Welcome to my World
  • New York
    • Product Reviews
    • Other Cities
  • D.C.
  • Interviews
  • Fashion Week
    • Press Preview
    • Paris
  • Editorial Photos
    • Press
  • About
  • Contact

Interview with YAGP Founder Larissa Saveliev

4/14/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
I had the privilege of chatting with YAGP's (Youth America Grand Prix) Founder, Larissa Saveliev before the Final round of the Ballet competition and ‘Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow’ Gala .

Check out my interview with Larissa where we discussed her favorite Ballet and what we can expect from the Gala on April 16th. See below:

How did YAGP come about? Take us back to the origin of YAGP.  

When I just came to the United States, I had been dancing with the Bolshoi Ballet and have not yet had any experience teaching. I wanted to try it, though – and in the process discovered that I much preferred it to dancing. There is no unified system of teaching here in the U.S., I wanted my students to have the experience of seeing other students perform and being able to compare their training to others’. I also wanted to share experience with other teachers – but I found that no event existed in the United States where that could happen for classical ballet students and teachers. So, I decided to create my own.


Any advice for the aspiring dancers who want to break into the competitive world of Ballet?  


Don't compare yourself to anybody, but yourself. You may not have the perfect feet, the ideal body type, but as long as you dance better than you did yesterday - you are improving.

Picture

Your favorite Ballet and Why?  

I love all the classics, of course – I am a classically trained ballerina. But if we are talking about contemporary repertoire, I do have a favorite ballet – it is Twyla Tharp’s “In the Upper Room.” It fascinates me every time – there is just so much energy, something absolutely special about it.


Why is YAGP so vital to young performers? How does YAGP stand out from the other Ballet organizations?  


Ever since Youth America Grand Prix was established in 1999, several other competitions were created, following our successful model. But we still remain the original – and world’s largest – student ballet scholarship competition.

The vital role of YAGP is in that it identifies talented young dancers before their talent is fully developed – and helps them find institutions that will create the best environment for their talent to blossom. We have done this for over 70,000 students so far, and, as a result, 300 YAGP alumni are now dancing in 80 companies all over the world.


The one thing YAGP offers that no other ballet organization does is a lifetime membership in the world’s largest, global dance network. Once a dancer participate in YAGP, they become a part of the “YAGP family.” We will continue to share our resources, recommend the dancers for professional auditions, invite them to the Gala performances we organize – and even invite them to dance in these Gala performances as professional guest artists. This is a relationship that will last a lifetime.

Read More
0 Comments

One on One with Deidre Jefferies (ESPION Atelier)

4/13/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
I recently chatted with Deidre Jefferies, designer of ESPION Atelier at her private event in Washington, D.C. The event was held in honor of Deidre's recent success of showing ESPION Atelier Fall 2015 collection at NYFW. The event was not only an encore presentation of what she showed during NYFW, but a meet and greet with potential clients.

The food was catered by Chef Aiden from Aiden's Cuisine, whose crab cake dip was out of this world! The inspired menu included:
Creole Spiced Shrimp, Grilled Greek Chicken on Bamboo Skewers and Crab Cake dip with chips. You can't have delicious food without anything good to wash it down with -- in comes Michele Hudson, Mixologist from Butterfly Mixtures, Inc. The customized drink menu included the Espion-tini and Atelier Rising. My favorite was the Espion-tini, the mini drink packed a delicious punch! A drink that's guilt free too is always a nice catch. Thanks to the tasty mixture of  Blueberry, Blackberry, White Cranberry Juice  and with Skinny Girl Vodka -- the Espion-tinis were a hit.
Picture
 
Before the grub-fest and ESPION Atelier runway presentation, I interviewed Deidre Jefferies on her inspiration behind the Fall 2015 collection, DC Fashion and why faith is important.  Check out my interview with Deidre below:

Tell me about your inspiration behind the ESPION Atelier fall 2015 collection. 

The inspiration for this collection was the powerful image of a black unicorn with gold hooves. My love of art and photography led me to it. The photo I came across was stunning, I couldn't take my eyes away. I was so struck by it, I did a bit of research and found a few references to the unicorn in the Bible. Some writers say that the single horn of the unicorn symbolizes the unity of God and Christ. It was a regal animal, a fierce protector of the kingdom, impossible to be taken alive.

What led you to design? Tell me  about your background.

My background is very book-ish (laughs) I was a nerd.

Was this a hobby of yours? Or a sudden opportunity to dive into fashion design?

 It was  a sudden opportunity, but it was also a  love of mine because my mom has five sisters. They all wore amazingly, gorgeous clothes - they had the best clothes! I thought my mom was wonder woman. She had the Farrah Fawcett hair and from middle school on -- I would just sit in her closet and bother all her stuff, but it was just the best place to be in the house. As for the name ESPION, I was inspired by the Spy culture - all the Bond films and Evelyn Salt!

As a true Washingtonian, seeing more productions being inspired by D.C politics and their style, For instance, House of Cards and Scandal puts D.C on the cool kids map - just behind FLOTUS and President Obama of course! It's nice to see more fashion events in D.C. It's like "Thank you, Join the club, but you're late!"

Yes! They can come when it's all 
Emerald City  and they can eat off the sidewalk now! (laughs) I have been here all my life; I knew the time  when our downtown turned into a ghost town. But before that, we had one of the largest Garfinkel's store in the world! It had glass escalators and it was right here on F Street and I used to be up in there (laughs).

Woah.
I'm a baby. (laughs)  I don't even remember this.

It was just an amazing place.

Nice!  We need to get more celebrities to wear your clothes.


Me too! Especially Tracee Ellis Ross. I just love her personal style. She's incredible!


Read More
0 Comments

Interview with Talia Goldstein

1/29/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
I recently had the opportunity of meeting Talia Goldstein, the CEO and founder of Three Day Rule at TDR's D.C. Media Launch Party. Talia and select members of her L.A based staff launched their D.C event to the local media on January 14th,  to help welcome  the new & buzz-worthy matchmaking service in the nation's capital.

It was then I chatted with Talia about  what led her to the matchmaking industry, how TDR is different from the others & more. Check out my interview with Talia below:

How did you get started?

I was working at E! Entertainment, on the E! True Hollywood Story show. In between interviewing celebrities, I would spend the day giving relationship advice from my cubicle. I loved helping the singles out in my department, and even successfully matched many of them.  I started hosting singles events around town and within a few months the parties had 600 people attending at the largest hotels in LA. I knew that there was something missing in the market because the guests were all attractive, professional, and successful, but still searching for love. I decided to take a leap of faith and quit my job to start a matchmaking company. 

How is Three Day Rule different from the other matchmaking sites?

We are a modern-day, personalized matchmaking service that allows singles to work one-on-one with a real matchmaker.  We are not another dating app or online site - we are an offline service.  We are very high-touch, genuinely care about each client, and tailor all of their matches based on their preferences.  We meet and vet all potential matches in-person before we decide to set them up with our clients. For example, if you were a client, I would meet with you in person and find out what you are looking for.  I would then go back to our database and attend events specifically to find all of the people who seem to be a good match with you. Then, I would personally meet all potential matches in person to get to know them.  When I find and meet someone who I believe would be a strong match, I would set you up.  
You don't have to be a paying client to get set-up.  Anyone can sign up to be a free member at: threedayrule.com/free.  Fun fact: 95% of TDR clients are matched with free members so you have everything to gain (and nothing to lose) by signing up for free!

 Motto you live by.

Here are two of my favorites:
1) "Excuses are for people who don't want it bad enough."  As an entrepreneur, there is no room or time for excuses...only room for improvement and workaround solutions. 
2) "You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar." In other words, be kind.  I think people respond better to positivity, rather than negative energy. 

What advice would you give those who wants to start their own business?


It's easy to doubt yourself when you're starting a new business because there are so many new challenges every day.  As an entrepreneur, you learn very quickly how to deal with rejection and people saying no. It's important to stay positive, confident, and focused on your goals.  Surround yourself with a positive support system and weed out the people who bring negative energy.

To learn more about Three Day Rule and the Matchmakers, click here.

Check out Images from the TDR D.C. Media Launch Party below.

Event Images courtesy of Marcus Bennett/DC HotSpots

ChristineSocial Image via John Robinson/Guest of a Guest

Headshots courtesy of Talia Goldstein.



                                                   *Thanks to TAA PR for organizing the fun event & Talia for the interview!*
0 Comments

Interview with Michael Ealy

7/6/2014

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
I had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Ealy during the 'Think Like A Man Too' D.C. Premiere. Been so busy during the past few weeks prepping for a new job and learning behind the scenes stuff for ChristineSocial.com.
Better late than never! Check out my review and interview with Meagan Good from that night.

Below I chatted with Michael about Dominic, his favorite character to play and why TV is better than Film.

Hi, Michael! How was Miami?

Michael: Great -- Quick! It was in and out.

What do you like most about playing Dominic?

Michael: I like his hustle.  I mean  I think it's always good to have a hustle and have some sort of grind to you. I feel that Dominic --- especially in the first 'Think Like A Man' --- he realizes what he needs to do to kind of execute that. He's no longer dreams about it, he figures out how to make it happen.

What is your favorite character to play so far? You have an impressive line of work!  What was the best part you played and why?

Michael:
(Long pause)

I know! (Laughs) It's a hard question.

Michael: 
Since, it's so recent, I will probably say Dorian from Almost Human, because he was not human (laughs) and it was such a challenge as an actor to make him almost human. To make him robotic enough that you believe he is a droid and at the same time, human enough so that you want him human --- as does he.


A lot of people----including celebrities and the major outlets----say that TV is better than Film for actors
--- especially now because the roles are more diverse and complex & that the overall writing is better than the film counterparts. Do you agree with that statement?

Michael:
Uh, Yeah! (smiles) TV now, I mean --- Film business is about making big tent-pole movies and a lot of drama are acquired at film festivals as opposed to a financed studio. The movies that you like to see are in the theaters, but they are not always made without independent money. In television,  there is a little more diversity in terms of roles, definitely.

What advice would  give to newcomers from this area?
They look at you (Michael Ealy), Samuel L.Jackson, Sandra Bullock, Taraji Henson, successful actors that made it from the DMV. What would you say to them?

Michael:
Same thing I would say to anybody who lives in any city, who is trying to do this:

  1. Believe in yourself
  2. Hang in there
  3. Rejection will get to you, but you can't let it beat you


                                                                        *Stills from Sony Pictures/Screen Gems*

                                                 Think Like A Man Too in theaters now

Picture
0 Comments

Interview + Think Like A Man Too D.C Premiere with Meagan Good

6/20/2014

0 Comments

 
Picture
On June 5th, I was invited to watch an advanced screening of Screen Gems "Think Like A Man Too" in theaters TODAY!
Great timing since I was to interview both of the film stars: Meagan Good and Michael Ealy a week later.

After the screening, I was told to not mention a word of the film until the day of their theatrical release, June 20th. Now that  today the embargo on the film has been lifted off to press and critics, I am happy to say that the film, Think Like a Man Too will delight you. There's a scene in the film, my favorite---where Mya and the girls had way too much filming. After viewing, you will know which one I am talking about! Much funnier than the first in my humble opinion and I would not be surprised if they announce a part 3. The film, which is  becoming a highly successful comedic niche not only to the Black community, but to all who enjoys comedy. I laughed until I cried for the most part--It was a great start and ending to a fruitful franchise in the making.
Picture
On June 11th, I was invited to the D.C. Premiere of "Think Like A Man Too" The premiere held at Chevy Chase Maza Gallerie AMC theater, was a familiar place for the press attendees.

As past Sony Pictures films premiered there, including the first ''Think Like A Man'' and ''About Last Night.''

Michael Ealy,  who was in Miami the night before, arrived nearly an hour late due to plane delays. Meagan who was already at the premiere meeting and greeting fans (who won passes for a meet and greet with radio stations) started the red carpet press interviews without him during the first 30 minutes. It was then, I interviewed Mrs. Good on playing Mya and society's pressure on women.

Picture
What's the best part in playing Mya?
 
Meagan: I think Mya is one of my favorite characters because she is very close to me. She has that optimism that positive outlook and almost kind of a naivety to her. She just believes that everything is almost bright, beautiful, & positive and I think  there's a truth that, but there's also a maturity that I have that she is kind of learning in this movie---is that sometimes you have to call things---what they are and learn how to work through them, but you can't work through them unless you really identify the truth of what they are.
Picture

Now I am going to ask a controversial question. Do you think Society pressure women to have  higher expectations than men?

Meagan: Absolutely.  Absolutely! I think there's absolutely a double standard and not just for women, but  black women. 

At the end of the day, I like to think of things very positive and I feel that everything that we as black women, get we have to work so much harder for it; therefore we get  to be prouder of it. I am more excited about  the accomplishment! 
I think everyday we all get up with a struggle of something we are tying to overcome and  am excited to blaze the path of the little girl behind me.  I am excited that I have the struggle that I have--because it's what I get excited about overcoming.

I love your attitude.

Meagan: Thank you

Thank you, Meagan for the interview.

Meagan: You're welcome! Thanks again.


--Christine

Think Like A Man Too stills from Sony Pictures.
Red Carpet images by Christine Shepherd

0 Comments

One on One with Rebecca Taylor

5/5/2014

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
I recently sat down with Rebecca Taylor to have a one-on-one interview at Neiman Marcus in Tysons Galleria. From seeing her collections at NYFW and loaning out a dress for the American Image Awards, I have been a fan of Rebecca Taylor feminine, laid-back and comfy designs.

This interview session was at first, a bit on the hectic side, due to being interrupted mid interview; but all went well in the end. Luckily, the soundbites came out great and the photo session was a nice touch.  To read my first and second designer interview, click here and here.

I would like to thank Carrie and Melissa for the interview opportunity! Thanks to Rebecca for being sweet and patient.  I had a nice time meeting Stylist Joyce and Joel from WDIW. To learn more about Rebecca Taylor, click here.


Tell us about your inspiration behind your latest collection, spring 2014.
How is it different from your past inspirations? Who or what inspire you?

The inspiration for the spring 2014 come from many different areas; It's not like a crystallized moment of just one thing.
I have very inspiration in my life: My children, David Bowie, many influential and great women; whether it be women in the office or the  girls I work with; They all inspired me everyday.  For the show, I saw a movie last summer about during the time of World War 1. It was about Renward. A very nasty time in world history and the message he was saying that it was so much ugly in the world, he wanted to create something beautiful. So, that is what I thought -- we should do.

Lace is such a huge trend.
I love the runway lace shift dress, which is sold out in Neiman Marcus (Tysons Galleria)

Yes, Everywhere! I did not see that coming (laughs)
I have always loved lace to be honest. 
Lace is just one of those things we always have in our stores and it always sells.  It's sexy, feminine and  cool.

You can dress lace up for Day and Night
.

Exactly! I think the way we do lace--It feels modern.

Your favorite look from the spring 2014 collection and why.

My favorite piece is this jacket  (points to customer) and I am little concerned that I am going to miss out on that jacket.

Who's your dream clientele?

I really think anybody who wears our clothes
will be our dream clientele.


Picture
What advice would you give to newcomer designers?

Run for your life. (long pause) No, I think that you realized that the fashion industry--we were talking about this earlier-It's a vacation. You do it because you love it! You wouldn't call it an easy life, but I think if you love it, then you should definitely follow your dreams.

Describe your design aesthetic  in three words.


Modern, feminine, refined.

Picture
If you could time travel to any era, which would you pick and why?

The 70s. My mom had an amazing high boots and beautiful hair: Hippie, 70s indie clothes--I'm obsessed with that you can't buy anymore.

What was your favorite moment from creating the spring 2014 collection?

The favorite moment? When the show was over (laughs) And we all were drinking champagne.

You can follow Rebecca on twitter and FB!

Images by Zaid Hamid.

0 Comments

Interview with Laz Alonso

4/5/2014

1 Comment

 
Picture
You may remember Laz from playing the villainous Fenix Rise from the hit Fast and the Furious 4. Or you either have seen him from the theatrical release, “Jumping the Broom”  and the gritty crime-drama Breakout Kings on A&E.

Born Lazaro “Laz” Alonso, raised in Washington D.C., graduated from Howard University, moved to NYC to start a versatile career in Film/Television and Music which then led him to L.A and as they say, The rest is history.  A truly nice, gifted actor who came from humble beginnings and on his way to movie star stardom.

Below are a series of questions I asked Mr. Alonso. Where we discussed his role in Breakout Kings, his favorite hot spot and dream co-stars.

Thanks for taking the time today for this interview!

Laz: Thank you for having me! My pleasure.

First and Foremost, Congrats on your first nomination!

Nominated for your work in Jumping the Broom at The 2011 BET Awards. (Best Actor)

Laz: Thank you. It feels good.

Where were you when you first heard the news?

Laz: I was actually at home when I first heard the news.  It feels good to be nominated. I am excited and very blessed! With this nomination, I think that everything has come full circle. I started my career on BET. So, this is truly a blessing. I am very grateful!

I am sure there will be plenty of more nominations for you in the future.

Laz: Thank you very much. Appreciate the support!

You are a very versatile actor. We all know you can play the bad guy, good guy and now the leading man.

What’s next for Laz Alonso?

Laz: I have several projects in the works. Right now, I am currently writing a script, a drama, that takes place in Haiti. Based on real events! Something on the lines of ‘Precious’; The film will also have a social message!

Social Media is very important. Especially in Today’s society.

Laz: Oh, I agree! Very important.

Who would you like to work with? Any dream co-stars?

Laz: This is a hard question (laughs)  There is so many good actors to choose from.

Anyone particular?

Laz: I do not really have an ideal co-star in general, but I would love to work with Denzel Washington, James Caan, Robert De Niro, & Johnny Depp.

You have work with admirable directors like James Cameron, Spike Lee & Justin Lin.

Which is inspiring in itself! Who’s next on your list?

Laz:  Steven Spielberg, Tony Scott and Ridley Scott. Them three are at the top of the list!

What led you to say yes to Breakout Kings. I know you received plenty of scripts! Why Breakout Kings?

Laz: In 2008, I made the decision to stop playing beneath my ability. It takes courage to say no to certain roles. When I first heard about Breakout Kings, It was during my no phase. It was also during a death in the family, The creators  Matt Olmstead and Nick Santora, believed in me so much that they waited. They waited until I was ready to get back on my feet! That spoke volumes to me.  After that, It did not take long for me to finally realized that this is the Job for me. This is who I want to work for and shoot long hours with.

What was it like playing Charlie?

Laz: It was frustrating playing Charlie in Breakout Kings. He is a straight laced man who never have any fun (laughs)

 But as an actor, Charlie helps me ‘grow’ up and see things in a bigger picture.

Who is also not define by his health problem.

Laz: I always joked that he (Charlie) have one foot in and one foot out the door!  He has flaws, he works way too hard.

He is not going to let this heart condition defines him. And in every episode,  he is running from his heart condition. He is an ex marine. When they work, they do not play.

How was filming in Toronto?

Laz: It was freezing. Very freezing. -27 degrees. It tough to shoot in Toronto, only have a few hours of daylight. But I enjoyed working in Toronto. Love the food!

What’s your favorite hot spot? A place you loved to visit over and over again.  It could be anywhere from LA to NYC.

Laz: It would have to be in  Cabo, Esperanza.  Every villa has a butler & private pool. They treat you like kings down there!

I would have to visit soon! Sounds like a fun trip in the making.

Laz: Yes, most definitely. You should!

Do you like to attend social functions? For instance: Galas, premieres, openings, etc.

Laz: Believe it or not, I do not like going out. I prefer chilling at home and cook! I am homebody (laughs)

Nothing wrong with that! You been there and done that.

Laz: Yes, been there and done that! I do not like going to clubs, either. Just a homebody!

You have a new film that is  coming out soon!  Straw Dogs, starring Kate Bosworth, James Marsden & Alexander Skarsgard.

Tell us about your character in the film.

Laz: Yes, it comes out September 16th and a little fun fact: Straw Dogs was originally supposed to come out before ‘Jumping the Broom’ but for some reason it was pushed back.

As for my character, I play Deputy John Burke,  He is the  only guy in town that has his mind right. He keeps things in order! Its a thriller.

Horror films! Would you ever consider working on a horror film?

Laz: It depends on the horror film. It’s about the story for me. If it’s a good script, then sure. (laughs)

Who is Laz ALonso in three words?

Laz: loyal, integrity and love.

Images from Wireimage.com

1 Comment

Interview with Kirsten Prout

4/5/2014

23 Comments

 
Picture
Meet Kirsten Prout, a gorgeous newcomer on the rise. Born and raised in Canada and currently reside In  Austin, TX. Starring as one of the leads on ABC’s The Lying Game, Kirsten is on her way to TV stardom.

You may have seen Kirsten in 20th Century Fox’s Elektra or the hit MTV original TV horror movie “My Super Psycho Sweet Sixteen 2”. She is best known for her role of “Amanda” the next door neighbor and love interest  to Kyle on the ABC Family hit drama “Kyle XY” in which she starred in for the duration of the series. Kirsten  also starred in The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.

Below are a series of questions I asked Kirsten. Where we discussed her role in The Lying Game, difference between TV & Film and her love for Austin, Texas.

What is The Lying Game?

Kirsten: Based on Sara Shepherd’s original book series, The Lying Game is ABC Family’s newest teen drama. The show brings something entirely new to the genre and we have a genuinely great cast that really draws viewers in. It’s fun without being bubblegum, dramatic without getting overly dark.

Tell us about your character on The Lying Game.

Kirsten: Well, I play the ditzy yet loveable Char Chamberlin. She’s the social mastermind of the group, or at least, she thinks she’s a mastermind. Char is a loyal friend, and would do anything to keep her friendship with Mads and Sutton in tact. Sometimes a little self absorbed, Char’s heart is in the right place but she sometimes forgets to put the feelings of others first.

How are you like Char?

Kirsten: I think Char and I both worry a little too much, albeit about very different things. Char’s concerns are a tad more superficial, but I will admit to sometimes being a little more high strung than I should be.

How is The Lying Game different from the other teen shows?

Kirsten: I think we have a great balance of drama, comedy, and suspense. Emma steps into Sutton’s life and lives the rags to riches dream, but it’s balanced out with a dramatic tone. Sure we have those funny moments and inside jokes about the switch with the audience, but we also explore Emma’s pain as she realizes what she missed out on over the years. We have a classic theme with a modern, sensitive style.

Do you favor TV or Film more?

Kirsten: TV and film are two entirely different animals. You get to be part of a hugely collaborative process in film and really figure out your character beforehand, with a slower pace than television. Working in the TV world, there are more surprises. You need to adapt to the twists and turns of the series, and get to really grow with your character over a long period of time. It’s also a way faster shooting schedule. I love working in both film and television, and am really happy to be where I am right now.

What’s next for Kirsten Prout?

Kirsten: Right now, I’m finishing up the first season of ABC’s The Lying Game. Next project I’m slated to work on is third installment of the My Super Psycho Sweet 16 for MTV. It’s great to switch it up, because I’ll be going from bright and bubbly Char to dark and tortured Alex Bell.

What is it like shooting in Austin, TX?

Kirsten: The whole cast has really been enjoying it here. The live music is fantastic, the city itself has elements of Vancouver, where I grew up, Ladybird Lake is beautiful… Austin is a very active, engaging city. Definitely one of my favorites!

Do you like to attend social functions? For instance: Galas, premieres, openings, etc

Kirsten: I am always happy to get behind great work, and will always make the effort to support in something I believe in.

What is your favorite episode you filmed so far?

Kirsten: We haven’t gotten the season finale yet, but from what I’ve been hearing from the powers that be, it’s going to be unbelievable. The show has just gotten better and better with every episode.

Was it your favorite romance film?

Kirsten: I can watch anything based on a Jane Austen book over and over.

What do you hope the fans can take away from this show, The Lying Game?

Kirsten: In regards to Char’s story, I hope viewers are reminded that sharing your problems with people you trust and seeking advice makes hard decisions or stressful situations a lot easier to deal with. But as a whole, I think the show really carries the message that one should appreciate what one has. Sutton doesn’t realize how lucky she is, but to Emma, Sutton’s life in Phoenix is a fairy tale.

twitter.com/kcprout
Picture
23 Comments

Interview with Pariah's Adepero Oduye

4/5/2014

0 Comments

 
Picture
Recently, I attended the D.C screening of Pariah, sponsored by the notable Howard University. 

Buzz have been growing for months now about Dee Rees’s Pariah, so I was curious to  see finally what the buzz was about! Thanks to the folks at Shadow and Act (which supported ‘Pariah’ consistently), I read page after page on their site on Pariah. Article after article until a post about a free screening in D.C among my colleagues and old friends was posted 48 hours before showtime.

After the screening, I had the chance to interview the star of the film, Adepero Oduye.  Set in New York City, Alike (played by the charmed Adepero Oduye) comes to grip with her sexuality. Chaos and reality set in.  A powerful film on overcoming challenges and letting your inner self  ‘free’.

First off, Wonderful performance in Pariah! I thought the film was outstanding. I was moved by the actors in this film! The buzz was what it was all hyped up to be.

Adepero Oduye: Thank you very much. Thank you.

What attracted you to this project? What made you go “Yes, I need to be a part of this film!”

Adepero Oduye: When I first read the script, I immediately thought,  I know what this is about! I know that the character did not feel free  and I just related to that. I know what that feeling is. That you can’t be who are because you are constraint; it’s excruciating and all the stuff  covering that, and you just want to break free from it, that is what I was feeling immediately from the script.

This film is very powerful. Layer after layer! It struck a chord with me throughout the film, but especially during the scene where your character finally admit what we (the audience) knew to your parents, which then led to the emotional aftermath. How did you prepare for that specific scene?

Adepero Oduye:  It’s something I just threw myself into it. We did not rehearse a lot, we had a fight coordinator but we did not talk much about it-which is good because you kind of want to see what happens and it feels real, I think and I hope that it looks real convincing. All the actors pretty much gave their all for that (scene)


What do you hope people take away from this film? Especially to those people who are dealing with an obstacle or challenge in their way. Also,  People who are afraid to be themselves, what do you hope they will take away from this film? What message you hope ‘Pariah’ will convey to the masses?

Adepero Oduye: That everyone has the right to be who they dictate themselves to be!  It is ok to love and accept who you are. That you are your main priority, everything else comes second. Even if you are young, it does get better. No matter how hard or crazy, just in hang in there. It does get better! As for the message? The most important thing is to love and accept yourself. Also, for people to love and to accept others because everyone have the right to be who they are.

Credit: Justin Knight and Focus Features for the images.



0 Comments

Fashion Talk with Jenny Feldman: Oscars Red Carpet Commentary Edition

4/5/2014

2 Comments

 
Picture
Meet Jenny Feldman, Senior Fashion Editor at MyHabit.com, for expert commentary for any award show  stories you are planning. Jenny has over a decade of experience in the fashion industry having previously held positions at ELLE, Nylon, The New Yorker and most recently Glamour as the Senior Style Editor. A true fashionista in her own right, she has been interviewed by top national newspapers including the Chicago Tribune, New York Post, New York Daily News and more.

 Jenny talks Oscar fashion, trends and dressing like the stars without breaking your budget!

Favorite Dresses:
Picture
Jenny: Meryl Streep (Lanvin), Shailene Woodley (Valentino), Michelle Williams (Louis Vuitton), Berenice Bejo (Elie Saab) and Sandra Bullock (Marchesa).

Picture
Favorite Accessories/Jewelry:
Jenny: Michelle Williams – loved how she accessorized a corally red gown with a pink clutch. It was a fresh, bold color combo that said Spring Fashion.


(Bottega Veneta crocodile clutch)

Picture
Fashion Faux Pas/Looks That Didn’t Work:

Jenny:  Stacey Keibler dressed as an Oscar lookalike was too obvious! Angelina Jolie – too much leg and J. Lo – I am over the “arm cutout” trend.

(Marchesa, Atelier Versace & Zuhair Murad)


Picture
 Trends:

 Jenny: Red, Pastels, Deco Echoes (20s/30s inspiration : beaded, sparkle, drop-waists), Winter White, and Modesty/ Sleeves.

(Valentino, Tom Ford & Lanvin)


Picture
1.   “It’s nice to see celebrities looking more covered-up on the red carpet. I liked Shailene Woodley’s high-neck, long-sleeved Valentino—very chic and grown-up. I also liked Gwyneth Paltrow’s Tom Ford cape, which lent major presence to her white column dress, and Meryl Streep’s gorgeous Lanvin goddess gown. These three stars, who are all of different ages, prove that a classy look works if you’re 20 or over 50. You can incorporate this into your everyday style even if you are not going to a black tie function, as you can pair a formal skirt (sequins, metallic tweed, etc) with a conservative sweater. It’s an elegant, no-fail solution.”  

(Giambattista Valli, Vintage Dior & Valentino)

Picture
2. “It’s fairly common that stars work next season’s trends on this season’s red carpet, so I wasn’t surprised to see the flurry of red dresses. Michelle Williams’s corally-red Louis Vuitton was my favorite – strong color and beautifully accessorized with the pink clutch for a fresh, spring mix. Emma Stone also wore a fuschia-y red, a daring move for a redhead. Natalie Portman looked demure in red Christian Dior polka dots. Finally, I loved Claire Danes in red – she’s really been making a fashion comeback. You can work this look into your wardrobe immediately by investing in a red dress and punching it up with fruity color accents.”

(Elie Saab & Marchesa)


3. “Another one of my favorite trends from the Oscars was the Deco-inspired look – beading, drop-waists and sequins. This form of smoldering dark glamour is easy to pull off if you’re a celebrity (case in point: Milla Jovovich’s white gown with red lips and softly waved hair). Sandra Bullock looked divine in her black and white graphic Marchesa. You can try the trend by opting for inspiration in the form of jewelry, a clutch or just the drop-waist silhouette, which is not only chic but really comfortable.”

Looks Achievable Without A Celebrity Stylist And Designer Price Point:


Picture
Jenny:   The Michelle Williams ‘Oscar’ Look – pair a flirty red dress with a pink clutch.

The Tina Fey ‘Oscar’ Look – You can never go wrong with a classic strapless dress and a peplum. 

The Milla Jovovich ‘Oscar’ Look– Wear a white dress with a glamorous red lip.

MyHabit.com, Amazon’s membership only fashion destination, offers boutique and designer apparel and accessories at up to 60% off with fast, free shipping and free returns.


Photos via Zimbio.com & StyleBistro.com

2 Comments
<<Previous

    Archives

    April 2015
    January 2015
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014

    Categories

    All
    ABC
    Adepero Oduye
    Ballet
    DC
    DHI Inc
    Emerging Designer
    ESPION Atelier
    Fashion
    Interviews
    Jenny Feldman
    Kristen Prout
    Larissa Saveliev
    Laz Alonso
    Man Repeller Event
    Meagan Good
    Michael Ealy
    Michele Lee
    Movie
    New York
    One On One
    One-on-One
    Oscars
    Pariah
    Press
    Press Tour
    Rebecca Taylor
    SILK NY
    Spring 2014
    Suzanne Rae
    Talia Goldstein
    The Lying Game
    Three Day Rule
    Tysons Galleria
    YAGP

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.