FASHION RECESSION!!?!!

The global economic crisis has affected the fashion industry in more ways than one. However, has always found some way around it to keep everything running glamorously.

While, all the fashion followers and 'zombies' were busy trying to think of outfits for the next social or cocktail party, plans for relocating New York Fashion Week to a smaller and much more affordable location were being put in place.

The proposed location is the Lincoln Centre starting 2010 sources told the Associated Press and New York Times.

Fashion sites state that "the Lincoln Center sounds like a pretty hideous venue for fashion shows" and an article in the Times said that:

" ...tents on opposite sides of the New York State Theater with a winding corridor between would require guests to walk the equivalent of a city block between shows. ...Even on paper, the layout is cramped, weirdly shaped, lacking closet space and hardly conducive to an ambience of luxury. "

It was also reported that Wintour said a relocation to Lincoln Center would signal the fashion industry wasn't being "taken seriously," and that "nothing else is as good" as Bryant Park.

Below is the link to the article relating to this--

http://gawker.com/5145037/sad-fashion-weeks-relocation-to-ruin-anna-wintours-2010


tell me your thoughts. decarlo246@gmail.com

Best regards.

Yours fashionably,
Dre DeCarlo.

Jeneil Williams Interview

Pulse model Jeneil Williams cemented her claim as one of the world's most important black models and a superstar in the making when she was selected by Italian Vogue for their special issue on black models to be published in July.

Shot by the revered Steiven Meisel in New York this Wednesday, Jeneil is elated to carry the Caribbean's flag in this regard. To be recognised by Italian Vogue as one of the handful of hot black models expected to set the pace in the years to come, is a most uncommon achievement and Jeneil will be justly proud. For an encore, she shot a multi-page editorial for Essence magazine a day later.

This is Jeneil's second Vogue, as she shot American Vogue two months ago, also in New York.Jeneil was always a pace-setter. On her arrival in New York 18 months ago, she was selected by Benetton for their campaign. Immediately, the edgy, dark chocolate stunner, was summoned by Anna Wintour, Vogue's Editor in Chief, for a most crucial once over. After Mario Testino, arguably the world's most respected photographer, requested a meet, the writing was on the wall.

List of accomplishments

A multiple magazine covergirl, Jeneil's list of accomplishments, other than Italian and American Vogue, Essence, Cosmo and Bennetton campaign, include the cover and 20 pages of Italian fashion bible BNM, Japan's Neutral magazine, the cover of SHE Caribbean and America's Trace. She has been Models.com World Model of the Week on two occasions.
(taken from http://www.thefashionspot.com/forums/f52/jeneil-williams-57518.html )

Dre: What is your full name?
Jeneil: Jeneil Williams

Dre: Where did you grow up?
Jeneil: Kingston, Jamaica

Dre: What was your upbringing like?
Jeneil: It was.. I won’t say hard but challenging which helped me to be strong and focus

Dre: When & how did you start modeling?
Jeneil: I entered Pulse Caribbean Model Search and came second so it started from there.

Dre: What agency/agencies are you signed with?
Jeneil: Pulse in Jamaica; New York Models in New York and Ford Model Management in Paris.

Dre: Has it been hard trying to make it as a black model or as a Caribbean model?
Jeneil: I think it’s hard for some people and it comes easy for some; I think I am one of the ones it’s hard for but anyway you take it, modeling is not easy, it’s a lot of hard work and this year might not be for me but next year could be for me lol

Dre: Job-wise, what are you currently doing?
Jeneil: I am just finishing up Paris Fashion Week.

Dre: Would you describe your personality as diva-esque or humble?
Jeneil: I am a very humble person. I don’t really talk much.

Dre: If you were not a model, what could you see yourself doing?
Jeneil: I might still be doing track. (athletics)

Dre: What is your advice to struggling black models?
Jeneil: Well, I will say to them if you really want it don’t give up. Just believe and have faith that your big break is going to come one day.

Jamaican supermodel Jeneil Williams

Agencies: New York Model Management, New York
Ford Models, Paris
Pulse Models, Jamaica

Height: 5'9 1/2"

Bust: 32

Waist: 24

Hips: 34

Dress: 2/4

Shoe: 9

Hair: Black

Eyes: Brown

*NB- I must apologize to all readers AND to Ms. Williams for not coming up with a self-penned intro due to lack of time. This is not what i usually do, as I am trying to build a good resume as a fashion and entertainment writer. Please stay logged and thanks to all who understand and your support.
-Yours truly, Dre DeCarlo :)

Leah Marville Interview!!!!!

Leah Marville, known to put the ‘marvel’ in marvellous, has represented Barbados well by making significant strides in the international modeling industry. Marville, who was first noticed by Saint International Modeling Agency in Jamaica, has made her mark in ad campaigns such as Dunhill cigarettes and American Swiss. However, do not be mistaken and assume that she’s just all looks. This double threat has a law degree under her belt.

The Bajan supermodel has taken time out of her extremely hectic schedule to allow me to interview her. Read her interesting story.

Dre: What is your full name?

Leah: Leah Janine Marville

Dre: Where did you grow up?

Leah: All my life - St. James Barbados!!!!!

Dre: Do you think the way you were raised or where you were raised has played a significant role in your decision making as a model?

Leah: I do think the way I was raised impacts both my decisions as a model and in life generally. My dad died unexpectedly when I was 11 and my mum raised me on her own. Life changed drastically.. but she always reminded me that Life IS unpredictable and most times it wont go as planned, so treasure every moment, thank God for every opportunity. She also reminded that just as Life gives something to you it can take it away so be prepared and always have a plan B. The life of a model involves taking risks and making strategic decisions and in so doing, you must always be prepared for the unexpected and make sure there is a Plan B - an alternative direction.

Dre: When did you start modeling?

Leah: My first modeling experience was Barbados Fashion Week 2006.

Dre: What agency or agencies are you currently signed with?

Leah: I am signed to Saint International in Jamaica (my mother agency), Base Model Agency in South Africa and East West Models in Germany

Dre: How old (or young lol) are you at present?

Leah: I am 23 years young lol

Dre: Were there any pressures when you were going into the international arena?

Leah: There was one pressure going into the international arena and that was the issue of my height. I am 5ft 7" and the international height standard for a model is 5ft 9". My agent therefore had to be strategic about my placement. Luckily, most agencies overlooked my height because they liked my look and so it has not effectively held me back...so far, so good. However, it still is an issue we have to bear in mind and be strategic about.

Dre: What was it like working with Dunhill cigarettes and American Swiss?

Leah: It was such a great experience working for both campaigns. The Dunhill shoot took place at a gorgeous five story glass house overlooking the ocean. The styling was only the best couture in Cape Town which made the whole experience very glamorous. American Swiss was similar styling and setting but I definitely did not have the time to bask in the glamour of that shoot. In fact I think that shoot is still the hardest I've worked to date. I had to be at location by 6 in the morning. The shoot started at 8 and was scheduled to finish by 6 in the evening before the sun set. There were 24 shots to be done. That is 24 different outfits, shoes, hairstyles, make-up, nails...Between hair and makeup after every shot it seemed impossible that we would finish on time. However hard work did pay off.. We finished before the sun set and the shots were great! The client was very happy..so i was very happy. It was a great experience and I finally felt the pressures and hard work that go into the job of a model.

Dre: Are there any particular jobs you would like to be booked for?

Leah: COVER GIRL!!!!! REVLON!!!! VICTORIA'S SECRET!!!!!!!

Dre: What about in the near future, anything in the works?

Leah: I have a new campaign that is supposed to come out in April. There is BET J's Wick'd Style Television Programme and maybe a project on the national level.

Dre: What are your hobbies?

Leah: Dancing, reading and watching movies.

Dre: Beach or cinema?

Leah: Difficult choice...hmm...both :)

Dre: Bar or club? Lounge :)

Dre: Finish the sentences. You are...

Leah: ....truly a humble and appreciative soul

Dre: Fashion is...

Leah: ....the way of the world.

Dre: You would like to......right now.

Leah: I would like to....go swimming....right now.

Dre: You are craving.....this very moment.

Leah: craving....lucky charms...this very moment.

Dre: If you were not a fashion model, you would be a .....Leah: ....Lawyer.

Dre: What are your plans after modeling? Planning to put that law degree to good use?

Leah: I actually plan to go back to Norman Manley this September to finish my Legal Certificate. Law is very important to me and it is something I have to finish...so before I get caught up in a world wind of modeling and 5 years have passed before I realize where I'm at...I will finish and be called to the Bar. After that anything can happen..I do ultimately plan to use both my fashion experience and my legal degree after modeling...who knows, I may find some niche career...lol

Dre: Finally, if you could say anything to the world right now, what would you like to say to them?

Leah: Sometimes the going gets tough...but continue to focus, Hold on TIGHT and DREAM ON!!!!!!

Agencies: Base Model Agency(South Africa)

East West Models(Germany)

Saint International(Jamaica)

Hair: Black

Eyes: Brown

Height: 171cm/5'7.5"

Bust: 76cm/29.5"

Cup Size: A

Waist: 60cm/23.5"

Hips: 88cm/34.5"

Shoe: 40 EU/9 US/6.5 UK

Dress: 34 EU/4 US/6 UK

What has Little Miss Sunshine done!??!!!!

The Hollywood couple in seemingly happier times.

Are those wedding bells we hear?

Possibly. Word is out that Barbados-born pop diva Rihanna and her allegedly abusive beau, R&B singer Chris Brown have tied the knot. The secret wedding is rumored to have taken place at P.Diddy’s private mansion on Star Island, Miami, Florida.

It is reported that Rihanna fans are VERY disappointed in her for making such risky decision, especially since the linking of last month’s assault report with Mr.Brown. Not only are Rihanna fans disappointed and concrned but Hollywood has spoken out as well.

As one site reported, “Singer Whitney Houston told Rihanna to forget about Chris Brown, and to cut all ties. Whitney was reportedly close to tears when she heard about the alleged assault on the ‘Umbrella’ singer, and urged her not to make the same mistakes she did.”

Actress Kerry Washington also spoke out saying, “Whether it’s about the Congo or about celebrities, domestic violence is a social illness that does not discriminate. We have to start talking more openly about this.”

‘Papa’ Jay-Z (as I like to refer to him), was most unimpressed and furious about the whole situation. ”He was reportedly enraged over the abuse allegations and has warned Chris that retribution is one the way,” said entertainment sources.“He hit the roof. Chris is a walking dead man. He messed with the wrong crew,” a source tells Us Weekly Magazine.

SHONTELLE's T-SHIRT BILLBOARD #1!!!!

#1 Shontelle T-Shirt (SRP/SRC Universal Motown) http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/charts/chart_display.jsp?g=Singles&f=Hot+Dance+Club+Play


Local musical sensation Shontelle Layne has topped the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play Chart with her hit single, T-Shirt. Layne, who continues to make strides in the international music arena has recently released a hot new track, Stuck With Each Other featuring Akon.

Keep on striving girl, we pushing for you 100%.



For all your Shontelle updates please go to http://www.shontelleonline.com/

IMOGEN COOPER: Supermodel-in-training

Young, up-n-coming fashion model, Imogen Cooper's first interview -by yours truly, Dré DeCarlo-

This under-age bombshell who has been trained with the likes of Ford Model Management (New York) 'is about to break onto the scene and has many prestigious modeling agencies scrambling for this 'supermodel-in-training".

Ms. Cooper JUST 15 years of age- was ecstatic to do her first ever interview. She is honestly one of the nicest, most down-to-earth, inspirational models I have ever come across. There is nothing cliché about this girl. Wouldn't one love to work with such a burst of energy, who totally contradicts the stereotypes of your average fashion model?

She has quite an interesting story, check it out:

Dré: What is your full name?

Imogen: Imogen Alexandra Cooper

Dré: Where did you grow up exactly?

Imogen: Well I’ve grew up many places. My first five years, I was in England then I moved to New York till I was 9 then Barbados. Now I’m back in New York and I moved back here when I was 14.

Dré: So, you were born in England?

Imogen: Yea

Dré: What was your upbringing like?

Imogen: My mom has been really good to me as a single parent. My dad wasn’t there because when I moved from England my dad didn’t come with us because he didn’t want to lose his job being a pilot. So it was just my mom who raised me and my brother and she’s really supporting me in the model industry.

Dré: So you would say that your upbringing has played a major role in developing the kind of person you are today? And why?

Imogen: Yes I do. It has made me understand that not everything is perfect and I have to take responsibility for myself sometimes, someone isn’t always going to be there for you.

Dré: So, you mentioned earlier that your mother has been a stronghold of support for you in your modeling career. When DID it all start?

Imogen: When I first moved to Barbados my mother was working at Almond Beach hotel. Every Thursday night there was a concert for the guests with a Fashion show at the end. She got me a job as a model and I was modeling swimwear for Cave Shepherd ... that where it all began lol. I was also the youngest. My name was "little imz" lol

Dré: Lol. wow… so your mom is definitely the reason for it all. I can now understand why she is such a good source of support. She must be proud that you've come so far.

Imogen: lol yea she is my main supporter. Some people said she knew I was going to be a model when I was born because she called me "Imogen”, which is a very unusual, memorable name lol and "model-like" name.

Dré: Which agency are you currently signed with, if any?

Imogen: well.. I’m not signed with any AS YET! But I’ve had interests like Elite Model Management, Ford Models, Bloom Model Management, JG Model Management and Next Model Management. I’m just looking at my possibilities before I sign. I have to be very careful with my decision since I’m very young.

Dré: How old are you at present?

Imogen: 15 years young lol

Dré: wow, such experience so far for such a young girl.

Imogen: lol yes. I know this is my destiny.

Dré: Has there been any pressure on you so far, being as young as you are in the modeling industry?

Imogen: Yes. My height was an issue but i didn’t let that get to me that much because I know I’m still growing. Last year when I went to Ford I was 5’7. I went back this Christmas and I was 5’8. Today I went to the doctor now I’m 5’8 and 3/4. I know I’m still growing. When I get 5’9 is when Ford will see me again.

Dré: and for those who may not know. Could you tell us whether this is a regular thing for models your age?

Imogen: Well... everyone differs in their height. For example, Austria Ullora is 16 and 5’10.5” and she was that height from 13 and Chanel Iman was 5’9” from the time she was 13 also. Everyone is different.

Dré: What do you think about the strict stipulations within the fashion industry? (height,weight,racism etc.)

Imogen: The industrie likes tall skinny girls (in high fashion) simply because in modeling, it’s mostly about the clothes your selling. Not yourself. They are just hiring u to be a "walking hanger” but you don’t HAVE to be tall and skinny. There are different areas of modeling, like thicker girls for swimwear. so it just all depends on the type of modeling u want pursue. in terms of race , I personally believe its much harder for African American models... but DON'T GIVE UP !!!!

Dré: As a model what is the job you would love to be booked for?

Imogen: Ahhh... EVERY job I’d love be loved to booked for... but my favorite fashion line is rock and republic... their fashion shows seem to be so fun and exciting.

Dré: Ah, okay. So who IS your favorite designer?

Imogen: My favorite designer is Christian Dior ... always with something new, different and hip

Dré: What is the most expensive thing in your wardrobe?

Imogen: A dress by BCBGMAXAZRIA

Dré: Niiiice, and how much was it?

Imogen: $900 us... lol

Dré: wow, so you're a big spender?

Imogen: ...well not really... it’s not about the money to me... its about how it looks.. if i see a nicee bag and its $5 .. i would buy it .. as long as it looks good.=]

Dré: What is your most precious possesion?

Imogen: An emerald ring which was passed down in my family.

Dré: Ok, now we've spoken of expensive and precious possesions.
My question is to you now is, if you were stranded on a desert island who or what would you want with you?

Imogen: hmmmm.. lol that is a very good question.. i would want PLENTY of food .. i loveee to eat !!! and a niceee bed because a good night sleep is important.

Dré: lol...hmm interesting, totally contradicting your average model (who starves and party all night)

Imogen: Hahahahaha. I’m so different, people often ask me where the food goes?

Dré: If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Imogen: Chanel Iman!!!!! lol This is ironic because two nights ago, I dreamt about having dinner with her… lol wow... but Chanel Iman... she is my idol .. my hero ... she is sooo cool.. and i would love to hang with her any day. I have so much respect for her, she opened the way for alot of young black models.

Dré: Louboutin pumps or strappy Manolos?

Imogen: Louboutin pumps

Dré: Paris or Milan?

Imogen: Paris. I love French.. I actually speak alot of it... I’ve been doing it for 5 yrs

Dré: wow, trs chic

Imogen: lol ouiii

Dré: je parle un petit le francais lol

Imogen: hahahaha

Imogen: je parle un grandd le fancais

Dré: Elle or Vogue?

Imogen: Vogue, I love seeing the editorials

Dré: very good choice, the fashion bible lol. So what are your plans after modeling?

Imogen: I would love to host BET's 106 and park lol

Dré: Really? I never would have guessed

Imogen: Yes.. I watch it all the time and I LOVE meeting people and getting to know about them and music is my favorite thing... well besides fashion lol. I think it would b a fun job

Dré: What do you do in your spare time?
Imogen: Since I’m missing home soooo much... I spend most of my time on the computer talking to my friends also i study in my free time.. I’m an honor student at school =]

Dré: wow, very impressive. Beauty and brains.
If you were not pursuing modeling, what would you be pursuing?

Imogen: News Reporter.. lol or meteorologist

Dré: Now, finally. What advice would you give to younger girls aspiring to be fashion models?

Imogen: IF IT IS YOUR DREAM, PURSUE IT AND NEVERRR EVERRR GIVE UP.. there are alot of ups and downs in the fashion industry .. never let it get you down or change you. Just keep trying and trying until you succeed.

Dré: Thank you so much Ms.Cooper for agreeing to do this interview. It was a pleasure. :D

Imogen: THANK YOUUUUU !! .. my 1st interview :D .. Thank you Dre. I enjoyed it so much.

KIBEKINI SHOOT

Kibekini© shoot coming up this Sunday, 22 February 2009. The new Kibekini© line, Absence of Innocence will be being showcased.

Stay tuned for more info and pics :D