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9LIST STORI3S | SARAH POTEMPA
THE TRANSFORMATION WITH KIM KIMBLE
When it comes to creating dynamic hair in film, TV, photoshoots, videos, red carpets (Met Gala, Oscars, etc.), Coachella and cover editorials (Vogue, Vanity Fair, etc.), Kim Kimble is a known name in the industry. Her level of creativity and transforming her clients to another level has been seen on Beyoncé, Shakira, Mary J. Blige, Zendaya and Kelly Rowland to name a few. This 3rd generation hair stylist has grown her brand to include a full line of products from wigs, extensions and hair care. For 5 seasons, she shared the business of hair from her salon, team and her celeb clients on WE TV's L.A. Hair. In addition, she continues to challenge herself as she takes on projects that showcase that her there are no bounds to her vision of dominating the industry that she loves so much.
ATHLEISURE MAG: What was the moment that you realized that you wanted to be a hairstylist?
KIM KIMBLE: Well in all honesty, I’m a 3rd generation hairstylist so my mother and my grandmother also did hair. I was around it all my life; however, I wasn’t convinced that I would do it forever. I would do hair, work my way – after I got my license, I worked on hair as I made my way through fashion school as I wanted to be a fashion designer. That was my dream at the time. In all honesty, once I started doing hair, one day I realized that I love the challenge of it. I saw you could do more than just stand behind a chair. Early on – they called it Platform Artists Hair Stylists, there were hair shows and I could see that there was more then just doing this. Once I saw the transformation of my clients in my chair, when they would get out of my chair – that’s where my slogan, ‘Great Hair Equals Confidence,” came from as I saw the change in my clients when they would get out of the chair and how they would transform. I would see it later when I would work my celebrity clients and they would get on stage and how they would become a whole other person.
That gave me a lot of purpose and even with creating products and things like that, seeing the change and how it could make a difference in a person’s life – there is something about that that fulfills me. So I was like, I’m sticking with hair and gave up fashion.
AM: What was the project that made you realize that you had made it?
KK: Oh wow. I mean when I did BAPS, that was my first movie and that was pretty great for me. I had so many milestones in my career. But I think that once I started working with Beyoncé and I saw respect. I started getting so many different people reaching out to work with me. I started seeing the change of being accepted for different magazines and being able to do different covers. Then I knew that the career was really taking off and was onto something special. You know, I was able to transform my career and I saw a change. One day, you’re doing your thing and then the next day you’re like the most sought after hairstylist in the world because of one client. I got to experience that. I was doing celebrities before I met her and I was doing film before I met her. How I met her was through film, but in all honesty, I really took off and everything changed. When her career started taking off as a solo artist as her career was huge with Destiny’s Child, it was her solo career when I started working with her and everything changed.
AM: What does it mean to be Kimbleized?
KK: Well Kimbleized, the phrase came from one day when I was on WE TV’s L.A. Hair, my reality show. I mentioned it in a confessional that she has now been Kimbleized. It means that she has been touched by the Kimble, her hair has been certified by Kim Kimble and transformed by Kim Kimble in the Kim Kimble style and in the Kim Kimble way. I said it one day in an interview and then they put these chimes behind it and I was like, “yes” and I had an epiphany and I said, “everyone is going to be Kimbleized.” When I have finished someone’s hair I will tell them, “you have just been Kimbleized.” It’s also because when I’m with my clients, I spoil them so well when they get their hair done that they don’t want to go to anybody else. Your life has been changed and you want Kim Kimble to do your hair. It’s a whole thing.
AM: In talking about your show, it was one of the first ones that I knew of that incorporated your whole team, having the nail artists that was there and showing the culture of getting your look put together. What was the confluence that happened that made you think that you wanted to do a show?
KK: In all honesty, I’m a creative person. I used to produce hair shows and events like that. So I had the producer/creative bug in me. I had been trying to create these shows for a minute but I hadn’t been successful. I wasn’t really trying to do one surrounding me and my squad. That’s not what I was pitching. Then I gave up because I hadn’t had any luck doing that and I didn’t get picked up. It happens a lot. You go out there, you pitch, sometimes you’re hot and sometimes you’re not. I stopped pitching, gave up, said forget it and then a producer reached out to me and asked if I would be interested in coming in and having a show that was about me and my team. They knew there was someone who was looking for something like that. I said, “yeah ok, whatever.” I didn’t think that it would happen. At first I was a little nervous about doing something like that because I know how dramatic the salon, stylists and artists are. But you know that that’s what the shows look for, but I didn’t know if I wanted to put my business or brand in a situation that would affect me. I know that I had seen some of the shows and there was a little negativity there and I’m a control freak. I wanted to be in control of my brand and what I did. I didn’t want to put my brand in the hands of just anybody.
With the shows, those contracts are real serious. I didn’t even get to go on the pitches, I didn’t know who they pitched or what they did. All I know is that I was on a show called Let’s Stay Together on BET in Atlanta and I get a call and they say, “guess what? Your show has been picked up by WE TV.” I was like, “what?” It happened so fast that I didn’t even get a chance to think about it. I’m like that, I will just jump in feet first and just see what happens. I jumped into it. Was I nervous? Yes. I worked on TV and films, but I hadn’t worked on any reality shows. I didn’t know what that was like. I did a lot of television in terms of makeovers and interviews so I had done some things – it helped break me in, but it was a completely different thing.
The day the cameras came into the salon, I was like, “oh my God, what have I just done?” I didn’t know anything about this and it ended up working out just fine. I would do it again. It was dramatic, 5 seasons, but I was very proud of what we did. It was dramatic in front of and behind the camera, but I would do it again in a heartbeat. A lot of people really admired and loved the show. Every time I’m on my social media, I’m asked if L.A. Hair is coming back, what am I doing, will there be another show etc. They don’t realize that I’m a hair stylist first and not a television personality first. My day job is always working with clients. So when you saw that on the show, a lot of that stuff was real jobs that I had done and they allowed us to bring a camera. Sometimes it would be stuff that we would create for opportunities, but a lot of them were people that I had worked with. Some of them were people that I had not worked with and it was my first time working with them. It was important for me to show what we really do. The realness, running a business and a lot of people underestimate entrepreneurship which is interesting for women and especially women of color. There are a lot of women entrepreneurs and a lot of times in shows they may think that people want to see the drama, but they also want to know about running a business. It was important for me to share a lot of the things that were going on in the business, things that I did on set and that’s why people liked it – it was the real deal.
There was a little drama here and there and I would have people call me and say that they were going through the same thing at their salon. People can relate because everyone knows this is what salons bring and that’s why I was nervous because I knew that we were about to look real crazy on there. I’ll be honest with you, I’m not ashamed of any of it. I think it was a great opportunity and I know a lot of people have a lot of bad things to say about reality TV, but I will be honest with you. I don’t put anything out there that I don’t want out there! If I don’t want it out there, I don’t do it. What TV does is bring out who you are. It really brings it out whether you want it to or not. I will put that out there that if you want to do reality TV, then be careful because who you are will come out. A couple of times I got heated, but that’s real though. You can’t blame anybody who is focused on their business or their brand. I’m not afraid to let people know that I am territorial when it comes to taking care of my clients and I don’t want people taking advantage of me. I’m a business woman and I enjoyed it. I hope to get another chance as we’re looking at other opportunities which will be a little different. I don’t know if we’ll do L.A. Hair again because the times have changed and that’s been done – so I don’t know if we will do that again.
AM: You have created iconic looks and just recently with Beyoncé’s Black is King video with the 30ft braids. How do you come up with your concepts and what is that process like?
KK: This particular process was interesting. When we work together, we create boards and on this one, we started with Africa early on when she was doing Lemonade. I felt that natural hair was wear we wanted to go, her weave was more natural textures. We looked at the beauty of Africa and I was looking at women. I keep referring to Lemonade and going back there because that whole concept was about women early on before we had relaxers and that kind of stuff. We started with a lot of different African inspirations for hair. When she did Black is King, it was more about Africa and with The Lion King – what it would be like and discovering the beauty of Blackness. That’s what was amazing about that project. There were a couple of things that I had worked on for some of her videos. She has a creative director team and we were talking about a 30ft braid that needed to be long so that it could wrap around the body. Of course, that didn’t happen, but the wig was made and I have an amazing team of braiders that have worked with me on many projects. I dream up something and we get together and it’s like a lab. We test it out, do a couple of samples to see how it works and then it becomes something that we execute. When Beyoncé dreams something and says she wants this or that, we just create it – that’s what we do. That’s why I like working with her. It’s a lot of fun, it’s creative and I like to be challenged. Those challenges can be something crazy like a 30ft braid, Ivy Park beads in my braid – but you get with the team and we make it and we made history.
When I worked with Nicki Minaj, she had been wearing long hair and I wanted to do pink braids because she likes pink. I got together with the team and I said, “hey let’s do pink braids to the floor.” We broke the internet. I have been blessed to have great opportunities that are allowed by artists who create. I’m just an out there person when it comes to this and I like it!
AM: In addition to your great talent and custom work, you also have a line of products and hair as well. How important was it to you to bring this to market to round out your empire?
KK: This is the thing. With the celebrities that I work with, a lot of people want the same celebrity look and they want to know what you use and how to use it for that same look. A lot of the items were created to fit the needs of my clients. A lot of my clients are the inspiration behind these types of products. I started creating them to fit the mood of my customers.
In about a week or so, I am launching a line for Sally Beauty for natural hair. I’m excited about it, it’s an amazing line. I did it because on L.A. Hair people would message me on social and they would ask me what they could do to put on their natural hair. I have natural hair and creating great products, it’s so hard to find the right curl mixture. So we create those products because we need these items that work well in our hair. Sometimes they’re too greasy or they’re good with the hydration but they don’t quite get the style right. You have a lot of people that create lines, but they’re not hair stylists that have been doing hair for so many years. They don’t understand how hair works and what kinds of products are best suited for the hair. It’s another part of the creative process and it’s something that I like to be able to do.
AM: What are the other projects that you have on the horizon that we should know about as you’re always doing something.
KK: I’ve been doing a lot of consultations with clients online which has been a lot of fun actually! I can help them through this whole time to get their hair together for color, extensions and wigs. I’m creating a line of wigs which I am launching for HSN and I just told you about the products launching at Sally Beauty. A lot of people don’t know that we also do hair tools and there can be movie and TV shows that I’m working on coming up. I created a digital TV show on my own. You’ll be hearing about it soon. It’s not ready just yet we’re shooting it now but keep an eye out. It’s really great because it’s fun. You know Kim Kimble is always doing something even in the middle of a pandemic child!
AM: Honestly, if you’re able to do so. The pandemic has been a great time to launch, refine, pivot and deploy. People are a little more accessible at the moment.
KK: Exactly.
AM: We always like asking our changemakers as you are definitely one and you’re a trailblazer and being Ms Transformer, who are 3 people that inspire you to be where you are in your career?
KK: That’s easy. Madame CJ Walker, Jas On and my mom. Those are the people that inspire me.
PHOTOS COURTESY | Kim Kimble
Hear Celebrity Hair Stylist Kim Kimble on our show, #TRIBEGOALS - which is a part of Athleisure Studio, our multi-media podcast network! Make sure to subscribe to find out when the episode drops. You can hear it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and wherever you enjoy listening to your favorite podcast.
Read the Aug Issue of Athleisure Mag #56 and see The Transformation with Kim Kimble in mag.
Featured Beauty
MELLABRATION TIME WITH LEAH VAN DALE
This September, our cover is graced by Leah Van Dale who wrestles under the name Carmella as a WWE SuperStar who is also on E! Total Divas, which is back for its 9th season on Oct 1st! Our shoot took place during NYFW, which showcased SS20 collections that we can't wait to start rocking in a few months. Our shoot took place at The Mondrian Park Ave Hotel on the Mondrian Terrace as well as at their lower level lounge known as The Boogie Room.
As we showcased great transitional fall looks, we also got to know more about this athlete, whose career has included being a dancer for the New England Patriots as well as the LA Lakers as a Laker Girl and of course being a WWE SuperStar. In addition, she also launched her own wine label that embodies her mantra and how she sees the world as she continues to amass her empire.
ATHLEISURE MAG: You have had an amazing career, that has included cheerleading, dancing, modeling, wrestler and entrepreneur. When you were growing up, what was the moment that you realized that you wanted to be an entertainer?
LEAH VAN DALE: For as long as I can remember. I was dancing before I could even walk. It’s where I feel the most comfortable. I’ve always loved putting on a show!
AM: Earlier this year, our Feb cover included a few members of the Super Bowl Champions’ New England Patriots, what was your journey to becoming a cheerleader for this team for 3 seasons?
LVD: I danced my entire life. When I started college I knew I wanted to continue my passion for dancing. I found out about a try out to become a New England Patriots Cheerleader. I went to the try out and made it! The rest was really history.
AM: After 3 seasons with the New England Patriots, you became a Laker Girl for the Los Angeles Lakers for a season, what was that process like?
LVD: At the time, you could only cheer for the Patriots for three seasons. I had just graduated college in May of 2010 and I was ready for a change. I flew out to LA the day before the tryout. There were almost 700 girls there for the audition and only 6 spots open on the team. I felt so out of my element. I kept making it to the next round and after almost two months of tryouts and training I made the team! I picked up and moved to LA without knowing anyone or anything about the city, but I wouldn’t have changed a thing about it.
AM: As someone who was familiar with the WWE as your father Paul Van Dale is a mixed martial artist and worked with the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in the 80s and 90s – when did you decide that you wanted to be in the WWE?
LVD: Honestly, I never thought I would end up in the WWE. I used to watch it when I was a kid, but it wasn’t something I aspired to do. I wanted to be a dancer. My dad would bring it up from time to time but I always shut the idea down. When I did everything I could with dance I found out about a tryout with WWE. The timing was perfect. All the stars aligned and my journey to become Women’s Champion began.
AM: Tell us about your journey for becoming a part of the WWE?
LVD: I moved to Orlando in 2013 when I was signed to WWE’s developmental brand NXT. I trained at the Performance Center for a little over two years; learned the basics in wrestling and created my Carmella character. In 2016, I was drafted to Smackdown Live and I’ve been moon walking and trashing all over TV since.
AM: Your ring name is Carmella, why did you choose that name and what is the persona of her when you're wrestling – how does this differ from you?
LVD: I wanted an Italian mob-wife character. I channeled my inner Carmella Soprano. I wore fur jackets and talked with an accent. We already had a girl on the roster billed from Boston (where I’m from) so they decided to bill me from Staten Island (which is my real life rival!! A New Englander pretending to be from New York?!?!) I did all the studying I could do to make sure I really gave off the Staten Island vibes and I pride myself on my character. She’s definitely more outspoken than Leah. But it’s essentially me with the volume turned up to 100!
AM: What is the process like when you are creating your ring persona and do you have input when it comes to the storylines that you are involved in?
LVD: I had all of the way in creating Carmella. She’s definitely evolved over the years, but I feel lucky that the first character I came up with is still what I’m doing today. Some people go years trying to create their on screen persona, so I’m very fortunate.
AM: You have had a number of amazing wins in your career at the WWE, what are 3 of your favorite storylines that you have been involved in?
LVD: I loved my story with Nikki Bella when I first debuted on Smackdown Live. It was my first feud and it was super high profile. I was so nervous to work with her, but she was incredible. She always had my back. I loved when I became Miss Money in the Bank. I made history in the first ever women’s MITB ladder match. I got to carry that contract and be so incredibly obnoxious about it. Of course my final favorite is when I cashed in on Charlotte Flair the Smackdown after Wrestlemania 34. I was an over the top champion with these ridiculous Mellabrations. It was so fun.
AM: Who do you consider as members of your squad within the WWE?
LVD: I have a good group of girls I’m close with. Bayley is one of my best friends. We got super close during our time in NXT and we’ve remained that way despite being on different brands the last few years. Natalya is my girl. We text literally every single day. She’s so funny. I love Sonya and Mandy as well. We all lived in Fort Lauderdale for the last year and they’re just super fun.
AM: As an athlete in the WWE, what does it mean to you to be in this organization as well as being apart of a number of the amazing things taking place within the women’s matches that take place there?
LVD: This is the best time to be a lady wrestler. I feel so fortunate to be a part of so many historical moments. These are the times everyone will be talking about when it comes to the Women’s Evolution.
AM: Fitness has been a key component of your career and you have even been in videos with Bob Harper, why is it so integral to you?
LVD: Fitness has been an important part of my life since I was a kid. My parents have always instilled that into my sister and me. When I’m active and eating healthy is when I feel my best. Of course we all fall off the wagon every now and then, but I always get back to it.
AM: What is a typical day like for you when you’re working out?
LVD: When I’m at home (which is RARE!) I train with my trainer or I do yoga. On the road I do empty stomach cardio in the morning, either 30 min on the stationary bike or walk on the treadmill on a high incline. Then I do some weight training. I alternate upper and lower body workouts.
AM: You were wrestling at Madison Square Garden earlier this month, what is your day like going into a day like that?
LVD: Usually it’s a workout in the morning then I just head to the arena for 2pm. Just to walk into MSG is mind blowing, nevermind knowing I get to perform there. It’s every entertainer's dream. This was my third time there. It never gets old!
AM: You’re constantly on the move, what is the average week like for you between taping shows, being in the ring and more?
LVD: It varies from week to week, but typically something like this:
Saturday fly from home to the first city, have the show, the drive to the next town. Have a show on Sunday, then drive to the next town. After our show on Monday, I drive to wherever we have our live tv show Smackdown Live that week. Of course the gym and finding healthy spots to eat inbetween all of that. When we’re filming for Total Divas, I would fly to wherever we are filming that Wednesday morning after TV. We film Wednesday-Friday then fly to the next set of shows on Saturday. When we aren’t filming, I sometimes get to go home Wednesday-Friday, in between show loops.
AM: Season 9 of E! Total Divas premiers on Oct 2nd – why do you like being a part of this show and how important is it to be involved so that we can know more about you as well as your character?
LVD: I was on the show for season 7, but I didn’t get the opportunity to really open up and show my truth. I’m excited to do that this time around.
Nothing is off-limits, which scares me a little. It’s very nerve-wracking to put your entire personal life out there for everyone to judge, but I’m ready!
AM: What can you tell us about your upcoming season?
LVD: It’s all about our sisterhood. There’s six of us: Ronda Rousey, Nattie, Sonya Deville, Trinity and Nia Jax. You’ll get to see my relationship with my boyfriend Corey Graves and of course there’s a little drama with the girls.
AM: Tell us about Capo Cagna Wine – how did this opportunity come about, how long were you in development, what is the meaning behind the name and where can people get it?
LVD: It’s been in the works for well over a year now. It’s been such a long process with a lot of ups and downs. I wanted to start a brand and have it mean something. I want everyone to feel like a Boss Bitch when they’re drinking it, which is was Capo Cagna means in Italian.
AM: Wine is a beverage that a number of people enjoy or are just learning about, we love how you position your wine regardless of the sippers’ wine background – why is that your approach?
LVD: I think it’s important to feel confident. I want whoever grabs the bottle of wine to know they deserve to feel a little boujie, but it’s not going to break the bank. It’s all about being boujie on a budget. So if you’re a wine snob, this is not the wine for you! ;)
AM: Currently, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are available, will there be additional varietals that we should keep an eye out for?
LVD: Yes! We will have a Rosé launching for the summer of 2020.
AM: On average, how many times a year are you traveling?
LVD: 52 weeks a year. We don’t have an off season.
AM: As someone who travels quite frequently, what are 3 things that are in your carryon that make you feel like you’re at home?
LVD: I always keep one of my comfy sweaters in my backpack so I pull that out for the plane ride; my eye mask and my iPad so I can keep up on all of my favorite reality shows (Real Housewives is my guilty pleasure.)
AM: Do you have any philanthropies or charitable work that you are a part of that you can share with us?
LVD: With WWE we are always involved with so many charitable organizations. A few that I work closely with are The Boys and Girls Club, Be a Star (WWE's anti-bullying campaign) and UNICEF Kid Power.
AM: When you have downtime, what are 3 things that we could find you doing or eating when you’re taking time for yourself?
LVD: You will find me drinking wine on my couch, eating sushi or pizza and watching Netflix.
AM: In Ft. Lauderdale, where can we find you grabbing a drink/meal, working out and shopping?
LVD: When I’m home, I’m usually a homebody. But I do work with my trainer Danny Blanco at Top Notch Training. Other than that, I’m ordering Uber Eats and laying low!
AM: What are 3 brand/products that you’re loving within each of these three categories of - fitness, beauty and in style?
LVD: I’m all about skin care products. I love using rose water to spray on my face when I travel. Rosehip oil is essential. I’m always shopping on Revolve.com because they have free two day shipping, so my clothes are always there when I get home from the road.
IG @CarmellaWWE
Our cover shoot took place at The Mondrian Park Ave on the Terrace as well as the lower level lounge known as The Boogie Room which is managed by In Good Company Hospitality. We took a moment to chat with Chris Guidice, General Manager of IGC to find out about the spaces, what guests can enjoy and the hotel in general.
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did The Boogie Room launch?
CHRIS GUIDICE: The Boogie Room opened a little over a year ago and recently relaunched with brand new art on the walls and throughout the space.
AM: What is the ethos of The Boogie room?
CG: The Boogie Room is a place where art, music, drinks, and culture bridge the gap between approachability and exclusivity. This edgy bar, with its combination of street art and retro furniture, is the perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Park Avenue South. The dim lighting and intimate space give an air of elusiveness, while still maintaining the warm and welcoming atmosphere that is typical of all IGC Hospitality’s venues.
AM: We love that there are murals at this lower level hotspot, what’s the story behind them and how often do they change?
CG: The walls feature beautiful murals full of bright colors painted by local artists serving as an homage to ’80s and '90s NYC street art. A group of talented artists were brought together and given the direction to create a fun atmosphere that has cultural and historical relevance to this amazing city.
AM: What are 3 signature drinks that we should have the next time that we’re at The Boogie Room?
CG: The Boogie Room’s specialty cocktails are everything on our bottle menu! Of course, we have a full bar with beer, wine, and spirits, but the parade of sparklers and bottles represent the ethos of a Boogie night.
AM: What events are taking place at The Boogie Room this fall that we should mark our calendars?
CG: The Boogie Room takes on a life of its own on Friday and Saturday nights. This nightlife hotspot features some of NYC’s most sought after DJs from 11:30 pm - 2 am every weekend. Think dancing, flowing drinks and bumping music.... There’s always something going on here!
AM: We also shot at the Mondrian Terrace as well – tell us about this space and more about this vibe?
CG: Mondrian Terrace is a year round terrace offering the best of both indoor and outdoor space. We are currently in the final month of our Rosé Terrace installation, a rosé lover’s paradise, and will soon be transitioning to a Fall-themed pop up. Our outdoor terrace overlooks the corner of Park Avenue South and East 30th Street. The indoor lounge is a canvas for seasonal soirees and NoMad nights.
AM: What are 3 signature bites that we should enjoy at Mondrian Terrace?
CG: We change the menu seasonally, but three of my current favorites are burrata with fig balsamic, beef short rib sliders, and the lamb meatballs with feta cheese and pine nuts. Each dish is perfect for snacking on as you sit and take in the great vistas of downtown Manhattan. If you’re feeling generous, they’re all very easy to share
AM: What events are taking place here that we should keep an eye out for as we continue into the fall?
CG: The Rosé Terrace at Mondrian Terrace is winding down and we’ll be debuting a new Fall/Winter pop up soon, so stay tuned! Our Beverage Manager Allie Klug and Executive Chef Todd Matthews are always working on incorporating seasonal ingredients into our menus, which means lots of specials to look forward to.
AM: For the Holiday season, is there anything taking place at The Boogie Room or the Mondrian Terrace that we should swing by?
CG: We’re planning our Halloween party at Mondrian Terrace. Guests can enjoy rooftop views, Halloween Cocktails, and a live DJ. Tickets for the event will be available soon, keep an eye out here for more details.
We also host a weekly Latin Night every Sunday. Of course, for those who really like to plan ahead, we have New Year’s Eve blowouts planned for all of the venues in Mondrian Park Avenue!
AM: With 3 venues at the Mondrian Park Avenue Hotel, what was the process behind coming up with spaces and concepts? You have definitely created different vibes that would fuel guests of the hotel, those that book an event, people who staycation and those who are in the neighborhood that ware interested in swinging by.
CG: The three spaces at the Mondrian have all been designed to have their own unique feel. Cleo is a beautiful Mediterranean restaurant which has American influences in the dishes and distinctly unique décor. Mondrian Terrace offers a relaxed atmosphere and seasonal delicacies, perfect for a first date or corporate party. The Boogie Room stands in stark contrast to the posh and sleek look of the Mondrian and surrounding Park Avenue, it is perfect celebrating birthdays, or just a place to dance the night away. All three spaces are inspired by the hotel’s namesake - Dutch painter Piet Mondrian. The Boogie Room is actually named after one of his paintings titled Broadway Boogie.
AM: Tell us about In Good Company and other locations do you have that we should keep on our radar?
CG: IGC has more than a dozen amazing venues. All super unique and hospitable. We’re excited to recently welcome Woodpecker by David Burke to the portfolio, as well as our second nightclub, Jewel Thief - opening next month! Whichever IGC Hospitality venue you choose to visit, I guarantee you will find the common thread of good food, good drinks, and great people.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS
Athleisure Mag's cover story was shot by Paul Farkas, using Canon Mark IV; and selected Canon lenses: EF 50 f/1.2 L, EF 24-70 f/2.8 L II, and EF 70-200 f/2.8 L II.
IG @PVFarkas
MAKEUP CREDITS
MUAH Jessica Bonilla used a number of products and tools to create the makeup that is in this cover editorial with WWE SuperStar and E! Total Divas' Leah Van Dale/Carmella.
LOOK I
To hydrate the face, EMBRYOLlSSE Moisturizing Face Cream was used.
Base Makeup: CINEMA SECRETS Foundation 300 Series. LAURA MERCIER Translucent Loose Setting Powder was used.
Bronzer: FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA in Sun Stalk'r (Caramel Cutie and Mocha Mami).
Highlight: First, TATCHA Luminous Dewy Skin Mist was sprayed to give a healthy natural glow and take away the powdery look. DOSE OF COLORS Highlight was applied on top in Mirame.
Blush: BH COSMETICS Blush Palette.
Eyes: KKW BEAUTY KKW X MARIO 10 Pan in Eyeshadow Palette in Miami and Albania.
Lips: ANASTASIA BEVERYLY HILLS Lip Palette (mixed colors for the light pink look) and mixed FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA Gloss Bomb in Diamond Milk for a satin finish.
LOOK II
KISS PRODUCTS lashes in Poise and smudged a little black lipstick from the ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS Lip Palette for a more natural styled sultry eye. The lips are brighter for the sporty look with a pretty pop of peach with FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA Diamond Milk over the top.
LOOK III
The lip for this look is FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA Gloss Bomb in Universal for a beautiful sporty look.
LOOK IV
This look was kicked up a notch for this beautiful gold jumpsuit. We wanted a lot of color for the eyes. Jessica used MORPHE X JACLYN HILL Eyeshadow Palette in Bling Bling and the Metallic Purple Shade Gem in the crease. A light blue shade from NYX Petit Brights Pallette was used in the inner corner. For the outer corners, Jessica used colors Iri Ji (a pink shade) and Ofala (an orange shade) from the JUVIA’S PLACE Festival Palette with Odogwo (gold shade from the same palette) in the center, INGLOT COSMETICS' 77 Eyeliner and added more of FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA Universal Gloss Bomb on the lips.
HAIR CREDITS
Hairstylist Brooke Bogle used a number of products for the hairstyles in this cover editorial with WWE SuperStar and E! Total Divas' Leah Van Dale/Carmella.
LOOK I
Soft beach waves were created using a 1 inch iron. Prepped with CATWALK BY TIGI Haute Iron Spray.
Sprayed at the end as well for added shine.
LOOK II + III
Two side braids into a pony using BEDHEAD TIGI On the Rebound Curl Recall Cream for smoothness.
For added texture to the pony, fluffed and sprayed with TIGI COPYRIGHT Custom Complete Volume Finishing Spray.
LOOK IV
Funky waves with spontaneous braids with accent jewels and rings.
For texture and separation used CATWALK BY TIGI Texturizing Sea Salt Spray and re-scrunched gently. Sprayed CATWALK BY TIGI Haute Iron Spray for added shine.
FASHION CREDITS
Athleisure Mag's Celeb Fashion Stylist, Co-Founder/Creative + Style Director Kimmie Smith focused on looks that incorporate a number of pieces that will become go-to's in your closet with the onset of warm weather.
LOOK I
PG 36 | HANRO Nala Soft Cup Bralette | MAVI Tess Super Skinny in Black Snake Jeans | MAISON DE PAPILLON Velvet Blazer | LAGOS Black Caviar Diamond Necklace + Maya Circle Statement Ring |
LOOK II
FRONT/BACK COVERS + PG 19 - 29 | UMBRO Bodysuit | LAGOS JEWELRY Black Caviar Black Ceramic Diamond Earrings + Signature Caviar Diamond Pave Crossover Ring | ATHLETIC PROPULSIONS LABS Techloom Bliss White/Black/White Sneakers |
LOOK III
PG 16, 17, 31 | ALO YOGA Crop Cropped Short Sleeve Top in Caramel + High Waist Ripped Warrior Leggings in White | PARAJUMPERS Hybrids Olivia Puffer Jacket in White | ATHLETIC PROPULSION LABS Techloom Bliss White/Black/White Sneakers | LAGOS 18K Gold Caviar 12mm Ball on a Chain Necklace |
LOOK IV
PG 32 - 35 | YANDY Ms. Metallic Jumpsuit in Gold | LAGOS 18K Caviar Gold 2mm Width with 80mm Hoop Earrings + 18K Gold Caviar 12mm Ball on a Chain Necklace |
IG @Shes.Kimmie
Read the Sept Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Mellabration Time with Leah Van Dale in mag.
Featured Fashion Editorial
AWARDS SEASON BEST DRESSED | EMMY'S 2019
The beginning of Awards Season starts now for the 2019-2020 season and last night’s 71st Primetime Emmy’s 2019 at the Microsoft Theater in LA had a number of looks (14 in fact) that left us saying, Best Dressed! We will continue to update all the necessary information that you want to know right here!
PHOTO COURTESY | Christopher Polk/Variety/Shutterstock
NIECY NASH
STYLIST | Zerina Akers
DESIGNER | Christian Siriano
JEWELRY | Irene Lummertz Jewelry
MAKEUP ARTIST | Naima Jamal
HAIR STYLIST | Ray D.
JEREMY STRONG
-
PHOTO COURTESY | Christopher Polk/Variety/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Matt Baron/Shutterstock
KRISTIN CAVALLARI
STYLIST | Dani Michelle
DESIGNER | Nicole Felicia Couture
SHOES | Stuart Weitzman
MAKEUP ARTIST | Ash K Holm
HAIR STYLIST | Justine Marjan
PHOTO COURTESY | Matt Baron/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Matt Baron/Shutterstock
RUPAUL
WINNER | Best Reality Competition Program; RuPaul’s Drag Race
WINNER | Outstanding Host for a Reality Or Competition Program
WINNER | Outstanding Costumes for Variety, Nonfiction Or Reality Programming
REGINA KING
STYLIST |
DESIGNER | Jason Wu Collection, Custom
JEWELRY | Irene Neuwirth
SHOES | Christian Louboutin
MAKEUP ARTIST |
HAIR STYLIST |
PHOTO COURTESY | Christopher Polk/Variety/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Rob Latour/Shutterstock
MICHAEL K. WHITE
NOMINATED | Best Supporting Actor - Limited Series in a Movie; When They See Us
PHOTO COURTESY | Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
PHOTO COURTESY | Rob Latour/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Matt Baron/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Vince Bucci/Invision/AP/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
PHOTO COURTESY | Rob Latour/Shutterstock
PHOTO COURTESY | Matt Baron/Shutterstock
Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.
Featured Awards Season
TALKING LOCKS WITH ANDREW FITZSIMONS
Awards Season brings a number of our faves together and we had the moment to catch up with Andrew Fitzsimons, Celebrity Hair Stylist. We caught up with him to find out about must have tips that we should use when we're prepping our locks, how he got into the business and what he's up to.
ATHLEISURE MAG: You have rocked amazing hair on some of our favorite celebrities. Tell us when you realized that you wanted to be a hairstylist and your journey to becoming the stylist for the Kardashians, Joan Smalls, Ashley Graham, etc?
ANDREW FITZSIMONS: I fell into hair styling at a very young age when my mom got me a summer job at a local hair salon when I was 13. I loved the work so much that when I returned to school, I realized school wasn’t for me. After much begging, my mum allowed me to pursue my dream full time, but with the conditions that I be kind to everyone, never take a sick day and work to the top of my field. I’m still working on #3!
AM: As the Alterna Hair Care Brand Ambassador, what does this role entail and how did you become this?
AF: One of the biggest parts of my job as Alterna Haircare’s brand ambassador is teaching women how they can use the products to get healthy, shiny, red carpet-ready hair! A lot of women struggle with styling and caring for their hair, but with the right products, it can be much easier. In addition to education, I work with Alterna on product formulation, trend forecasting, photo shoots and video shoots, events and so much more! I love getting to share my love of beauty.
AM: We're in the thick of Awards Season right now - what are 10 products/tools that you always have on hand?
AF: Toothbrush – My secret weapon for cleaning up baby hairs and flyaways!
Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer – This dryer is super lightweight; light tools are essential for hairdressers.
GHD Curling Irons – I love these irons because they heat up so fast and are ceramic, so they help protect the hair more than most curling irons. I also like that they’re all matte black, it makes my kit look really chic.
Glam Seamless Extensions – I carry extensions in every color imaginable, and lately, I've been stocking up on these, which I love.
Babylisspro Nano Titanium Flat Iron – This is my favorite flat iron ever, been using it for years. It gets hair perfectly straight and shiny!
Alterna Haircare Anti-Frizz Omega+ Nourishing Oil – I’m obsessed with this moisturizing, super lightweight oil. It’s extremely versatile, so I’m able to use it on all of my clients, no matter their
hair type. It gives the hair a beautiful, healthy shine and provides light definition without weighing the hair down at all.
Alterna Haircare Caviar Working Hair Spray – This buildable hair spray is a must for all of my jobs! It gives you a great brushable hold with no stickiness or tackiness.
Alterna Haircare Caviar Repair Multi-Vitamin Heat Protection Spray – My clients put their faith in me that I’m going to take care of their hair, so heat protection is a must! So many people skip this step, but it’s essential for keeping your hair healthy and strong.
Alterna Haircare Perfect Texture Finishing Spray – This spray is the perfect combination of the hold of a hairspray and the buildable texture of a dry shampoo. Perfect for those effortless
looking, model-off-duty vibes.
Rita Hazan Root Concealer – This is perfect for root touch ups!
AM: You're fresh from the Golden Globes, can you tell us as a stylist what the prep is like before Awards Day in terms of coordinating the hair inspiration with the other components of the look, what your schedule was like in terms of how many/who you styled that day, your prep to get ready, how much time you spent styling each of the looks and once completed what do you after a long day of this nature?
AF: Usually before a big awards show, I’ll be in regular contact with my client, my client’s stylist and my client’s makeup artist. We all review the dress and I create a mood board of ideas based on the dress. At the recent Globes, I had two clients: Kendall Jenner for the Globes and Shay Mitchell for the parties. Typically, there are 2-3 hours for glam and getting dressed, so it’s not unusual to have several clients in one day. Once all my clients are done, I typically rush home with my assistant so we can watch the event coverage – it’s fun to see the looks on the red carpet.
AM: As someone who is constantly on the go from set, red carpets etc how do you take time for yourself?
AF: I really enjoy working out – it helps get me into a zone where I’m just focused on one thing (typically I’m juggling a bunch of jobs and projects, so there’s a lot on my mind). It’s a good way to “press reset” in a way. Yoga is another workout I love, and if I’m having a really busy day, I try to meditate for a few minutes in the car between clients.
AM: When you have downtime, what would we find you doing?
AF: Down time?! I don’t have that… In seriousness, I work every day and am always working on new projects and ideas.
AM: What are 3 places that we would find you grabbing a drink in LA, having a meal with friends and where do you workout?
AF: To me, having wine at a friend’s house is much better than going out! It’s so much more relaxed and fun. For a meal, I love Casa Vega – it’s a staple in the Valley and I love it’s history
(and of course the delicious food!)
For workouts I love Barry’s Bootcamp and Soul Cycle.
AM: What's your personal style in terms of what you wear when you're out with your friends brunching, versus what you were when you're on your way to meeting your clients for Awards
Season to get them ready for the red carpet?
AF: I have a very consistent wardrobe – I’m typically wearing an oversized white tee, black jeans, black boots and a black leather jacket (depending on the weather!). I like to have a fairly
clean / consistent uniform.
AM: What charities/philanthropies do you support?
AF: I actually recently partnered with the LA LGBT Center to launch the Trans Cosmetic Donation Program, an innovative charity program in which beauty professionals, influencers and celebrities can donate unused personal care products to the LA LBGT Center, and they redistribute the products to various charities that serve trans women of color in Southern California.
AM: We can see you having a haircare line, extension brand etc - how else do you want to extend your skills for those that may not be able to have you personally do their hair?
AF: I will be launching a YouTube Channel soon! I’m really excited to have an online platform where I can translate the red carpet styles of celebrities to more women. There are few more
projects I can’t talk about quite yet…
Read more from the Jan Issue and see Talking Locks with Andrew Fitzsimons
Featured Beauty
COACH SS18 CAMPAIGN
Yes it's getting colder and we're just at the beginning but that doesn't mean that we're not planning for the warmth of SS18! Coach just dropped their global campaign for Spring 18 which was created by photographer Steven Meisel who brought fashion stylist Karl Templer, creative design by Fabien Baron, makeup by Pat McGrath and hair by Guido Palau. The campaign includes the brand's bags, RTW, footwear and watches. You can see a short film of the brand's outtakes across it's digital channels.
Stuart Vevers, Coach's Creative Director looked to Keith Haring for inspiration for this collection and partnered with Artestar, the agency that represents the late artist exclusively. "With Coach Signature... we've taken the familiar and subverted it with a downtown attitude - the unexpected juxtaposition feels very much for today."
Featured Fashion Editorials