RCFU x Coco Chanel
Classic, simplistic, timeless, elegant, are there any words more fitting to describe Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel ? Born on August 19, 1883 in Saumur, France, the mogul and empress of women’s fashion came from humble beginnings. However, with ambition creativity, she grew her own empire and set trends in motion that transcend into modern day women’s fashion. GET THE LOOK LOOK extra resources Coco helped popularize the little black dress. Her belief in the beauty and elegance of simplicity can be echoed today by slipping on your favorite tastefully sexy black dress. When looking for your perfect LBD, look for refreshing and classy cuts that show just enough skin to be alluring, but still leave a sense of subtlety, i.e. a leg sli t or Bardot sleeves . You can even go for something backless if you want to exude her timeless refinement. SHOES We all know it was our girl Coco who famously said, “Keep your heels, head, and standards high.” To heed her advice, complete your classic LBD look with black heels of your choice, whether they’re kitten sling back s or stiletto pumps . ACCESSORIES Among trends and staples like the Chanel Suit and Chanel No. 5, and the LBD, Coco brought costume jewelry and pearls to the fashion forefront. You can implement her love of lush accessories in big or small ways, opting for a dainty pearl choker or an opulent rope wrapped around your neck several times as just a few ways to style an inspired Coco look. Coco Chanel’s fearless vision and drive to penetrate a previously male dominated field of business helped redefine women’s clothing.She gave women the freedom to use fashion as a way to define themselves on their own classy, elegant and, above all, powerful terms.
Project ANDRO
Story and photos by Jacynth Rodriguez I’ve always liked to think that what a person reads says a lot about them. One of the first things my eyes gravitate towards when I enter someone’s home is their personal library. Whether their shelves are packed with the classics, or more niche-bound beauties, I always feel just that much closer to a person after running my fingers over their favorite books. Then I had a thought: what happens when the tastes being showcased don’t fit “properly” into one category or another? How do we process the rejection of expectation and the unapologetic embrace of what is only beautifully eclectic? How do we define resident Richmond fashion icon Jonathan Copeland, whose collection of good reads contains issues of Vogue that go back for nearly a decade and… a Gentleman’s Guide? Where does a soul this colorful, this blissfully defiant, belong? Perhaps, anywhere he likes. I first met Jonathan last season at the RVA Fashion Week Trunk Show at The Depot. That day, clad in the most ultra-blue overcoat and floral dress, I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t define or place him, and I didn’t want to. All I wanted was to step back and admire the beautiful and confident person standing before me. That first interaction sparked the concept that later became Project ANDRO, I wasn’t an expert in androgynous fashion but I was intrigued by both its bravery and its beauty. I felt that androgynous fashion had to be more complicated than a woman in a pantsuit, or a man in a dress. After talking with Jonathan, I learned it’s not so much what you wear as it is how you wear it. Jonathan’s philosophy for style is as intricate as it is intentional, “I enjoy playing with this concept for men to show how masculinity can be amplified through womenswear, and on a higher level, I aim to display that femininity is not necessarily the opposition of masculine qualities, but rather complementary qualities that help a person to access all levels of what it means to be a complete person. Men should not be afraid to express “female ways of being” in the fear that it will diminish their masculine qualities.” The juxtaposition can be seen in the six looks styled by Copeland, which were inspired by some of Alexander McQueen’s last work. The strategic and brilliant use of the color red that regally and tastefully ornates the silhouettes all echo the late designer’s genius as well as Copeland’s attention to detail. The looks themselves showcase aspects that are as playful as they are powerful. Of these looks, good friend, model and designer Klyde Wright, seen sporting the over the top fur and the sharp red trench, mused that this style of fashion is less about choosing men’s or woman’s pieces specifically, it’s more about floating between the two. The duality and freedom found within androgynous fashion allows individuals the ability to express themselves with absolutely no restraints. Jonathan’s own style process is calculated and obviously executed in excellence, “I tend to choose women’s pieces that lend a more masculine appeal or are interestingly cut. When I go about searching for women’s pieces I tend to say to myself, “I need a cardigan. What options does the women’s section offer, which can be translated in a masculine way.” I find that European women’s style of clothing are interestingly cut and offer funky gender-neutral silhouettes, patterns, and prints to play with. It’s easy to build the rest of your menswear around that womenswear item.” When asked about how he is received by others he said, “I think when people look at me overall, they sense my positive energy more so than being hung up on my women’s pieces. Because I feel comfortable to wear womenswear and freely express my personality, my look is more of a conduit for my positive vibes to affect others so we all can enjoy the interaction we are sharing.” Jonathan’s ability to brighten a mood or a room with a smile or a killer look is undeniable. He and his team are opening up a world of fashion and lifestyle possibilities for men to explore and find their place on the gender/style spectrum, and ultimately to own it. I’ve always liked to think that what a person reads says a lot about them. One of the first things my eyes gravitate towards when I enter someone’s home is their personal library. Whether their shelves are packed with the classics, or more niche-bound beauties, I always feel just that much closer to a person after running my fingers over their favorite books. Then I had a thought: what happens when the tastes being showcased don’t fit “properly” into one category or another? How do we process the rejection of expectation and the unapologetic embrace of what is only beautifully eclectic? How do we define resident Richmond fashion icon Jonathan Copeland, whose collection of good reads contains issues of Vogue that go back for nearly a decade and… a Gentleman’s Guide? Where does a soul this colorful, this blissfully defiant, belong? Perhaps, anywhere he likes. page I first met Jonathan last season at the RVA Fashion Week Trunk Show at The Depot. That day, clad in the most ultra-blue overcoat and floral dress, I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t define or place him, and I didn’t want to. All I wanted was to step back and admire the beautiful and confident person standing before me. That first interaction sparked the concept that later became Project ANDRO, I wasn’t an expert in androgynous fashion but I was intrigued by both its bravery and its beauty. I felt that androgynous fashion had to be more complicated than a woman in a pantsuit, or a man in a dress. After talking with Jonathan, I learned it’s not so much what you wear as it is how you wear it. Jonathan’s philosophy for style is as intricate
RCFUxJosephine Baker
Story and Photos by Jacynth Serrano Rodriguez Styled by Solleyha Mathurin L ong before Beyonce or even Tina Turner there was Josephine Baker, the first Black Female Superstar . Baker was born June 3, 1906 in St. Louise, Missouri and would become one of the most famous expats in history. Baker was a singer/dancer-turned-activist who left the United States, disappointed with its racial climate, and escaped to the grandeur and mesmerization of France. Today, we honor Josephine for her luxurious taste, her unapologetic ‘black girl magic’ and her way of using her sexuality and power on her own terms– something the United States couldn’t understand and France couldn’t get enough of in the 1920’s. GET THE LOOK HAIR HAIR Like many other things, when it came to glitz and glam, Ms. Baker was never shy. With the Art Deco movement in full swing, Josephine could be seen sporting huge knocker ears and ornate hairpieces covered in gems. To show your love for all things glittery, you can pick up a trendy gem choker and/or body chain . Josephine was a woman in touch with and in control of her sexuality. She danced some acts nearly nude and famously rocked a banana skirt (now an iconic look among pop stars, ie. Diana Ross, Beyonce, Miley Cyrus). Unashamed and unapologetically, Josephine said, “I wasn’t really naked. I simply didn’t have any clothes on.” Now you obviously can’t be that brazen on most occasions, but you can be sexy on your own more modest terms. A click to read more plunge neckline body suit is a creative way to show some skin and some confidence. You can keep it casual with a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans or if you want to walk on the wild side, like our girl Josephine always preferred, you can DIY this cage skirt with a trusty hot glue gun and some goodies from your local Joann Fabric. Opt for a strappy shoe to complete your look, whether it’s a lace up heeled sandal or simple gladitors . At one point being the most photographed and most famous women in the world, Josephine Baker made the world respect and love her but she never took herself too seriously, “Beautiful? It’s all a question of luck. I was born with good legs. As for the rest…beautiful, no. Amusing, yes.”
RCFUxBianca Jagger
F rom artists to activists, the women we’ve been highlighting this month helped change our world for the better. Many know this week’s boss babe as the first wife of the Rolling Stone’s Mick Jagger—but actress, icon and advocate Bianca Jagger is so much more. Aside from being a timeless fashion icon, Bianca Jagger is also the President and Chief Executive of the Bianca Jagger Human Rights Foundation and an activist to this day. Of her status and access Jagger said, “I am not just a celebrity, I’m a human-rights advocate for the last 20 years.” Among Bianca’s most fabulous looks was the pantsuit. Her choice to rock the white number on her wedding day is equal parts sexy and refreshing. Throughout the 70s and 80s Bianca could be seen in various suits that accentuated her power and her prowess. Another distinctly Jagger trend was the tastefully deep V. Bianca’s fashion sense completely redefined the idea of showing some skin. As far as accessories are concerned, elegance is key. Bianca would often don a bold head band, wrapped head scarf or posh hat. GET THE LOOK HAIR 1970s Bianca rocked her locks with tons of volume, so let your mane speak for you with lots of body. Work with a dramatic side part or try one of the classic Jagger head accessories (thick headband, gorgeous head scarf or chic hat). MAKE UP The matte trend of 2016 was popularized by Bianca back in the 70s and was paired with a bold red lip and a crisp angled brow. THE LOOK To modernize the essence of Bianca Jagger, definitely be on the hunt for a good blazer . Look for one with a strong shape to project your confidence to the world. If you’re feeling brave, just a blazer and jeans. The deep V-neck look will be all the homage you need. If that’s not totally appropriate for your event you can tie your blazer together with a tight or loose fitted button down or blouse and serve just the perfect amount of décolletage. You can add a pair of distressed denim (whatever wash sets your heart afloat) and practical but adorable booties . Or, if you’re more no muss no fuss, get yourself a whole pantsuit and kick butt that way. If Bianca’s fashion and her passion teaches us anything it’s the importance of understanding and utilizing your power and agency. As the icon said herself, “Style is knowing what suits you, who you are, and what your assets are. It is also accepting it all.” Bianca’s Jagger’s confident strut through life and her bold choice to stand for what is right just makes her one of the baddest women to ever do the dang thing. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj4s-HUmMjSAhXDLSYKHZwyB2gQjhwIBQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2F2013%2F09%2F20%2Fbianca-jagger-style_n_3957325.html&psig=AFQjCNGAajh37kz7OkhvOeuE6F5VNpPsMg&ust=1489106637121248 https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwi5scD0mMjSAhXCKCYKHf_NAMEQjhwIBQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnessamarg.blogspot.com%2F2015%2F06%2Ffashion-icon-bianca-jagger.html&psig=AFQjCNGQsXHlhQ8Udw_vLGES46olR9kcgw&ust=1489106706761691 https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjI_PaPmcjSAhUJ0iYKHb9fDR0QjhwIBQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fagnautacouture.com%2F2015%2F11%2F29%2Fbianca-jagger-the-reigning-queen-of-studio-54%2F&bvm=bv.149093890,d.ZGg&psig=AFQjCNF2Prg53df4Lfjfeqj6JS5zQyw1SA&ust=1489106755818712 click for more info
RCFU x Frida Kahlo
Story and Photos by Jacynth Serrano Rodriguez Story and Photos by Jacynth Serrano Rodriguez Styled by Dom Khun Styled by Dom Khun Few lead a life as full, as colorful or as unapologetic as Mexican painter and liver-of-life-extraordinaire Frida Kahlo . She was born in Coyoacan Mexico City, Mexico in 1907 in the Casa Azul, which now functions as a museum and stands as vibrant as the life she lived. RCFU’s take on the artist’s free spirited, unconventional sense of style required a sense of daring creativity and a love of color. GET THE LOOK check out your url HAIR You can easily put a modern twist on Frida’s signature look by employing a milkmaid braid, or even space buns! Creating your own DIY flower crown can be fun, and with spring right around the corner, you can hand-pick real (or fake) flowers to bobby-pin into your mane to pay homage to Frida’s floral elegance. If a full-on flower crown is a bit much for your occasion, opt for bold jewelry like statement necklaces, stacked bangles and knocker earrings. FACE Frida Kahlo’s brow is iconic, and it just happens to be timely for the fuller brow trend that’s been happening lately. Pair your thick or natural brows with a bold red lip and you’ll be sure to stand out. LOOK In her youth, Frida was known to buck the system and challenge classical gender roles. She would even don menswear on occasion. Try your hand at breaking the “rules” by incorporating menswear pieces such as trousers or loafers into your look. You can balance out your look with a floral or printed top and even throw on a scarf or shawl for added sophistication, especially if worn off the shoulder for some tasteful sensuality. Frida Kahlo changed the game with her self-portraiture, saying once “I paint myself because I am so often alone and because I am the subject I know best.” She is admired not only for her stunning and lasting body of work, but also for her strength, her resilience and her love of life. Despite living a pain-laden life from childhood to adulthood, Frida chose to live colorfully. This Women’s History Month, honor this iconic and iconoclastic woman by choosing to do the same. For more on Frida life and work click here .
VCstyleU: Erica Thompson ft. 7:77SALU
Story by Jacynth Serrano Rodriguez Photos by Solomon Bullet and Wanyeh Digital Illustration by Ammor Dennis Bullet BulletTell me who you are? ET: Creative that’s creating. ET: Creative that’s creating. Talent that’s trying in trials and a Talent that’s trying in trials and a masterpiece made from mistakes. masterpiece made from mistakes. What year are you and what are you studying? ET: 2019 and I’m studying Business Administration! And I just chose it to get through school honestly, not really a deep thought into it. ET: 2019 and I’m studying Business Administration! And I just chose it to get through school honestly, not really a deep thought into it. Can you tell me a little more about your brand, as it just launched? Or is it in the process of launching? How exhilarating has the experience been so far? ET: My brand has been out since the summer. ET: My brand has been out since the summer. I do releasing in increments, meaning I have my Spring/Summer releases, Fall/Winter and then back to Spring/Summer again. It’s been a stressful experience honestly. Makes me anxious lol! I do releasing in increments, meaning I have my Spring/Summer releases, Fall/Winter and then back to Spring/Summer again. It’s been a stressful experience honestly. Makes me anxious lol! Bullet Bullet What drives you to create? ET:I can’t say really, it’s just in my blood, in my purpose, my destiny. It was written in stone of what I’m supposed to be and do in this world, and I’m doing it or at least attempting ET:I can’t say really, it’s just in my blood, in my purpose, my destiny. It was written in stone of what I’m supposed to be and do in this world, and I’m doing it or at least attempting it. Are there any specific designers you really admire? ET: I really admire the designer Briana Shaneè. Her @ name on Twitter is: @eenahsanairb & she is the owner of THE MATTE BRAND. From my knowledge, she started off as an online boutique owner and look at her now. Everyone knows her name. ET: I really admire the designer Briana Shaneè. Her @ name on Twitter is: @eenahsanairb & she is the owner of THE MATTE BRAND. From my knowledge, she started off as an online boutique owner and look at her now. Everyone knows her name. Tell me where and when readers can get their hands on your pieces? ET: more info here ET: 777salubrand.bigcartel.com 777salubrand.bigcartel.com is where people can buy everything. is where people can buy everything. My site, My site, icyoue.com icyoue.com is mostly going to be pictures of my models, updates/announcements on upcoming releases, interviews and DIYs! is mostly going to be pictures of my models, updates/announcements on upcoming releases, interviews and DIYs! I loved your shoot featuring some stunning VCU ladies, Is that suede or a suede like material that you chose? Can you tell me more about what goes into your selection process? ET: Thank you love, and it’s ultra suede. Very durable, very stretchy. Made to fit any body shape. With the selection process, I go into a fabric store, see fabric, buy it on a whim, and then go home and make an outfit! ET: Thank you love, and it’s ultra suede. Very durable, very stretchy. Made to fit any body shape. With the selection process, I go into a fabric store, see fabric, buy it on a whim, and then go home and make an outfit! Wanyeh Wanyeh What do you plan to do post-graduation? ET: Honestly, the plan is to pursue my purpose. Have faith in this fashion stuff. Take it to L.A. Take it to New York, get my name out there. And if all else fails… the Marines. ET: Honestly, the plan is to pursue my purpose. Have faith in this fashion stuff. Take it to L.A. Take it to New York, get my name out there. And if all else fails… the Marines. Do you have an ideal client in mind? ET: I target more towards 16-30 year olds. ET: I target more towards 16-30 year olds. What can you share about your creative and design process? ET: Honestly all there is to share is that it’s a lot of hard work. I can’t be lazy, I can’t be disorganized, and can’t fall short on anything. I have to stay on top of everything, always! There’s no slacking! ET: Honestly all there is to share is that it’s a lot of hard work. I can’t be lazy, I can’t be disorganized, and can’t fall short on anything. I have to stay on top of everything, always! There’s no slacking! How would you categorize the style of 7:77SALU? I can’t because it’s a category, trend, style, and brand all in its own 😉 If you could get any celebrity in one of your fits, who would you choose and which piece would they wear? ET:Once I start doing men, I would LOVE to see Big Sean & Kid Cudi in my stuff. Women wise: Zendaya, Kendall Jenner. ET:Once I start doing men, I would LOVE to see Big Sean & Kid Cudi in my stuff. Women wise: Zendaya, Kendall Jenner. Biggest supporter? ET:My brother Dominique. Everytime I come up with an idea, or I’m having difficulties I text him immediately. He knows everyday he’s going to get a text from me, lol. Whenever I get discouraged, he’s there. He even said that I inspire him…. and for him being 26, and me being 19 + 1 (I never say “20” lol), it’s an honor. Also my friend Morgan that goes to GMU. She was the first person to interview me, the biggest supporter besides my brother, that has been there since day 1. Definitely when I’m famous, they’ll be sitting courtside with me at the basketball games, like other celebs! Haha ET:My brother Dominique. Everytime I come up with an idea, or I’m having difficulties I text him immediately. He knows everyday he’s going to get a text from me, lol. Whenever I get
Fashion Staples
Story and Styling by Solleyha Mathurin Photos by Mia Navarro Fashion: a popular trend; staple: a basic or necessary item. We can assume a fashion staple is an article of clothing, or accessory, worn on various occasions during different seasons, that enhances an outfit when layered. Everyone has their own style, but we all know that feeling of running short on time and not having an outfit picked out yet. For me, it helps when all my staples and everyday items are sitting on my clothing rack and are readily accessible. Rule of thumb: the simpler the pieces, the easier it is to pair. Having too many patterns and colors to choose from can be very overwhelming, especially when you are running late. So, keeping it simple can help you in the long run. I’m not saying turn your whole wardrobe into a monochromatic fortress, just the staples you decide to pick out. A staple should be something you know you’ll want to have for a while, so choose wisely. First in the bunch is bralettes; they have numerous upsides. They are comfortable, breathable, and come in many different styles and sizes, making it easy to find the one that suits you best. You can wear them with high waisted pants if you’re daring, or tucked under a V-neck shirt so you only get a sneak peek. Either way, they are one of the easiest items to upscale an outfit with. We all should own a pair of black jeans for those days when we want to wear that denim shirt, but feel like the denim on denim look is a little too risky to tackle. This article of clothing allows the other pieces of your outfit to pop, unless you’re going for that all-black look. And, if you feel like going a step further, why not add a knee slit to the mix. Knee-slit jeans add just the right amount of edginess to any outfit. The layered necklace trend has made a statement in the past year and has now become a ritual of my everyday wardrobe. It gives the outfit an effortless look without trying too hard by simply mixing necklaces of different lengths and styles. You can even take a long necklace and wrap it two or three times and it still looks like you know what you’re doing. This trend can tend to look a little misplaced over busy prints, so try to stick with solid or minimal patterned pieces. Whether it’s fall or spring, we all love a good outerwear piece to throw over our shoulders. From the edgy vibes of a leather bomber to the urban feel of the utility jacket and the classiness of a trench coat, each plays their own role in fashion, and each piece can transform any outfit it touches. These clothing items allow you to keep a fashionable look while roaming the streets, because we all know how that puffy jacket can take away from the vision. Everyone needs a good pair of booties whether they’re one inch tall or three, suede or smooth leather, or chelsea-styled. They add a level of chicness to a variety of outfits while elongating the legs. Style them with a pair of cuffed jeans and you’ve got half of your outfit ready. Although, if you’re one that chooses comfort over cuteness, you can’t go wrong with a pair of white sneakers. Even though they make an outfit more casual, pairing them with something dressier, such as a bodycon dress, allows you to reach an equilibrium. Take what you can from this article, but make it your own. Like Ralph Lauren says “Style is very personal. It has nothing to do with fashion. Fashion is over quickly. Style is forever.” Story and Styling by Solleyha Mathurin Story and Styling by Solleyha Mathurin Photos by Mia Navarro on sale Fashion: a popular trend; staple: a basic or necessary item. We can assume a fashion staple is an article of clothing, or accessory, worn on various occasions during different seasons, that enhances an outfit when layered. Everyone has their own style, but we all know that feeling of running short on time and not having an outfit picked out yet. For me, it helps when all my staples and everyday items are sitting on my clothing rack and are readily accessible. Rule of thumb: the simpler the pieces, the easier it is to pair. Having too many patterns and colors to choose from can be very overwhelming, especially when you are running late. So, keeping it simple can help you in the long run. I’m not saying turn your whole wardrobe into a monochromatic fortress, just the staples you decide to pick out. A staple should be something you know you’ll want to have for a while, so choose wisely. First in the bunch is bralettes; they have numerous upsides. They are comfortable, breathable, and come in many different styles and sizes, making it easy to find the one that suits you best. You can wear them with high waisted pants if you’re daring, or tucked under a V-neck shirt so you only get a sneak peek. Either way, they are one of the easiest items to upscale an outfit with. The layered necklace trend has made a statement in the past year and has now become a ritual of my everyday wardrobe. It gives the outfit an effortless look without trying too hard by simply mixing necklaces of different lengths and styles. You can even take a long necklace and wrap it two or three times and it still looks like you know what you’re doing. This trend can tend to look a little misplaced over busy prints, so try to stick with solid or minimal patterned pieces. Whether it’s fall or spring, we all love a good outerwear piece to throw over our shoulders. From the edgy vibes of a leather bomber to the urban feel of the utility jacket and the classiness of a