Get Stylish With Jenna Lyons on HBO Max

I’ve been glued to HBO Max the last few days. Stylish With Jenna Lyons is a must-watch tv HBO Max series / reality show sans the bullshit drama. It’s all about fashion, style, beauty and decor, trust me, there’s plenty of drama there.

My first introduction of Jenna Lyons came in 2010 via The Fashion Fund - a docu-series about the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund finalists. (This is another binge-worthy series!) Ever since then, I’ve had a slight fascination with Jenna - not in a weird, creepy way - she’s just a really cool chic. Seems pretty “real.” I like that, so when I learned of Stylish With Jenna Lyons, I put The Crown on pause and said hello to another queen.

After 27 years with J. Crew, Jenna left to create her own brand. Stylish With Jenna Lyons is fun, sassy, raw yet polished. Jenna’s team: fashion stylist / creative director Sarah Clary and Chief of Staff Kyle Deford play integral roles in the show and business (and are quite fabulous).

Episode 1 sets the stage, so to speak, and the design show / competition introduces the creatives - a group of young, unique, emotional characters who are competing for a stylish space in the Lyon’s den. Sarah and Kyle oversee Jenna’s design challenges for the aspiring associates. By the final episode, you’ve formed tv-relationships with the cast and the show takes an unforeseen turn. I watched, with empathy and thought: “WOW…” I won’t spoil it - you’ll just have to watch. It’s that good!

Jenna Lyons and her team are inspiring and refreshing. The show feels unscripted, at least for Jenna’s precious pup Popeye who steals the spotlight by pooping on it and barking at everyone - you can’t script that! Jenna offers useful design advice in a segment called Just The Tips and we learn of yet another business she’s started that sells fabulous faux lashes, Loveseen. Watch Stylish With Jenna Lyons on HBO Max, you’ll love it and if you’re still feeling stalkerific and just can’t get enough, this New Yorker interview will tell you way more about Jenna than I have : ‘Afterlife…’

FASHIONADO

Moissanite is Here to Stay

Gone are the days where the old adage is only applicable to diamonds! Humans have been using diamonds as precious stones for hundreds of years, and from the more famous applications, such as the Crown of England, to everyday applications, like engagement rings, diamonds have been the stone of choice to denote stability, prosperity and hope. But diamonds come at a far higher cost than just being expensive. Their history is also rooted in blood, conflict and corruption, as natural areas are decimated for their mining, and poor workers exploited and abused for below minimum pay. This major ethical consideration is driving more and more people to a kinder alternative.

Goodbye diamonds, hello moissanite

Moissanite is a mineral compound that was discovered by a scientist named Henri Moissan, from whom the stone takes its name. However, the initial site of discovery was near a meteor impact site, and the original silicon carbide crystals could not be used as moissanite directly. A series of scientific interventions must occur in order for the silicon carbide to be usable in the form of moissanite as we experience it. Visually, there are several significant similarities between diamonds and the more affordable moissanite such as the fact that they are of similar brilliance and hardness.

Advanced laboratory processes ae used to manufacture moissanite jewels. Although far cheaper than diamonds they provide a high-quality, ethical alternative, which not only benefits those with restricted budgets, but also those with ethical objections to the use of diamonds.

Getting the best Moissanite Gemstone

A great stone does not come into its own without a great setting. Its neutral color allows the band to be set in almost any color metal, such as yellow, rose, or white gold. Like diamonds, the right cut is also crucial to get the right degree of fire from the stone. Moissanite is well known for its refractive abilities, creating a rather spectacular rainbow effect. It also has a far higher sparkle value than a diamond, making it appear far more radiant. Buying a moissanite will also have you considering weights and measurements, which is similarly measured in carats. The big difference comes into the price to weight ratio. For a stone of equal size, you can expect a significant and pocket-pleasing difference in price.

Taking the first step

Engagements, birthdays, anniversaries – you can be sure that there is a moissanite out there that will meet your needs. I cannot reiterate the value of the correct setting enough – remember that you are not dealing with a cheap diamond replica – you are dealing with a significant jewel in its own right, and the money you spend will be wasted if the setting is poor. Make sure that you go through your buying process in the right way and get the full value of the money you spend. All that remains is to enjoy the extreme sparkle and beauty of your new purchase. Because there are no ethical considerations attached to them, you can breathe easy and know that you are not contributing to anything sinister through your purchase.

FASHIONADO

Zalando Partners With Fashion Industry Names To Release Never Before Seen Images On The Theme Of Human Connection

This holiday season, Zalando, Europe's leading online platform for fashion and lifestyle, is partnering with some of fashion's biggest names to bring the feeling of a million virtual hugs across Europe. The campaign features Brooklyn Beckham, Diane von Furstenberg, Jeremy Scott and Munroe Bergdorf sharing candid images showing the ultimate expression of human connection and solidarity: the hug.

Against the backdrop of a challenging year of uncertainty and separation, the collection comes with the inspirational rallying cry - 'We Will Hug Again' - an optimistic message of a more positive future and a reminder of the importance of personal connection this festive period. Images used in the campaign can be downloaded here.

The campaign also features friend of Zalando, model and activist Rain Dove.

The image collection is an extension of Zalando's Holiday Campaign, 'We Will Hug Again', which launched in November with the heart-warming film, '100 Years of Hugs' and a series of images - Hug Portraits - of real people embracing.

As part of the efforts to celebrate the power of human connection, Zalando is also supporting the Red Cross to help those who may be isolated and lacking that connection at this time. While many of us cannot hug at this moment in time, together they are looking forward to a time when we can. They are calling on consumers to pick a favourite picture of a hug memory from their camera roll and share it on social media. For each post tagging @Zalando and using #WeWillHugAgain, Zalando will donate €5 to the Red Cross.

Photographer Brooklyn Beckham, whose emotive imagery made him the perfect fit for the campaign features, said of the partnership: "Human connection and physical embraces are so important in life. At a time when many of us are apart from loved ones, it felt right to partner with Zalando to spread a message of optimism that we will hug again. These images are deeply personal to me and show moments I don't often share, but now is the time to be thankful for the great moments we've had and look forward to creating many more sometime soon."

Model and activist Munroe Bergdorf, who shared an image of a tender hug between herself and friend and model Billy, added: "My camera roll is full of so many gorgeous cuddles and hugs with family and friends that I was spoilt for choice. It's lovely to look back on past moments and know that, even while things can be challenging right now, we will create many more memories like these in the future. Our loved ones are our support systems, they allow us to feel seen, heard and understood. I'm going to miss seeing so many of them over the festive season but I know we have so many amazing times to come. I'm glad to be part of spreading a bit of positivity and part of a campaign that is helping support those that need human connection the most."

Natalie Wills, Global Director Social Media & Consumer PR remarked: "We're delighted that so many of the industry's most well-known faces have lent their voices to share this positive message. The images they've shared celebrate the beauty of human connection, and we want to inspire the feeling of hope and optimism in these challenging times. It was also important to us to use this campaign as another opportunity to give back to the community and the support Red Cross on their mission to bring connection and support to those that need it most during this period."  

#wewillhugagain @Zalando 

FASHIONADO

MUCHO MUCHO AMOR - A New Netflix Original Documentary of Walter Mercado

Watch our interview with the filmmakers behind Mucho Mucho Amor. Alex Fumero, Cristina Costantini and Kareem Tabsch share stories about the life of Walter Mercado and production of the film.

Every single day for decades, extravagant Puerto Rican astrologer, psychic, and gender nonconforming legend Walter Mercado charmed the world with his televised horoscopes. Equal parts Oprah, Liberace, and Mr. Rogers, Walter was a celebrated daily part of Latin culture, who at his peak reached over 120 million viewers. Since childhood, Walter was regarded as a healer, but his greatest miracle might have been his personal transformation from shy farm boy to flamboyant showman. Walter enthralled much of the world with sequined capes, opulent jewelry and pressing horoscopes that shared a message of love and hope to his devoted viewers — until one day he mysteriously disappeared.

Over a decade later award-winning documentarians Cristina Costantini (Science Fair) and Kareem Tabsch (The Last Resort) plus producer Alex Fumero (I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson) received unprecedented access to Walter during his post-fame seclusion and invite us into his home and interior world. With MUCHO MUCHO AMOR, they capture Walter’s final two years, when the pioneering icon grappled with aging and his legacy, as he prepared for one last star-studded spectacle. We invite you to view the first trailer for MUCHO MUCHO AMOR, the new Netflix Original Documentary about the iconic Latinx astrologer Walter Mercado. We hope you will discover the magic, mysticism and the love of Walter Mercado.  A hit at the Sundance Film Festival this year, the film is releasing globally on Netflix July 8th.

For many, Walter Mercado has been a household name for generations.  He was that optimistic/larger than life character that came into everyone's household via television.  For some he was even bigger than Oprah and uber flamboyant like that of Liberace. But he was always full of love, life and inspiration! We need some Walter right now!!!

Every day for decades, Walter Mercado mesmerized 120 million Latinx viewers with his extravagance, glamour, and artistry. Viewers across generations and all over the world gathered around the TV eagerly waiting for him to deliver his daily reading of your sign. Award-winning documentarians Cristina Costantini (Science Fair) and Kareem Tabsch (The Last Resort) direct MUCHO MUCHO AMOR, produced by Alex Fumero (I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson). “We sincerely hope you will become inspired by Mercado’s message of understanding, peace mucho paz and above all love mucho mucho amor.”

FASHIONADO

Nina West And Dolly Parton Team Up For "Dolly X Nina: Kindness Is Queen" Collection

Kindness is Queen! As revealed exclusively through Entertainment Weekly, The Nina West Foundation is thrilled to announce an incredibly special, first-of-its-kind partnership between Country Music legend Dolly Parton and Drag Superstar  and LGBTQ+ activist Nina West. These two Queens of Kindness have teamed up for the Dolly x Nina: Kindness is Queen collection to foster kindness and hope during this difficult time.

"When I approached Dolly with the idea for a collaboration between the Nina West Foundation and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, I was looking for an opportunity to continue to spread my message of kindness while building on the work I've done through my foundation supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families," said Nina West. "Dolly is the Ultimate Queen of Kindness and I am so thrilled that she agreed to this collaboration! We both want to spread the message that Kindness is Queen and that being kind is something that is desperately needed in our world right now!"

Proceeds from the Kindness is Queen Limited Edition T-shirt, Tote Bag and Enamel pin will go to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a book gifting program that promotes literacy by providing free high quality books to children of all ages, and the Nina West Foundation which supports organizations and services that support LGBTQ+ youth and families. The collection is available now at www.ninawest.com/kindness for a limited time.

Remember, Kindness is Queen and may she ever reign supreme!

FASHIONADO

Jason Wu collaborates WILD BEAUTY Exclusive Florals

Today, 1-800-Flowers.com®, one of the world's leading floral providers, announced it has collaborated with global design talent, Jason Wu, to release an exclusive assortment of modern and elegant bouquets. The Jason Wu for Wild Beauty™ collection, which is now available nationwide, features on-trend arrangements that embody the designer's signature aesthetic of femininity and sophistication. Behind-the-scenes content, specially designed 'thank you' notes and the ability to preview select bouquets in 3D will allow customers to have an immersive digital experience as they are introduced to the new collection. This marks Jason Wu's first collaboration with a floral and gifting brand.

"Jason Wu is one of the world's most renowned fashion designers and we are thrilled to collaborate with him on this truly original collection, which reflects his unique point of view in floral design and bouquet presentation," said Valerie Ghitelman, Vice President, Product Development and Design, 1-800-Flowers.com. "We are excited to not only share these beautifully crafted arrangements with our customers, but to engage them with distinctive content that provides insights into Jason's design influences and more."

"Playing a role in the intimate decision of what one chooses to wear each day is such an important part of what I do," said Jason Wu. "To extend this concept to the graceful details people bring into their homes is an honor. This collection with 1-800-Flowers.com is especially meaningful to me because of my lifelong love of flowers. Floral elements continuously inspire me and have been a consistent theme throughout my entire career. I'm thrilled to celebrate the beauty of flowers in this new and special way."

A Collection Influenced by Jason Wu's Design Aesthetic: Jason's design influences, such as modern femininity and refined style, are reflected throughout the entire Jason Wu for Wild Beauty collection. Chic, gathered arrangements include freshly cut flowers – such as roses, sunflowers, gerbera daisies, thistle, aster and mini calla lilies, among others – that are grown with love at select eco-friendly, sustainable farms. Each bouquet, which includes a mix of textures and florals unique to the season, arrives wrapped in white kraft paper and is nestled inside a signature gift box. Customers can also opt to order a galvanized flower pail to showcase their arrangement. The collection includes:

• Citrus Crush™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Watercolor Chiffon™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Wild Cascade™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Poplin Crème™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Silken Roses™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

Bouquets from the Jason Wu for Wild Beauty collection come with a custom hangtag, which prompts recipients with a QR code to enjoy a mobile web experience. Exclusive and engaging content includes behind-the-scenes footage from Jason's Ready-To-Wear Fall 2020 New York Fashion Week Show and the Jason Wu for Wild Beauty collection photo shoot, both of which took place earlier this year. It also provides access to special 'thank you' notes whereby bouquet recipients can instantly connect with and send a digital message to the sender. Find all this at www.1800flowers.com/jasonwu-connect.

FASHIONADO

HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS® Announces #MOVE4ATL Initiative

Harry Norman, REALTORS® is proud to announce a new social media initiative, #Move4ATL. On Saturday, June 6, from 10am to 2pm, Harry Norman is set to bring their agents, staff, and the Atlanta community together to move their bodies for a good cause virtually, through their Instagram and Facebook.

Joining in is easy – donate $30 (or more) for entry and get moving! Whether it’s running, walking, riding, skipping, dancing, yoga, or any other physical activity, join the virtual action and post a photo with the hashtag #Move4ATL. All proceeds for the 4-hour event will be donated to the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta’s Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.

 
“The COVID-19 crisis is an unprecedented situation that has changed the way we look at things and caused us to reevaluate our priorities as a company and as individuals,” says Harry Norman President and CEO, Jenni Bonura. “It’s incredible to foster the camaraderie amongst our agents and celebrate activity, exercise, and our great city of Atlanta as we continue to do everything we can to hold others up.” 
 
One of Harry Norman’s key tenets is making a real difference in Atlanta through community service. Throughout the year, Harry Norman supports a variety of local nonprofit organizations through the Harry Norman, REALTORS® Philanthropy Fund. To continue furthering their impact during these trying times, they’ve chosen to partner with the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta. The Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Recovery and Response Fund provides immediate support to those most vulnerable to the economic and health-related issues caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
 
"The Community Foundation and Harry Norman, REALTORS® established a powerful partnership for philanthropy last year, and now we elevate it to fight the health and economic hardships the COVID-19 pandemic is causing," said Elyse Hammett, Vice President of marketing and communications at Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta. "We applaud the ongoing dedication of these thousands of realtors across the region who understand the power of community and give generously to help our neighbors who need it now."  

To sign up for #Move4ATL, head here.

FASHIONADO