Fashion [Unfold]: How is wellness and image defined in Fashion?

Another seed was dropped and I'm thankful to have been the 6th element to open the bridge this week for what has become a new fashion online phenomenon called "Fashion [Unfold]". An initiative brought from concept to reality, via Tweets by Noëlly Sam @MissSly, Fashion Editor at MissSly! and Marcus Kan @fusionofeffects, Toronto based Photographer.

Every Tuesday, a fashion topic is selected, and the discussion gates are open to everyone, to weight in their two cents via Twitter and comments.

Allow me to give you a little taste and enchant you with this week's file! Don't be still, let's get to work! Once you've read this week's topic, feel free to join us on Twitter to share your thoughts and opinions, adding the tag #fashionunfold at the end of your tweets. If you're not on Twitter, you can share your opinion by leaving a comment right here on this post.

I am eager to hear your take! Lead the way and share what you have to say...
Follow us: @WithinEssence @MissSLY @fusionofeffects @FashionCrazy_

Topic: How is wellness and image defined in Fashion?

Synopsis...
Wellness is a word that encompasses different attributes of health and over the years, health has been an all around prominent subject matter that the great majority tends to bring forward in the fashion industry. We're constantly faced in within our reads about advertisement concerns and meticulous industry standards, such as models and their weight, not to mention their overall appearance etc. This goes without saying, since in "today's society" image is everything, especially in such trade, image has become a dominating selling factor but many wonder how this form of projection "speaks" to the mass.

What looks good as an industry standard doesn't always seem to be positioned as a feel good mentality if what is projected looks unhealthy and if there seems to be an ongoing duality between the need to leave room for the zero sized model vs. the plus sized model on runways.

Questions...
It is often said, that models need to be an look a certain way but wouldn't that be considered a stereotype that the media portrays? Are people missing the point that models need to be healthy and look the part? Do today's designers feel the need to incorporate "any" sense of empowerment within their collections? Meaning, do these related issues even come across as a concern when selecting models? If so, how does it correlate with an overall sense of wellness?

My two cents...
It doesn't matter whether you're skinny, average or plus sized. Health should be the number one concern because only such a factor can promote an entice and individual's appearance and attract ones attention. Sure you can be skinny and some may say you need the extra curves, but having the extra curves doesn't necessarily mean nor validate you as being healthy looking. So who's really empowered? And how do we position ourselves...

Be sure to check out Marcus Kan's (@fusionofeffects) webpage for the final updates of today's discussion :)

Within Essence Productions & Gwen Madiba Combining the dots

Within Essence Productions is proud to be bringing you "The Encore"...
If you've read my earlier posts you know about my partnership with Gwen Madiba and know that she has given me the green light as far as the details and managerial aspects of her production are concerned! She's truly a phenomenal woman I enjoy working with!! Being trusted to direct an amazing show of such caliber and purpose is truly humbling. For those who may not know, Gwen and I have known each other for almost a decade and all I can say is that she and I truly know how "to pick" each other’s brain and create magic... I love strong, humble, ambitious women and I believe that's exactly why she and I flow together naturally!!!

Although fashion productions can be rather overwhelming and tiring due to the load of work, I wouldn't trade any of this time spent and invested behind the scenes for anything!!! Not only do I embrace and welcome everyday challenges but I love what I do and enjoy every bit of it...
I am learning so much plus I make it my duty to cultivate and nurture my abilities further!
Seeing the success the show held last year and the level of empowerment it brought upon the local rising talents involved simply reinforced the will to bring this activity forth annually.
See the event details below...

For those who've waited, it's well deserved! Fine wine truly does get better with time... Last year she asked you to "Rip the Fab lane & Rock the dance floor" but this year she's welcoming a romantic breed of new edge and asking you to slay the keys and "Rock" with her...

Giving you a taste of fashion like no other, and taking you on a journey called "explicit fabulousity" with delectable pieces that are set to break you off and keep your mind captivated... Ottawa's own Gwen Madiba, brings you "I AM FASHION: RIP THE FAB LANE" 2010!! The new Spring Collection "Just Gwen" re-defined!! A second annual that is not to be missed!!

The event will feature: Ottawa fashion-savvy designers, special live entertainment not to mention a special guest of honour! The proceeds of the event will be going to the effort relief funds for a project to support women in Haiti and the Micone orphanage in Libreville (Gabon).

THE FAB LANE IS RATED "GS".... Be Empowered, Be Fierce, Be Fabulous :)

Wrapping Up!

Hey lovers,

It's been crazy at my end! Were wrapping up a couple projects and signing in with the new :)

We've mainly been touching up on Kayan Aiken's designer launch "HUMBRELLA" Taking the World by Storm. Were four days ahead and I must tell you, we are all boiling with excitement! Planning a fashion show is always fun ;) - It's a great challenge WEP likes to take upon as there are some many holes to fill and so much to foresee!

We're working with an amazing team of creative designers! Our models have been lovely and dedicated; we couldn't be any happier!

The show will be this Saturday at the Arts Court tickets are selling like flies... Got a few errands to run today but will definitely keep you posted! So much has been going on and we are not complaining...

Till then, Be inspired!

http://www.styleathome.com/decorating-and-design/inside-design/inside-design-preston-bailey/a/22822

Coasting With Flair...

That's right everyone, its New Years Eve and you're probably wondering what we're cooking up our sleeves right? Wondering how we will be spending our night? Well then, let me disclose how we will be bringing the luxuries of the heart to life...

I shared with you a couple reflective thoughts that were running through my mind yesterday about the New Year and so on… As you know I tend to get “poetic" and philosophical when I speak of exciting things such as life! Discussing business ventures and sharing my general outlook on life to empower others is so holistic to me! It's a portion that I get across into each of my endeavours that way you get a better sense of my approach and most importantly the kind of person I am! [I think it's important]... but anyhow, not to go astray from today’s blogging edition lol ;)

As I was saying, you guys are probably wondering what WEP is cooking up for New Year's Eve??? Fortunately for us, we're coasting with flair... meaning, tonight we're going to relax and mingle in style! Starfish Creative Events + Inspiration have generously invited us to attend and grace the Red Carpet in good old Hollywood fashion...

This team is such a big inspiration when it comes down to event management and design here in Ottawa and I have no shame in saying so openly! I admire their work!! I know some of you are probably frowning like, isn't this your competition?? I say no, why look at others as a "threat" if they can 1) inspire you 2) help you get better??? Seriously, talking and exchanging thoughts with other experts in this industry is not only a great exercise but always stimulating and encouraging!

To sum it up, I am totally looking forward to ring in the New Year with splash! The event will be taking place inside the Crowne Plaza Hotel [downtown Ottawa if you're unfamiliar] in two stunning penthouse rooms! So many goodies and surprises await but why spoil the beans if you can just read about it yourselves? If you're still wondering what to do tonight I suggest you get to your keyboard and get your tickets fast…

Till then, the countdown begins may you all be extraordinary and beyond verbal measures!!!Happy New Years everyone!

"On the set" Lights, Camera... Chic!

This weekend I took it easy considering everything is pretty much in motion business wise. Saturday I was on the set of "Classic, Chic & Soulful" which is the personal shoot I had with the very talented, Tina Picard.

Tina is a beautiful local photographer in the Ottawa, Hull region. It was truly a pleasure to shoot with her; she was very welcoming and down to earth! I love working with people who are free-spirited, passionate and vivid about what they do![Her work totally speaks for itself]...

I've had wonderful fashion shoots in the past and always felt the need to diversify, which is why this time around I wanted something a bit more different. Still fashion but a bit more subtle and corporate, considering these are mainly promo shots I plan on using for a campaign WEP is set to launch some time in the New Year!

I have to admit though, I wish someone had taken the time to remind me how long the whole hair and makeup process is... 2 ½ hrs hmmm... nothing right? What can you really say, when all you have to do is sit there and enjoy? Yeah, I love being pampered! Lol... It's so unusual for me to sit still for more than 5 minutes therefore when given the opportunity to take pleasure in somebody else’s art, I have no complaints :) - Besides my MUA Tricia Minga did a good job and had me looking pretty hence a little glimpse of the pic you see :) [Did I mention we were working away the details of her launch?? She’s a talented singer, model & make-up artist! Look out for this talented gem! Believe me]...

I really can't wait to see the entirety of the shoot! I would love to give you a sneak peak but I myself wasn’t given any…

Daily "Convoitise": Lime is Rich....

Preston Bailey's work what more is there to say... Inspiration!

It's Raining: "HUMBRELLA" Taking The World by Storm...

I cannot begin to tell you how excited I am about what I want to share with you... [Yes, I am finally going to divulge just a bit more information about one of the other fashion shows I am presently coordinating]!

Within Essence Productions has partnered with Ottawa's own local talent; Kayan Aiken to bring you her first designer launch titled "HUMBRELLA" [I will definitely tell you more about this incredible woman in the forthcoming weeks, as we count down the opening of her amazing collection]...

We've been working with her for the past months to bring you this event that is set for the New Year [January 23rd, 2010]! Her jaw-dropping couture edge will definitely leave you shook and create a hazard that can only take the world by storm [you've heard it here first; you've been WARNED]...

With this said, don't just sit there and wait to get weathered by "the storm" !!! Grab your umbrellas and celebrate this launch with us. My good friend Marcia said it best: "if you got an itch for fashion, then I suggest you scratch it"...

...Just a little bit of "Swagg for you Savvs"

Let's lay our wittiness aside for a brief moment and perhaps touch on our own daily attire...
Considering spring is spinning off and escaping us so candidly [arrrgh the snow that fell upon us early this morning "bah" got to love nature right?!], it just hit me and I thought I'd warm you guys up with a little reminder to help you brush off the shady weather... huhuh, 'tis the season indeed!!!! Doesn't it kill you when you buy a killer pair of pumps or stilletos then go outside to find out it's either raining or snowing??? Or perhaps when you buy that nice trench coat and figure it's far too cold to wear it out? Or that nice cocktail mini you now have to save up for next summer?What about those sexy knee-high suede boots you feel like throwing out regardless of the fact you sprayed them countless times last year, the salt still managed to ruin them? etc etc.... Perhaps you're nodding because you know it hits home! Perhaps not, rather confused but my point is for those who at times feel like winter is a "swagger- hater"!![ just think of that nasty slush melting on your pants and you will see where I'm going, ha]! You and I both know how winter can easily make you lose your summer edge (i.e. make you feel like there's no point to fix yourself up or even make you lazy) but who said you couldn't have swag and be fab during "reindeer season"??? After all, it's either you got it or you don't! And if you do, why should that fade? and if you feel like you don't, what's stopping you to get on your "quick fix" momentum?? It's just a matter of knowing your body and knowing what style works for thee [will cover that issue very soon]...

With respect to this matter, I picked out the runway styles you see above because a) I felt like they exemplified that effortless, classic-chic essence of natural confidence (it's called "swag")... and (b) to encourage you to keep on staying "up to par" with that same confidence despite the season change and still allow yourself to work it out on your own with poise and posture while still keeping warm...

On this note, why juggle your appetite or compromise your natural "oumph"?!

Guilty Pleasures:"If money we're no issue" ??

Holiday beauties???? what do you think...???
I personally have mixed emotions but I'll let you be the judge ;)
http://obsessed.instyle.com/obsessed/photos/results.html?No=0

Full Throttle 2: Addicted to "Busi-ness"

"Alrighty", rather than filling the cup of excuses [notice how quick that word faded] here’s a little taste of my updates as promised:

It has been full speed ahead around here with all the productions I am currently directing; not to mention many of my own personal endeavours...

Reminder...

- Gwen Madiba’s second annual fashion show “I Am Fashion: Rip The Fab Lane”.
As stated in my earlier posts, the model casting is now finalized! Eliminating some of the models wasn’t easy but it had to be done and we are pleased with those who have been selected to strut on the fab lane. We are currently moving onto the next phase with (a) our first meeting with ALL the models Dec 5th and (b) the sponsorship campaign! With this said, we are right on schedule therefore I couldn’t be any happier! Our venue is booked and our vendors are lined up! Couple onsite logistics activities this week … hmm spilling too much but will be giving you “the fashion insight” soon :)

Two other clients have added themselves to my list of fashion shows; however, will keep my lips sealed for now and won’t say too much. Can you say addicted to busy-ness…?
3 fashion shows for 3 different clients - hmm… different lines, different themes, different concepts, can you feel the pressure?? Sing with me..."I'm loving it" [better believe it!!!brainstorm, brainstorm and more brainstorms] I know I am sounding like a freak but nah, I just love being challenged…

Apart from that, I’ve been working away the production of a musical play for a local female singer/song writer! This launch is the ideal thrill and can’t wait to put all the pieces together with a touch of "class, chic and soul"! Hushhh, stay tune for more…

New to my list of duties... a powerful & uplifting book launch for a christian author; I'm truly excited about this project! I was called upon about a week ago and was totally humbled :)... Also lined up, a couple of interesting beauty and empowerment workshops that I am hoping to schedule on a monthly basis in the New Year [yup, look out for my "tricks and bits" segments]...

There is no better time to start planning this out! It may not seem like a lot... [Euuh does that even make sense??? ha-ha] but trust me when I say "the making" behind every detail of an event or a project of any sort is a lot of work! What's going to make a difference in the planning and the process more efficient is... your spirit and however you choose to go about your strategy and knowing what is required to be done at the proper given times! Words like structure, precision, clarity, goals, objectives etc etc etc are crucial in the executing phase!!

The sooner you start the better you finish! “NOW” is always the best time to start planning and getting organized…

"Explicit Fabulocity"....

Alright, so here we are on the blessed 3rd of the week. This means it’s time to give what I call the "insight" scoop! A bit more details on what's been going on and so on...

I mentioned that Within Essence Productions was working away the preps for some fashion shows... yes; Ottawa is growing to this extent and believe me when I say that there is no need to get sceptical nor any reason to underestimate this city’s potential when it comes to building a bridge called “opportunity”. [How dare I ? I know and yes I said it! hey, tough love is never enough unless it's straight to the point] Life is truly about what you make of it and HOWEVER you choose to "create"
--> here goes that word again, did you highlight it ??? :)

One of the many projects that I am currently so delighted to be working on is the 2nd annual of the "I AM FASHION: RIP THE FAB LANE" that is set for May 2010.

This show was firstly introduced to the Ottawa fashion scene last year, to showcase Gwen Madiba's new collection, alongside numerous talented local designers. The show had a tremendous outcome and quite frankly is the reason why I gave birth to Within Essence Productions [the new addition to my BVM Enterprise (Beyond Verbal Measures Ent.)]... I will expand on this confession further; just lookout for the tales of "The Foundation" lol.

But really all jokes aside, I am extremely humbled and feel so honoured to be directing and managing every bits of the show once again... it's a lot of production but boy is it ever worth it!!!! I enjoy every moment! Our casting call is set for this Saturday November 7th and man is the competition EVER FIERCE!!! The models are looking quite “tasty” [I must say so myself ] Who said, “picking” and “cutting” was made easy? However, the question remains, which one of them can rock "THE FAB LANE"? Mum is the word for now but we shall see...


Gwen Madiba is an amazing woman and her new collection will be exactly as our dear colleague Marcia B. described it: "EXPLICIT FABULOCITY"!!!

Here’s a little snippet from last year's show... Enjoy :)
http://marciabcreative.blogspot.com/2009/05/i-am-fashion-you-are-fashion-ottawa-is.htmlashion-ottawa-is.html