The post MFS Magazine Celebrates Its Women Empowerment Issue Awarding Cover Star Shireen Sandoval and Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2023 with WE Awards appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>On September 8th, 2022, Miami Fashion Spotlight, a Miami-based media firm, celebrated its MFS Magazine’s special edition 2022-2023 honoring the Women Empowerment of South Florida Leaders in Fashion & Business with the Women Empowerment Awards (WE Awards).
The iconic Miami glossy and highly anticipated “Women Empowerment” Issue, came to life, transforming the Fortune House Hotel, the ultimate hotel destination in Brickell, into a stunning step and repeat with 360 experiences for VIPs and Tastemakers as attendees for this exclusive gold, black and white affair—all sponsored by Harry Blu’s Gin, Maserati Rick Case, and Headmaster Salon.
The remarkable event commemorated the magazine’s WE Issue and celebrated outstanding women in fashion, entertainment, and business. Also acknowledging the leading fashionistas & women entrepreneurs in the industry.
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MFS Magazine celebra edición “Women Empowerment” honorando a su estrella de portada, Shireen Sandoval y a Mujeres Reales destacadas en la industria de la Moda y los negocios con Premios ‘WE Awards 2022-2023’
El 8 de septiembre del 2022, Miami Fashion Spotlight, una firma de medios de comunicación con sede en Miami, celebró la edición especial 2022-2023 de su Revista MFS en honor al empoderamiento de mujeres líderes en la industria de la moda y los negocios en Miami y el sur de la Florida– con los premios “Women Empowerment Awards” (WE Awards).
La esperadísima e icónica edición “Women Empowerment” Miamense, cobró vida y transformó el Fortune House Hotel —el mejor destino hotelero en Brickell– en una deslumbrante alfombra negra de espejos con experiencias 360 que dejó sin aliento a VIP y amantes de la moda asistentes de este exclusivo “affair” en oro, blanco y negro–todo patrocinado por Harry Blu’s Gin, Maserati Rick Case y Headmaster Salon.
El extraordinario evento conmemoró la Edición “WE” de la Revista y celebró a las mujeres destacadas en la moda, entretenimiento y en el mundo de los negocios. También, reconoció a las principales fashionistas y mujeres empresarias de la industria.
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Shireen Sandoval on the Black Carpet!
Shireen Sandoval, a celebrated co-host, and Film Critic for WSVN’s popular Deco Drive lifestyles show shone on the cover of the magazine’s WE Issue as she also slayed the mirrored black carpet in a gorgeous black and gold gown by TA Couture—a 25-year-old fashion brand founded by Tammy Apostol that received a special recognition award from MFS Magazine that evening for being an “Ethical Fashion Brand that Empowers Women.”
Meanwhile, Lissette Rondon-Diaz, Founder and Editorial Director, along with Frank E. Diaz, CEO of MFS Magazine, kicked off the VIP event by stating that 2023 will be the best year for MFS Magazine yet! “We celebrate tonight this formidable group of female leaders committed to the evolution of fashion in our city. They have become incredible role models for our community, as well as an inspiration to the younger generations and all women who have had the privilege of working with them,” Lissette Rondon continued.
MFS Magazine created the iconic sculpture “Women in the Spotlight” to capture the concept of evolution in Women Empowerment and to pay tribute to a constellation of women leaders in Miami and South Florida through our WE Awards and this special edition of MFS Magazine, Frank E Diaz added.
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Shireen Sandoval en la Alfombra Negra
Shireen Sandoval, una celebrada coanfitriona y crítica de cine del popular programa de estilos de vida “Deco Drive” del canal WSVN, brilló en la portada de la Edición WE de la Revista; mientras deslumbró a todos en la alfombra negra con un espectacular vestido negro y dorado de la casa de modas TA Couture, una marca de moda con 25 años de fundada por Tammy Apostol, quien recibió un reconocimiento especial de nuestra revista MFS, esa noche, por ser una “Marca de moda ética que empodera a las mujeres”.
Mientras tanto, Lissette Rondon-Diaz, fundadora y directora de editoriales, junto a Frank E. Diaz, director ejecutivo de MFS Magazine, dieron inicio al evento VIP afirmando que el 2023 vendrá con todo y será el mejor año para MFS Magazine. “Celebramos esta noche, a este grupo de formidables mujeres líderes comprometidas con la evolución de la moda en nuestra ciudad. Ellas se han convertido en increíbles modelos a seguir para nuestra comunidad, así como también una inspiración para las generaciones más jóvenes y para todas las mujeres que han tenido el privilegio de trabajar con ellas”, continuó Lissette Rondón.
MFS Magazine creó la escultura icónica “La Mujer en el Spotlight”, para capturar el concepto de evolución en el empoderamiento de la mujer y rendir homenaje a una constelación de mujeres líderes en Miami y en el sur de Florida, a través de nuestros premios WE y esta edición especial de MFS Magazine, agregó Frank E. Díaz.
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Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023
Among the empowered honorees were: Elysze Held (Celebrity Stylist & Fashion Expert), Charlene Parsons (Lead Educator at the International Fine Arts College), Beth Sobol (Businesswoman & Founder of the Original Miami Fashion Week), Natalia Cruz (Three-Time Emmy Award Winner & News Anchor & TV /Radio Host), Karent Sierra (Celebrity Dentist and Host of “BELatina” TV), Viviana Gabeiras ( Award-Winning Fashion Designer) and Athina Marturet ( Actress of Netflix Series “El Señor de Los Cielos” and Ambassador of Miami Symphony).
Sandoval explores how she mastered the art of confidence-chemistry when interviewing celebrities, how she learned to embrace her uniqueness, her thoughts on women empowering women, her approach to beauty, how her fashion evolved, and more inside the spread.
Follow her story here: Miamifashionspotlight.org
About Miami Fashion Spotlight and MFS Magazine
Miami Fashion Spotlight is a 10-years-experienced Miami-based media company comprised of a three-time award-winning fashion blog (Miamifashionspotlight.org), a printed and digital magazine (MFS Magazine), and now a YouTube channel (Miami Fashion Spotlight TV). We have become the official destination for locals seeking the latest news, celebrity interviews, local trends and styles, and the most anticipated fashion events. Our mission and goal are to promote local talent and fashion designers, as well as the most fascinating events in our glamorous Miami and South Florida.
Contact us: inquires@miamifashionspotlight.org
events@miamifashionspotlight.org
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Mujeres Reales en la Industria Moda y los Negocios 2022-2023
Entre las empoderadas homenajeadas se encontraban: Elysze Held (Estilista de celebridades y experta en moda), Charlene Parsons (Educadora principal en el International Fine Arts College), Beth Sobol (Empresaria y fundadora del original ‘ Miami Fashion Week’), Natalia Cruz (tres veces ganadora del Emmy, presentadora de noticias y presentadora de TV/Radio), Karent Sierra (Dentista famosa y presentadora de “BELatina” TV), Viviana Gabeiras (Diseñadora de moda galardonada en MFW) y Athina Marturet (Actriz de la serie en Netflix “El Señor de Los Cielos” y Embajadora de la Sinfónica de Miami).
Sandoval explora, cómo dominó el arte de la química de la confianza al entrevistar a celebridades, cómo aprendió a abrazar su singularidad, sus pensamientos sobre las mujeres que “Empoderan a las Mujeres”, su enfoque de la belleza, cómo evolucionó su estilo y mucho más dentro de las páginas de la revista. Sigue su entrevista aquí: Miamifashionspotlight.org.
Acerca de Miami Fashion Spotlight y MFS Magazine
Miami Fashion Spotlight es una empresa de medios con 10 años de experiencia y sede en Miami, compuesta por un blog de moda tres veces galardonado (Miamifashionspotlight.org), una revista impresa y digital (MFS Magazine) y ahora un canal de YouTube (Miami Fashion Fashion Spotlight TV). Nos hemos convertido en el destino oficial para los locales que buscan las últimas noticias, entrevistas con celebridades, tendencias y estilos locales y los eventos de moda más esperados. Nuestra misión y objetivo es promover el talento y los diseñadores de moda locales, así como los eventos más fascinantes en nuestro glamorosa ciudad de Miami y el sur de Florida.
Contáctenos: inquires@miamifashionspotlight.org
events@miamifashionspotlight.org
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“There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise”
– Bosa Sebele
“No hay fuerza mas poderosa que la de una mujer determinada a ascender”
–Bosa Sebele.
*Craving for more?
We suggest:
Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023
Exclusive Interview with Athina Marturet: Goddess Power
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Exclusive Interview with Charlene Parsons: Legendary Lady
Exclusive Interview with Elysze Held: One-Of-A-Kind Fashion Expert
Exclusive Interview with Karent Sierra: Rise & Shining!
Exclusive Interview with Natalia Cruz: Channelling ‘Joie De Vivre’
Exclusive Interview with Viviana Gabeiras: Color Me Success!
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
Facebook.com/MiamiFashionSpotlight
Instagram.com/miamifashionspotlight
Youtube.com/miamifashionspotlighttv
#MiamiFashionSpotlight
The post MFS Magazine Celebrates Its Women Empowerment Issue Awarding Cover Star Shireen Sandoval and Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2023 with WE Awards appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Shireen Sandoval in the Spotlight appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>I met Shireen Sandoval more than 10 years ago at the infamous “Fashion Night Out” event at Bal Harbour Shops. It was one of my first assignments when I was a Miami Celebrity Fashion Examiner (yes, I still remember those days!) I was a little nervous because I didn’t know anybody at that time, and I had in my notes that she was one of the celebrity hosts. So, a picture of her was a must for my article. I remember being impressed by her flawless appearance as I approached her to ask if I could photograph her. But my nerves vanished as soon as she returned my smile and said, “Of course!”
We had a genuine conversation while taking the photos, and I felt authenticity and a genuine connection. She was friendly and amusing, like an old friend. Shireen Sandoval has a magnetic personality like that! A woman who knows who she is: authentic, confident but humble, and a full-time fashionista! She chooses to appreciate her blessings and focus on fighting for what is worth fighting for while always moving forward. We are honored to have her on the cover of this special edition of Women Empowerment and we hope you enjoy learning more about her in our “SPOTLIGHT.”
Let’s talk with this empowered woman who has become a successful journalist and is dominating the celebrity scene in our glamorous city like a movie star—the current co-host and Film Critic of Deco Drive TV Show for the WSVN channel and has become one of Miami’s top fashion icons.
Lights, camera, and SPOTLIGHT!
Lissette Rondon: It is a pleasure to have you on our cover! I love to see you on your “Deco Drive” Shows. I am also a consistent reader of your blog “Shireen’s Favorite Things”–each outfit is a fashion statement about Shireen Sandoval. Therefore, I believe it is essential to ask: How do you define yourself, and what does success mean to Shireen Sandoval?
Shireen Sandoval: I define myself through the love of family and close friends. Not just receiving love, but giving it, too. Making the special people in my life feel safe, nurtured, and understood is a gift. After all, how you make someone feel is a window into your true character. Success comes in many different forms. At this stage in my life, I think being present and, at the moment, gives me a sense of accomplishment.
LR: When it comes to fashion style, individuality and ingenuity thrive. Who are the individual personalities that shape your style? And what is the philosophy behind the items that become “Shireen’s Favorite Things”?
SS: At the moment, I’m obsessed with Mimi Plange, Charles de Vilmorin, and Naeem Khan. Shireen’s Favorite Things is a blog about life experiences expressed through fashion. Much like music, when you remember exactly where you were when you heard a favorite song, fashion has that power, too. It can bring back memories, create new ones, transport our imaginations, allow us to recreate ourselves, and boost self-confidence. Who needs therapy? Lol. New shoes can do wonders.
LR: You have an incredibly fulfilling career that has allowed you to travel the world interviewing many celebrities, and you cover all things celebrity here in Miami. How have you mastered the art of confidence-chemistry when interviewing celebrities?
SS: When interviewing someone famous, confidence is key, and a lot goes into that word. Here are some of my secrets: know everything about your subject, ask smart questions with open and honest energy, listen so your responses are organic, and most importantly, do not fangirl. You can respect someone’s work but be equal will give you better footing. When a subject respects you, you’ll get a much better interview.
LR: Do you have any anecdotes from your first interviews?
SS: When I was a cub entertainment reporter, I learned some lessons the hard way; usually, on the job. A grumpy actor, an over-the-top diva actress, a crazy agent, beyond-late celebrities. You can’t take it personally and respond with grace is a good way to counteract bizarre situations. Sometimes, Hollywood can be bizarre. Your number one job is to get solid, interesting, and unique information to elevate your show or publication.
Women Empowerment and More…
LR: Concerning “Women Empowerment”, at what point in your life did you learn to embrace your uniqueness, and what makes you feel empowered?
SS: I think I’ve always had a streak of individuality, but uniqueness in fashion (for me) came with time and accepting my quirks. I used to feel self-conscious being from the desert (New Mexico) but now, I realize it’s who I am and one of the reasons my “look” has so much bohemian flair. Being in touch with your true self is very empowering and so is a great pair of cowboy boots!
LR: On your blog you also write about your human vulnerabilities, allowing you to connect with a lot of women out there, not only because of your style but also because of your openness. What do you do when these women write back, seeking solidarity?
SS: When I write my blog, it’s a release of emotion. With that being said, I always hope my words inspire or help someone commiserate. When women send emails or private messages about their struggles, it humbles me. Collective experiences make us stronger. We’re all better together, aren’t we?
LR: What are your thoughts on women empowering women and #womenempowerment on social media?
SS: Despite television being very competitive, especially amongst women, I’ve always believed there’s enough room to work symbiotically. Supporting one another is important for all of us to succeed and I feel the same about social media. I love to see other women succeeding, doing their thing, making the most of their talents — it actually inspires me.
Her Fashion Evolution and Icons!
LR: How important is female friendship to you?
SS: There’s nothing like a great friendship. It’s the glue to good mental health. Supportive, happy, healthy friends can make all the difference in life. I’m lucky enough to have two best friends, we’ve known each other for decades and it’s such a blessing.
LR: What advice do you have for women who are struggling with their confidence these days?
SS: We live in a crazy world where a lot is coming at us, constantly. Whether it’s on television, streaming, or social media–it can be overwhelming. Sometimes, I detox from it all by reading, listening to music, writing, and exercising. Focusing on my mental and physical health gives me confidence.
LR: Returning to fashion, change is constant in both the fashion world and life. When you look back in time, what do you think about your past appearances? Where did your transformation begin?
SS: Oh, boy! Don’t even get me started on some of my old television hair-dos and outfits. Some were tragic. Thank goodness, times have changed, and I’ve changed with them. I think my real transformation came when I better understood myself as a person and what I wanted to project. I dress with class, sophistication, and comfort in mind. That doesn’t mean stuffy, it means timeless (with a hint of individuality).
LR: How has your approach to beauty and fashion evolved? And what has been the secret to making each trend your own?
SS: I gravitate toward effortless dresses, unusual accessories, and a great pair of shoes. I love adding elements of whimsy to my ensembles. The secret to any trend, for me, is knowing which ones to embrace and which ones to run away from.
LR: You are a source of fashion inspiration for many women and aspiring fashionistas. What has inspired you over the years? Who are your icons?
SS: As a journalist, the world around me always inspires. Especially, traveling and meeting new people, telling stories. When it comes to icons: Gloria Steinem, Fran Lebowitz, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and Coco Chanel.
Shireen Sandoval and Our ‘Fashionmografo’
LR: This is our favorite part. It was born on our YouTube Channel MFSTV, we call it the “Fashionmografo”, and it’s a mini-fast Q&A that is a little gossiper. I’ll ask 10 questions that you should answer with the first word that comes to your mind.
LR: How do you celebrate your achievements?
SS: Pink champagne! New shoes! Flowers!
LR: Book that you have read many times and will read it again?
SS: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.
LR: Someone who has been a great inspiration in your life?
SS: Diane Sawyer, Mary Hart, Dr. Lee Scanlon (who was my first communications/writing professor), and of course, my parents.
LR: Your favorite vacation, ever?
SS: Santa Fe, New Mexico (where I’m from). It’s always good to go home.
LR: How many shoes do you have?
SS: Hmm…not enough.
LR: What do you wear on the weekends?
SS: A sundress with funky wingtips or a flowy skirt paired with a vintage top and a pair of Old Gringo cowboy boots.
LR: What is your super special handbag?
SS: Definitely, my Birkin Bag.
LR: What is your signature scent?
SS: Santa Maria Novella’s Rosa Gardenia (it’s actually a new
obsession).
LR: Do you have a favorite Miami-based designer?
SS: I adore Tammy Apostol (TA Couture), Julian Chang, and Filomena Fernandez.
LR: On your days off, are you a cosmetic lover or a wash-and-go girl?
SS: I wear A LOT of television make-up during the week so on the weekend I keep it simple with a good wash, sunscreen, undereye cover-up, and lip oil.
More information about Shireen Sandoval:
Fashion blog: ShireenSandoval.Com
“There’s nothing like a great friendship. It’s the glue to good mental health. Supportive, happy, healthy friends can make all the difference in life.”
–Shireen Sandoval
*Craving for more? We suggest:
Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023
Exclusive Interview with Athina Marturet: Goddess Power
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
Facebook.com/MiamiFashionSpotlight
Instagram.com/miamifashionspotlight
Youtube.com/miamifashionspotlighttv
#MiamiFashionSpotlight
The post Shireen Sandoval in the Spotlight appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Exclusive Interview with Viviana Gabeiras: Color Me Success! appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>Profile: Award-winning Fashion Designer. Businesswoman. Leader in Fashion Merchandiser.
MFS Magazine: Dear Viviana, how do you feel about being included in our special edition “Women Empowerment” and in our list “Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023?
Viviana Gabeiras: It is a beautiful feeling after so many years and hard work to be recognized as an empowering woman and entrepreneur; my brand and life have been all about empowering myself to be able to empower other women. I’m happy to be among such amazing women and honored to be selected.
MFS: You’re not just an excellent fashion designer with many awards and nominations under your belt (including our favorite “Best Pret-a-Porter Style Award” from MFW 2012). You are also an excellent businesswoman, who has founded “Petit Pois by Viviana G”–a successful company. How do you coordinate fashion design with the administration and leadership of your company?
VG: Organizing everything ahead of time and preventing things from happening and I always say: “You need to surf it on top, not under”, you need to see things before to control any reaction and be ready. But my greatest advantage has been having by my side my partner Rafael Gabeiras, my husband and best friend, sharing the responsibilities; and he is also super in control to keep everything organized and up to date. All my children have been with me at various times, and having their support is an amazing feeling as a mother. The fashion industry has too many details in each division, including design, production, sales, administration, and marketing. Being overwhelmed can cause you to lose control and fail, so you should always have a backup plan in place. My husband and I are both like this, and we have been very protective of our company for over 22 years.
Her Passion for Fashion
MFS: Tell us the story about your passion for fashion. What inspired you to study fashion design?
VG: My passion since I was a little girl was playing with my barbies and making their handmade clothes. My mother’s closet was full of fashion and ideas; she was an actress and worked on television, and she used to take me with her to her seamstress; she gave me my first glam experiences and awakened my desire for fashion. Though “Petit Pois by Viviana G” is not my first company, I opened my first store in Venezuela in 1977, and I later partnered with Olga Bolanos Designer from Spain; today, I still stand strong and carry the exclusivity of my brand. We are like family. My desire to know more and truly become a fashion designer brought me to the States and studied and worked hard to be accepted to “Parsons School of Design in New York” graduating in 1984 class among today’s known designers Marc Jacobs, Tracy Reese, Issac Mizrahi.
Proudly Made in USA
MFS: You proudly produce your designs in the USA and have been a promoter of “Made in USA” forever. How have you managed to produce in the USA despite the recent post-pandemic events that we have experienced in our country?
VG: From the beginning, I’ve always wanted to manufacture here. “Made in the USA” has always been and will always be my first choice. This is because it allows me to control production costs relative to quantities, quality, and the safety of my designs from being copied; believe it or not, it’s also less expensive and more in my control. Our products were and still are the only weapon I had to fight back. People frequently pause to inquire about the manufacturing of our products and find it hard to believe that we handle everything in-house. Of course, my experience and background in fashion, made it possible to do this, especially when you have no backer to help financially, or money to buy and hire as you wanted. We started in my house garage, second mortgage our house, worked two jobs, and raised my children, but never lost track. I only kept my self-focused.
MFS: One of the characteristics that identify your line is the mix of daring colors very much in the style of Betsy Johnson, and Roberto Cavalli, to name examples. What is the story behind this unique mix of prints and multicolor that characterizes you?
VG: I use prints as solids, varying the intensity of the color shade to complement another color in the print. It is essentially the same principle of mixing colors and how they complement one another. For me, searching, developing, and choosing prints first, then the excitement of figuring out how to mix and blend them is to me like going on a treasure hunt. In addition, I am a strong fashion merchandiser as well as a designer—not all designers can say that! My true DNA is the result of years of practice fusing prints and colors to create new stories, new characters, new feelings, and new powers. I need more than a color to fuel my soul and inspire myself to design and create a 200-piece collection that will entice our customers to return season after season to see my new “Story”.
Empowering Contemporary Women
MFS: You always say that your collections empower contemporary women, and they are ageless. Tell us about this philosophy of female empowerment and how have you been able to stay relevant with that philosophy over time?
VG: I create for today’s active women who value cosmopolitan treasures with a distinct sense of practicality and comfort. The brand’s lifestyle offers a simple way to achieve glamour and style with forever essentials pieces to build a unique, limitless, and useful wardrobe that does not represent age but personality, adapts for the traveling woman, and you can wear anywhere at any time. My style is a crossover attitude between urban cool and classic chic. Our fabrics selection has the nature to adapt like an empowering layer of skin, and our pieces are all interchangeable, good for layering in winter and alone in summer. When you create a Lifestyle Brand that mirrors many empowering women for inspiration, you don’t think of age, time, or season–you only imagine power, light, energy, places, role models, and confidence! I want people to say: “There go the empowering women.”
MFS: You have also been celebrated, for being a pioneer in the contemporary market with designs in mesh fabrics. Tell us about this other leadership producing in this type of fabric.
VG: I always loved soft and romantic fabrics, fragile and magical, like peering into another world. While searching, I came across this fabric that hasn’t seen much use, but the touch and feel, as well as the stretchability, make me want to experiment and use it in new ways. In contrast to the intimate apparel market, I introduced mesh to the contemporary market by giving it a makeover with prints, tie-dyes, and colors, as well as styling that was completely opposed to the original true intention of nature to use mesh. I found a niche and grew from there, staying on course and focusing on what people were saying, reacting to,and buying to guide me and overcome all odds.
MFS: What makes Viviana Gabeiras, the businesswoman and the woman, feel empowered?
VG: When I see so many women wearing my Petit Pois by Viviana G brand and see their joy and confidence, I feel empowered. When I tell women they have the power to dress to show their strength and to be unique, I increase their sense of self-worth. I am brave enough to challenge and defy social norms through my brand and myself. An empowered woman is relentless, honest, and has integrity; she does not talk, but acts; her priorities are out of the ordinary; and she is a female hustler in a good way! And this is precisely who I am!
More information about Viviana Gabeiras, please visit: Mypetitpois.com
“When you create a Lifestyle Brand that mirrors many empowering women for inspiration, you don’t think of age, time, or season–you only imagine power, light, energy, places, role models, and confidence!”
–Viviana Gabeiras.
*Craving for more?
We suggest:
Exclusive Interview with Athina Marturet: Goddess Power
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Exclusive Interview with Elysze Held: One-Of-A-Kind Fashion Expert
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
Facebook.com/MiamiFashionSpotlight
Instagram.com/miamifashionspotlight
Youtube.com/miamifashionspotlighttv
#MiamiFashionSpotlight
The post Exclusive Interview with Viviana Gabeiras: Color Me Success! appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Exclusive Interview with Charlene Parsons: Legendary Lady appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>Profile: Fashion Director at Ai. Lead Educator at International Fine Arts College (Miami International University of Art & Design).
MFS Magazine: Mrs. Parsons, It’s a pleasure to have you among our “Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023.” You have established yourself as one of Florida’s top fashion educators, and many of your students can attest to the quality of your fashion lessons. What is the most valuable message you’ve learned in your 45 years of teaching at Miami International University of Art and Design? What stands out most to you?
Charlene Parsons: It is my pleasure and honor to be part of your publication and to be chosen as one of the “Top Real Women in Fashion & Business” I have had the pleasure to teach students from over 52 countries who have come to Miami to study. Meeting these students and their families and watching them accomplish their dreams was so rewarding. They came to Miami and fell in love with fashion. To see them on the first day and to be a part of their life is something I will not forget as I looked into their eyes as they entered into the international fashion industry. I felt such pride and still do today when I hear from them or run into them as I do constantly. I did learn from them as I hope they did from me to never say “no” or to give up on that career that you really want.
MFS: Complementing your outstanding teaching abilities, many of your students have become well-known designers, including Rene Ruiz, Julian Chang, Victoria Lopez Castro, and Danny Santiago, among others. How do you feel about that?
Mrs. Parsons: I am so proud of the international graduates. So many fell in love with Miami and stayed here to start their businesses and yet so many took their experience and knowledge home to share. It is such a wonderful pleasure to hear from them and to watch them now run the fashion industry.
Challenges, Trends in Fashion and More…
MFS: What do you tell your students when they feel discouraged and how did you overcome this challenge?
Mrs. Parsons: Listening, caring, giving encouragement, and (yes) giving tough love all went together and never accepting the I feel sorry for myself, or I can’t do this. They would have to rip it out and start over until it was perfect. They had the most professional faculty and learned from the best.
MFS: You specifically teach Fashion Merchandising and Trends in Fashion. And as a fashion magazine, we gain fashion insights from your lessons. It is unavoidable to inquire about the trends of 2023; how can we predict the trends and direction of fashion?
Mrs. Parsons: Fashion is in everything we do today. We are influenced from the major capitols of the world, from the streets, from the youth in how they put themselves together, from the arts, from music, and from the sports industry so being totally aware leads to a great trends predictor. Miami is such a big player in the fashion industry, so we have so many influences that set trends for the future. We are so lucky to live in one of the top cities internationally!
Beginnings, Motivations and Empowerment
MFS: We also discovered that you started your career in the Burdines Fashion Office and were a successful model. What was it like to be a model and how have you evolved since then?
Mrs. Parsons: Yes, I started my career at Burdines, and guess I can say have not stopped. I was so lucky that Edward and Ana Lee Porter invited me to join them at International Fine Arts College and they believed in me and in their students. We traveled and the students competed in contest worldwide. We represented the USA for 24 years in Paris with our students winning the best of the world. What a dream! We most recently was chosen as one of the top 7 design schools in the USA. I am so proud, but all of this brought the international recognition that was needed for students. It was also my industry professional friends that helped me and gave our students their first chance.
MFS: The fashion industry has begun to embrace diversity. What are your thoughts on inclusion?
Mrs. Parsons: I feel Miami has been one of the first to embrace diversity. IFAC was always open and encouraged the students to think past a narrow mind. Fashion is so global and so ready for change just take a look at South Beach. I think fashion will continue to grow in many ways and open the doors for change (why not).
MFS: For many years, your primary motivation has been fashion diaspora. Now that you are retired, what motivates you?
Mrs. Parsons: I still miss the early days and the excitement of putting the shows together, fitting the models, doing the music, looking at the pictures the next day, and then getting ready for the next contest, TV show, and the new students ready to start their careers. I don’t feel retired, I talk to my friends almost every day (Oscar Lopez and Nestor Camacho) to keep up with the industry. Since The Fashion Group Int. has been part of my life for so long, I still volunteer when needed.
MFS: On Women Empowerment, what moments did Charlene Parsons feel more empowered throughout her impressive career?
Mrs. Parsons: My fashion career has been so rewarding I could not have asked for more or I would never have met so many wonderful professionals many that are in this special edition.
“Miami is such a big player in the fashion industry, so we have so many influences that set trends for the future.”
— Charlene Parsons.
*Craving for more? We suggest:
Exclusive Interview with Athina Marturet: Goddess Power
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Exclusive Interview with Elysze Held: One-Of-A-Kind Fashion Expert
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]]>Profile: Premier Fashion business Expert & Consultant. International Model. Founder of the Original Miami Fashion Week.
MFS: It’s a pleasure to have you back on our new list of “Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023.” Do you recall appearing on our initial list of the “Top Real Women in Fashion in 2012”? We’ve seen how far you’ve come and how influential you are in global fashion. How has your approach to fashion and style evolved since 2012?
Beth Sobol: To be honored by my home fashion community and named one of the original honorees of Miami Fashion Spotlight’s “Top Real Women in Fashion” award was a true highlight of my career. Since the 2012 award, I stay at the forefront of change and innovation within the fashion industry through my company Global Fashion Business Alliance. I concentrate on the educational and business needs of emerging brands. It is through education and business development that a brand is truly able to grow into a viable business.
MFS: You are the founder of the original Miami Fashion Week, one of the top fashion weeks in the world. What inspired this amazing idea and how has your life changed because of this accomplishment.?
BS: In 1997 I produced the DILA, a two-day fashion event for live television in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The organizers of this event brought 21 designers from 12 Latin American countries to participate in this event. After 15 days of working together, they all wanted to come back to Miami, but no one knew how. Two years later the former owner of the Miami International Merchandise Mart asked me to create an event that would increase the fashion image of the Mart. It was the perfect opportunity to create a new event that would promote both the Mart and the Latin American designers I had previously worked with to launch the first annual Miami Fashion Week in 1999. Through the years of initial development and on to creating the full annual productions, I ran Miami Fashion Week for 20 years, creating the brand and platform that launched the world’s top emerging designers into the American market. After so many successful years, I sold the brand in 2015 to a group of European investors.
Developing MFW and Her Modeling Career
MFS: What have you learned from collaborating with so many different designers and how do you feel when you see most of them succeed in their fields?
BS: When I first started meeting the young and talented brands around the world, it didn’t take long to discover that they were struggling on the business side of their operations. This became a focus in further developing Miami Fashion Week as I started to include fashion business and educational seminars within the events programming. This was allowing the local, national, and international brands in attendance to learn about business and operational needs that their companies were missing. Seeing young brands grow and succeed in business has been a great personal pleasure of mine as through their experience at Miami Fashion Week and the connections they made, was how the designers were able to sustain and build their brands into successful businesses.
MFS: When we interviewed Spanish designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada in 2014, she told us that you were a model in her runway show “Agatha for President” 25 years ago. We later discovered that you had been a model for over 20 years in 40 countries. What did you find most and least secure about working as a model?
BS: I started my career in fashion as a runway model. I worked locally in South Florida for a couple of years and was then discovered by two Parisian fashion designers in the same week! Guy Laroche and Paul Louis Orrier were both doing fashion shows with Saks Fifth Avenue, and I was one of their models. One show was in Miami and the other was in Palm Beach and both designers approached me after their show and asked if I would come to Paris and do their press shows. A month later I was on a plane, and this was the start of a very successful 20-year modeling career. My entire career as a well-known, working international fashion model was incredibly positive and I never had any negative experiences along the way. I also treated my career as a “business” because that is exactly what it was! Modeling was the way I earned my living. After 25 years and inviting Agatha Ruiz de la Prada to be my special guest designer at Miami Fashion Week, it was with great pleasure that I showed her a 1984 photo of me modeling in her press show in Madrid. With shock and excitement, Agatha threw her arms around me and started reminiscing as she then remembered everything about me being in her show. It was great fun for us both!
Iconic Dresses, Evolution of Fashion & More…
MFS: We still remember the five iconic dresses designed by Samy Gicherman for you at MFW 2014. We even wrote a piece about them. How did you handle the red carpet during that hectic week & what was your most memorable look?
BS: Samy Gicherman is my personal go-to designer when I need something special. Generally, I will come up with the over-all style and color and Samy will fine tune a custom gown or outfit just for me. Since Miami Fashion Week is a five-day event, I had a specific gown designed for each evening. The first show started at 5:00 PM and as the host of all shows, I would begin the evening in a short dress, and then change before the 7:00 PM show into a custom gown. I love all of my gowns that Samy has made for me, but my all-time favorite is the fuchsia one-shoulder gown that I wore on opening night of 2014 and my hairstyle was a high ponytail. Everyone called it my “Barbie Dress”!
MFS: How would you describe style these days and where do you see fashion evolving in a few years?
BS: As someone who’s life and career has been centered around fashion, the evolution of fashion will always be one of the most creative sectors to follow. In a post-pandemic world, I do see current fashion for the most part being more relaxed and casual, as our world has become the same as far as dressing goes. I do feel that as time progresses and the world, in general, becomes more stabilized in all respects, fashion will somewhat return to a more elaborate state. In the end, people like to dress for occasions so for all of us that do, we look forward to the opportunity to buy and wear designer clothing again.
Women Empowerment and Her Mentoring Program
MFS: What is your genuine opinion on women’s empowerment?
BS: My honest opinion on today’s women’s empowerment is that we, as a generation of women have never been more empowered in all that we do. In business, in education, in opportunities across the board Women are being heard and respected more than ever!
MFS: What makes Beth Sobol feel empowered?
BS: Power is not something that you are given, it is something that you take! My personal character is that of being in charge of all that I do. I have been an entrepreneur all of my life and nothing ever happen unless I made it happen! Currently, I am developing new fashion projects for the local South Florida market as well as developing a new branded merchandising line for an exciting company in Central Florida.
MFS: We also discovered your mentoring program for young women at YoungatArt and the various fashion charities you organize. How do you feel about empowering the young generation of women through what they do?
BS: Mentoring young women is my true passion! I really enjoy any opportunity to engage with young fashion designers. Whether it’s university student studying business, merchandising, and design or through national and local organizations that support girls and young women, my goal is to help inspire their creative desires. Caring and guidance go a long way in the development years of a young person. With all that I have learned over the years, it is a pleasure to share my experiences to help these young girls and women to understand that it is okay to go for your dreams!
More information about Beth Sobol, please visit: Globalfashionbusinessalliance.com
“We, as a generation of women have never been more empowered in all that we do. In business, in education, in opportunities across the board WOMEN are being heard and respected more than ever!”
–Beth Sobol
*Craving for more? We suggest:
Exclusive Interview with Athina Marturet: Goddess Power
Exclusive Interview with Charlene Parsons: Legendary Lady
Exclusive Interview with Elysze Held: One-Of-A-Kind Fashion Expert
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
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Instagram.com/miamifashionspotlight
Youtube.com/miamifashionspotlighttv
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]]>Profile: Three-time Emmy Award Winner. News Anchor. Actress. TV Realtor. Entrepreneur. TV Real Estate Agent. Director & Radio Host
MFS Magazine: We remember when you were chosen in the “Top Real Women in Fashion 2012” list. Tell us how you feel about being on our “Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023” list and what you remember most about the 2012 awards.
Natalia Cruz: I feel very honored and grateful to MFS for this recognition. As a communicator, I can not only make an impact as a journalist but also inspire others through fashion, which defines me and is an extension of my personality and style. I remember being named one of the “Top Real Women in Fashion” in 2012. Seeing strong, beautiful, intelligent, and influential women was a huge inspiration for me to continue growing in all aspects of my life and to understand that we never stop learning and undertaking new challenges.
MFS: From 2012 to today, ten years have passed and as we know everything evolves. How do you think your style has evolved in the last decade?
NC: Without a doubt, my style and personality have evolved over the last decade. I believe that over time, simplicity with elegance while also feeling comfortable is very important. I have found endless pleasure in pants in all their styles, including capri, wide-leg, straight, high-waisted, and so-called “jumpsuits.” I also consider jeans to be the best invention, and I love combining them with elegant blouses and blazers in vibrant colors. My favorites are the white and nude-colored pieces. Similarly, good accessories make a big difference and can take us from casual to formal in an instant.
Supporting Local Talent and Her Passion for Fashion
MFS: How do you choose the designers who dress you for those glamorous red-carpet appearances on TV and social media? Do you support local talent?
NC: My designers are generally creative, they know me well, and they get it right. I look for someone innovative with classic flashes, who is skilled with colors, combinations, and fabrics, and who knows how to build. For me, the quality of the materials used in the design is essential to attain a clean, fine, and overwhelming appearance. I adore designers like: Viviana Gabeiras, Tammy Apóstol, and Silvia Tcherassi, among others. Fortunately, there are great exponents of Hispanic talent in the world of fashion.
MFS: You’ve had a celebrated career as a journalist and news anchor on shows like “Primer Impacto,” and on Telemundo 47 and MegaTV. How do you combine your passion for fashion with your successful career? What are the criteria when choosing your outfits for each program where you are a presenter?
NC: For presentations and in everyday life, I try to dress according to the occasion and always remember the motto: “Less is More”. Typically, I prefer vibrant, solid colors for television. Personally, I am drawn to raw colors and, on occasion, pastels. Prints fascinate me, particularly in the spring and summer.
Her Passion for Acting, Entrepreneurship and Women Empowerment
MFS: In 2016 you appeared as a guest actress in the series “Between Heaven and Earth” and at the end of 2019, you decided to pursue a full-time career in acting. Hence the short film “Perfect Mom” and the film “Melt on this”. Tell us a little about your passion for acting.
NC: As a child, I dreamed of being an actress. My mother used to read me children’s stories in a dramatic manner from a young age, and I remember being captivated by them. Later in school, I was always in plays and recited poetry in addition to writing it. When I was ten years old, I discovered Shakespeare’s works, which inspired not only a love of literature but also a passion for dramaturgy. I studied Social Communication and Journalism at my mother’s suggestion, and the career snatched me away from my acting dreams for many years until I recently decided to give that desire free rein, and I’ve been able to participate in several films. And let me tell you that I’m currently filming a series that will hopefully be available on a major streaming service soon.
MFS: You have proven to be an excellent entrepreneur, through businesses and partnerships that we have seen you carry out successfully, such as the real estate TV show “Esta es tu Casa”—and now you have a podcast called “Good Morning, Doral” where you work as director and host. How do you manage your time to coordinate so many commitments and at the same time develop the most important role of every woman, such as being a mother of 4 children?
NC: I enjoy both my job and I love being a mother, so the time required by both roles is not a sacrifice for me. I actually enjoy them. My children are the lifeblood of my existence. I am currently the host and director of “Good Morning Doral,” a responsibility entrusted to me by the founders and directors of the “Doral Voice” station, Juan Carlos Esquivel and his wife, Nancy, whom I adore, respect, and admire very much. I present the program daily with Sergio Silva, my partner, and friend.
MFS: This edition is dedicated to female empowerment, we would like to ask you what makes Natalia Cruz, the woman, mother, and entrepreneur, feel empowered?
NC: I feel empowered knowing that I was able to bring my children forward in the midst of joy, sadness, challenges, and trials. Having them by my side, receiving their love on a daily basis, and seeing how special they make me feel like the effort was worthwhile. Personally, and professionally, I also feel empowered because when ideas come to me, I strive to be diligent in materializing them, even if some are still in the works. That is what life is all about: not stopping until you achieve the goals and purposes that God has for everyone. You must build every day, be grateful to celebrate your blessings, and accept life’s lessons with confidence and security.
MFS: And how has Natalia Cruz helped other women feel empowered?
NC: Through the media, I have been blessed to reach many places and people with a message of hope and inspiration. From my social reports and community service to the day-to-day on the radio, microphones bring testimonies of life that inspire other women to love and accept themselves, to start their businesses, to not give up, and to keep fighting for their dreams. Each of us is a mirror in which many people can be reflected; everything we do must be done with love and responsibility because we never know when our example will change someone else’s life.
More information about Natalia Cruz: IG @nataliacruznews
“Each of us is a mirror in which many people can be reflected; everything we do must be done with love and responsibility because we never know when our example will change someone else’s life.”
–Natalia Cruz
*Craving for more? We suggest:
Exclusive Interview with Athina Marturet: Goddess Power
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Exclusive Interview with Charlene Parsons: Legendary Lady
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
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]]>Profile: Born in Berlin, and raised in Egypt, Peru, and Venezuela, Actress, Fashion Icon, Model, Entrepreneur, and Ambassador of Miami Symphony Orchestra
MFS Magazine: We are happy to have you in our “Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023”. We recall that you were named one of the “Top Real Women in Fashion 2012.” How do you feel about being on this special list again?
Athina Marturet: I feel lucky, grateful, and excited. Since 2012, we have made significant progress in female empowerment; many women are waking up and working to feel freer. Listening to that inner voice that comes from the depths, we act with purpose and perseverance to make our essence shine. Exercising our right to be full community members makes us feel powerful. And when empowered women join this beautiful community, they can achieve the impossible.
MFS: When we receive recognition, new doors open, and a strong commitment is formed. Has being named one of the “Top Real Women in Fashion 2012” changed your life? What changes do you believe the new recognition (“Top Real Women in Fashion & Business 2022-2023”) will bring you?
AM: In 2012, doors opened, and I felt even more committed; this inspired me to give even more of myself. It was a push that motivated me to work on the “real” thing in me, my essence! It began a new cycle in my life as a woman and entrepreneur. Many things changed, including my work with the Miami Symphony, my achievements as an actress, and the intensification of my modeling jobs, giving me extra empowerment. I now trust my inner voice and know how to do things better. And receiving this new recognition makes me feel like the positivity and effort I’ve been exuding since then is finally being recognized.
Her Style Evolution
MFS: You have become a fashion icon, appearing on many magazine covers. How do you think your style has evolved in recent years?
AM: My style reflects who I am and what I have become. I enjoy fashion, but it must complement my style and philosophy. The materials and colors must be true to who I am. Otherwise, I don’t feel comfortable. And this has nothing to do with brands; it’s just how I feel about them because, for me, less is more.
MFS: You are a great ambassador for the ‘Miami Symphony,’ a job that allows you to express yourself through the designs you wear. What are your criteria when selecting outfits for each presentation?
AM: I feel happy to meet incredible designers and many friends from the fashion industry who want to dress me. I enjoy expressing my ideas for each event and seeing how they come to fruition. I am very “Miami Chic”–is a term used in Miami to describe dressing “fashionably” but in a way that allows for everything. In fact, in the Miami Symphony, we created an event called “MISO Chic.” I am meaning that my style and mood must understand my outfits–sometimes I feel like a Goddess, other times I seek more comfort, but always chic.
Muse of Many Designers, Red Carpets and Empowerment
MFS: You have been the muse of many designers, walking red carpets, wearing designs by Carolina Herrera, Nicolas Felizola, Samy Gicherman, Viviana Gabeiras, Lisu Vega, and Tammy Apostol, among others. How has your experience been with these designers?
AM: They all share a sense of elegance and extravagance and understand the modern woman. They bring concepts to fabric with such creativity–is something I admire. Venezuelan designers like Nicolas Felízola, Angel Sanchez, Oscar Carvallo, Samy Gicherman, and our own Carolina Herrera have “couture” in their blood; they are glamorous but effortless. Like Carolina Herrera with her white blouses. Silvia Tcherassi has that colorful South American style that I love. I like Lisu Vega’s wearable art, and Viviana Gabeiras’ mesh creations are one-of-a-kind. We celebrated the runway with Tammy and MFS Magazine, as well as our MISO, which was a success. I loved opening and closing the show for that sustainable collection!
MFS: We know Venezuelan designer, Gussy López, is your favorite this season. Tell us about the designer-client chemistry between the two of you.
AM: I connected with Gussy’s designs and artistic vision because she combines classic with futuristic styles, using cutting-edge fabrics. She is a professional with a lot of creativity. Thanks to that connection, it is simple for her to understand when designing a piece for me. She is yet another empowered woman!
MFS: And what makes Athina Marturet feel empowered?
AM: When I feel like myself, in my authenticity and essence. I’ve worked hard to vibrate at a high frequency that allows me to accept myself exactly as I am–treat me with love without taking me too seriously, but it is also necessary to speak to me firmly from the heart. I also feel empowered when I want something to manifest and achieve through discipline, perseverance, and focus.
More information about Athina Marturet: IG @athinaklioumi
“Many women are waking up and working to feel freer. Listening to that inner voice that comes from the depths, we act with purpose and perseverance to make our essence shine.”
–Athina Marturet
*Craving for more? We suggest:
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Exclusive Interview with Charlene Parsons: Legendary Lady
Exclusive Interview with Elysze Held: One-Of-A-Kind Fashion Expert
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
Facebook.com/MiamiFashionSpotlight | Instagram.com/miamifashionspotlight
| Youtube.com/miamifashionspotlighttv | #MiamiFashionSpotlight
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]]>The post Exclusive Interview with Elysze Held: One-of-a-kind Fashion Expert appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>Profile: Legendary Fashion Stylist & Image Consultant. Expert in Designer Appearances, Editorials & Trunk Shows. Heralded as “Miami’s Own Fashion Expert”
MFS MAGAZINE: As the founder of “Style Out of The City,” you have worked in many aspects of our fashion industry, including personal styling, image consulting, closet editing, editorials, designer appearances, trunk shows, red carpets (our favorite), and even weddings. You have also been referred to by The Ritz Carlton Hotels as the “Couture Concierge” and the “Wardrobe Curator” by renowned Interior Designers. What are you most proud of? What has stood out the most in your career?
Elysze Held: I am the epitome of the saying “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life!” In my career, I have always been hyper-focused on the job at hand, whether it be styling a fashion editorial; shopping for, and then fitting a client; building a trousseau for a bride; preparing for a celebrity press junket; pulling looks for an On-Camera television personality or producing a fashion show (NYFW). It is all in my job, using the same principle of having a Great Work Ethic. Having a solid work ethic is like having Style: you either have it or you don’t! I have “been there, done that, and I am still doing it” because of this.
MFS: You were named “Miami’s #1 Stylist” by the Miami Modern Luxury Magazine Reader’s Poll in 2016 and have amassed impressive fashion expertise in our glamorous city. Every time we see you, you are involved in very important projects with very influential people. How has your leadership in this industry evolved in the past couple of years?
EH: I am involved in our community, and have gravitated to even more philanthropic endeavors in the community: how can I help? I have donated a few gift certificates of “A Day with Stylist Elysze Held, Shopping, or re-doing your Closet,” to a few key charitable organizations’ Silent Auctions in Miami, i.e., Kristi House; Chapman; Miami City Ballet. I am on the Advisory Board of Miami Symphony Orchestra, and I am a member of Bass Museum, where I was chosen as one of the judges this year for their renowned “Night at The Museum”. I am also involved with the Selfless Love Foundation of Palm Beach, an extraordinary organization that raises funds for foster care and adoptions. Giving back moves us all forward!
MFS: Tell us about the process when a client requests a changeover or new style. How do you assist them in achieving this goal without losing yourself in the process?
EH: I am first and foremost a Style Consultant. I had never worked as a salesperson in the industry, unlike many (or all) of the stylists today—I listen to the client–what do you need? How do you see yourself? Better yet, how do you want to see yourself? I approach the client with what is best for them, not what I have to show them!
Expert Advices
MFS: Is there a memorable event that changed your perspective of style and fashion grandeur?
EH: I have thousands of stories… and actually no negative experiences, so I must be doing something right! (laughing).
MFS: You must have an incredible sense of female power to promote self-improvement among women with such great success, and so many aspiring talents look up to you for inspiration. How gratifying is it to be able to help women feel empowered and fearless by improving their style?
EH: I Love it! Changing the way, they look at themselves, and then when that happens, it changes the way they look at the world. I truly love working with private clients the best—and BTW: I have quite a few male clients also.
MFS: We love and adore every outfit you post on Instagram. Your style is flawless, and you wear everything with such confidence. What advice do you have for women who want to maintain their confidence in an industry that is so focused on appearances?
EH: Flatter Your Fabulous! That’s my advice -wear what looks best on you, not what is trendy or what the next person has. But I always stress Comfort–make sure you can BREATHE in your clothes–especially for your “Red Carpets Moments”. If you have to wear a Spanx, then that is not the right piece for you–especially if it is a custom evening. Dance! When I lecture or give a talk on fashion, people always ask: “What are the Ten Rules in Fashion To Follow.” I always respond: “Your ten rules are different from the ten rules of the person sitting next to you!” Pay attention to your own body and your level of style and comfort.
Her Passion for Wearing Black
MFS: As a style icon in South Florida, how do you translate your love of fashion on the red carpet?
EH: I love to dress well, and I much prefer to be overdressed than underdressed.
MFS: What has been your favorite fashion risk ever?
EH: I was one of “10 Miami people chosen by Miami Design District” in 2018 to participate in their Fall advertising campaign. The production company booked for it had brought pieces from the local stores. I brought My Own and wore my white feathered Ungaro Couture coat and trademark Celine oversized sunglasses with a pair of custom Silvia Tcherassi flared black pants. The shoot was in Miami Design District at literally 95 degrees, but I stayed focused and when the photographer said he wanted “move movement” I cut my pants on the sides so they would fan out—the rest is history, I was chosen as the kick-off to the campaign, and was featured in full-page advertisements in Cultured Magazine, Vogue, Modern Luxury and on billboards on I-95 and the corner of 40th in MDD!
MFS: We see you love wearing black. Tell us the story behind your passion for wearing black.
EH: I started in the theatre industry. I was a costuming student and a dresser at San Francisco Conservatory Theater–we all wore black. For me, it is a practical choice— but I will say that when I am with my dear pal Iris Apfel, I do add a bit of color, only in accessories!
MFS: What do you wear when you are not working?
EH: Black! Wearing black is just how I do it. it’s not simply a “work choice,” I like what I like, no question and, I focus on my colorful personality, lol!
Fashion Icons, Inspirations and Empowerment
MFS: You are a fashion icon for many women that will happily trade wardrove with you. Is there anyone you would trade clothes with?
EH: But remember what looks great on me is my personal style, so it might not work for anyone else!
MFS: Is there anyone in the industry who also inspires you?
EH: In my industry, Iris Apfel, Ken Downing, and Grace Coddington inspire me.
MFS: As our ‘Miami’s fashion expert,’ who has dressed CEOs, supermodels, celebrities, and socialites, what is next for “Style Out of The City “?
EH: Next? Well, again… been there… done that—and the best part? Still Doin’ it!!
MFS: This issue is about “Women Empowerment,” what makes Elysze Held feel empowered?
EH: I feel empowered when I am at my best—whether it would be with family, friends, clients, or colleagues. In this era of egos in the world, being gracious is the most empowering!
More information about Elysze Held, please visit: Styleoutofthecity.com
“Having a solid work ethic is like having Style: You either have it or you don’t!”
— Elyze Held.
*Craving for more? We suggest:
Exclusive Interview with Beth Sobol: Woman of Progress
Exclusive Interview with Charlene Parsons: Legendary Lady
Exclusive Interview with Karent Sierra: Rise & Shining!
Follow Miami Fashion Spotlight!
Facebook.com/MiamiFashionSpotlight | Instagram.com/miamifashionspotlight | Youtube.com/miamifashionspotlighttv | #MiamiFashionSpotlight
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]]>Profile: Celebrity Dentist. Host of TV Show “BELatina”. Actress in Bravo TV Series “Real Housewives of Miami” (Season 2 & 3). Philanthropist.
MFS Magazine: We are very happy about your great return to television through the program “BELatina” broadcast by Lifetime and FYI, national channels of the A&E Network. Tell us how you were chosen to host this show alongside Chef James Tahhan.
Karent Sierra: I feel very lucky and proud because the production company knew about my experience on television, and they wanted to meet me in person. When they met me, they offered me the job right away, I mean I didn’t have to do a casting; they simply wanted to confirm what they thought when they met with me.
MFS: Is it true that “BELatina” is a program that celebrates women and multicultural diversity and how do they fulfill these two important missions in each program?
KS: That’s right, in “BELatina,” we celebrate women and multicultural diversity while focusing on empowering women, teaching inspiring, and motivational stories, life challenges, finance issues, gastronomy, fashion, doing activities at home or away, learning new exercise techniques, and many other topics thus to impact and improve the lives of all women.
MFS: We still remember you on the Bravo TV series, “Real Housewives of Miami”. How could you summarize your experience of having been part of this cast that has had so many followers? Is there an anecdote that you always remember that you want to share with us?
KS: Being a part of the cast of “Real Housewives of Miami” was an experience I will never forget, and I believe it made me a happier and prouder woman. I’ve learned to disregard what others think or judge as long as we do the right thing with honesty and consistently perform well.
MFS: We have seen you collaborate with the most important TV shows in the United States, such as: “Despierta América” (Univisión), “Hoy Día” (Telemundo), “Access Holywood” and we have seen your image in many magazines, such as “Hola Magazine” and People en Español” where you have always stood out for your style when it comes to dressing. Do you consider yourself a fashion lover? What are your criteria when choosing each wardrobe?
KS: Since I was little, I’ve had a love of fashion. I believe that the most important thing for me is to wear what makes me feel good, happy, beautiful, and confident, rather than what is trendy.
Supporting Local Talent
MFS: We know that you like to support local talent and we remember that in the Bravo TV series on several occasions you were dressed by the local designer, Viviana Gabeiras, who is dressing you for this editorial. Do you have any special connection with the designer or her pieces?
KS: Viviana Gabeiras is an amazing designer, and I love how her dresses kind of hug you and keep you warm while also being extremely comfortable. It’s so refreshing and pleasing.
MFS: You are also a celebrated dentist specializing in cosmetic dentistry from “LVI Global International Las Vegas Institution”. The press calls you the “Celebrity Dentist”. How do you coordinate both activities: Recordings of “BELatina” and the administration of your clinic “Sierra Dentistry & MedSpa”?
KS: I’ve always wanted to strike a balance between my two careers. I normally work as a dentist from Monday to Wednesday, attending to my patients, and I spend Thursdays and Fridays recording for television or traveling for work—I have the flexibility to change my schedules because I own my clinic.
MFS: What makes Karent Sierra feel empowered? And through what activity do you help other women to feel empowered?
KS: I attribute my sense of empowerment to my mother, who always encouraged me to work hard, study, and achieve my goals. And, thanks to the opportunity of hosting the show “BELatina,” which is a great platform, I can help many women improve their lives with segments that motivate and inspire them to grow in all aspects. Also with my foundation, I’ve been able to help many women, not only with their smiles but also by spending time with them and assisting them in overcoming their fears so that they, too, can get ahead.
MFS: We would like to talk about your non-profit foundation, “Sharing Smiles”. How you have made your dream of bringing dentistry to communities in need around the world possible.?
KS: My “Sharing Smiles” foundation was established in 2009. And it has allowed us to travel to various parts of the world, including India (twice), Kenya (twice), Colombia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic. When we visit these countries, we not only provide free dentistry, but we also help build water wells, and schools and provide clothing and food. We also have volunteers with medical experience who can assist with antibiotics and minor surgeries. It makes me happy to see so many children with such joy on their faces. It warms my heart to be able to offer “my grain of sand” to all those who require it.
More information about IG: @karentsierra
” I attribute my sense of empowerment to my mother, who always encouraged me to work hard, study, and achieve my goals.”
–Karent Sierra
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The post Interview: Celebrity Dentist Karent Sierra: Rise and Shining appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Influential Women | 5 Questions with Yulia Kapranova, Mrs. Universe USA appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>MFS Magazine: Tell us about your experience at Mrs. Universe.
Yulia Kapranova: Mrs. Universe contest was organized in Yeosu, South Korea and I was so proud to hold the title of Mrs. Universe USA among 100 participants from around the World. I am extremely grateful to innovative designers like Tammy Apostol, who created a handmade evening gown for my final day, among other looks, and “Isabel Original”, who made my national costume for Lady of Liberty.
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Mujeres Influyentes | 5 Preguntas con Yulia Kapranova, Mrs. Universe USA
MFS Magazine: Cuéntanos sobre tu experiencia en el Mrs. Universe.
Yulia Kapranova: El “Mrs. Universe” se organizó en Yeosu, Corea del Sur. Estuve muy orgullosa de representar el título de “Mrs. Universe USA” dentro de las 100 participantes de todo el mundo. Estoy agradecida con la diseñadora Tammy Apostol, quien creó el vestido de noche para mi último día, entre otros; e ‘Isabel Original’, quien hizo mi traje nacional “Lady of Liberty”.
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MFS: Tell us about your book “Longevity & Belly Dance”.
YK: Is a 30-day guide to culture, costume, and confidence-designed to show you how to harness the power of your body to burn fat, increase flexibility, and tone muscle. This no-impact physical exercise can dramatically transform your body through breath control, relaxation, meditation, diet, and positive thinking. It’s an evergreen book with the power to transform readers through inspired energy and represents a healthy lifestyle program.
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MFS: Háblanos de tu libro “Longevity & Belly Dance.”
YK: Es una guía de 30 días sobre cultura, vestimenta y autoestima, diseñada para aprovechar el poder del cuerpo para quemar grasa, aumentar flexibilidad y tonificar los músculos. Este ejercicio físico sin impacto puede transformar drásticamente el cuerpo a través del control de la respiración, relajación, meditación, la dieta y el pensamiento positivo.
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MFS: Let’s talk about your anti-aging system.
YK: We can enhance our biological age with a balanced diet, regular exercise, sleep, and stress reduction, but we cannot manage our chronological age. The most important aspect of healthy longevity is to develop a long-lasting lifestyle and change behaviors to avoid disease. Regular dancing and yoga practice can help reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and stress levels.
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MFS: Hablemos de tu sistema anti envejecimiento.
YK: Podemos mejorar nuestra edad biológica con una dieta balanceada, ejercicio regular, sueño y reducción del estrés, pero no podemos controlar nuestra edad cronológica. Lo más importante de una longevidad saludable es desarrollar un estilo de vida sano, cambiando los comportamientos para evitar enfermedades. La práctica regular de baile y yoga puede ayudar a reducir el riesgo de enfermedades cardiovasculares, presión arterial alta y niveles de estrés.
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MFS: What makes you feel empowered?
YK: I am always inspired and empowered by new levels of opportunity that make a difference in people’s lives and improve their future vision.
MFS: What do you do to empower other women?
YK: God created women as flowers to decorate the Universe, bringing with them love and happiness. Every woman wants to enjoy a world of light, which is why I’m assisting every woman on my path to awaken and realize the beauty and perfection of their soul. Two of my books are devoted to helping them improve their health and self-esteem. “Listen to your Heart,” I constantly say in my conferences. “The heart will whisper the purpose of your destiny.”
More information about Yulia Kapranova
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MFS: ¿Qué te hace sentir empoderada?
YK: Siempre estoy inspirada y empoderada por nuevas oportunidades que marquen la diferencia en la vida de otras personas y su visión futura.
MFS: ¿Qué haces para empoderar a otras mujeres?
YK: Toda mujer quiere disfrutar de un mundo de luz, por eso las ayudo a despertar y darse cuenta de la belleza y perfección de su alma. Dos de mis libros están dedicados a mejorar su salud y autoestima. “Escucha tu corazón”, digo siempre en mis conferencias. “El corazón susurrará el propósito de tu destino.”
Más información sobre Yulia Kapranova
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The post Influential Women | 5 Questions with Yulia Kapranova, Mrs. Universe USA appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post 5 Questions with Jenna Levine | Journey Through a Hair Color appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>Jenna Levine: Hair is a fundamental part of our personality. It symbolizes strength, experience, feminism, and even freedom. That is why we must consider the color tone that suits each person.
MFS: How do we choose the perfect color?
JL: It can be guided by the color of the eyes, the color of the skin, and some facial features. Warm tones, such as burgundy or cherry red, suit brown skin best because they create a contrast with the skin. As you are getting older, I recommend wearing lighter tones. Pastel tones soften expression lines, so a platinum blonde with soft ash roots will look younger. Radiant “Melenas” with highlights that shine when the sun hits them also helps to reduce age. And if we combine it with a layered “Bob” cut, the effect is stronger.
MFS: What are the techniques you use to color these tones?
JL: I use the “balayage” technique, which consists of degrading the color of the hair with a lighter tone from the mid-ends downwards–unlike the “Californian” highlights that they try to give a softer and more natural result. The other technique is known as “Tiger Eye”, it highlights and imitates brown and gold tones–inspired by the semi-precious stone. Its main objective is to provide more light to the face.
MFS: What will be the hair color trends for 2023?
JL: It will be an evolution combining the “balayage” technique and the “babylights” technique to achieve a highly integrated color with almost undetectable highlights. The “lowlights,” which are very subtle highlights that create a multidimensional effect, will also claw back. And finally, the “money piece” may dethrone the “balayage”; those highlights applied to the front of the face, using one or two lighter tones, achieving a tremendous illuminating effect.
MFS: What could you recommend for color maintenance?
JL: I recommend natural products and avoid daily washing without letting many days go by between each washing, avoiding hot water, and trimming the ends of the hair every 6 weeks—in addition to maintaining a balanced diet.
More information about Jenna Levine: IG: @headmastersalon
5 Preguntas con Jenna Levine | Viaje a través del Color Capilar
MFS Magazine: ¿Por qué es tan importante el color del cabello?
Jenna Levine: Porque el cabello forma parte fundamental de nuestra personalidad; es símbolo de fortaleza, experiencia, feminismo, hasta libertad. Por eso debemos tomar en consideración el tono de color que favorezca a cada persona.
MFS: ¿Y cómo elegimos el color perfecto?
JL: Nos podemos guiar por el color de los ojos y de la piel y algunos rasgos del rostro. Por ejemplo, si la piel es morena, favorecen los tonos cálidos, como el rojo borgoña o cerezo, porque crea un contraste. Cuando se está entrando en edad, recomiendo llevar tonos más claros. Tonos pasteles suavizan las líneas de expresión, o sea un rubio platinado con suaves raíces cenizas, restaran edad. Melenas radiantes con destellos cuando les da el sol también restan edad. Si lo combinamos con un corte “Bob” tendrá mayor efecto.
MFS: ¿Cuáles técnicas usas para la coloración de estos tonos?
JL: Uso la técnica “Balayage”, que consiste en degradar el color del cabello con un tono más claro desde las medias puntas hacia abajo–a diferencia de las mechas “californianas” que buscan un resultado suave y natural. Otra técnica es el “Ojo de tigre”, una tendencia capilar que imita tonos marrones y dorados. Está inspirada en la piedra semipreciosa con este nombre. El objetivo es aportar más luz al rostro.
MFS: ¿Cuáles serán las tendencias en color para el 2023?
JL: Vendrá una evolución combinando las técnicas “balayage” y “babylights” para conseguir un color más integrado, obteniendo mechas casi indetectables. También vendrán los “lowlights”, un tipo de mecha muy sutil que consigue un efecto multidimensional. Y lo que podría destronar al “balayage”–el “money piece”; son mechas que se aplican en la parte delantera de la cara, utilizando uno o dos tonos más claros, logrando un gran efecto iluminador.
MFS: ¿Qué recomiendas para el mantenimiento del color?
JL: Recomiendo usar productos naturales, evitando el lavado a diario, sin excederse en dias entre cada aseo, evitar el agua caliente y cortar las puntas cada 6 semanas, aunado a una alimentación balanceada.
Más información sobre Jenna Levine: IG @headmastersalon
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The post 5 Questions with Jenna Levine | Journey Through a Hair Color appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Voice Spotlight: Jasmine Anwuli Michaels appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>Jasmine Anwuli Michaels began her career in music playing piano at age 5, before joining the choir in middle school. She has always been passionate about music’s ability to express complex emotions and help listeners to feel more connected with themselves.
As a student in Miami, Jasmine sang frequently for Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Senior Highschool and was invited to sing at several public events in Sunny Isles Beach. As she depends in her spiritual practice, drawing from her Indian and Nigerian heritage, she began to incorporate mantras and traditional sounds into her style. In 2017, she released a Neo Sol EP titled “Sol Supreme” under the name Jasmine Moksha.
Jasmine’s style as a vocalist has been inspired by a vast range of genres, from classical to ambient, Bossa Nova, and R&B. Today, she brings the creativity and flow of music into her daily life, practicing spiritual entrepreneurship as Director of Fundraising and Public Relations at the Nascent Group.
Jasmine is currently earning her Doctorate in Women’s Spirituality at the California Institute for Integral Studies in San Francisco.
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Voz en el Spotlight: Jasmine Anwuli Michaels
Jasmine Anwuli Michaels comenzó su carrera musical tocando el piano a los 5 años, antes de unirse al coro en la escuela secundaria. Siempre le ha apasionado la capacidad de la música para expresar emociones complejas y ayudar a los oyentes a sentirse más conectados consigo mismos.
Como estudiante en Miami, Jasmine cantó con frecuencia para “Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Senior Highschool” y fue invitada a cantar en varios eventos públicos en Sunny Isles Beach. Como dependiente de su práctica espiritual y basándose en su herencia india y nigeriana, comenzó a incorporar mantras y sonidos tradicionales en su estilo. En el 2017, lanzó un “Neo Sol EP” titulado “Sol Supreme” bajo el nombre de Jasmine Moksha.
El estilo de Jasmine como vocalista se ha inspirado en una amplia gama de géneros, desde música clásica hasta ambiental, bossa nova y R&B. Hoy, trae la creatividad y el flujo de la música a su vida diaria, practicando el espíritu empresarial como directora de Recaudación de Fondos y Relaciones Públicas en Nascent Group.
Jasmine actualmente está obteniendo su doctorado en Espiritualidad de la Mujer en el Instituto de Estudios Integrales de California en San Francisco.
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The post Voice Spotlight: Jasmine Anwuli Michaels appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Q and A| Meet Elizabeth Marcano | The Woman Behind Gorgeous Hair in Miami appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>MFS Magazine: Tell us about your beginnings; how did you feel attracted to hair extensions?
EM: My mother has always been an inspiration to me. I recall her getting ready in front of the mirror while telling me that women should love themselves. I have always wanted to work with hair since I was a kid playing with my barbies. However, in my case, it was due to their long, fascinating hair. My desire to comb through their hair and make various transformations sparked my interest in hair extensions.
MFS: When did you realize that specializing in hair extensions was your passion?
EM: When I discovered a market for women who were dissatisfied with their hair or wanted to change their appearance significantly. I consider that my passion because it makes me happy to see my clients’ satisfied faces after I finish working for them. I am assisting them with something as crucial as enhancing their physical appearance. Every transformation that occurs in my salon significantly boosts the client’s self-esteem. And it makes me happy when they return because they liked my work! (Laughter).
Queen of Hair Extensions!
MFS: How do you win your client’s trust while ensuring that the outcome will be what they want?
EM: The only way to provide them with security is to provide quality. After a thorough search of many hair brands, I launched my hair line, “Gorgeous Eli Extensions,” in which I exclusively use luxury Russian hair, which is 100 percent human hair of the most exceptional quality—the best on the market (including Europe). In addition, I regularly donate a portion of the proceeds from this line to organizations that assist childhood cancer survivors.
MFS: Since when did people start calling you “The Queen of Hair Extensions”?
EM: As soon as I introduced my line of extensions to the market. It made me laugh because I don’t consider myself a queen, and my vision has always been entrepreneurial, but I realized it was a compliment. I recognized it was a commitment to my work, motivating me to continue pursuing excellence in this ongoing technical preparation to apply hair extensions that come to market annually. [/one_half] [one_half_last padding=”0 0px 0 10px”]
Conoce a Elizabeth Marcano| La Mujer Detrás del Cabello Espectacular en Miami
MFS Magazine: Hablemos de tus inicios, ¿cuándo te sentiste atraída por hacer extensiones de cabello?
EM: Mi madre siempre fue una inspiración para mí, la recuerdo arreglándose frente al espejo mientras me decía que las mujeres deben amarse a sí mismas. He querido trabajar en la belleza capilar desde que era niña jugando con mis barbies; pero en mi caso era por las largas cabelleras. Me gustaba peinarlas y hacerles diferentes transformaciones– despertando mi interés por las extensiones de cabello.
MFS: ¿Cuándo entendiste que la especialización en extensiones era tu pasión?
EM: Cuando descubrí un mercado de mujeres que no estaban satisfechas con sus cabellos o querían cambiar su apariencia drásticamente. Creo que es mi pasión porque me hace feliz ver la cara de satisfacción de mis clientas cuando termino de trabajar sus cabellos. Sé que les estoy ayudando con algo tan crucial como es mejorar su apariencia física–cada transformación que ocurre en mi salón aumenta significativamente la autoestima de ellas. ¡Y mi autoestima, cuando ellas regresan porque les gustó mi trabajo! (risas).
¡La Reina de las Extensiones!
MFS: ¿Cómo ganas la confianza de tus clientes, asegurando que el resultado será el que ellas esperan?
EM: La única manera de brindarles seguridad es brindando calidad. Después de una búsqueda exhaustiva de muchas marcas de cabello, lancé mi línea de cabello, “Gorgeous Eli Extensions”, en la que uso exclusivamente cabello ruso de lujo, que es cabello 100 por ciento humano de la calidad más excepcional, el mejor del mercado (incluyendo Europa). Además, regularmente dono una parte de los ingresos de esta línea a organizaciones que ayudan a los sobrevivientes de cáncer infantil.
MFS: ¿Desde cuándo te empezaron a llamar “La Reina de las Extensiones”?
EM: Apenas lancé mi línea de extensiones al mercado, mis clientes comenzaron a llamarme “La Reina de las Extensiones”. Me hizo reír porque no me considero reina y mi visión siempre ha sido empresarial, pero me di cuenta de que era un cumplido. Reconociendo el gran compromiso con mi trabajo, motivándome a seguir en la búsqueda de la excelencia en esta constante preparación en mi campo.
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Elizabeth Marcano: ‘The experience cannot be improvised’…
MFS: What do you offer that the other salons in Miami don’t when it comes to hair extensions?
EM: Experience! The experience cannot be improvised. I graduated from the “Beauty School of America” and have several specialization diplomas in this field. In addition, I have a master’s degree in color, which is critical to ensuring that the color and texture of my hair are perfect. The trick is to make the hair extensions appear natural. I also employ the most advanced and secure application techniques. I choose the hair because I enjoy variety. My salon offers over 30 different colors in extensions ranging from 14” to 30” inches. And if you want something unusual, I’ll get it for you.
MFS: What makes you feel empowered the most?
EM: Honestly, I feel very fulfilled with everything I have achieved with my company. My career in the beauty industry has been long and full of accomplishments. My vision has always been marked by a great desire to excel and the challenge of being one of the best at what I do. But none of these beats what I feel about being a mom. I lost my daughter Mina a few years ago and it’s hard to talk about it. I also have a son, Javier Alexander, and adore going out to dinner with him and celebrating each birthday together–it fills me with empowering energy like no other.
MFS: We are a fashion magazine; we would love to ask you about the trends in hair extensions for 2023.?
EM: In my opinion, hair extensions are not a trend because people need them when they have a strong desire for change, including those who require them due to health issues. That being said, I think the side-swept bangs hair extensions have been trending this year and will continue into 2023–they’ve been in style since they debuted on the “Prabal Gurung” runway.
More information about Elizabeth Marcano IG: @gorgeouseli.extensiones
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Elizabeth Marcano: ‘La experiencia no se improvisa’…
MFS: ¿Qué ofreces a diferencia de otros salones en Miami cuando se trata de extensiones?
EM: ¡Mi experiencia! La experiencia no se improvisa. Me gradué en el “Beauty School of America” y tengo varios diplomas de especialización en este campo. Además, tengo una maestría en color, que es fundamental para garantizar que el color y la textura de las extensiones encajen perfectas. Tienen que parecer naturales. También uso las técnicas de aplicación más avanzadas y seguras. Escojo las extensiones de cabello yo misma–porque me gusta la variedad. Mi salón ofrece más de 30 colores diferentes en extensiones que van desde 14” a 30” pulgadas. Y si quieren algo fuera de serie, se los consigo.
MFS: ¿Qué te hace sentir empoderada?
EM: Sinceramente, me siento realizada con todo lo que he logrado con mi empresa. Mi carrera en la industria de la belleza ha sido larga y llena de logros. Mi visión siempre ha estado marcada por un gran afán de superación y el reto de ser una de los mejores en lo que hago. Pero nada de esto supera lo que siento al ser madre. Perdí a mi hija Mina hace unos años. Es difícil hablar de eso y también tengo un hijo, Javier Alexander–adoro salir a cenar con él y celebrar juntos cada cumpleaños; me llena de una energía empoderadora como ninguna.
MFS: Somos una revista de moda, por lo que debemos preguntarte ¿cuáles serán las tendencias en extensiones para el 2023?
EM: En mi opinión, las extensiones de cabello no son una tendencia porque son una necesidad debido a un fuerte deseo de cambio, incluyendo a quienes las requieren por problemas de salud. Dicho esto, te adelanto que las extensiones de cabello con flequillo lateral al frente han sido tendencia este año y continuarán hasta el 2023; han estado de moda desde que debutaron en la pasarela “Prabal Gurung”.
Más información sobre Elizabeth Marcano IG: @gorgeouseli.extensiones
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The post Q and A| Meet Elizabeth Marcano | The Woman Behind Gorgeous Hair in Miami appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>The post Chit Chat: Award-winning Makeup Artist Miguelángel García appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>MFS Magazine: Welcome to our editorial team as our Makeup artist! We also want to congratulate you on launching your makeup brush line, “Miguelangel Beauty Brush.” Tell us about the materialization of this project.
Miguelángel García: I am happy to be the editorial makeup artist for this edition! Because it is dedicated to women’s empowerment. I have dedicated a large part of my life to working for feminine beauty, and I am pleased every time I am an accomplice in beautifying them. Regarding my brush lines, it gives me a lot of satisfaction because I’ve always wanted to see my name on a brand. It is an accomplishment for which I will be eternally grateful to everyone who has supported me thus far and to America for allowing me to achieve this goal. My brushes are of high quality, and I designed them to facilitate makeup elaboration and application easier.
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Conversando con el Galardonado Maquillador Miguelángel García
MFS Magazine: Bienvenido a nuestro equipo de editoriales, como maquillador (onset). También te queremos felicitar por el lanzamiento de tu línea de brochas para maquillaje “Miguelangel Beauty Brush”. Cuéntanos un poco sobre la materialización de este proyecto.
Miguelángel García: ¡Me siento feliz de ser parte de esta edición!, porque está dedicada al empoderamiento femenino y he dedicado gran parte de mi vida a trabajar por la belleza femenina. Y cada vez que soy cómplice para embellecerlas me complace. Con respecto a mi línea de brochas, es una gran satisfacción, siempre quise ver mi nombre convertido en una marca y es un logro que siempre voy a agradecer a América, por darme la oportunidad de realizar este objetivo. Mis brochas son de gran calidad, las diseñé pensando en facilitar la elaboración del maquillaje.
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MFS: We have been impressed by the synergy with your husband, Luis Alberto Risso. He styles the hair, and you create the makeup, flowing in perfect harmony that only true artists possess. How do you manage to synchronize at work in that way and flow with the client?
MG: We have been in a relationship for more than 2 decades; we know each other so much that we can understand what we want by looking at each other. That confidence is what we transmitted to our clientele, providing them with the perfect balance they need to achieve optimal results.
MFS- You have a successful career in the field of makeup, including the “Miss Venezuela” Organization. How has working with many beautiful women influenced your career as a Makeup Artist?
MG: I started doing makeup when I was 14. I grew up in a hair salon, so women were a big part of my life. My career later led me to that wonderful organization, Miss Venezuela, which was yet another outstanding accomplishment. But I believe that learning to satisfy a woman’s demands as glamorous as a Venezuelan woman influenced my career the most.
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MFS: Nos ha impresionado la sinergia con tu esposo, Luis Alberto Risso. El realiza el estilo del cabello y tú creas el maquillaje, fluyendo en una armonía tan perfecta que solo poseen verdaderos artistas. ¿Cómo hacen para sincronizarse de esa manera y fluir con el cliente?
MG: Llevamos una relación de más de 2 décadas, nos hemos compaginado tanto en la vida personal como en la profesional, nos conocemos tanto que sólo con mirarnos nos podemos entender. Esa seguridad es lo que transmitimos a nuestra clientela, brindándoles el equilibrio perfecto para alcanzar óptimos resultados.
MFS- Tienes una exitosa trayectoria en el campo del maquillaje incluyendo el Miss Venezuela. ¿Cómo influenció el trabajar con tantas mujeres bellas tu carrera de Makeup Artist?
MG: Comencé a maquillar desde los 14 años. Crecí en una peluquería, donde la mujer fue esencial en mi vida. Luego, mi profesión me llevó a formar parte de esa gran organización que es el Miss Venezuela, lo que fue otro gran logro. Lo que más ha influenciado mi carrera, fue aprender a satisfacer las exigencias de una mujer tan glamorosa como lo son las venezolanas.
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MFS: Tell us about your experience with our cover star, Shireen Sandoval. How did you create that makeup artist-client chemistry with her?
MG: I enjoy challenges and pushing myself to the pinnacle of my career, and working with Shireen Sandoval, a celebrity here in Miami, was one of them. My primary weapon for gaining the trust of any client is to transmit my confidence to them so they can see what I bring to the table. Also, Mrs. Sandoval is a stunning woman; I only focused on highlighting her natural beauty as she changed outfits.
MFS: Tell us about your favorite looks? What was your inspiration?
MG: First, we reviewed all the accessories assigned for the photoshoot, and then we created the ideal tones, both in shadows and lipsticks, based on the color palette and variety of outfits. One of my favorite looks was the gold gown by TA Couture. My husband and I created a super “glam” look with very marked waves evoking the 30s with very illuminated makeup in golden tones.
MFS: What was the biggest challenge for you in this photoshoot?
MG: The language because my English is not good enough and Mrs. Sandoval doesn’t speak Spanish. But we had great chemistry from the start, connecting well and overcoming the language barrier. The work flowed from start to finish—she made us feel that she was happy to be styled by us, and we felt satisfied with the work done.
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MFS: Cuéntanos sobre tu experiencia con nuestra estrella de portada, Shireen Sandoval. ¿Cómo creaste esa química maquillador-cliente con ella?
MG: Soy una persona de retos y trabajar con Shireen Sandoval fue uno de ellos; ya que ella es una celebridad aquí en Miami. Mi principal arma para ganarme la confianza de cualquier cliente es transmitirle la seguridad que tengo en mí mismo. Además, Miss. Sandoval es una mujer espectacularmente bella, solo me dediqué a resaltar su belleza natural fluyendo con los cambios de outfits.
MFS: ¿Háblanos sobre tus “looks” favoritos? ¿Cuál fue tu inspiración?
MG: Primero, revisamos todos los cambios asignados para el Photoshoot y de acuerdo con la paleta de colores y variedad de outfits fuimos creando los tonos ideales; tanto en sombras como en labiales. Mi “look” favorito fue el vestido dorado de TA Couture. Mi esposo y yo creamos un “look” súper “glam” con ondas muy marcadas evocando los años 30 con un maquillaje muy iluminado en tonos dorados.
MFS: ¿Cuál fue el reto más grande para ti en nuestro photoshoot?
MG: El idioma, porque mi inglés, no es muy bueno y Miss. Sandoval no habla español. Pero tuvimos química desde el principio y conectamos muy bien, haciendo que el idioma no fuera una barrera. El trabajo fluyó de principio a fin—ella nos hizo sentir que estaba feliz siendo atendida por nosotros y nosotros nos sentimos satisfechos de la labor realizada.
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MFS: We can tell from your outfits that you are a fashion lover. Is it true that you design your outfits yourself?
MG: Fashion is an integral part of my life; I enjoy styling—that is, the overall “look” of a person, from hair to shoes. I believe you sell through your image, so I dress well. Above all, I am unique. I personalize everything I wear because I want my clothes to identify with me.
MFS: What makeup trends do you predict for 2023?
MG: Color will continue to have a huge impact, and the presence of neon colors will influence makeup strongly. The sharp outlines of eyes evoke the 70s, not only in black but also with vibrant tones. The pearly shadows will continue, as will the hydrated skin and matte makeup. The eyebrows will continue to be the protagonists, giving the makeup a lot of character.
MFS: Tell us about your experience with celebrities. How do you understand what each one requires?
MG: I’ve worked with celebrities for so long in my career. And while I don’t always know them, my trick is to research their social networks and memorize their style and preferences. So, when I meet them, I know what questions to ask to get a sense of what they want.
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MFS: Háblanos sobre tu experiencia con celebridades. ¿Cómo haces para entender lo que requiere cada uno?
MG: He trabajado con celebridades gran parte de mi carrera. Muchas veces no los conozco, pero mi secreto es investigar en sus redes sociales y memorizar su estilo y preferencias. Así cuando me encuentro con ellos sé que preguntarles para entender bien lo que quieren.
MFS: Notamos que eres un “fashionista” por tus outfits tan originales, ¿es cierto que los diseñas tú mismo?
MG: La moda es parte de mi vida, me encanta el estilismo–me refiero al “look” total de una persona, desde el cabello hasta los zapatos. Pienso que uno vende a través de su imagen, por eso me gusta vestirme bien; sobre todo diferente. Todo lo que uso está personalizado por mí, me gusta que mi ropa se identifique conmigo.
MFS: ¿Qué tendencias en maquillaje predices para el 2023?
MG: Continuará la gran influencia del color en el maquillaje; presencia de colores neón. Los delineados de ojos muy marcados, evocando los años 70 y no solo en color negro, delinearemos con tonos muy vibrantes. Continuarán las sombras nacaradas y algo muy importante las pieles hidratadas, nada mate. Las cejas seguirán siendo las protagonistas dándole mucho carácter al maquillaje.
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MASTERFUL ART| The Marvelous Mira Lehr
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]]>The post MASTERFUL ART| The Marvelous Mira Lehr appeared first on Miami Fashion Spotlight.
]]>Mira Lehr, now at the bold age of 87, is creating more new work than she has in her six decades of artmaking. This amazing artist who has had over 300 solo and group exhibitions was recently the subject of a new 400-page international monograph published by the leading art book publisher Skira Editore, which celebrated its worldwide release last April.
New techniques and discoveries in her art have paved the way for new visions and experiments, and her nature-inspired work includes painting, sculpture, and video. She works with unconventional materials like gunpowder, fire, fuses, Japanese paper, dyes, and welded steel. Lehr is known for igniting and exploding fuses in her paintings to create fire lines. Her video installation, V1 V3, was shown at New York’s New Museum. She was also the recipient of the Vizcaya Museum Lost Spaces Commission, where she was commissioned to create a site-specific installation for the Museum’s centennial celebrations.
[/one_half] [one_half_last padding=”0 0px 0 10px”]ARTE MAESTRO | La Maravillosa Mira Lehr
Mira Lehr, a la audaz edad de 87 años, está creando más obras nuevas que en sus seis décadas de creación artística. Esta increíble artista que ha tenido 300 exposiciones individuales y colectivas recientemente fue objeto de una nueva monografía internacional de 400 páginas publicada por la editorial líder de libros de arte Skira Editore, celebrando su lanzamiento mundial el pasado mes de abril.
Nuevas técnicas y descubrimientos en su arte han allanado el camino para nuevas visiones y experimentos, y su trabajo inspirado en la naturaleza incluye pintura, escultura y video. La artista trabaja con materiales no convencionales como pólvora, fuego, mechas, papel japonés, tintes y acero soldado y es además conocida por encender y explotar fusibles en sus pinturas para crear líneas de fuego. Su instalación de video, V1 V3, se mostró en el “New Museum” de Nueva York. Lehr también fue galardonada con el “Vizcaya Museum Lost Spaces Commission” del Museo Vizcaya, donde fue la encargada de la creación de una instalación para las celebraciones del centenario de este.
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Lehr and The Miami Art Scene: While raising a young family, the artist had a studio at Carnegie Hall in New York from 1956 to 1960. She had just graduated from Vassar College in 1956 with a degree in Art History under the tutelage of renowned feminist art historian Linda Nochlin.
Lehr studied painting in the Hans Hofmann circle in New York, where she met many of the great American artists of the time – including Helen Frankenthaler, Joan Mitchell, Lee Krasner, James Brooks, Ludwig Sander, and Robert Motherwell.
Then, in December 1960, she moved her family back to Miami Beach. “I was shocked at the lack of an art scene in Miami in 1960, especially for women artists,” Mira Lehr said. “So, we decided to take matters into our own hands and banded together our group of women artists to form Continuum as a working co-op to showcase women artists when no one else would, and it thrived for more than 30 years,” Lehr adds. “We learned how to create opportunities for ourselves, to display our work via DIY exhibitions throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, an era in the art world that would be difficult for today’s young artists to imagine.”
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Lehr y La Escena Artística en Miami: Acabada de graduarse en el “Vassar College” en 1956 con una licenciatura en historia del arte y bajo la tutela de la reconocida historiadora feminista del arte Linda Nochlin, Lehr estableció su estudio en el Carnegie Hall de Nueva York desde 1956 a 1960, mientras criaba a su joven familia.
Mas tarde, conoció a muchos de los grandes artistas estadounidenses de la época (Helen Frankenthaler, Joan Mitchell, Lee Krasner, James Brooks, Ludwig Sander y Robert Motherwell) cuando estudió pintura en el círculo de “Hans Hofmann” en Nueva York,
Luego, en diciembre de 1960, se mudó con su familia a Miami Beach. “Me sorprendió la falta de escena artística en Miami en 1960, especialmente para mujeres artistas”, nos cuenta Lehr. “Entonces, decidimos tomar el asunto en nuestras manos y unimos a nuestro grupo de mujeres artistas para formar “Continuum” — una cooperativa de trabajo para mostrar a las mujeres artistas cuando nadie más lo hacía– lo que prosperó mucho por más de 30 años,” agrega Lehr. “Aprendimos a crear oportunidades para nosotras mismas, mostrando nuestro trabajo a través de exhibiciones de bricolaje. Esto durante las décadas de los 60, 70 y 80, una era en el mundo del arte que sería difícil de imaginar para muchos jóvenes artistas de hoy”.
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Her Accomplishments: She was selected in 1969 by Buckminster Fuller as one of only two artists to participate in his World Game Project about sustainability and his groundbreaking “Spaceship Earth” concept, which preceded the world’s very first Earth Day. The Smithsonian Museum of American Art (Washington), the Getty Museum Research Center (Los Angeles), the Boca Raton Museum of Art, the Perez Art Museum Miami, the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center (NY), the Margulies Collection, the Mennello Museum of American Art, MOCA North Miami, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU, and the Orlando Museum of Art are among the major institutions that have acquired her work. Lehr’s work is in the private collections of Elie and Marion Wiesel, Jane and Morley Safer, and Judy Pfaff, among others. She is included in the Leonard Lauder Corporate Collection in New York. Thirty of her paintings were commissioned for Mount Sinai Hospital’s collection. Her work can also be found in American embassies around the world and is permanently showcased at the Sloan Kettering Memorial Center.
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Logros: Lehr ha tenido muchos logros, siendo seleccionada en 1969 por “Buckminster Fuller” como una de los dos únicas artistas que participaron en su “World Game Project” sobre sostenibilidad y su concepto innovador “Spaceship Earth”, precedió al primer día de la tierra del mundo. Dentro de las principales instituciones que han adquirido su obras se encuentran: El “Smithsonian Museum of American Art” (Washington), el Getty Museum Research Center (Los Ángeles), el Museo de Arte de Boca Raton, el “Perez Art Museum Miami”, el “Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center” (NY), la colección “Margulies”, el “Mennello Museum of American Art,” el “MOCA”en North Miami, el “Jewish Museum” de Florida-FIU y el Museo de Arte de Orlando. El trabajo de Lehr se encuentra en las colecciones privadas de Elie y Marion Wiesel, Jane y Morley Safer y Judy Pfaff y está incluida en la colección corporativa “Leonard Lauder” de Nueva York. Treinta de sus pinturas han sido escogidas para la colección del Hospital “Mount Sinai”. Su trabajo también se puede encontrar en las embajadas estadounidenses de todo el mundo y están en exhibición permanentemente en el “Sloan Kettering Memorial Center.”
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