your inspiration?

I am observant of my surroundings. The natural movement and faces of the people walking in the street are some sort of inspiration to me. I can also find inspiration by just sitting in a cafeteria or waiting in a train station. Organic events work some magic for me to start my work. It's about occupying one part of the brain, so the other part is clear to be creative.

Tell us about your last collection

Maricar Tuazon's Fall collection 2017-2018 is a collection that revolves around the theme of femininity and strength. Unconventional shapes and interesting details are the main highlights of "Sentimental Handbags". Subtle hues are juxtaposed with strong silhouettes and sharp details. Snakeskin accents and giant studded hardware grant exoticism, edge, and character to classic, wearable pieces. The collection aims to speak to women with a clear sense of personal style and identity, giving them a clear range of options to choose from.

In one word: how would you define yourself as a designer?

Diverse.

What advice would you pass along to those starting in the Fashion Business?

Patience is a Virtue --This has been my important reminder to me in between challenges and sacrifices.  We might have heard it a thousand times already that Success won't happen overnight which is really true. Therefore, Persistence is key...

Having an incredible appetite to learn new things around your field and some curiosity to know areas outside of it will help you to determine the steps and timing along the way.

 

Photo Credits :

Photographer: Stephanie Williams

@stephanieshootsfashion

Model: Ray Krusell

@raykrussel

 

Hair + Make up : Bethany Garita

@makeupby_prettyininkbybeth

 

Stylist: Maricar Tuazon

 

Designer: Maricar Tuazon

INGRID IRSIGLER FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER

INGRID IRSIGLER FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER

| 20. April 2017 | Photographers

Fashion Photographer Ingrid Irsigler

Ingrid Irsigler is a former Creative Director, Who turned into a fashion photographer. A couple of years ago, while working on a gorgeous print production, she had to arrange a fashion editorial. Two days into the process she was astounded by how much fun this seemed to be. The photographer got to spend their days outside, climbing ladders and working with enchanting concepts and beautiful locations. She thought that was an excellent way to spend her days.

For those who don't know you, tell us about yourself

I am a complete tech nerd, and all the gadgets and gizmo's that come with photography excited my inner nerd girl to giddy happiness.

I live in South Africa and work between JHB and Cape Town, focusing on high-end portraiture and commercial work. I create the whole shoot from start to end, including all concept, location, and story.

Were you educated in photography, or are you taught?

On a rainy afternoon on Boracay Island in the Philippines, I finally decided that it was time to look at a different version of creativity - an email popped into my inbox from a local part-time photography school. Although my schedule seemed to be totally jam-packed a few hours a week learning a new craft was an excellent idea at that point in my life. I emailed back and booked their part-time, 6-month course, which included a few mornings a week.

I am also, however, an avid follower of Creative Live - and have spent many nights watching their episodes.

What camera do you use most of the time?

I use a Nikon D810. I like the lightness of the body and have a selection of Prime Lenses. I maintain I can shoot any campaign if I have my trusty 50 mm, 35 mm Sigma Art and my 135 mm Nikor in my camera bag.

I am currently also experimenting with film. I am truly obsessed with the work of Paolo Roversi and Sarah Moon, this is a genre I want to explore more.

Which photo are you currently most proud of?

The dam image from a Mid Summer Night’s Dream with Jade. This image has really opened doors for me and has been featured and published throughout the world. It has also Won a fashion and beauty award along with the rest of the editorial in the 2016 KAVYAR FASHION & BEAUTY Awards.

It is also an image that I think holds true to my innate artistic style of enchantment and whimsy. I want anyone looking at my images to be transported to a wonderland of make-believe.

Comparing where you are now with where you are when you first started, what could you have done differently to get to where you are sooner?

I have been extraordinarily fortunate with my timeline. With regards to how long I have been shooting and in this industry - it is a blink of an eye. I feel though, that I am at the beginning of my career as a photographer and have a long exciting and colorful journey ahead. The shoots we have planned for this year are so exciting! From Nepture’s Angels, which are boat figureheads that have come to life, to a dark beauty story based around the original Grims Fairy Tales…

You’ve clearly worked with a wide range of models, what tips can you recommend to people looking to expand their portfolio?

I believe diversity is key in any portfolio. I tend to work with models who are over 21 and are more character-based. The strength of a photograph lies in your connection to your subject and how they interpret the brief. Having life experience is key to my photos. We are telling stories, be it for a brand or a campaign, so we need someone with a story to tell.

With regards to scouting models, I usually begin on Instagram, I will follow the models I am keen on, comment on their pages, and then finally DM them. I don't do model tests, we only work on campaigns or creative shoots. I find model tests are too restrictive to my style and the agencies look for a specific set of photos for a portfolio.

One very important note to new photographers out there is to always be kind. Models have such an emotionally draining and hard job. The weight of the images and campaigns relies on their performance. To get the best results, always have healthy food on set, water with no bubbles, allow for breaks in between shooting and always, always be respectful.

Describe a typical shoot.

A typical Location Day.

I love morning light, which we lose very quickly in South Africa. Mostly we have never-ending blue skies and an unrelenting bright hot burning sun. Not always conducive for location work - which is my favorite.

On a day such as this - we would start around 3 am for makeup and hair, while we aim to be outside and ready to shoot by 5 am. We have around an hour of light to play with - and then we will move to a different location, that is more protected from the Sun. We will shoot until 9 am, break for breakfast and then start hair and makeup again for the next scene or editorial. We shoot again between 1 pm- 2.30 pm, break for lunch and change, then shoot from 5 pm-7 pm.

Things may vary slightly depending on what we are doing - we could shoot 3 editorials using this method. I will take around 20 min to shoot one look.

A typical studio day.

We will begin at 8:30 for makeup and hair, and a beauty story will be finished around 1 pm. We will shoot 6 different looks during this time.

How much time do you spend taking photos, versus retouching photos?

60% shooting, vs 40%. I enjoy shooting more than sitting in front of a computer.

Favorite accessory?

My trusty step ladder. I spend an astonishing amount of time up mine :)!

Who would you like to work with most?

My stylist Karin Orzol. I think we were separated at birth. It took me a year to get the courage to try and convince her to work with me. Karin’s work on the projects we have done has been instrumental in any success I have had - her work is amazing! We think the same, I will have an idea and a concept and she will take it and take it to an enchanted level that is worthy of storybooks.

My two amazing H&MU’s in the form of Sam Scarborough and Dannit Gorden. Any projects I work on with these talented creatives always seem to get published and recognized globally. I am so grateful for my team. I get to work with the most extraordinarily brilliant people.

Most importantly is the producer and project manager of the campaigns we do. Phillipa Rose-Tite from Purple Raindrop. Phillipa ensures that everything goes according to plan, and we never put a foot wrong while she is at the helm.

To know more about Ingrid, please visit: Ingrid Irsigler

 

IG: @ingridalicephotography  FB: @ingrid alice photography

Credits:

IG: @samscarboroughmakeup
IG: @danitgordon_makeup
FB: @Karin Orzol

ENGLISH COFFEETABLE BEAUTY AND ART BOOK BY YASMIN HEINZ

ENGLISH COFFEETABLE BEAUTY AND ART BOOK BY YASMIN HEINZ

| 13. April 2017 | Beauty

Coffeetable Beauty And Art Book

It is such an honor for me to write the first interview about Yasmin, one of her friends calls her "The Bjork Of Make-Up" and her new upcoming English book “elements” by Prestel Publisher, September 2017. In it, Yasmin shares with us her personal vision of today’s beauty featuring renowned illustrators and artists as well.  The book can be pre-ordered already on Amazon UK

I am really excited about your second book!  What can we expect?

It is an English Coffee Table Beauty and Art Book coming out on September 17 by Prestel Publisher/Random House and it is about my personal vision of today’s beauty. I will be featuring renowned illustrators and artists as well. Makeup can be an exciting form of POP art - you will see.

Why did you decide to do it in English this time?

I like to share it with everybody and everywhere.

Tell us about your experience producing this second book

It was a long working process of almost 2 years and I am so grateful for my wonderful team Marko Matysik / Creative Director, Felix Lammers / Art Director, Jess Henley/Writer, and Foreword Writer Kathy Phillips/Beauty Director Vogue International.

Who was behind the production?

One big journey through the elements. We have all elements within us, and they work together to help us, whatever we are doing. I call it my inner sky.

Thank you for your interview Sally and always stay the great warrior you are.

Yasmin Heinz, London in April 2017