Hair

The FroHawk

For those with curly hair, I’m convinced that this classic up-do will N-E-V-E-R go out of style. Re-done and re-done, it just continues to transform into a stylish do that is quick and keeps the hair off of your neck.

The Bubble Pony Tail

For long hair, this retro style is simple to do but adorable to look at. You can almost always be certain that this go-to will not be duplicated by another fashionista. Wear this with confidence — no sweat or tears.

The High Pony

The high pony tail is back and there’s nothing better than to see beautiful hair – curly or straight – fountaining down from on high. There’s something wise about a high pony, probably because it iswise to wear a high pony!

Clothes

Anything off-the-shoulder

Accentuate your feminine with this staple that does all the work; and lucky for us it’s perfect for the beating heat. A loose fitting off-the-shoulder dress or shirt paired with cut-off jean shorts gets you out of the house with no fuss. Don’t forget your sunblock.

Back cut outs

I’m all about highlighting the powerful parts of the body, and our back is our strength. A great way to highlight it is to wear a dress with the back cut out. Choose a beautiful pattern and breezy material and your style will speak for itself.

Bodysuits

The bodysuit is everywhere and can do everything. Pair a summery one with a pair of breezy linen pants, cut off jean shorts, an A-line skirt, or you can even rock it as a swimsuit.The art of wearing a bodysuit is similar to that of a ballet dancer — poise, confidence and glamour.

Shoes

The espradille sandal

The espradille has been used for hundreds of years on the Spanish Mediterranean coast – first by peasants, then urban workers, now it has climbed the summer fashion trends. The canvas or cotton fabric upper strap makes it practical for the heat, while the back strap made of esparto rope will help you make your way through the camps with ease.

 Sliders

Slider sandals have come a long way from the college dorm room, and all the way to the field. On the women’s side, these sandals can be dressed up and dressed down, but in all instances bring some pizazz to an outfit.

Lace-up flats

Classic. The lace up flat is the symbol of strength and what better place to bring out the warrior in you than at Cup Match. ‘Nuff said.

These ideas show that a little bit of material goes a long way, especially in the heat of the game! Enjoy and stay fashionable, practical and powerful for Cup Match.

This article was originally published in the 2018 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.  

The post Fashion: When it’s too hot for clothes, take them off appeared first on RG Magazines.

Photographs: Meredith Andrews

Styling and Art Direction: Perri Furbert

Models: Desmond Mills, Morgan Simons, Sophia Manders

Shirt, Shorts and Cap; Choices Menswear

Alexis Ruffle Dress; FH Boutique, Sneakers; H&M, Earrings; Zara

Theory Dress; FH Boutique, Wicker Purse; Calypso, Mules; Primark

Gap Shirt; Gibbon’s Company, Short and Cap; Choices Menswear, Sunglasses; Céline

Headpiece/Necklace; Calypso, Knitted Crop Top; Urban Cottage, Alice + Olivia Jeans; Lusso, Bamboo Basket Bag; Mystique’s, Sandals; ZigZag

From L-R: Tops and Skirts; Urban Cottage, Denim Jacket; Zara, Sunglasses; Céline, Sandals; ZigZag , Visor; Brixton, Sneakers;H&M , Earrings; Forever 21

The post Denim’s Day Out appeared first on RG Magazines.

The post Fall Fashion appeared first on RG Magazines.

For me that means that a frill detail, a colour-block sweater, a timeless trench coat, a statement blazer and the culotte denim are all high on my list of autumn wear. Here’s how to carry off this look in the months ahead.

Just for the Frill of It

The classic white shirt has been given a new lease of life with a playful update and some fashion frills. Wear it to the office with sleek cigarette-style trousers, swapping for cropped denim flares for off-duty. If you’re layering up with knitwear, make sure the sleeves are pulled through to show them off.

The colour-block sweater

Red is the colour of autumn/winter 2017 and a simple crew neck sweater in this hue is a perfect basic for your closet this season. Wear with skirts and trousers for work, or with jeans and trainers at the weekend. This wardrobe staple is a comfortable look that is so easy to wear, and the vibrant colour pulls your look together whilst making you feel fantastic.

The forever trench

I love wearing a trench in autumn; it smartens up any look in a cool, unfussy way. This trench is a beautiful fit – neat at the shoulders and a flattering cut. Make it your own by adding a striking belt for structure. This trench works perfectly during the 9-5 working week and with your downtime denim.

A look sharp blazer

Keep it stylish and contemporary with a tuxedo blazer, perfect to take you from day-to-night. Blazers continue to be on-trend, and this modern take on a classic is perfect both with a floaty midi for a casual yet smart look, or traditional trouser for a flattering and modern suit.

The cream of the crop denim

For the weekend I am coveting a pair of denim culottes. Although you can style culottes with flat shoes, this jeans silhouette is a lot easier to pull off when you wear high heels to elongate the leg line and help you avoid looking stumpy in this shorter style jean. So, take the opportunity to show off your most fabulous autumn footwear. For denim work Fridays, tuck in a blouse and add a chic jacket to complete your look.

Lorraine Shailer is Head of Clothing & Home for Marks & Spencer Bermuda. She has worked with the company for almost six years with a focus on buying and merchandising the Ladies and Lingerie department. Her regular trips to buying events keeps her up-to-date with the global fashion market and trends, along with her personal love for all things style related.

The post My autumn wish list appeared first on RG Magazines.

The post Love Bomb Inc. unveils new collection appeared first on RG Magazines.

Brittany Wolffe has gone from strength-to-strength as a designer, evidence of which has been seen at the Bermuda Fashion Festival over the past two years. The London fashion student’s collections have won her an internship at Interview Magazine in New York, and a Coach scholarship. Here she tells us about “Disco Romance” the fourth collection from her LoveBomb Inc line.

What did being involved in the fashion festival mean to you?

My involvement means a lot as I find it amazing that fashion is acknowledged on our island. For a long time fashion was looked at as a hobby to many. But it is not a hobby to me, it is my livelihood.

How have you evolved as a designer since first being involved in the Bermuda Fashion Festival?

Since my first collection I have definitely evolved and it shows in my design skills, where I gather my inspiration, and how I work in general. Having a schedule during the mentorship really helped with my organisation. As a student in London I’ve been exposed to things I don’t have access to, or never really took notice of, back home and that plays a role in how I gather inspiration.

You suffered from nerves early in your career. What would you say to any young designers who are afraid to put themselves out there for the first time?

GO FOR IT! You never know until you try. Don’t let anyone tell you your dreams are too small or aren’t good enough. I’ve had my dreams of studying fashion design stomped all over because they were compared to studies that I had no interest in. It crushed me for a second or two but it didn’t stop me. Having a “can’t stop, won’t stop” mindset gets me through.

How has the Coach scholarship impacted you?

The scholarship was truly a blessing and I appreciate all that the Bermuda Fashion Festival has done for me. The award went directly towards my studies and that was a great help.

What’s the most important piece of advice you were ever given?

Every detail counts; even the smallest can make such a huge impact on the big picture.

6) What is trending for you this year?

I don’t necessarily follow trends, but this year I’m really feeling the colour red. It’s so bold and actually makes a statement all on its own; hence the reason it’s LoveBomb Inc’s colour of 2017.

Care to give us any hints as to what your next collection might look like?

Our brand is inspired by the 1970s always but “Disco Romance” our 2017 collection is heavily inspired by Studio 54. Cher, Diana Ross, Bianca Jagger. The lover of “Disco Romance” she’s a partygoer, the life of the party; she stands out in a crowd.

Where will you be a year from now?

A year from now is a time I am looking forward to. I will be nearing the completion of my Graduate Collection and I look forward to building onto that to have the styles available for purchase. I really do have a lot in store, not only as a designer but also a businesswoman. Once my studies are completed it is only up for LoveBomb Inc.

Brittany plans to launch “Disco Romance” at a Pop Up shopping event on Sunday at Red Doors Hair & Makeup Artistry in Hamilton between 4pm and 7pm.

The post The evolution of a designer appeared first on RG Magazines.

Textures: An interesting signature that I love about fashion is how much of a difference textures make in an outfit – this Spring especially! Everything is being made more interesting through textures like lace, embroidery, scuba, faux leather, and suede – just to name a few of my favourites. Textures such as lace, embroidery, and mesh create so many dimensions in an outfit, and this Spring is all about mixing and matching your textures for the ultimate effect.

Nature Lover: Florals always seem like an obvious trend for Spring that are both fabulously transitional and can easily add pops of colour to any outfit. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of floral, but it is obvious that it’s trending this Spring. I love playing with darker colour hues to get my floral fix. It’s sometimes nicer to save the brighter floral items in your life for those more summery days, and instead add some darker, whimsical prints and pastels, or even forest hues to feature these flower prints into your Spring wardrobe. Incorporating florals into your outfits will instantly make your wardrobe feel fresh, just like Spring!

The Breton look: Stripes are a timeless classic trend, and they are having a massive moment this Spring. There are endless possibilities with this nautical inspired trend – from Bardot tops to co-ords that completely embrace these staple parallel lines. Spring is often about the clash of the prints, and this Parisian print is the best for mixing and matching patterns to achieve this look.

Statement jeans (flares, fringe, dungarees): So, it might not be a new trend exactly, but I’m excited for a beloved return of the 70s. Being normal is so last year; add something out of the ordinary to your denim collection! Denim trends like flares, cropped hemlines, dungarees, high waist, and fringe details have abandoned their Bohemian origins and are now adapted to all sorts of different looks. These fun trends are being worn from work wear, casual cute, to a night out for drinks, or even date nights! These older classics have truly created a whole new spot in fashion today, and particularly this Spring. They have transformed hippy chic with a modern twist that can make your outfits turn heads. Statement jeans are all over Instagram and blogs at the moment, and are possibly my favourite trend this season.

The Cold Shoulder: Ready to debut a glimpse of a hopefully increasing tan? Show off a more subtly sexy Bohemian vibe this Spring by daring to bare your shoulders. This look can be made super casual with destroyed denim, or made chic paired with a skinny – both favourites of mine. If I were to say I love the ‘off the shoulder’ trend going on this Spring, it would be an understatement! Exposed shoulders can easily update your look for warmer weather. This trend can be seen across so many brands and designer collections this season.

 Blushing: I know I’m personally obsessing over the softer colour palette of pastels and neutrals that are strong this Spring! These uplifting colours have proven undoubtedly one of 2016 Spring’s top trends! The pastel colours are so easy to pair with neutrals, or even pops of colour. Either way, it creates the perfect staple piece for this Spring. Pastels have the ability to make clothing or accessories more delicate. Combine florals and pastel pinks to create an ultimate feminine look – the more ‘flowy’ the better!

This article originally appeared in RG Spring magazine in 2016

The post Spring, it can’t get here fast enough appeared first on RG Magazines.

Seven local fashion designers will show off their styles and one of those designers is Jakai Franks.

Born and raised in Bermuda, to a full-time seamstress mother, Mr Franks said he has been in love with fashion all his life.

“I have been interested in fashion for as long as I can remember,” he said.

And he gets his inspiration everywhere. “Life in general inspires me. Whether it’s travelling, spending time with family, a customer meeting during my day job (at Digicel), or simply a well-dressed individual that I cross in passing or on social media, I’m constantly making mental inspirational notes,” he said.

The fashions being presented by the seven local designers run from swimsuits to gowns to menswear.

And it’s menswear that is Mr Franks’ specialty.

Asked how he would describe his taste in fashion, Mr Franks said: “I would describe my taste as classic, minimalistic, however liking unique enough pieces to stand out. My designs are upscale urban island wear. My debut collection for the festival will be Spring/Summer, however I plan to continue designing future collections. At least one piece in my collection will appeal to every Bermudian male.”

His island home also influences his designs.

“Bermuda plays an important role in my designs. Oftentimes, many debate if something is truly Bermudian or if it was influenced by another country or culture. One thing that cannot be argued about Bermuda is our natural beauty. Through my collection, I plan to showcase monochromatic trendy looks which focus on the intricate colours found around Bermuda. From the blue hues of our ocean, to the green hues in our grass, and even the original hues of our limestone.”

Mr Franks and the other six designers were carefully selected for a four-month mentorship programme run by celebrity stylist and fashion editor Shiona Turini.

Mr Franks has a top international mentor to guide him. In his case that person is the highly regarded Matthew Henson, the Fashion Editor at Complex Magazine.

Mr Franks said: “Matthew has taught me invaluable knowledge from day one. He constantly reminds me to think outside of the box, and the importance of planning and appealing to my target market. I met Matthew in New York in March where we brainstormed and purchased all of the fabrics and notions. Matthew and I speak whenever it is required, and we have status update meetings weekly.”

Mr Henson is also a freelance stylist and brand consultant. He has styled editorials for i-D Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and was previously the Fashion Editor at Flaunt Magazine. Aside from his editorial work, he works as a consultant for emerging brands such as En Noir, and Bazar-14.

Mr Franks said the hardest part of designing menswear is “remembering the importance of details and the fit of the garment”.

Asked how people can see and buy his menswear, Mr Franks said: “People will be able to see my collection at the Local Designers showcase on July 14 (at City Hall).”

To keep up with Mr Franks’ brand you can follow him via his website, or on Instagram.

This article first appeared in RG Summer magazine in 2016.

The post Upscale Urban Island Designs appeared first on RG Magazines.

Sophie Adams was not always comfortable being in front of a camera, or being in front of strangers at a fashion show. Her first Bermuda Fashion Festival was a “daunting” experience.

How things have changed. Now she models in London, is hoping to breakthrough in Los Angeles, and is far more confident about being on the catwalk.

Sophie took time out of her hectic schedule to answer some questions about life as a model.

What did it mean to you to take part in the Bermuda Fashion Festival?

I had heard of the fashion festival and several people had encouraged me to take part but I was always too shy to attend any of the open calls! The thought of walking in front of strangers was daunting. It really did change my life for the better. It allowed me to not only attain skills and qualities needed to pursue a modelling career, but also challenged me to overcome personal adversities.

What impact did it have on you as a person, and how you saw your future?

It greatly improved my confidence. From the first fashion show I took part in 2013 I never gave up on the hope that I could make it.

You have talked in the past about being “you” and adopting a natural approach. Is there freedom in that?

Being as natural as possible has worked out in my favour thus far. Clients love to see your most natural ‘you’. In person, they are not interested with heavy make-up or your hair being done overly styled or done up. They need to see a canvas in which they can create.

People on the outside of the industry see glitz and glamour, what don’t they see?

I find a lot of people assume that being a model is easy; that all you have to do is pose in front of a camera.

They don’t see the hours/years of preparation and practice it takes. Modelling is a lot more than just being a pretty face. Personality really gets you far in the industry. Without a good attitude, you won’t get far.

What has been the best and worst part of your career so far?

The worst part about modelling would certainly be the early ‘call-times’ for a shoot. Starting at 9am means my day will begin at around 5am depending on the location of the job!

The absolute best part of modelling is when you see the final images published/released. The process of a full day, which could be 8 hours or more, and shooting endlessly to get those few picture-perfect shots really make it worthwhile.

When was the last time you were nervous before a shoot, and what do you do to overcome that feeling?

The last time I got nervous for a shoot was the first one I ever took part in as a signed model. This was a shoot for Brides Magazine. I overcame my nervousness by finding a quite space and giving myself words of encouragement!

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

The best piece of advice I have ever gotten/will continue to get is from my father. He recently told me to never forget and know who I am, my value as a person, where I am going in life and how I am going to get there. Stop at nothing to give your best each and every day, if you’re not succeeding you’re learning. It’s what you do during the learning that matters most!

What one piece of advice would you give to aspiring models?

Embrace your originality and take advantage of the fact that you are the only version of yourself. Don’t ever allow someone’s opinion to make you feel negatively about yourself. You are not for everyone. You are unique.

The post No longer daunted by the runway appeared first on RG Magazines.

Back in Bermuda for her pre-Fall Collection show which took place at the Hamilton Princess Hotel last month, the Bermudian designer took time out to discuss her journey, her philosophy, and why bringing her show to the island made perfect sense.

Law to fashion isn’t the usual route, how did that come about?

“I never knew anyone who worked in the industry growing up and I had always had an interest [in fashion] and always used to collect all the Vogues, and keep them preciously in storage.

“But I grew up around lawyers or people who worked in banks, or in economics, and my family were very much [telling me] ‘you need to get the academic education that you are capable of’.

“I never felt like it [law] was a disadvantage, I just wasn’t that enthusiastic about it. And then I started working right by Central Saint Martins [in London] and I would do evening courses there in fashion design and marketing as an antidote to my very corporate, serious job, and it went from there.”

What is your design philosophy?

“For my lifestyle what I really craved was a lot of very minimal, simple garments that were beautifully made and really comfortable, but that would take me from Paris, to New York. I was travelling so much that I was getting decision fatigue about what to pack, what to wear.

“I remember going to Vogue and I was so busy worrying what I looked like, that it didn’t even occur to me what I was going to say. I just wanted to create a brand where you don’t have to have this stress about what you are going to wear in the morning, because you have a much more important day to worry about. I think most women have had that. The clothes were always meant to be something that supported a lifestyle, not just something to look pretty in. It was about the woman being the focus, giving you a sense of confidence, of strength, but comfortable, functional, and it has to feel nice.

“From there the idea was about something luxurious and understated and there was an element of the 1990s and the minimal clothes that Helmut Lange and Calvin Klein were making back then.”

Tell us about your show at the Hamilton Princess?

“The hotel has a beautiful and diverse art collection. It’s such a fantastic asset to the community to be able to see works from such seminal artists in the heart of Hamilton. I set out to create a different way for people to experience my brand. Creating a large scale, open air art installation enables me to visually immerse guests in the world and influences that surround the clothing, and host a truly memorable event that’s fun and inspiring.”

The post A luxurious philosophy appeared first on RG Magazines.