Miss Barbados WORLD Contestant – Marielle Wilkie

 

 

Marielle Wilkie, a well known print and runway model in the island of Barbados is one of the promising contestants of this year’s Miss Barbados World pageant (2011). Marielle has written up a small bio, just to give the public a little taste of her personality.

” For those of you that don’t know me, here is a little bit about me.
I love surfing, one of my passions is being in the water. I also love sewing and making outfits to wear, I went to canada to do arts and came back with glass blowing under my belt. Its an amazing art and really cool to watch as well! Another one of my great qualities is I’m a people’s person, I love socializing and meeting new people! I absolutely adore children, I believe that they are the new generation of the world and they need all the guidance they can get! That’s about it for now, if you want to know more you can tune into Tempo and Centric television to watch out journey to Miss World!”

 

Be sure to visit Marielle’s facebook fanpage, the contestant with the most ‘likes’ wins People’s Choice. So, click the ‘Like button’ if you like. – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marielle-Wilkie-Miss-Barbados-World-2011-Contestant/195945737119108

 

I wish Marielle and all of the other contestants much luck! xoxo

Exclusive Interview- Pop/Rock Artiste ERYN WOODS

I had finally found the time to interview this up and coming musical phenom(via email). Hailing from Atlanta, Eryn Woods is a constantly rolling ball of …for lack of better words..AWESOME! Ahaha. She had intrigued me from the moment I discovered on a music site online. I hunted her down and contacted her immediately! Just within a few moments I was drawn into the allure of Eryn Woods. From her edgy 80s punk mohawk to her funky style and kind demeanor, Ms. Woods is a genuine sweetheart and I am officially a ‘kupcake’!! (A term she uses to describe her fans. Hahaha!!)

I took the liberty NOT to edit this interview so much, because I wanted the reeaders to really get a feel of Eryn’s persona. Happy reading!

1. What inspired you to become a performing artiste?

-I have been singing probably since i was able to talk! I have always been surrounded by music (good music) and I was always encouraged to do what I love to do.

2a. What influences have had a hand in your image? I’m seeing a little Cyndi Lauper, Madonna and Grace Jones, haha.

-Well, I guess you could probably name certain people from different generations but I definitely am just doing ME. Being an artist gives you the ability to express yourself the way you want to.

2b. I absolutely LOVE the mohawk! When did you get it done and what drove you to it?

-THANKS!!!! My mohawk was done in stages….and this was the end product. LOL I always loved trying different things and hair was my outlet, so this is what came from it.

3. Tell us about your music. Which kind of genre would you say you fit most?

-If you want a description of my music….i have been told “If Cyndi Lauper and Gwen Stefani had a love child….it would be me” LOL So i guess you can say that its pop…but of course i add some edge which brings in the rock!!!

4. Who are your idols/role models in music and furthermore, in life.

-Some of musical influences would be Cyndi Lauper, Missing Persons and Madonna.

5. Did you always see yourself getting into music, or did you have other major ambitions?

-I always told myself that if i didn’t or don’t do music…i don’t know what i would do in my life. Thats why i never stopped pushing….because I wasn’t going to give up on the one thing i knew I was meant to do.

6. Are you currently signed to a label?

-I am not currently signed to a label but i am signed to a. production company, Pharsound Productions. We are doing everything independently until the fan base expands!!!!

7. What have been the most difficult trials as an artiste?

-I believe that the most difficult trials would have to be the whole journey of getting to the top…I’m not even all the way there yet and I’ve been through more then I’ve ever thought. Its a lot harder than just…being a good singer and then getting signed. You have to work 24/7. But to be more specific…being a woman in this industry is probably the most difficult thing.

8. Name two (2) things you love about being an artiste.

-I love making all my kupcakes (fans) smile and happy. And I love traveling and meeting all different people all across the world.

9. Do you write your own songs? If so, what inspires you?

-I have other writers that I work with in the studio to write my music. We sit down, talk about what I am going through or have went through and write about that. But the one thing some people forget when writing music, is you still have to think about the consumers/fans and what they can relate too.

10. If there is one person in your life that you live to make proud, who would that be and why?

-The one person that I have always wanted make proud of me now and in the past was/is my mom. She has always been there for me and has encouraged me to pursue my dreams since I was a little girl. She came to every choir performance, theatre performance, competitions, etc. Sitting there supporting her baby girl. Even when she had a million and one things to do. Especially since I have 2 older sisters and 3 younger brothers. She has never let me down, so I never want to let her down.

11. What are your guilty pleasures? (Eg. food, fashion, cars, etc.)

-I would have to say the 2 things that I probably spend way to much money on are sunglasses and shoes (heels to be exact). I can’t live without them!!! hahaha

12. What is your biggest dream accomplishment as an artiste?

-My ultimate goal would have to be getting to a point in my career where “my words” make a difference in the world. And being able to help any one in need, especially young girls.

13. Last but not least, what advice would you give to all those asiring performers read this interview right now?

-I don’t know if i can say everything in a couple sentences but I’ll try to summarize it. lol

DON’T GIVE UP….there will be times that you want to stop because there will be some steps backwards but if you keep giving your all, you will go 2 steps forward. When you are meant to do this….DOORS WILL OPEN FOR YOU. And never think that it will all get done for you….you have to put your heart and soul into it and work hard. Even if you have a great team around you, remember its YOUR career and life.

I asked Eryn just to give a random quote to sum up the interview. She replied, “Kupcakes are about to take over the world!!!!!” <3

You can't NOT love this girl! Hahaha.

Dre DeCarlo, xx

Threads of Scarlet in Concert! – Review

Booming with excitement and spilling over with anticipation, the atmosphere was nothing less than epic. Saturday night, March 26th 2011, Threads of Scarlet proved to be not only the best rock act in Barbados but showed they are ones to watch.

From jamming to their original musical fusions such as Hot Box (a song promoting marijuana use) or rocking out to Falling From Far, a more classic hard rock ballad fully equipped with screams and high notes, Threads of Scarlet, for lack of better words, BLEW THE ROOF OFF! The event was highly publicised and the fans kept flowing in throughout the night, emitting an atmosphere reminiscent of Woodstock!

The event was also attended by fellow musicians Mahalia Philips of Nexcyx, which recently tore up the SXSW Music Festival in Texas, and Coverdrive‘s Amanda Reifer. Coverdrive got signed to Geffen Records this year and were spending most of their time in the studio. Look out for even more Barbadian musicians abroad.

Amanda Reifer and I

Dre DeCarlo, xx

ONE TO WATCH! – Ms. Antonia Blain : Supermodel In Training!

…..Stay tuned for the interview with Atlanta based commercial/fashion print and runway model Antonia Blain

Dre DeCarlo.. xx

Last AFRICAN VOGUE Cover– by Mario Epanya

Cover model-

Marana Noba

You may remember this driven fashion figure who had the dream of making African VOGUE a worldwide sensation. But all of his hard work and undying enthusiasm & perseverance was put on halt when VOGUE publishers Condé Nast refused the license for African VOGUE to run as a legit franchise of the company.

-As posted by Epanya himself, “DEAR ALL. The Wait is over. Condé Nast said NO to an African license of VOGUE. So this is the last cover. Enjoy, but it’s a beginning of something.”

Some of 2010′s Summer Women Trends

From fabric jewelry to plaid swimwear, this summer must-haves are really sparking a trail in this year’s 2010 summer fashion season. Some of these fabulous yet effortlessly put together trends such as the daisy dukes are inspired by Katy Perry’s new smash #1 hit single ‘California Girls’ which resurrected the American country western style back into the pop arena.

For those who may be unaware, daisy dukes are a style of denim short shorts. Originally made popular by the famous Dukes of Hazzard character, Daisy Duke! (Hence the name). Now fabric jewelry has also made its appearance onto the fashion scene. From woven chiffon to braided rope, fabric jewelry is the season’s must-have accoutrement. And believe it or not guys, but the panama straw hats are back in from last summer! Reintroduced by Gucci’s Spring/Summer ’09 collection, it was a trailblazer in the accessories department last season and it seems to be continuing that trail.

More on summer fashion coming soon!! xox

DRE DECARLO CELEB PROMO CONTINUES… french supermodel Elodie Passlaigue

Now you should be familiar with my DRE DECARLO CELEB PROMOs by now. This time it was FORD MODEL MANAGEMENT french supermodel Elodie Passlaigue!!!

This hot supermodel did me the honor of agreeing to shoot with me!

-Photographer: Logan Thomas, Styling: Dre DeCarlo & Kesia Estwick, Make-up: Helene Headley-

 

And I was also given the privilege of styling her myself!!–

Clothes made available by RED BOUTIQUE, upstairs SHERATON MALL, ST. MICHAEL, BARBADOS.

I also asked reknowned local punk/industrial designer KESIA ESTWICK to create an outfit for the stunning french supermodel. She failed to disappoint. She delivered as always!!–

Stay tuned for more of the DRE DECARLO CELEB PROMOs!!!!

NEWS ALERT!!– More on the death of ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

 

“Reports say that he was found in his flat in London’s Green Park, where he died by hanging himself.

Fashion designer Alexander McQueen has taken his own life at age 40. His office confirmed his death, saying: ‘It is a tragic loss. We are not making a comment at this time out of respect for the McQueen family.’ He was found at his home in London.

McQueen’s store on West 14th Street in New York was was temporarily closed on Thursday morning. (See photo in slideshow below.)

Anna Wintour reportedly left the BCBG show in a rush this morning after hearing the news. Wintour stormed out of BCBG when, much to the shock of the fashionable crowd.

McQueen’s secondary line, McQ, was to be presented Thursday, the day of his death, as part of New York Fashion Week. KCD, the PR company handling the show, says the presentation is canceled.” -THE HUFFINGTON POST

The GREAT Alexander McQueen Passes On

“Brilliant and controversial British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, a leading light in the fashion firmament, was found dead in his London home Thursday 11 February 2010, his company announced. He was 40 years old.

Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious.

McQueen’s sudden death robbed the fashion scene of one of its most innovative and successful young designers. He made his name first in London, then wooed audiences in Paris, New York and Milan to take his place in the upper echelons of the designing world.

 

Acclaim and honours came in waves to the talented, bearded man favoured by celebrities like Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Naomi Campbell. He was named British Fashion Designer of the Year on four separate occasions.

Lady Gaga recently made waves when she wore McQueen’s spring 2010 lobster-claw shoes in her “Bad Romance” music video.

 

Recently posted comments on his Twitter page showed signs of anguish over the Feb. 2 death of his mother.

He said he wanted his mother to rest in peace and said, “But life must go on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Using an obscenity, he added that he had had an “awful week“ and said he had to “some how pull myself together and finish.”

A presentation of McQueen’s secondary label, McQ, had been scheduled for Thursday’s opening day of New York Fashion Week.

McQueen had never been expected at the show, which was quickly cancelled.

McQueen’s death came days before London Fashion Week, an event McQueen had skipped in recent years.” – The Toronto Sun

He was certainly the greatest of our time (the 2000s). Known for his creative brilliance and his other-worldly fashion. Let’s not forget the shoes!!

 May he rest in peace.

Are You A Fashion Victim?

What is a fashion victim?

Wikipedia states:

“Fashion victim is a term – claimed to have been coined by Oscar de la Renta – that is used to identify a person who is unable to identify commonly recognized boundaries of style.”

And in my opinion, there’s a fine line between being a fashionista and a fashion victim. You’ve probably heard the term before. Furthermore, you probably see them everyday or maybe you are one, but are totally oblivious to this possible fact.

So, let me share some information to help you all re-evaluate your ‘personal style’.

As many fashion journalists or stylists would agree, fashion victims are people who take a fashion trend and run with it regardless of how it looks on them, whether it is totally clashing with their skin tone, their body frame/shape, height, age etc.

First pointer; ALWAYS aim for the classic pieces, timeless collections should always be in your wardrobe. Such as, the little black dress, white shirt dress, black slacks, pumps etc. One can never go wrong with stuff like this because they usually fit the average individual, fashionista or not!

Secondly, don’t be attracted to the ‘big names’ just because of the name! Regardless of brand, one should always be conscious of whether the article of clothing or accessory suits your body, skin tone, age, etc.

Another horrible occurrence is when one is wearing too many trends at once and therefore taking the look from the glamourous to the ridiculous. For example; if pink is in, for the love of all things right, DO NOT WEAR ALL PINK then have matching accessories and shoes. It’s too much at once! Colour overload!

Also, spend more time with yourself! Get to know you! Fashion victims often forget that it’s okay to have a personal sense of style. They just wear what the rest of the world tells them to. You can avoid being a fashion victim by taking a step backward and returning to what you love to wear. Think about what style of clothing looks good on you. Don’t just buy something because it makes you feel ‘in’ or ‘trendy.’ Buy it because you love it. And don’t be afraid to match items of clothing that you haven’t seen anyone else wear. That’s okay. That’s called having ‘personal style,’ and that’s exactly what you need to do in order to avoid being a fashion victim and to promote uniqueness.

- Dre DeCarlo for KURAMAMAGAZINE.com

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW!: America’s Next Top Model winner- MCKEY SULLIVAN

What is your full name?

Brittany McKey Sullivan

How long have you been modeling?

On and off for the last 5 years.

What has the progression experience been like as a model?

Well, sometimes I didn’t do anything. I was a hair model for a couple years when I was in college and now after doing the show (America’s Next Top Model/ANTM), everything seems to be going pretty well! There’ve been ups and downs but that’s just the industry.

What was the America’s Next Top Model experience like?

For me, it was definitely a great experience. It was extremely stressful though, the entire time I was there I was depressed (giggles). The first couple of weeks I had to get used to all the cameras being around ALL THE TIME! But after a while you pretty much don’t even recognize them anymore! I was really focused, so ALL my energy went into getting a little better every week and not being in the bottom two (smiles). I wouldn’t focus on winning because I think that distracts you in a way. It’s really difficult living with so many girls. You’re always around each other, bickering but… humans are adaptable, so I adapted. It was good but I don’t think that I could do it again (chuckles).

At the G Star Fall 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Hammerstein Ballroom on February 17, 2009 in New York City.

So, what are you doing now in life?

I just moved to Paris.  I’m taking some classes there and I’ve been there for about 3 weeks now and when I get back there, I’m gonna be looking for some agencies. I didn’t want to just go as soon as I got there and be totally clueless so I decided to wait a while to feel out the city (smiles). My agency (Elite Model Management) is in Chicago and New York and they have an affiliate in Paris, so… I’d probably be going with them but I’m not sure yet (smiles).

At this year's Absolute Caribbean Fashion Weekend in Barbados, where she ripped the runway and conducted a modeling workshop.

What has your experience been like in Barbados?

It’s very cool!! (smiles brightly) (chuckles) Not only am I in a tropical place with very nice people, but I get to see what fashion’s like in other parts of the world where it isn’t like a big fashion centrral. The models are much nicer even if they don’t know much about the industry, they’re not at all catty and moody like (using fingers as claws and making a funny face) RARRR!! (LAUGHS) Like how those in New York and Paris are. The designers are VERY talented and you get to see things that arn’t scripted, you get to see the rawness. And that’s a good thing.

How do you handle the ‘cattyness’ from the other models internationally?

Well, alot of them arn’t very nice, especially behind the scenes, the interviews and confessions (on ANTM). All the ‘cattyness’ gets hard during the show but you would have noticed that in the show, I just went cooking and kind of ignored them (laughs). Alot of them are VERY competitive and are really mean to you but I just don’t understand how being mean is going to help your chances but it seems to be what they think!… (sigh) I just ignore (smiles).

How did you get into modeling from being a kick-boxer and martial artist?

Well, I did mixed martial arts and what actually got me into modeling was a really bad soccer accident. I had to get 3 knee surgeries and therefore modeling went pretty well with that (chuckles) because you can’t exercise too much or you’ll get too big or masculins-looking then you won’t be able to fit into the clothes so… I’m doing great! (laughs).

What is you main goal in modeling?

Hmm.. To push myself as far as I can! Do my best, then move on with my life. and do something else because I just want to be the person I am when I wake up every morning and when I go to bed every night, to feel like I’ve done something with my life. So, if modeling ever stops feeling like that for me then I won’t do it anymore.

What do you see yourself doign after your modeling career?

I would like to be a doctor, a neonatal surgeon…… (silence) (McKey laughs)

Okay.. When you were in college, what did you study?

Law, Chemistry, Biology and Government & Politics. (long pause)

So, what’s it liek being a CoverGirl® ?

It’s excellent!! CoverGirl® is a wonderful company, they’re very good to me (smiles). It helps me to do alot of things like the Make A Wish Foundation. It makes me feel good about myself.

McKey's CoverGirl® ad

How would you describe your personal style?

I’m not particularly into fashion. I like clothes, but I don’t like shopping. I liek tiemless things, I’m not very trendy. I’d say I’m vintage, very vintage. I’m a medieval first lady (laughs).

How would you describe McKey/Brittany? … the person, not the model.

hmmm… I guess I’m just kinda lame! (laughs) I’m boring, I like to play with the dogs, I looooooove animals, I love going for walks, I love playing sports, I love cooking… I’m you’re average woman, home in her pajamas. (laughs) I don’t do crazy things, I don’t party alot….. I’M LAME! (laughs).

So, who are you wearing?

Uh…. Target (laughs)

What is your advice for aspiring models around the world?

Be organized, polite, don’t get in your head that you’re above anything, because you’re not! Remind yourself that you need to think of this like a business person. Learn how to take criticism, and you have to stay strong in who you are as a person to do so. Realize that you aren’t done growing as a person and you’re not done changing. Keep pushing because if modeling is what you really want, THEN PUSH!

Bajan Model Rocks LONDON FASHION WEEK ’09!

Barbadian beauty, Syanne Patterson, blew the roof of this year’s London Fashion Week Spring/Summer ’09!!

She donned the designs of Pierre Garroudi, for his Spring/Summer 2010 Ivory Collection.

Recently, Patterson also copped a modeling contract with British model management company, Leni’s Model Management, after many years of modeling in her homeland Barbados, since her teens.

 

Go on girl! We’re proud of you. KEEP ON DOING YOUR THING!!

xoxo

-Dre DeCarlo.

How To Wear The Latest Trends When You’re NOT A Size Zero

Now, not every woman is going to be a stick- thin fashion model figure. But that doesn’t mean that you’re not beautiful and that you shouldn’t be able to purchase the hottest threads.

Some of the summer’s trends and fall’s up-coming trends arn’t very ‘plus-size friendly’, if you know what I mean. However, there are ways for ‘non-zeros’ to wear the latest fashions.

Some of the year’s latests trends tended to vary, with major influences from every decade from the 70s onward, from cheap vintage pieces that are easy to find (like boyfriend jeans) to elegant couture that’ll cost an arm and a leg.

 

Such trends are:

1. Light-wash denim
2. Hammer pants
3. Motorcycle jacket
4. Skinny jeans
5. Strong-shoulder jacket
6. Cut-out dress
7. Leggings etc.

(eg. of the cut-out dress trend, worn by supermodel Natasha Poly <-- size zero)

 

(eg. of hammer pants, worn by actress Mischa Barton) Thin ladies might be able to get away with this but I say NO NO NO to the plus-size ladies. This is NOT a trend for you.

 

 There’s always a tweak to a look that conveys the same message, even if it’s not an exact piece that the designer made for the runway. Which is why alot of  ‘non-zeros’ have to wait until the trend trickles down into the department stores,  it is only then when the trend is tweaked a bit to fit the average-sized person (between sizes 8-14) because let’s face it, that IS the larger demographic.

most successful plus-size model, Crystal Renn

As for ‘hammer pants’, plus-size ladies HAVE to beware because these pants can make the hips appears much larger.  And let’s not get started on empire waist clothing! A garment with an empire waist also feels cooler and less restrictive, but if you’ve got large thighs.. well, it’s not your friend (alot of maternity clothing is also designed with an empire waist).

However, skinny jeans come in ALL sizes. For the ‘skinny bitch’ (ref.: diet book- ’New York Times bestseller’ Skinny Bitch, by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin) and the plus-size lady.

 

There ARE skinny jeans for plus-size ladies!!

 

“Skinny pants were made for a skinny girl, obviously,” says Cindy Weber Cleary, InStyle Magazine fashion director. “I recommends them for a boylike silhouette because they’re narrow through the thigh as well as the ankle.” Not a good idea for those ladies with thick ankles!

 

plus-size model and winner of America's Next Top Model Cycle 10- Whitney Thompson, who is a size 10

What I would also suggest for the ‘non-zeros’ is the pencil skirt (as seen above). It shows off that beautiful curvacious shape the ‘zeros’ may not have. Though walking needs to be done in short strides and entering and leaving a car gracefully takes practice, this fashionable piece is so worth it. And I know that some of you may say that it’s too restrictive but there are those that don’t hug you as tight. (Avoid a pencil skirt with trimming in the fronts and sides. The trimming will put more emphasizes on wider hips.)

One of the hottest 90s trends was back for the spring/summer ’09 collections; the denim jacket (Alexander Wang, Balmain, Marc Jacobs and Baby Phat). This is a great asset for plus-seize ladies as well, as it helps to hide those ‘non-zero’ arms.

Sundresses!!! Perfect for the plus-size girl. It flattering to most body shapes, it provides a feminine look that may be lighter and more comfortable than a skirt and blouse, or any other type of dress. Unlike pants or shorts, dresses can be figure fixers.

“Consider cardigans, ponchos and blazers as a workable layer for dresses… Baring skin doesn’t have to be intimidating. Draw attention to your shoulders, neckline, or legs to find the most flattering shape for your body type.”- said Jodie Michalak, writer for plus-size fashion.

And the PERFECT accesory; boots. Plus size ladies look HOT in boots, preferably knee-high.

Now, the classics; black and white vertical stripes and anything black.

Vertical stripes are great for elongating the figure and can make legs look like they go on forever! The trick is to not wear super thin vertical stripes close together. This will cause a visual sensory overload and you run the risk of looking like a wobbly optical illusion.

And, black, ANYTHING black works. Black is known for its slimming effect on ANY shape or size. Black is a slimming ‘colour’ because it “hides” the visible shape of your body and we cannot see the shadows created by ‘lumps’ and ‘bumps’ on black material. 

 

So, go my plus-size beauties, and show them what you got!!

-Dre DeCarlo for Kurama Magazine.com

Rihanna on Italian VOGUE

Rihanna's cover of Italian VOGUE

She’s baaaaack!!!

That’s right everybody, the Barbados-born international pop diva Rihanna is back, and with a bang!

Since the ‘alleged’ incident involving her and ex-beau Chris Brown, Rihanna has been off the radar for far too loooong and only recently re-surfaced at the premiere of the Inglorious Basterds, but now not only is she back in the public eye but her career is now steaming hot once again!!

 

 

The photos were taken by world reknowned fashion photographer Steven Klein. For the shoot, black and white shots were used except for one photograph, in which Rihanna was seen in a turquoise outfit.

 

on set of Run This Town

on set of Run This Town

Her music career is also re-surfacing (not that her music had ever stopped playing on the radio stations or on television). The track called Run This Town, which she features with Jay-Z and Kanye West, is burning up the airwaves all around the world and the music video is considered one of the hottest  for the year!

Go Rihanna!! Go on and do your thing!

We got your back girl .

Much love from Dre DeCarlo and the beautiful island of Barbados.

Legendary Actress and Fashion Icon: Edie Sedgwick (Part 1)

Known to those as ‘The Factory Girl’, Edith Minturn “Edie” Sedgwick made her way to New York City in 1964 from Santa Barbara, California. In 1965 she quickly became the ultimate muse for artist and avant-garde filmmaker Andy Warhol.Warhol placed in her first film, Vinyl, his interpretation of the novel A Clockwork Orange, though it was originally to be an male cast. Then she made a cameo appearance in another Warhol film, Horse.

Who knew that this was the beginning of stardom for Edie?

Edie’s appearances generated so much hype that Warhol decided to start making movies that would have Edie be the star. One of the most popular of these was Poor Little Rich Girl, which was originally conceived as part of a series featuring Edie called The Poor Little Rich Girl Saga.

Wikipedia describes this film with intimate detail; ”The first reel shows Sedgwick waking up, ordering coffee and orange juice, and putting on her makeup in silence with only an Everly Brothers record playing. Due to a problem with the camera lens, the footage on the first reel is completely out of focus. The second reel consists of Sedgwick smoking cigarettes, talking on the telephone, trying on clothes, and describing how she had spent her entire inheritance in six months.”

Interview: International Model Milanius Abellionni Francewurr

 

What is your full name?

Milanius Abellionni Francewurr.

When where you born?

(Laughs) let’s just say I am old enough to be my big brother (laughs)
 

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Jamaica in the parish of St,James/Montego Bay, but spent most of my days traveling back and forth between Jamaica and The Bahamas, that’s where my mom lives.
Were you always interested in becoming a fashion model?

No, not at first, but looking back at my younger years the signs were visible, just not recognized, until I was sixteen years old but you could always tell I was different and there was just something mysterious about me. People couldn’t put there fingers on it (laughs).

 

 

How did you get into it exactly (scouted, sought it out, model search)?

Well, it all started when I was sixteen years old. My school has this competition every year, right before graduation for the graduates called Black History Ebony Prince and Princess Competition. I went into it and executed it leaving as the victor but little did I know, that would be the turning point for me. I went home that following night feeling a feeling of completion, do you know like when a baby learns they can talk or walk (laughs) its a feeling and a challenge they now crave for. That’s how I felt then I turned on the television to but the cable was having some issues so I turned the channel on TVJ and to my surprise, Caribbean Fashion Weekly was on and I was immediately drawn to what I saw at that moment in time. Whatever my dreams were before had been revamped and my life changed at that moment, suddenly, opened a new chapter. It was a Friday so school was out until Monday morning. When I went to school, the first thing I heard after going to my English class was that my principal was coming to take me to his office. I panicked and started to wonder what I had done, because I was the popular boy in school and with that title comes trouble (laughs) but to my surprise it was nothing like that. I walked into the office to this beautiful woman. She then claimed that her friend was a booker who worked for Kingsley Cooper at Pulse Model Management in Kingston, Jamaica but I didn’t know anything about modeling or agencies in Jamaica. It was all new to me, anyways (laughs) she said her friend saw me but had to go back to Kingston, but would like it if I could be apart of their Caribbean Model Search. I went into the competition right after graduation at age sixteen, the youngest male in the competition. Everyone was two years older than I was or more. That’s where I met Oraine Barett, he won the competition that year. I made it through 4 eliminations and through the finals only placing. I was crushed but decided I will not be defeated, when I asked Kingsley Cooper (CEO of Pulse Model Management) why I didn’t win, they replied I was too young n skinny at the time but they would love to keep an eye on me while I grow and develop into my full potential. Still determined, I didn’t sign a contract with them, I went back to Montego Bay to go to college when an agency picked me up and developed my true potential, the CEO of Showjam Entertainment, Mr. Alex Patrick Fostergrave me the opportunity to grow, where I had a lovely booker by the name of Chantelle at the time who kept me busy. I worked four days out of every week. I shot the SHE Caribbean Magazine, did numerous editorial TV appearances, countless fashion shows and international commercials and that’s when they really realized I’m one to watch. But seeing that I had to go to the next level, Mr. Foster realized in order for me to do that I’ll have to go back to Pulse and he sent me off with good wishes. I’ve been with Pulse Model Management a year now. I’ve been in New York City for the past 4 months. Ready to start my career.
 

What was your journey like getting to this point, being recognized?

(Pause) (laughs), well my journey was not an easy road but I’m still on that road because my journey to be number one has just begun after winning the North America Caribbean Male Model of the Year competition back at home (Jamaica) and now I have only been in New York City for 4 months now I’ve been testing a lot over the past 3 months shooting and shooting non-stop, building my book (portfolio), to see agencies here and so I may stand out from the rest as I’m known for (laughs). It’s harder for a black model so I have to come good or go home. When I got here, I came for New York Fashion Week and I did an opening for New York Fashion Week.

What was your first job /major job like?

My first major job was and shooting a test for Jamrock Magazine here for the designer Osrick Cricket Ingredients and I know I’m just starting and my biggest jobs are yet to come.

What agency/agencies are you with at present?

I’m with Pulse Model Management in Jamaica which is my mother agency and I’m now negotiating contracts in Europe and with Boss Models in Cape Town, Africa. Along with a couple here in New York City, so I will be represented by one of them, pretty soon… in a couple of weeks from now (smiles). I’m so excited.

 

What projects are you working on at present?

Right now my biggest project is finishing my tests that I’m doing right now, so I can start running around to castings, knowing I’ve got the best book in the south (laughs), booking all the bookings from left to right. Killing it! (laughs)

Being in an ever changing industry what motivates you?

The fact that I have to make is, this is a game for some but not for me. For me this is business and I’m a product that will be sold. I’m not the next Tyson Beckford but will create my own shrine and be better. I believe I will make a way for more black models on the runway if it’s the last thing I do before I die. And most of all, my mother, she gave up her modeling career to give birth to a new dawn and I have to finish it models are born and not made and I was born for this and not made. That’s what sets me a part from the pack and keeps me going. I’m always in my own world and in my own world I’m the best and that’s what comes across in my work and the mysterious beauty that comes from within me.

 

Any one in the fashion industry you would like to work with in particular?

As a matter of fact yes, I would love to work for Sean John because I think what he’s doing for the industry with black models is amazing. And I would love to and will work for Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci and Dsquared amongst others.

 

Are you a party model (cocktail parties, soirées, after show parties etc.)or you just like to relax with friends?

Well, I’m a little of everything in the above (laughs), (pause) I like to be the centre of the hype at times. I’m what you would call a party animal when it comes to the hype of the party and the dance floor; I love to dance (laughs). But there are times when I give the party a break to concentrate, like right now, I don’t have the time to party right now there’s always time for that.

 

Who of the ‘crème de la crème’ have you partied with or dined with?

Well, I have partied with Estelle, John Legend, amongst others at a Versace party I was invited to at the Paradise Island in the Bahamans.

 

What was the most memorable moment of your career so far?

(Pause) for a moment (smiles) I have got to say the day I landed in New York City seeing snow for the first time, beautiful people, the buildings. Oh my gosh, I’m still speechless even thinking about it. I love it here in New York City, and going to the fittings for fashion week (New York Fashion Week) it was overwhelming.
 

Where do you see yourself in five years from now?

Wow (laughs) (pause), wow five years from now… let’s see, in five years from now I see myself accomplishing a lot. In five years, I should already have a steady place in the world of modeling, having my own title and list of achievements and still going strong, breaking boundaries and opening new doors for myself and upcoming models of ethnicity backgrounds, also I see myself doing movies, books and in the music industry, starting my own fashion and modeling agency which my mom will be running for me. That’s what’s up dre! (laughs) But one step at a time. My gramps would say the humble calf sucks the most milk, and slow and steady wins the race. Modeling first, the rest in the making (laughs), my name is Milanius Abellionni Francewurr and I’m one to watch out for. Models are born and not made and I was born for this, not made and these eyes are always on the prize.

Interview with Supermodel CINDY WRIGHT

Dre: Has modeling always been a passion of yours?

Cindy: Modeling has been a passion of mine ever since I hit puberty and started wearing my first bra and found myself in the mirror with the aid of a Victoria secret catalog and a roll of toilet paper trying to strike a pose

Dre: How and when did it all start?

Cindy: All started with my mother she has been my main support and drive in my career by the time I was fourteen and started to shy away from my tom boy ways a bit I build more confidence and went online searching for modeling agency’s.

Dre: Was it hard trying to make it as a Caribbean model, or as a model PERIOD?

Cindy: Modeling is definitely not easy. It doesn’t matter how pretty, tall or skinny you are. It always seems like they are looking for something else at times, you have to be thick skinned, ready to hear NO one million times and then some more, and then there’s the waiting period to be paid, you wait so long to book a job then you have to wait up to thirty days to get it at times. But as for being from the Caribbean, I feel it is a great attribute I feel it sets me apart from the crowd and usually clients first impressions are not that I would be Jamaican and they find it very intriguing.

Dre: How did you break onto the scene?

Cindy: Well, modeling before winning Miss Jamaica was mostly catalog jobs such as Walmart and various shopping catalogs I booked while going to college in Miami but after winning Miss Jamaica Universe and traveling which led me to meeting a broad range of people. Strangely enough it was Rohan Marley that introduced me to a friend of his that was actually a booker at IMG modeling agency in New York.

Dre: Which agency were you signed to?

Cindy:Firstly, it was Pulse in Jamaica then there was IMG but now i am currently with NEXT.

Dre: How difficult was it for you to be recognized?

Cindy:It has not been an easy road and still is not an easy road. My road would be very discouraging to most, even a few years ago I came to London by myself and went around to every agency and had gotten turned down was told to build my book and come back which was what I did and I am now in London but went to Paris where Ford Model Management wanted to sign me but by the time I renewed my passport to come back I was told they are flying in two black girls from New York already. I was so crushed but still didn’t give up. Went to New York searching for a agency everyday for almost a month before it worked out with IMG, and there is so much more I could tell you about my trials but I am now in London were I shot my first campaign and soon to go to Paris to meet with an agency that had seen me in Miami Fashion Week, so just have to keep on going.

Dre: Which agency are you signed with at present?

Cindy: I am now signed with NEXT

Dre: What was your first MAJOR job?

Cindy:Well I don’t really consider my music video with Akon a huge gain in my fashion but I would have to say my biggest job is the Agent Provocateur lingerie company that will be out next year.

Dre: You were probably really excited. What did you do with your paycheck?

Cindy:I was very excited I kept calculating the pounds to U.S. dollars then to Jamaican but then after counting my bills the excitement retired quickly.

Dre: Okay, let’s get a little superficial. Karl Lagerfeld, Alexander Wang or Alexander McQueen?

Cindy: Karl Lagerfeld

Dre: Flats, wedges or stilettos?

Cindy: I use to be the one always in flats no matter how dressed up I was but now since I’m in them so often I would have to say my stilettos. I feel like I cant dance without them and I have a new blue and brown Fendis that I am in love with.

Dre: Now, most models love a good party. Are you a party animal or just a lounge kind of girl?

Cindy: I’m a lounge girl, (laughs) there goes the hiss teeth and “yea right”s, but really I am a fun girl. I love a good party, whether it be a high profile social event or a passa passa, I’ll give it a try. I love laughing and meeting new people to share laughs with, so where else to meet interesting characters other than in a club, (laughs) but I can also be that lounge girl where I had enough and love nothing but to stay home and watch movies. Especially at times when you think you found a special someone to cuddle with.

Dre: What do you do in your spare time?

Cindy: Well, when I am at home in Kingston, its ‘lime key’ on Sundays on my dad’s boat. My favorite place in the world, it’s a small island, couple minutes off from Port Royal. But other than that, being on my laptop researching whatever interests me at the time like now since I read that book, The Secret, I am all into reading and watching videos on YouTube about the law of attraction and watching bootleg movies online, mostly comedies.

Dre: If you did not have a career in modeling, what could you see yourself doing?

Cindy: If I were not modeling, I would see myself in the fashion industry as I had put my modeling dreams to the side at one point and started going to college, studying fashion. It would be designing, as I am now doing my own swimwear line. But ever since high school, my best friend and I used to make our own clothes when going out, cutting up our jeans and designing them with whatever we could find from pins to rime stones spray painting t shirts and ripping them up .

Dre: What are your plans after modeling?

Cindy: Well, that’s a hard one, because I don’t really think that I would ever stop as I’m trying so hard to make it. I would want to do it as long as I could. I always admired Naomi Campbell’s carrer, she’s well past her thirties and she’s still going, so I pray that mine will be as or even more successful than hers.

Dre: Of all the years you’ve been modeling, what was your most memorable moment?

Cindy: Partying in London with Naomi Campbell and Tyson Beckford.

Dre: What would you like to achieve most in your modeling career?

Cindy: The thing that I would most want to come to past is being blessed enough to grace the cover of Vogue magazine and the cover of Victoria’s Secret catalog.

Dre: What is your advice to young girls out there trying to make it as a fashion model?

Cindy: My advice would be if its truly your dream to go after it with your full ability and not to get caught up in the hype, what you see on Top model is not even a tip off the ice berg, and number one don’t ever try to be unhealthy to look like these girls on the runways if being that skinny can not come natural to you its okay, there are so many other markets that you don’t have to be dangerously skinny to work in markets such as Spain, Germany, south Africa, Miami and LA, if god planted a dream in your heart then there is no reason he cant make it come true , put him first and everything else will fall into place.

Hair Color:	Dark brown
Eye Color:	Green
Date of Birth:	1987
Place of Birth:	Jamaica
Height:	5’11″ ; 180cm
Measurements:	(US) 34-24-35 ; (EU) 86.5-61-89
Dress Size:	(US) 4 ; (EU) 34

http://www.fashionmodeldirectory.com/models/cindy_wright

Rihanna– THE FASHION ICON

The ever-fab pop diva -who is becoming one of the fashion industry’ s favorite darlings- has become quite the haute couture enthusiast.

Donning some of the most exclusive brands and designs such as Louis Vitton, Dolce & Gabbana, Zac Posen, Christian Louboutin and Versace.

Being a spokesperson for Gucci and attending all the major fashion events such as the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum Gala, Milan Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week.

Personally, I LOVE her sense of style -très chic et avant garde-

This fashionista is a risk taker, and usually pulls it off very well. However, I must admit at times it is taken a bit overboard. But, in my opinion, it is better to have risked and failed than to be plain jane.

For example; when Ms. Fenty was under FULL control by her Def Jam superiors, she was first marketed as a the Caribbean reggae/dancehall tom-boy songtress, then as the clichè female Pop artiste (long brown hair accentuated with ‘Barbie-like’ make-up and ‘fashion safe’ outfits… eek, BORING!).

(photos showing chronological transition above)

Then the REAL Rihanna, that we have all grown to know and love, is released from it’s social prison!! -yes, I said prison-

Goth, unique, edgy, sultry, haute couture, riveting, absolute perfection -adjectives used to describe the Barbadian fashionista- are in my opinion inferior to the reality that is Rihanna. Glam femme fatale would be more appropriate, with the style of an old Hollywood star with a modern twist and the aura of a Greek goddess.

Gucci show- Milan Fashion Week, Spring 2009-2010
She donned a mini dress from the line along with daring fringed boots from the Fall 2008 collection.

Her celebrity persona seems fit to be someone of her caliber. Hob-nobbing with all of fashion’s elite. Being close friends with the likes of Zac Posen, the twin designers of DSquared, American VOGUE editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and MANY more. Not many can maintain such a lifestyle and actually pull off being so glam, SO EASILY!!

Kudos Ri-Ri..

Make us proud!!

–

Best regards.

Yours fashionably,
Dre DeCarlo.
(fashion blogger/writer/journalist, photoshoot director, model scout and runway trainer)

You tell me.. who is your Bajan favorite??

Leah Marville

Sara Collins

Lene Hall

Tennille Stoute

Ramon Dodson

Richard Elms

Chanelle ‘Elle’ King

Raymond Ward

Caribbean Fashion Awards 2009

The 2nd annual Caribbean Fashion Awards was held at the Barbados Hilton Hotel on Saturday, April 11th 2009. Founder and producer of the Caribbean Fashion Awards, and President of Unique Productions Worldwide (a Barbados-based fashion event production company), Rodney Powers, made sure that everything was running smoothly and went according to plan. The pre-show cocktail party started with a cultural display of the popular Land ship group and the playing of steel pans and drums.

The lovely Ria Borman opened the award ceremony with a dynamic performance, singing the official song of the Caribbean Fashion Awards.

Hosts, international model Bobby Roache and correspondent for BBC radio Alex Jordan, made way for international Barbadian top model Leah Marville and local model Dwayne White to present the first award, Best Female Runway Model which went to Jamaican supermodel Jaunel McKenzie.

One of the most memorable moments at the awards ceremony, was when make-up artist Miyako Johnson won Best Make-Up Artist. Johnson was so overwhelmed and filled with joy, she started to cry. After giving a riveting and emotional speech, she left the stage hopping and skipping with glee.

Miss St. Kitts & Nevis WORLD 2009

Candi Nicholls

Mary M. Rose and guest

Local model, Liane Clarke (left) and mum, Senior Business Development Manager for the Caribbean and Latin America at the Barbados Tourism Authority

Special appearances were made by 2009 Miss St. Kitts & Nevis WORLD Venetta Zakers, SHE Magazine publisher Mae Wayne, former model Candi Nicholls, Mary Rose, the Quality Service Officer of  Barbados Conference Services with guest Detlef Ferhmann, local model Liane Clarke and mum Linda Christian-Clarke, the Senior Business Development Manager for the Caribbean and Latin America.

All awardees were as follows:

Best Male Runway Model-Oraine Barrett

Best Photo Models- Luck Rebeiro (Male)  Gaye McDonald (Female)

Best Fashion Photographer- Calvin French

Best Hairstylist- Craig Carter

Best Make-Up Artist- Miyako Johnson

Best Female Fashion Designer- Claudia Pegus

Best Male Fashion Designer- Mill House

Best Fashion Magazine Cover- SHE Caribbean

Best Fashion TV Programme/ Fashion Show or Fashion Week-
Barbados Amateur Model Search

Best Fashion Show or Fashion Week attended-
Islands Of the World Fashion Week

Upcoming Designer Award- Toni Thorne

Country Designer Awards

Barbados-Pauline Bellamy
St Vincent-Kimya Glawslow

St Lucia-Kummba Designs

Trinidad & Tobago-Claudia Pegus

Special Awards for Industry Achievments

Sara Colins (model)

Pat Braithwaite (fashion designer)

Industry Achievement
BIDC Barbados