Dec 282010
I was dazzled recently when I was invited to the Oscar De La Renta Pre-Fall 2011 show. Mr. De La Renta’s dresses are always timeless and make a woman think of the most glamorous events in her life. Sitting in the audience for this show I was utterly inspired by the work and detail, the elegance and luster, the sheer power of the garments. Here are some of the shots that I captured.
All images by FashionHorne.com (fuzzy ones and all, enjoy!!)
Many Thanks to the team at Oscar De La Renta for the gracious invite!
View more lovely fashions after the jump.
Dec 282010
Everyone has their ‘type of music’. The music that makes them get up and move or tap their foot and nod their head to the rhythm. For a young lady who found her roots early in life in the heart of soul music, it was the thrashing chords of rock that really spoke to Danni Gee and awakened the rock star within.
Danni Gee is the front woman of the New York City based band ‘Suga Bush’, that has been making headway with the first single from their latest album. She took time to answer some questions for FashionHorne.com and shed some light on her Suga Bush…!
Suga Bush is my baby
When you’re in the booth do you thrive on the pressure of knowing when you lay down a track once it’s done hundreds of thousands or millions of people could hear what you’ve just completed, depending on how well it’s received?
When I’m in the booth I’m just really trying to do the best job I can; to convey the message of the song and give it all the energy I can. I want to give the same energy you would feel if you saw me live. The public is fickle so you really can’t worry about the reception of a particular song. My music comes from a real place inside and if that touches or reaches a few people, then I’m happy.
So you don’t feel pressured to make radio friendly music to reach today’s youth?
Nah, I’m realistic about my place in all of this. I know I’m not doing your typical R&B tunes, my producers tried to get me to go there early on but it just felt false. Don’t get me wrong I have nothing against those radio ready tunes. I tap my foot and booty shake along with them, but I’m just a little black gurrrl from Southwest Philly doing my little rock tunes.
How do you define your personal style? Do you see your style reflected in your audience/ fans?
My personal style feels very earthy and natural. I look at the popular artists today like say Lady Gaga, and I would be a fool and a half to think I needed to emulate that just to gain more popularity. I’m a boots and jeans gurrrl, silver jewelry, no bling that’s not for me. I’ve seen all types of folks at my shows…which I love…I want to relate to all types because I feel like my songs and their messages are universal.
You’re involved in so many things. Your work with Suga Bush and Summer Stage just being the tip of the iceberg. How do you stay focused on the task at hand and not get too far ahead of yourself?
I’ve multi-tasked all my life!!! When I’m busy it’s easier for me to stay focused because I have to. Otherwise things slip through the cracks and that’s not cool. With both entities though, I have great support around me so it makes it easy.
What’s your ultimate goal for Suga Bush? Where do you see the band in; a year, five years, ten years?
The immediate goal is to finish our second cd. I would love to tour with this band…everywhere. Maybe even open for a giant like Tina Turner, my idol. But I don’t know…has she officially retired yet??? I’ve changed personnel over the last few years and it’s working well. I just want to keep performing and growing as an artist for as long as I can.
You’re a former feature Alvin Ailey Dancer. How did that experience shape how you are as a person and an entertainer?
Discipline, discipline, discipline. Musicians can be notorious for being late, etc, but not when you have this dancer background. You can’t just walk into the “middle” of a ballet class, you know? You have to be there on time for the warm-up exercises at the barre, get the feet and legs going. Especially working with a company like Ailey! Oh forget it…being unprofessional was NOT an option. My sense of professionalism has helped me so much especially when I’ve worked on other gigs like with CHER and Gloria Gaynor.
Your single “Monster” is HOT!! What else does Suga Bush have in store for your fans?
MONSTER (take a listen to this hot track)
Thank you!!! Well we’re working on recording the rest of the cd, but you know that takes time and budget…so stay tuned!!!
I sat in my apartment today snowed in along with most New Yorkers, Brooklynites in particular and I was inspired thinking about the warmer days of Spring and the great fashions that are to come. Here is a quick look at Louis Vuitton Cruise 2011. Be Inspired…
As reported on over at Becomegorgeous.com
Peep more inspiring looks below… Continue reading »
Nov 162010
There are many artists out there who have the ability to leave an impression on you in more than one way. Whether it be an immediate emotional attachment to the work they do, a physical attraction to the body that they present or an intense appreciation to the many facets of creativity they produce. Sir Ben Marx is one of the artists that make you feel deeply, in all those ways plus many many more.
From early beginnings in North Carolina to continent hopping to promote and record album after album Sir Ben Marx stays busy, but took time out to answer some questions for FashionHorne.com.
I hope many more will listen and draw inspiration from music as I do.
FashionHorne: Although everyone may not know your name yet, you have been making music for years. How did you get your start in music?
Sir Ben Marc: I am the youngest of seven children, all three of my older brothers were into music when I was growing up, my mother also sings gospel.
FH: You have a large following in Europe. How was it the first time you went overseas to perform and make music?
SBM: It was very dope. When I go anywhere on earth, I feel the change in my soul, it inspires me to be even more creative than before, I LOVE TO TRAVEL & CREATE!
I literally felt the energy and stardust left behind by others who have blessed that booth.
FH: When you come from a small town sometimes it’s hard to imagine doing some of the amazing things you’ve gotten to do. What’s the reaction of some of the people back home as you continue to work and gain more acclaim?
SBM: It’s great, everyone is supportive of what I do! People around me are very positive.
FH: Your last album “Abstractions of Ben” was available for download on iTunes, which is a big deal! Congrats on that. How has that heightened level of exposure helped your career thus far?
SBM: Since I’m just getting an iPod touch, I’m more into tweeting, facing & spacing! I definitely see a drastic change in my web presence, I am pleased with my level of exposure, but I keep working and know that more will come!
FH: You’re not only a musician but a celebrated artist. You have even had your artwork displayed in museums. How does being a visual artist and a musician help you stay focused and do they play off of each other?
SBM: Art & Music are my two most creative best friends, and they are married to each other.
FH: For a lot of aspiring artists it’s a huge dream to step into the booth for the first time. Do you remember your first time, what was that moment like for you?
I gave myself a mental ultimatum: Stay in the same place or move. I chose to move.
SBM: My first time recording was actually on the top bunk bed where my older brother had his little set up, I remember feeling so electrically creative I couldn’t sleep! My first time in a “real” studio booth was at Park Hill Music Group in southern California (Gwen Gordy’s Studio). It was amazing, I literally felt the energy and stardust left behind by others who have blessed that booth.
FH: Being an artist I’m sure that you are both in tune with and at odds with your complex emotions. How did losing your brother effect how you viewed your art?
SBM: It was my wake up call to life. It forced me to re-invent myself.
FH: Some may classify you as an underground artist with an international following. How does it feel to know that you have people around the globe listening to your music and supporting your career?
SBM: I feel alright with that!!! I hope many more will listen and draw inspiration from music as I do.
FH: We have a lot of things in common. One thing I regret that we share is we both lost someone whom we consider our best friends. For me it was my mom, for you your brother. How did you pick up the pieces after your loss?
I'm a leader.
SBM: I gave myself a mental ultimatum: Stay in the same place or move. I chose to move.
FH: Seeing a tragedy as a wake up call is sometimes the best way to deal with those situations. The first time you took the stage as Sir Ben Marx, what was that like and where is your favorite city to perform?
SBM: It was at my brother’s funeral. I love to perform in NYC!
FH: How supportive has your family been while you’ve been going along your journey?
SBM: With them I see my goals clearer and they are my mirror. We see ourselves there therefore we are…there.
FH: What is your favorite Sir Ben track?
SBM: Whichever one makes a person move!
FH: Despite industry pressures what gives you the confidence to be you and make your music?
SBM: I am that unique void soon to be filled. There is no one else out there like me, I am confident of this because I’m right here.
FH: I know you stay busy. What’s the next thing your fans can expect from you?
SBM: Two new albums, STARCHILD7:LOVE ENTELECHY & STARCLUSTER- it’s actually a double CD. They are both complete, One is R&B and the other is TECHNO SOUL. They will be available on iTunes very soon. Also new modeling pics and of coarse new visual Artwork.
- “The Rain Came”
FH: Lastly, what have you learned about yourself over the last couple of years that you never expected?
SBM: I’m a leader.
FH: Oh yeah, before I forget. How do you define your personal style?
SBM: HHPPR (hiphopopunkrock)
FashionHorne.com thanks Sir Ben Marx for taking the time to answer our questions and share himself with our readers.
Find Sir Ben Marx on Facebook here.
Before you head over and Check out Sir Ben Marx’s, “Abstractions of Ben” on iTunes.
Here are a couple of his tracks for your listening pleasure…
Visit his video website SBXTV.COM.
PHOTOS: ARNOLD GADSON
ARTWORK: Sir Ben Marx
Body’s in motion tend to stay in motion and feed off of each others energy. Nowhere is that more prevalent than in a Calvinography dance class at your local New York City gym, or one of the international cities where he has set up camp with his amazing instructors.
Leave it Calvin to show everyone how its done.
Calvin Wiley has taken aerobic dance instruction into the stratosphere, with creative, motivating, down right, down home fun routines. That fact is evidenced in his packed classes throughout New York City. Calvin teamed with one of the many gyms that he works with; Equinox Fitness, to flex his might and bring his dance experience to a venue outside of the gym.
Mama Fran wearing out all onlookers!!
On Wednesday September 29, 2010 Calvin and Company took hold of RoomService Night club on 21st street in New York city and taught a packed night club full of his students, and guests from every gym he graces his presence with on a weekly basis. Students from Equinox, New York Sports Club, 24-Hour Fitness and Reebok Sports club jammed to DJ Heather’s mixes and sweated out all the days aggressions to a vigorous routine that may have left some in the dust, but was basic enough for everyone to get in a good workout. One word that comes to mind when you’re in a Calvinography class is inclusive. There were people dancing and observing from all walks of life and fitness level.
Eddiemotions entertains the crowd!!
Following the workout was a short intermission featuring a dance performance from Eddie V of Eddiemotions.com and his phenomenal dancers. We all need a Christina Aguilera dance routine in our lives at least once a day and Eddie and his crew delivered big time.
After the dance break it was time for Calvin’s signature end-of-class runway. This time a lot was on the line; a $200 cash prize for the best stroll down the catwalk. A panel of judges that included celebrities and fashion industry veterans like Shaun T. of INSANITY Workout, Susan Hayes, former super model and Chris Freer, NYC Director at Clear Talent Agency and model Annalaina Marks meant the pressure was on full blast. The students that decided to participate in the runway competition handled the pressure with ease and some 40 contestants were narrowed down to 10 for the “walk-off”. In the end there could only be one winner. Carlo Lyog slipped on his heels and worked the catwalk like most of the ladies wished they could. He and all the contestants really entertained the audience and put their best foot forward.
And the winner is....
Calvinography is all about getting people moving, instilling confidence and having fun all at the same time. Tonight Calvin was moving on all gears and his students were truly the beneficiaries of his hard work and the services of Equinox and Room Service teams. Thanks Calvin for a great workout and for inspiring us to KEEP ON MOVING.
Calvinography works all the major muscle groups
Four of Calvin's charges.
Not everyone came to sweat, these guys stayed looking cool.
If you are in the New York area, or anywhere for that matter, check out Calvin at Calvinwiley.com, there may be a class near you as far away as Istanbul!
From first timers to old vets, all had a good time!
"Do the Naomi Campbell walk. Walk across the room like Naomi Campbell."
Calvin with 2 of the 4 fabulous judges. Shaun T. and Annalaina Marks.
Sep 242010
Fashion is blessed to have designers with vision, creativity, class and strong work ethic. Hernan Lander posseses all of these attributes and many more. Here is our latest installment of Designer Q & A with Mr. Hernan Lander.
FashionHorne: How do you think your training, not only at Parsons and back home in Dominican Republic, but with the likes of Donna Karan has helped shape how you approach the way you work?
Hernan Lander: Everything has been a great school for me. The most important thing, apart from the construction of luxurious clothes, was to be able to translate my inspiration into the style of a powerful woman.
FH: Your beginning in the Dominican Republic is something that everyone knows is a huge part of who you are; looking back what makes you most proud when you think about home and how far you’ve come?
HL: I grew up in the Dominican Republic. My childhood memories, friends and home were there until I decided to leave everything and follow my dream. When I look back and see how far I have come and how proud my family and friends are for me, I feel blessed.
FH: Your designs have been making noise in fashion circles for years now, and you have been rewarded for your hard work countless times. How does it feel to have your designs worn by the likes of Ashanti, Toni Braxton and countless other well known celebrities?
Mel B. in Hernan Lander
HL: It feels great! Having a celebrity wearing your clothes definitely brings more recognition, people look at what you do and understand your way of thinking. A celebrity placement can help you stand out of the competition and increase your number of followers. I have been very fortunate as a new designer.
FH: We received nothing but positive feedback on your Fall/ Winter 2010 look-book, and look forward to seeing your Spring/Summer 2011 collection. One question we received was regarding your architectural inspirations for your work. Does anything in particular in New York City from the skyline to the beautiful churches inspire your designs?
HL: Architecture has been a passion for me and an alternative career path when I was younger. It is a constant source of inspiration for my designs. I am fortunate to live in a city with so many different types of structures that co-exist peacefully with each other. I especially love New York’s juxtaposition of the old with the modern.
FH:I’d imagine when working you can get on a creative high and want to keep going endlessly. What happens when you know that a Hernan Lander collection is complete and ready for public consumption, how do you know to stop creating?
HL: I never stop creating! Even the day of my show, I am thinking of the next thing that I should design. I always have ideas for improvement and innovation.
FH: You are immersed in NYC fashion. Who are your favorite of each…
a. Up and coming designer. - My friend Joel Diaz. He is so talented.
b. Veteran designer. – Donna Karan and Oscar de la Renta
c. Fashion magazine . – V Magazine, Vogue (I am trying to get Anna Wintour’s attention!)
FashionHorne.com wishes to thank Hernan Lander and Stacy at Passion Style Public Relations for the images and all her help!
Sep 222010
The Party Is Just Beginning.
Yana Evans of YANA Handbags and her talented staff had any number of the usual events they could have planned for this year’s Fashion Week; a fashion show, a party, a pop-up store or a press event. They decided to do it all in one fun filled night. YANA Handbags took over Fat Baby lounge on 112 Rivington Street in New York on Tuesday September 14, 2010 and turned it into their den of fashion.
The Fashion Doesn't Rest Because You Do. Check Out These Fashionable Ladies Taking A Quick Break.
Upon entering you were greeted by the sweet taste of cupcakes sponsored by Cravingforcupcakes.com and Veev Spirits sponsored drinks to one side of you. On the other a display of the sumptuous accessories that are, YANA Handbags. Yana and her team decided the best time to sell their product is when their loyal customers and fans come out to party, meet the designer, and ask questions first hand about Yana’s beautiful bag collection. I couldn’t agree more. Male models served cupcakes and wore the same fanny-pack inspired purse as the designer herself, hypnotizing the crowd with smiles and photo ops while the designer and her team made the rounds to make sure the patrons of her beautiful bags were carefully attended. While DJ Double-O from Kidz in the Hall handled the sick beats.
When you see a full range of Yana’s work you begin to understand the talent that she possesses. 
Yana has an unmistakable ability to make bags made with varying levels of intricacy, size, color and vibrancy mesh coherently together. Using her eclectic style she takes you to the past while simultaneously pulling you into the future in almost every bag. Each bag seems familiar but you know you’ve never really seen it done Yana’s way. These bags are worth a look up close and that is exactly what Yana and her team provided and threw a marvelous shin-dig in the process. If it was your first time meeting Ms. Yana and her bags, I bet you think it was well worth the wait! 
To see more of these bags up close and personal reach out to Yana and her team at www.yanahandbags.com
Additional photos provided by YANA Handbags
FashionHorne Thanks Yana!!
Luciana, Ciana, Shulana Smiles… LUCIAN
You have gone through many different names before becoming the lady you are now, Lucian. The fact remains at your core, no matter the name, you are the same beautiful jewel of a friend, sister, partner, shoulder; that you were all those years ago when we first met.
Many people see the light and joy in you, even if that light doesn’t always register to you. Lucian please know that not only are you the work-horse of FashionHorne, but you are also the Heart of our Family of Friends. What Shulana Smiles would always say rings clearly in my head when I think about you, “I love you guyssssss.”
From those good old days in school to the beginning of a partnership that will take us far into the future you have always been the definition of what love should be.
Happy Birthday LUCIAN J. MILES, you are loved beyond what you know!
Your brother,
Ricke Williams
Tao Bookshelf "Bold inspired living.
There’s nothing better than walking into a room and being blown away by the beautiful furniture used to decorate the environment. If you’ve done business with heavy hitters across various industries in well decorated boardrooms, stayed in any number of fine hotels including; The Waldorf Astoria, The Ritz Carlton and The Four Seasons to name a few or seen the movie Sex and The City 2 or the show Gossip Girls then you have been exposed to the elegant and award winning designs of Hellman-Chang. I was blown away by their designs, I’m sure you will be as well.
Founded by Daniel Hellman and Eric Chang back in 2006, Hellman-Chang pieces can be customized to fit your needs. Designers who are interested in the Hellman-Chang aesthetic are encouraged to contact them directly to have specific pieces created. They have showrooms across the country in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Seattle.
All images provided by Hellman-Chang.com. Check them out here to find out about more of their beautiful designs and how you can get your hands on some.
Award winning Z-Pedestal
Award winning Tao Cocktail Table
"Innovatively styled, distinctely designed."
