Read more from the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see BINGELY VIDEO | Ella Knox.
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Read more from the July Issue of Athleisure Mag and see BINGELY VIDEO | Ella Knox.
Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Pick Me Up in mag.
Read more from the June Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Pick Me Up in mag.
| PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas | STYLIST Kimmie Smith | MUA David Stella | HAIR STYLIST Lea DeLoy | CELEB COVER Lala Kent of Vanderpump Rules |
| MAVI JEANS Tank | MCM Skirt | MARC NEW YORK Jacket |
Readers of this magazine know that we love Reality shows and BRAVO is a personal favorite of our Co-Founder and Style Director. Any show that involves the Real Housewives franchise and their spin-offs is always a winner in our studio. Lala Kent is a fan favorite on Vanderpump Rules which showcases the lives of hostesses, servers, bartenders and DJs that work at SUR with Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ Lisa Vanderpump. In addition to watching this self assured hostess, Lala has a passion for music and this past season we see her perform, and she has also launched a beauty line which we included in a number of looks within her editorial.
From the time Lala came to our set for this shoot, we realized that she is just as stunning, witty and as personable as she is on the show. This girl’s girl talks about how she became a part of this show, where we can find her in LA and more about her beauty line, Give Them Lala. Of course we had a great time incorporating some must have summer looks that are chic with a twist!
ATHLEISURE MAG: We've been fans of yours since you first appeared on Vanderpump Rules. What were you doing prior to this show and how did you end up connecting with the show and what was the audition process like?
LALA KENT: Before the show, I was going on casting, auditions, and fit modeling was paying my bills. Vanderpump Rules came to me when I was eating at Sur. Lisa saw how I interacted with some of the people that worked there and offered me a job as a hostess. With that came a position on the show!
| TITIKA ACTIVE COUTURE Sport Bra | YEAR OF OURS Football Leggings |
AM: Throughout the seasons that you have been on, we have seen you join the cast, feel out the cast, make bonds, adjust and in this past season it seems like you really came into your own - how has being on the show allowed you to grow and what are you proud of after all these seasons?
LK: Being on the show has been amazing. I think being able to look back and reflect on my actions has helped tremendously. I’ve been able to see when I stand up for myself and when I’m acting like a fool! Everyone that is part of the show has brought a lot to my life and continues to help me evolve.
AM: Can we assume that you will be back for another season?
LK: Yes! I will be Giving Them Lala for another season.
AM: You and Lisa have such a great relationship and seems like the ultimate mentor and life coach rolled into one - what is it about Lisa that makes you comfortable to hear her feedback and to take her advice?
LK: Lisa has such a kind heart and offers such motherly love and advice. That, on top of seeing that she is a successful woman, you can’t help but go “I need to listen to her because she’s got it figured out”.
AM: We know that Stassi is a fan of the goat cheese balls at SUR. What are you fave dishes and/or cocktails that you enjoy there?
LK: Oooh I love the goat cheese balls too! They are insane. I also love Joe’s pasta and the Penne Sicilienne...and the dumpling. The sauce is epic.
AM: This season we actually see you perform! How long have you been interested in music, what were the elements that came together to make you embrace performing and what can we expect next within this portion of your career?
LK: I grew up in the arts. From choir to plays to musicals, I was just obsessed with it all. Once you leave high school and it’s no longer something you have the luxury of just doing everyday, you slowly lose the confidence you worked so hard for. James really reminded me of my roots and what I love to do. From here, I just hope to keep making music. It is extremely therapeutic for me.
AM: Tell us about BOY - what inspired you to make this song, how is it doing and what's the next single? When does your album drop?
LK: My song BOY just hit number 1 on iTunes in the Electronic genre. That is amazing to me. I was inspired by how it was so EDM but also trap. It gave me creative freedom to think of myself in a different setting, which was very “club”. That’s out of the box for me. I have another single out called “4 U” on iTunes and Spotify. It is a completely different feel than “BOY”. We also just finished recording a song called “What’s it For”. That will be out within the month. As far as an album goes... my schedule is crazy. I think an EP is going to be my next venture. I can’t wait.
| YANDY Swimsuit | GRACE ELEYAE Turban | VIRGINS, SAINTS + ANGELS Necklace + Ring | SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL Necklace | SWEETGREEN Salad |
AM: We're living in a time of women taking things to the next level and creating a strong community of support - this season you were embracing this belief and really rallying the cast as a whole and especially the woman on the show to do the same. How important is women's empowerment?
LK: I’ve always been a girl’s girl. I know that women get the job done and that there is nothing more powerful than a gang of females. We all have our differences- for me it’s about embracing one another and realizing we are stronger together than we are apart. This is an outlook that’s evolved as I get older. The things that used to make me insecure or second guess myself, are suddenly things I’m thankful for.
AM: We knew you were stunning, you came to set this way and then of course, we created amazing looks for you - so it was not a surprise to us that you have a cosmetic line coming out. Tell us me about the line from the thought behind it, what is currently available, what will be available down the line and where we can get it!
LK: #Give Them Lala Beauty has grown so much in such a short period of time. I started with only 6 lip colors and now have over 50 products. For lips we now have mattes, glosses, and liquid lipsticks. We also expanded into highlighters, eye shadow, eyeliner, and are still growing! My brand is my baby and she is growing up so beautifully. I’m extremely proud.
AM: We were sad to hear about your father passing last month and we remember that your mom was with us on set - how important is it for you to ensure that in addition to all of the amazing opportunities that you have enjoyed that you also spend time with family for the balance that we all need?
LK: Family will always come first. That’s how it has always been and it will always be. If an opportunity comes my way that is meant to be, it will never take away from my family time.
AM: What are 3 skincare products that you swear by?
LK: My Clarisonic, Lancer Skin Polish, Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizer, and let’s add one more... I die for Desert Essence Original Face Wash. Pair that with your Clarisonic and all your skin dreams will come true.
AM: Since you're in LA, where is your favorite place to eat and grab drinks, where do you workout and what's your studio of choice to work out?
LK: Oooh, this is tough. Obviously, I love me some Sur. I love Mr. Chow, but I’m always a sucker for the Polo Lounge. I go crazy for caviar. I have a gym where I live. It’s got great equipment and everyone is familiar with everyone- we all know each other’s routine so no one is ever fighting or waiting over a machine.
| LEANNE MARSHALL Gown | SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL Necklace + Ring | VIRGINS, SAINTS + ANGELS Crown | ISABELLA ROSE Bikini Bottom Reversed |
AM: You have a great body, what are 3 workouts that you do that keep you looking summer ready?
LK: I owe the bod to my trainer, Jenna Willis. She is amazing. I love my food and I love my drink. Somehow she puts together routines that kick my butt into great shape even with my undisciplined diet. I love my sumo squats, side planks help my tummy get firm, and the rowing machine is a great warm-up!
AM: How do you give of your time or give back from a philanthropic standpoint?
LK: My family and I are very into animals. My mom works for the humane society. I contribute my time and money to the Humane Society of Utah. I’m also an advocate for our whales- I’ve teamed up with PETA for Empty The Tanks. That is the cause I am most passionate about.
AM: Feel free to tell us anything that you haven't been able to or would like us to know!
LK: I have a really hard time walking in heels unless I’m slightly drunk.
Read more from the May Issue and see Holding Court with Lala Kent in mag.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Harmony Program, an organization that brings free instrumental music education into under-served communities across New York City and Long Island. Over the past ten years, the Harmony Program has provided over 1,000 children with free instruments and over 350,000 hours of music instruction.
The Harmony Program was created in 2003 by Anne Fitzgibbon as a pilot program within the New York City Mayor's office. Anne was later awarded a year long. Fulbright Fellowship in 2007 to study El Sisterma, Venezuela's world-renowned national youth orchestra program, and adapted tenets of that successful model to meet the needs of children and families in New York.
Harmony Program's 10th Anniversary Benefit Concert celebrated Harmony Program's decade-long deliverance of quality music education directly into communities who need it most, providing students with free instruments, intensive music instruction, orchestral training, and a variety of transformational cultural experiences. Year after year, their students emerge from the program with life-long friendships, increased self-confidence, and improved academic achievement - all from a shared love of music.
Harmony Program hosted their 10th anniversary gala and benefit concert this month with students as they play alongside Grammy-award winning violinist Joshua Bell, Grammy-award nominated producer and curista Jorge Glem, New York Philharmonic Principal Clarinet Anthony McGill, string trio Time for Three, and soprano Larisa Martinez, to name just a few.
Warner Musi Group was the lead sponsor of the gala and has supported the work of Harmony Program in the past, most recently with its inaugural Warner Music Prize, which seeks to foster the talents of promising young musicians. Warner is committed to strengthening the relationship between the two organizations.
Read more from the April Issue and see In Harmony in mag.
Tribeca Film Festival is back for its 17th year for another full season of parties panels and films that span documentaries, thrillers, romances, sci-fi and more. We kicked off our time at the festival by heading to PUBLIC Arts at the PUBLIC Hotel in the LES for MCM's debut of the first global teaser for The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion Documentary.
The exclusive viewing party paid homage to hip hop. The documentary honored the cultural influence of stylists such as Misa Hylton who defined ’90s hip hop fashion by creating some of the most iconic looks with top artists such as Lil’ Kim, Mary J. Blige, and Missy Elliot. The film's producer, Lisa Cortes and director Farah X talked about the upcoming documentary which will debut in full, this fall.
The night's emcee and TV personality, Bevy Smith welcomed a number of performers who hit stage wearing styles for the upcoming MCM X PUMA collaboration that has yet to be released. Paula Weinstein of Tribeca Film Festival said a few words about the importance of the film and providing recognition to the efforts of those featured in the film. DJ Olivia Dope and 9th Wonder spun throughout the night along with hip hop dancers that hit the stage. The night culminated in two performances with this years 2 time Grammy nominated rapper, Rapsody and one of hip hop's founding father's Big Daddy Kane - all rocking the upcoming collaboration.
Additional attendees at the event included: Stefano Tonchi (Editor, W Magazine) Rich The Kid (Rapper), Naturi Naughton (STARZ's Power), Ryan Leslie (Recording Artist + Producer), Casanova (Rapper), Sheldon Bailey (Actor), Young Paris (Rapper), DJ Trauma, T-Barz (Rapper), Vickatrillion (Model + DJ), Talia Coles (R&B/Soul), Luann de Lesseps (BRAVO's RHONY), Gillian Hearst Simonds (Contributing Editor to Towne & Country), Hailey Laine (Wilhelmina Model) and Makalea Reve Heard (Wilhelmina Model).
Read more from the April Issue and see Hip Hop X MCM X Tribeca Film Festival in mag.
THE PERFECT CAKE
The Editors of America's Test Kitchen
Penguin Random House
Creating the perfect cake is not a bad skill to have under your belt (or you may have a friend who wants to showcase his/her skills). The Editor's of America's Test Kitchen have created the ultimate guide to classical, modern and whimsical cakes. These creations are definitely those that are Instagram worthy and
perfect for whatever brunch you might be thinking of hosting when friends come over.
In addition to a dizzying array of cakes that are available - cupcakes are included! Cake education also introduces you to topics that incorporate mix-and-match layer cakes, frostings, and fillings. Essentially, whatever cake you have been dreaming of creating and/or eating can be found in this book.
With Spring Holidays as well as functions with friends and family that are particular to your group, you'll find that this cookbook is an essential for all of your baking needs.
LED ZEPPELIN: ALL THE ALBUMS, ALL THE SONGS
Martin Popoff
Voyageur Press
This coffee table book focusing on all things Led Zeppelin, breaks down their music track-by-track, album-by album with all the details and secrets that fans of the band will truly enjoy.
Enthusiasts will enjoy hearing the roots of the band's creation which was formed with two London studio musicians at the top of their game and two bar-band musicians that would ultimately create the legendary group that would also set the formula for modern rock 'n' roll bands as we know it today.
The four members created 9 studio albums with 81 tracks that were a complex mix of blues, psychedelia, rock, folk, and country.
Martin Popoff, a respected veteran music journalist takes us on an indepth look at the band from their creation, the recording process, historical context and an introductory essay into each song that explores the intricacies of each song.
Fans will enjoy learning about song details that include running time, instruments played, engineers and studios.
THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT
Chris Bohjalian
Random House LLC
One night can change your life and Chris Bohjalian's novel focuses on a flight attendant who wakes up in the wrong hotel,
in the wrong bed with a dead man and she has no clue what happened and how she got there!
We're introduced to flight attendant, Cassandra Bowden who has had a number of hangovers and blackout moments. When she wakes up in Dubai next to a man that she finds to be dead, she doesn't know what to do but try to go back to her life as if it didn't happen.
Cassandra lies and joins her team to get back to the airport, lies to her team as they continue to travel to Paris and again when she arrived in NYC with the FBI inquiring about what happened. With so many lies, Cassandra can't come clean with the truth and begins to wonder what really happened. Did she kill him or did someone else?
The thriller focuses on life at forty thousand feet and focuses on memory, alcohol, the consequences of addiction and ultimately murder far from home.
Read more from the March Issue and see Bingely Books in mag.
We kicked off the month by heading uptown to a listening party for electropop Big Beat Records' artist, Soleima whose music is the perfect way to get you ready for Spring with a hip-hop and world infusion. This Danish artist chatted with us prior to her party to talk about her entry into music, her love of the collaborative scene and Copenhagen and the Scandanavian festivals that she'll be at this year!
ATHLEISURE MAG: How long have you been in music?
SOLEIMA: I kind of just grew up with music. I had been doing it forever. We had a piano and I grew up doing it with my mom as a child, since she played as well. I also played – she always took me to these music clubs where I was taught music and I grew up in an East African music environment.
AM: We’ve been listening to your music and including it in our workouts. It has this mix of hip-hop and that tribal feel to it – we are definitely fans.
S: Yes! That’s what I was introduced to and I never learned the theory behind music. It was an acoustic way of learning music and for me it was the best way to learn it. So somehow, it’s always been in my life – some sort of music.
AM: When did you realize that this was something that you wanted to do?
S: Actually, I have been doing it as a hobby for most of my life! But then last year, I got signed and I started working on this EP with friends and we thought about putting it on SoundCloud and then we thought, let’s try to get it released. We sent it to some Danish labels and one of them wanted to release it and this was nice, but I never thought of it as a direct career opportunity. But then everything went pretty fast! I guess when an opportunity like that shows itself, you just jump on it. So I feel like it was meant to be somehow?
AM: What inspires you when you’re performing, making your videos and writing your music?
S: I guess I’m very inspired by many different things. I get super inspired by other musicians. I think there are so many great ones out there right now. People doing amazing stuff. Right now in Copenhagen – where I’m from in Denmark, the music scene is very interesting. We are a very small industry and somehow we are all friends and know each other! We work together. People have a lot of stuff going on that is really interesting. Right now, we’re inspiring and motivating each other. When someone does an amazing song or has a great project going on, we’re like – “Oh that’s so good – that’s amazing. Let’s do something together!” We just make each other better in a positive way.
I’ve always heard people talk about how in this industry when someone has something good going on that there is a feeling that there isn’t room for someone else. I’ve just never realized that in our environment in Denmark, which I think is a very healthy thing.
AM: So are you currently working on other music as well?
S: I’m working on an EP as well right now. It’s going to come out shortly.
AM: Are you doing any touring or any festival dates?
S: Yes. I am writing a lot. I was in LA for a month writing recently and I do it all the time. I have quite a few festivals. I am playing in Scandanavia, in the UK. In the UK, there will be a few shows in the Spring – a number of clubs and then over the summer, a very booked festival tour. In the fall, I am doing my own shows which is really exciting.
AM: Exciting! What’s that like concepting your own shows?
S: Actually, I will have my first 2 headlining shows in Dec. I never tried to play my own shows before. We have played quite a lot together but it’s been showcases out and about. So now, that’s such an overwhelming feeling. Because now, people are there and they bought a ticket with real fucking money and like they know the songs!
AM: So how do you keep your balance and check in with yourself through all of this?
S: That’s such a good question! How do I stay sane? Can you teach me please?
I think definitely because this is all so new, I am still in the process of learning that. With being in music, there aren’t too many in-between feelings. There are extreme highs and there are a lot of extreme lows. So one day you’re like, “wow this happened and I like it – you’re so high and then literally the day after you get some kind of boring mail and you’re like, “no – that didn’t happen anyway” and now I have to go back to life.
You know what I mean? So, it’s like a good and a bad thing – it’s very addictive and you become addicted to going into these highs and lows. It can be a bad thing because you kind of need a balance where you’re neither super excited or super depressed. So I am still learning that, but I can say that I am addicted to it already. I think it would be difficult to not be that way as well. Regarding the zen, I think I should start meditating – can you teach me!
AM: It’s a work in progress for sure. The best ones for us are meditations that are led by someone and we can sit down and start going through the process. But sometimes when we quiet our mind, those things that were really sticking out there wanting to be thought about pop in and it can be tough to push them to the side!
S: Exactly! It’s like when you go to sleep and then those thoughts pop in and it’s like – argh!
AM: We’re working on meditation, but in terms of fitness or activities in general – what do you do?
S: I’m a runner. I run a lot and I am really addicted to it – I love to do it! I listen to audiobooks and listening to them makes me so excited that I’m like, “I have to run more”.
AM: We have to try that as we’re obsessed with podcasts and that could give us the kick that we need to run.
S: Oooo I love This American Life, it’s my favorite!
AM: Yes and then Serial – love!
S: Ohhh but then S-Town that was AMAZING!
AM: Yes, so obsessed with that!
S: I was in London away from home and I was so emotional and the story was so insane. I was like how can this be real? I would run and listen to these shows and it just makes me run. If I didn’t have them, I would be bored. It’s the perfect way and it’s like free time where I can listen and do this. I’m not working out and it becomes a treat. It’s a really good trick.
AM: Absolutely. So, tonight, you have a listening party – are you excited?
S: I’m so excited and a little nervous maybe. Because I feel very honored and humble about people coming here. It's my first time doing it and I have never seen it done in Scandanavia, but I think that it is a really really good way to present an artist.
AM: So what else – what are you up to this summer even outside of music?
S: Yeah. I’m going to play a lot, which means I am going to be in Scandanavia because of the festivals. You may play Thurs and Sun then you have a few days off and then you have Fri and Sat and then 3 days off. So it’s not like you have to work everyday, but you have a couple of months where you have to stay in the same area. That’s actually nice because I have been away from Denmark a lot this year.
AM: What do you like to do in Denmark?
S: Mainly I write. That’s also where my friends are and I really really like to hang out with the when I am home. We do lots of good stuff. I deeply recommend Copenhagen as it’s a fun town.
AM: We may do a shoot there!
S: You should come during the summer as it has really good festivals. We have this festival called Rosklide. It’s like the second biggest in Europe and it’s amazing. Come for that and then stay and have a small week in Copenhagen to see stuff. Hit me up and I will give you tips!
AM: Do you prescribe to hygge?
S: I don’t know what that it is – tell me.
AM: Last year, we interviewed Meik Wiking who wrote a book about being and living a hyggelig lifestyle. Essentially, the concept is that you create an atmosphere and experience which creates a sense of comfort, well-being and togetherness. He outlines ways that one can bring it into their homes, work environment and to share with friends in order to create an optimized lifestyle. It’s about being cozy, spending time with close friends and family and
checking in with yourself.
S: I had not heard of that, but that seems like something that I would love! Send me info on this as I’d love to check it out!
Check out Soleima's latest music video "Low Life" and keep an eye out for her mini album, "Bulldog" which arrives April 6th at Big Beat Records.
PHOTO CREDITS | Dennis Morton/Big Beat Records |
Read more from the March Issue and see Hanging with Soleima in mag.
We love chatting with those that have a few plates spinning while they take on the world, but remember to keep family first as well! Singer, Model and Actress, Kayla Brianna talks about how entertainment was a family affair (her father is Kenny Smith, who not only played in the NBA but is a sports analyst and Emmy Award winner for Inside the NBA on TNT), what it's like for her to be on tour right now, what she's focused on or 2018 and how she balances her time.
ATHLEISURE MAG: It seems like being in entertainment is a part of the family business. Tell us more about your family and how you got into performing?
KAYLA BRIANNA: Growing up music was always in my family. My grandfather, Gerry Goffin is in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and my grandmother sang background for Ray Charles. I started off in girls groups and eventually went solo and landed a deal with Interscope Records.
AM: You have collaborated with a number of artists, what is it like and who would you like to work with?
KB: Each song is different. Working with London On Da Track, we recorded in Atlanta until around 3 a.m. each night. Just being in a creative space is a great feeling. I’d love to work with Drake, 6lack, Sabrina, Claudio Pharrell and H.E.R.
AM: How's touring and what do you do prior to and after performances?
KB: Tour life is a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of hours driving and you kind of just sleep when you can. Usually we have a performance and then in the morning drive to the next city and do it all over again. Before each performance I'll say a prayer to calm me down and then after, we celebrate!
AM: Will we see you on the stage during festival season?
KB: Hopefully I’ll be performing at some of the parties at Coachella. I performed at the Galore party last year.
AM: Tell us about your style for your shows versus how we would see you running errands or going out to brunch.
KB: For my shows, I’m SUPER full out and doing the most and then when I’m at home you can usually see me in leggings and Nike’s and oversized sweaters, lol.
AM: When you're home, where do you go out and eat, shop and work out?
KB: When I want to go out and eat I love Catch, COD, and of course, In-N-Out. I love to shop at the Americana and when I want to get an intense workout in, I’ll either do Barry’s Bootcamp or Pilates.
AM: What are you focused on in 2018?
KB: I’m excited to release my EP this year and get more into my acting career. I booked a role on This Is Us this season so I’m excited to keep it going.
AM: Tell us about your upcoming album!
KB: My EP will release this year, London On Da Track produced it and I’m just excited for people to get more of an idea what my sound is.
AM: How do you give of your time?
KB: Every year I work with Feed the Children during All-Star Weekend. My family and I host an event and giveaway food, clothes and toiletries.
AM: How can we find out what you're up to?
KB: Make sure to check out my music on Apple Music and Spotify! Also my social handle across platforms is @kaylabrianna.
PHOTO CREDIT | Marcus Ezell
Read more from the Feb Issue and see A Moment with Kayla Brianna in mag.
Check out this trailer that we're pretty excited about. Netflix Films just dropped the trailer of Roxanne Roxanne that will be out on March 23. We're taken back to the 80s when MC battles in Queens. This biopic covers the journey of 14 year old Lolita "Roxanne Shanté" Gooden was beginning to climb her way up to being a hip-hop legend. In addition to navigating the world of Queensbridge Projects in NYC, we get a glimpse of how one makes it to the top.
The cast includes: Chanté Adams, Nia Long, Mahershala Ali, Elvis Nolasco, Kevin Phillips, Shenell Edmonds and Adam Horovitz.
Read more the Jan Issue of Athleisure Mag
L-R | Killer Mike of Run the Jewels, 2018 Grammys nominee Rapsody, 6LACK, TI and Jamie Foxx
The Grammys made their way back to NYC for its 60th anniversary. Artists were gifted and have been seen rocking MCM's collab - MCM x WizPak. The exclusive wearable music smart backpack boasts a breakthrough market technology and fabulous sound quality and made its debut this past weekend. The tech-savvy accessory includes high-quality sound from a 40w 2.1 stereo speaker system with 3D surround-sound technology built inside the backpack and is removable and can connect to any media player through a wireless Bluetooth connection. It has 3-charging ports for up to 14-hours of charge to any smartphone or tablet. In addition to its technology forward abilities, the bag itself embraces the luxury brand's heritage Stark Visetos backpack.
As seen above on Jamie Foxx, Grammy’s Breakout Star Rapsody (only the fifth female nominee for Best Rap Album ever in the 23-year history of the category), two time nominee 6LACK. Others included Killer Mike of Run the Jewels, and TI.
Read more from the Jan Issue.
Hendrix: The Illustrated Story was released this fall on what would have been the rock icon's 75th birthday. This is the first fully
illustrated book that shares his life and the legacy of one of the greatest of all time.
Although the rock guitarist enjoyed the global stage for under 4 years, he is known for his innovative and imaginative interpretation of blues and rock. His work inspired guitarists and music loves across
time and genres.
In this book, Seattle based music journalist
Gillian Gaar delves into the guitarist’s upbringing, his military service as an Army paratrooper, his role as a sideman on the chitlin’ circuit, his exile in the UK, and his eventual reemergence in the US and the fame that followed until his untimely
death in 1970. Featuring design as lavish as Hendrix’s music and carefully curated photography, posters, picture sleeves, and other assorted memorabilia, this is the ultimate Hendrix book experience.
Author Afshin Shahide is no stranger to Prince as he had documented Prince's One Nite Alone tour, Musicology Tour and was also his cinematographer as well as photographer. During Prince's last 15 years of his life, he was his closest photographer
and is the only one to have shot the legendary 3121 private parties in Los Angeles that became the most sought after invitations in Hollywood.
With a foreward by Beyonce Knowles, Prince: A Private View is a curation of his work that showcases Prince's life. The book includes never before seen imagery from candids, intimate, concerts and more. In addition, the book includes captions that
talk about the moments in his life from those that are personal, witty, and present an insight into one of music's talented and legendary entertainers.
Sunday dinners are known as a great tradition to bring friends and family together. Southern LIving revitalizes the
tradition in their new book by Cynthia Graubart, award winning author.
Over five chapters and 50 dishes (appetizers, salads, sides, drinks, desserts),
Cynthia shares an array of Sunday Suppers which are delicious and easy meals without any stress. The great thing about this meal is that it doesn't have a set time, can be casual
or formal and can be in any location. Whether you're trying a new recipe or one that has been passed down from one family to the next, it's a cherished time.
In addition to recipes, there are menu-planning ideas, cooking tricks, tips for stocking the pantry, decorating the table and additional tools to host the perfect dinner.
Read more from Dec Issue and see Bingely Books in mag.
PHOTO COURTESY | Marco David
When you grow up in a creative family, you get to try your hand at a number of things to find out what works for you. Gia Mantegna grew up in the industry and has been acting since she was a kid, is a singer and in addition to her roles, can say that she has been able to spend quality time on set as a fellow actor with her dad, Joe Mantegna in the nail-biting series, Criminal Minds.
We sat down with Gia to talk about how she got into acting, what it's like to be on Criminal Minds, playing dramatic characters with a twist, her new show that is available now on CW Seed, what's going on with her music and some of her go to places in LA as well as when she's here in NYC.
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did the acting bug hit you?
GIA MANTEGNA: I started acting at a really young age in school. I think I was about 11 when I started theater and that’s kind of where I got the bug. I had obviously grown up in the business
because my dad is an actor.
AM: We’re huge fans of him!
GM: Yeah, yeah me too! Growing up around that environment and being in that industry it was just something that was second nature to me. And I was like, "when is it my turn?" Being the second born child and always wanting attention, I was known for having this personality and having a need to be heard. The only outlet for that was to sing and to perform - so that’s how it started. Then after doing theater, I started working in film and going to TV and auditioning. It hasn’t stopped yet – knock on wood.
AM: What are some of the roles that you have been in?
GM: My first big gig was a Christmas film called Unaccompanied Minors which was a film directed by Paul Feig. He did Bridesmaids, The Heat, Ghostbusters (Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy) etc. That was my introduction into really working in Hollywood. It was such a great experience working with Paul and the cast. That was a fun role for me and I have done a lot of
spots on TV.
I’m really drawn to the darker roles naturally. I am a positive person, but I love those really weird roles. I did a role on Perception where I played this girl who swallowed knives and it was a strange one, but I loved it. Now comedy is where things are going for me which I also love because it’s harder and comedic timing is hard to do. The dramatic roles come easier to me but
comedy is where I am falling into and where the world is going, it’s nice to laugh a little bit.
AM: How much has your father been an influence on your roles and how has it been also appearing on Criminal Minds with him?
GM: YES oh my gosh. I can’t watch Criminal Minds – I live alone with a cat!
AM: When we travel, it’s always on as a marathon and we get sucked in, but we have to have a buddy and the lights on to watch it!
GM: Oddly enough, I never worked with him on the show. When I first auditioned for the show, I was 17 there was a different actor playing my father and I never had any scenes with him. Then one day, the writers came to me with an idea where my character came back with Aubrey Plaza’s character as they wanted two strong female characters to come back to shake up the
team. Aubrey and I came out to do it and I didn’t have any good dialogue with my dad, but there was this scene where he pointed a gun at me which was really exciting as that is always fun to work with a family member holding a gun in your face. I mean when is that going to happen? Hopefully not. But it was great because I have worked on a number of shows, but Criminal Minds – that cast is such a tight-knit group, they’re a family. They get along and it’s
been running for so long which is a testament to how great it is to be able to step into that show for a few weeks. It was the greatest gig in the world and to be able to hang out with my dad for a bit. The character was fun too as she was psychotic!
AM: Tell us about CW Seed and how we can watch it?
GM: A lot of networks have digital platforms as I think that they are trying to compete with Netflix and things like that. CW Seed (shows you can catch: Riverdale, Original Dynasty) is CW’s answer to that. It’s their digital platform where they create new media and they also run shows that have already been out on the website. You can watch on their website or their app.
Our show, Life After First Failure has myself and Breanne (who plays my best friend on the show), we received the script and we loved that there were two strong female characters
shaking things up – we fell in love with it. We did 3 episodes in Portland and CW Seed ended up breaking it up into 6 episodes - to make it more palatable for the audience.
The way it seems to be going is that it’s all about quick easy content for quick gratification. At first, I was a little disappointed, but it’s the way that things are going now. I like longer episodes, but the younger generation is easily bored and when they’re bored, you lose your audience. But the character was so much fun to play and it was different and new. Honestly, it was one of my favorite people to play.
AM: Is there a second season coming out?
GM: In a perfect world, yes – the hope was that the network would see that there was a strong response to it – but they’re kind of new. So a lot of it has been left to us and social media has really helped in terms of campaigning for the show. We definitely want to come back to do more episodes – right now we’re not sure so we want people to watch and tweet to request more episodes.
AM: We know that you are also a singer can you tell us about how you started that and what your plans are?
GM: I was always singing at a young age. My parents threw me into everything soccer, piano, saxophone etc. Singing stuck with me – my sister and I took lessons at a very young age. Both of my parents have a musical background and it was just one of those things that I always kept in my back pocket, but I was too scared to use and then it got to a point that I really wanted to do a show so I got a producer and a band and we put it together with a show at The Whiskey in LA. It was so great, but there aren’t really any plans as I was starting to work on an album and then acting picked up, but it's always something I go back to. Right now, I record things and sell them to shows and just kind of do it as a hobby.
PHOTO COURTESY | Scott Bonnie
AM: What is the genre?
GM: It ended up being a rock show when I was at The Whiskey. But the song I’m most proud of, ‘I Won’t Wait’ it’s alternative/electronic. It has a cool vibe to it as I’m inspired by Banks and Tove Lo - just I love that electronic ease and fun. But when I get back into singing, I want to do a lot of oldies covers as I listen to a lot of 70s music. I love Top 40, but I’m inspired by that era. I have been listening to a lot of THEM (Van Morrison’s old band) lately and I thought it would be really fun to do a lot of covers of music that my parents grew up with as that's what I listened to growing up.
AM: What is your personal style when you're going out for brunch versus when you're having a night out?
GM: It doesn’t change – it’s always the same – I’m all black everything – it makes doing laundry very easy. I always dress for winter or fall – I wear Doc Martins all the time, I live in them. I love skinny jeans and a baggy sweatshirt on top. I love jewelry which allows me to go a little crazy and I love makeup! My sister and I went to makeup school just for fun and my sister was really into it – she has autism and is really high functioning, but my parents didn’t want her to go alone so I went as her pal and I ended up loving it. I love playing with makeup looks and it taught me what I could do with makeup – so it’s all about the accessories.
AM: How do you take time for yourself in the midst of your busy schedule?
GM: It’s interesting as an actor, you’re your own boss and there is going to be downtime so you’re always trying to stay proactive. I do piano as much as I can to stay with my music.
I do meditate - big meditator. I tried running for 5 mins. - it was horrible, but I really love yoga. There is a huge yoga culture in LA - which I know is everywhere as well. But I have been doing
yoga for so long that I just do it on my own and I just do it in my trailer. Now that I have this amazing cat in my life, I love meditating and doing yoga at home. I don’t do any high impact – I
don’t. I can’t do it because I have this really weird jaw issue which is a severe form of TMJ where I have to get injections in my masseter muscles. So when I do anything high impact the stress goes to my neck and my face and then I have to go to the Chiropractor and it becomes this whole thing. Everything is low impact and easy – I walk a lot and although LA is not a walking town, I live in West Hollywood so I can do that.
AM: What charity/philanthropy do you do?
GM: Because my sister has autism, I have always been involved in that as it has been a big part of my life and to give back to the community. My family and I do not support Autism Speaks as they have paid celebrities to do endorsements which makes sense, but many don't know what they're talking about and funds have gone to the CEOs and very little of the money is going to autism research. More grassroots organizations is where we go and my dad does a lot of work with veterans so anything that involves them and the military, I am all about it. Autism is big for me and there isn’t one that I champion specifically.
PHOTO COURTESY | Marco David
AM: What's on your playlist?
GM: I’ve been listening to a lot of THEM, Van Morrison, Bob Dylan – I went to a concert of his last year and it was so great. I just really love him. Let me grab my phone out. I love Tove Lo and Banks of course. A lot of oldies - OH - Roy Orbison - he's the best for the holidays - I really love his stuff and I have been getting obsessed with Chris Isaak again. OH Tom Jones is my
go to when I'm getting ready, I go to Spotify, put in Tom Jones and listen to everything. It gets crazy and my dad makes fun of me and asks, “why do you listen to my music?” I love it and everything coming out lately now – it’s cool to vibe out to in the background, but I don’t connect with it and it’s not inspirational to me.
AM: When you're in LA, what's 1 place you work out, 1 place you eat at 1 place you shop? What version do you have for that here in NYC?
GM: The answer to most of those questions is home, home, home haha. In NY, I go to McSorley’s Old Ale House - I was just there last night with my mom and my sister. So only in NY
would this take place, we met these two guys where one had just broken up with his wife and one with his girlfriend and they wanted to recreate this picture that they had taken when they were with them at the same bar a few years prior! One ex was blonde and one was brunette and we re-created the picture.
In LA, people are very "don’t talk to me," but in NY it’s so different and they were from Orange County. It was hysterical and the picture was identical and I even arranged everything on the table the same way. McSorley's is my go to.
In LA, I go anywhere although there is this cool Australian bar called The Eveleigh. Serafina just opened in LA so I love that – they’re on Sunset. I work out at home in LA so I just go outside as there is so much hiking you can do and I want to try boxing. For shopping, I am all about ASOS – they have great stuff, affordable and they always have black options. In NY it’s anywhere.
I’m obsessed with shoes, so any shoe store. I love Opening Ceremony and I love Soho in general. Evolution is here and I love them, we have something similar in LA called Necromance, but I haven’t bought anything. Where am I going to put taxidermy squirrels?
My God mom has a store in Toluca Lake near my parents house called Pergolina and she has these beautiful taxidermy animals which she gets from Necromance. Her store is where I get my jewelry and I wear these bracelets all the time. But I’m not a big shopper – I’m an eater – I love to eat. My mom has a restaurant in Burbank called Taste Chicago.
AM: Wait we have heard of Taste Chicago!
GM: I know a lot of people think that it’s my dad’s, but it’s my moms!
AM: Which one is from Chicago?
GM: Both – my whole family is from Chicago and here. We’re here because one of my family members just bought a house in New Jersey. We’re the only ones in LA. We needed to bring Chicago to LA.
AM: So what are we ordering at Taste Chicago?
GM: Chicago dogs, Sicilian Pan Pizza, Deep Dish, Italian Beef, everything – it’s hard core. You don’t go there to get a salad, you go there to work! But I actually prefer NY style pizza haha but I go there for the Italian Beef.
PHOTO COURTESY | Marco David
Read more from the Dec Issue and see From LA with Love, Gia Mantegna in mag.
SHOT @ Desmond Childs Home | PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas | STYLIST Kimmie Smith | MUA Nydia Figueroa | HAIR STYLIST Zullay Sevilla |
We end our year the way we began it - with NERVO, but this time, in addition to our interview, we hung out with them right before their Lavo NYC show to shoot the International EDM DJ duo. Liv and Mim have been traveling, DJing around the world, releasing new music and continuing to connect with their fans.
We brought them to Grammy winner and music icon, Desmond Child's home (we have an exclusive interview with Desmond following this interview), which was the perfect location for this shoot. We talked with them about what they're up to, who they've been working with, where they'd like to perform, their upcoming show for NYE at the W in Miami and what festivals you'll see them in during 2018.
ATHLEISURE MAG: We kicked off the year with an interview with you ladies and it's only fitting that we close it with you as well as you're gracing our Dec cover - what has been a snapshot of this year from what you were up to personally, musically, - whatever you wish to share.
NERVO: We have had a year of absolute madness. Lots of great things going on that we just need to pinch ourselves sometimes. We also are just doing our best to keep our heads above water and enjoy the little moments you know… We think all touring artists or just busy people, in general, are the same. There’s a lot of pressure mixed with a lot of adrenaline filled moments. It can be a lot sometimes!
AM: You ladies are multiple threats as you're DJ's, producers, songwriters, composers, models, brand ambassadors, etc., so it was only fitting to have you shoot in Desmond Child's home
- can you share some of your projects that you did this year or next year?
N: Tell us about it - Desmond Child is a total legend. What an honour to be shooting in his home! Love how we decked his house out.
So… We released a bunch of music this year, including a few collabs - one with New York based band Sofi Tukker and some others with more dance artists like DVBBS and Danny Avila, Oh, and then there’s the collab we wrote with Cheif Keef which was pretty special! We have been touring mainly Europe for the summer, but we also have our residency at Omnia in Las Vegas, which gets us over to The USA about 16 times a year.
We have a bunch of new songs in the works which we are focusing in on now. Quarters 4 and 1 are always for making new music and that means touring a bit less.
AM: What's the process like when you're creating your music and how is it different when you're creating something for another artist?
N: We’re more relaxed when we make music for others or even for a collaboration. Something about it being less pressure. When it’s your own record suddenly you feel like people are going
to hate on you if they don’t like it. It’s a part time job blocking out that noise!
AM: How do you go about finding inspiration for upcoming projects?
N: We are constantly inspired. To be honest we don’t have enough time to not be inspired. We have so many unfinished ideas that we just need an extra 2 days a week to finish. We must be
ADHD or something.
AM: What is a NERVO Christmas like - do you make it home to Australia for the holiday, do you guys cook and what gifts are you looking for this year?
N: It’s pretty low key and is the same every year. We have a huge lunch in our family home in Melbourne, then we all go to our Aunty Mary and Uncle Max’s home for more food, and then we
eventually pass out around 10pm with belly’s so full that we couldn’t dream of eating dinner! Leftovers are eaten for the next 4 days or so. We are Italian/Australian so there’s always SO
much food!
AM: This NYE, where are you playing and what about 2018 makes you excited to ring it in?
N: We are playing Miamiiiiiii! At the W Hotel. We can’t wait!! Miami is just the best for New Year's Eve. We think we might hang around a few days and have some beach time and Cuban food.
AM: What's on your playlist at the moment that gets you up and moving?
N: Massively inspired by what Jax Jones is doing at the moment. Sampling Booka Shade and flipping it into a 2017 anthem! Go JJ!
AM: Where are some festivals/cities that you'll be hitting this year that we can expect to see you performing at?
N: We are playing Tomorrowland in Belgium again. Always a yearly highlight! We are also playing Creamfields in South America. And of course, everyone can catch us at Ushuaia in Ibiza and Omnia/Hakkassan in The USA for our residencies.
AM: What is a gig that you would like to do ie. Super Bowl Half Time show, that you have yet to be asked to do but want to check off your bucket list?
N: Probably Coachella. It’s such a great festival and one of the only ones we have never been asked to play at. We don't think they like us. ha! Maybe we're too bubbly or mainstream or
something... We dunno. But we have been to the festival and it's such a great vibe. Always perfect weather.
AM: You're rocking a lot of fun styles throughout our Dec cover shoot, but what is your personal style when you head out to play a set for NYE versus when you're hanging out?
N: We like to dress things up when we play a gig. We love body suits, lycra, face jewels, creepers, teased up hair, more is more. When we are hanging out we’re a lot more chilled and casual - for example we are loving the Fenty clothes that we wore in the shoot for our travel/studio days!
AM: You guys travel a lot, what are your 3 musts that you take with you no matter what city you're rocking in to feel like you're at home?
N: Iijin snake skin silver and gold shoes (for Liv), Hairspray (for Mim), and our laptops (for both of us).
AM: The Winter Olympics are coming up and we're fans of curling, what teams/sports are you cheering for?
N: Ooohh we’ll have to check it out!! We do love to ski so that’s something we would like to watch. Does Australia even have a team? If Australia is competing then we would have to go for
them but if they don’t then we would go for Italy because that is where our parents were born :).
COVER + PG 14 | FENTY X PUMA Blocked Track Jacket + Blocked Taped Track Pant | OUTDOOR VOICES Sport Bra | FENTY X PUMA AnkleStrap Sneaker | FENTY X PUMA Monday Cap | FRAME Le Original Patch Jacket |
FENTY X PUMA Hooded Zip Front Leotard | FENTY X PUMA Printed Bra | RUBEN GALARRETA Legging Harness |
PG 16 | BLACK MILK Fatale Dress | LAGOS JEWELRY Black Beaded Caviar Bracelet | ARTISTS' OWN Wrapped Bracelet, Charm Bracelet, Watch + Hat |
PG 19 | MCM Shearling Bag | ARTISTS' OWN Bra, Shorts + Scarf |
PG 20 | SPLENDID Racerback Turtleneck Sport Bra | ELIZABETH ACKERMAN Palazzo Palm Pants | DIANA ROSH FUR Olive + Blue Fur Coat | LOVE KNITZ Hat |
PG 21 | DIANA ROSH FUR Multicolor Coat | HAT ATTACK Arm Warmers | MIRA RAE Velvet Leggings | MCM Shearling Hat |
PG 22 | ROMPLY Blush Wrap Romper | HAT ATTACK Hat | LAGOS JEWELRY Ring | ARTISTS' OWN Bra |
PG 25 | ROMPLY Navy/Gold Tapestry Romper | NINA JEWELRY Swarovski Bangle | MCM Polke Backpack in Starry Eyed Bunny | ARTISTS' OWN Marcher Jacket |
Athleisure Mag readers know that a number of our shoots take place in luxury apartments that have yet to be released to the public or are being sold. We tend to maintain the privacy of the homeowners; however, this shoot was perfectly aligned as it took place at Grammy-winning and Emmy-nominated songwriter/producer Desmond Child's home!
He is one of the most accomplished hit-makers, having written and produced more than eighty Billboard Top 40 hits spanning five decades including "Livin' On A Prayer”, “You Give Love A Bad Name”, “I Was Made For Lovin' You”, “Dude Looks Like A Lady”, “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” and “Waking Up In Vegas.” From Aerosmith to Zedd, his genre-defying collaborations also include Bon Jovi, KISS, Motley Crew, Joan Jett, Cher, Michael Bolton, Cyndi Lauper, Ricky Martin, Christina Aguilera, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Meat Loaf, Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, Sia, Mickey Mouse and Kermit the Frog, selling over 500 million records worldwide as well as downloads, YouTube views and streaming plays already in the billions. His upcoming autobiography LIVIN' ON A PRAYER: BIG SONGS BIG LIFE with David Ritz is scheduled for release the Fall 2018. Desmond Child was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008 and serves on its Board of Directors as well as the Board of ASCAP. In 2012 he co-founded the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame and serves as its Chairman/CEO. He is also Chairman of The Fountains of Musica Foundation, who’s mission is to complete Alan LeQuire's aquatic bronze masterpiece MUSICA located at the entrance to Nashville’s Music Row.
ATHLEISURE MAG: It was an honor to shoot in your beautiful home and NERVO was very excited to see that they were in your apartment. Please share with our readers about how you got into the music business and whom you have worked with.
DESMOND CHILD: My beautiful mother, the late Cuban poet and Bolero composer Elena Casals, was always writing her romantic and soulful songs at her old upright piano on the dairy farm in Hawthorn, Florida, where I was born in 1953. At that time, I didn’t know that most people don’t write songs as a natural expression of the ups and downs of ordinary life. I would sit on my mother's lap at the piano and bang out long unrepeatable classical sounding improvisations. As soon as I could sit upright, she would make me play for her bohemian friends sitting around on the floor smoking and drinking during the Mad Men era when that was actually still good for you.
Not being able to afford a gift, I wrote my first official pop song titled “Birthday Blues” at the age of 15 in 1968 as a birthday tribute to a beautiful girl I was trying to impress named Laura
Stern. After that, I never looked back and kept writing songs all the way into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, where I was inducted into in 2008. That only took 40 years. ;)
ATHLEISURE MAG: Your home is awesome and there were so many elements that were amazing, but we all enjoyed your piano - when did you decide that you would have these notable talents sign your piano, and are there signatures that you have yet to get, but still
want to have in there?
DC: It was a random day, and I was walking down 57th Street, and when I got to the Steinway showroom, I looked through the window and saw this gorgeous Steinway D lit up like it was on a stage. I went in, sat down at it, and it seemed to just play itself. I ended up buying it on the spot, but I had to put it in storage for 2 years while my apartment was being renovated. When the time finally came to move-in the piano, I had to hire a crane to lift it up on its side in a massive wooden crate and slip it through the living room window.
It was an incredible feat that tied up Fifth Avenue traffic and pissed-off a lot of people.
As soon as I started doing writing sessions with top stars or important visitors, I would ask them to write their names in the piano along with the date. It started to get crowded in there and some names are completely unrecognizable, so I guess I will have to create a map of the stars to keep track of them all.
These are the names I would love to have in the piano: Joni Mitchell, Sir Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, Sade, Imogen Heap, Paul Stanley & Gene Simmons, Beyonce & Jay Z, Steven Tyler, and Joe Perry.
AM: Are there projects that you are working on that you can share with us?
DC: I am just putting the finishing touches on my auto-biography - LIVIN' ON A PRAYER: BIG SONGS BIG LIFE with David Ritz. I hope to release in the fall of 2018.
AM: What is currently on your playlist?
DC: I only play two records ever… AMOROSO by Jaoa Gilberto, produced by my dear late friend Tommy LiPuma, and Sade’s epic LOVE DELUX. Over the past 5 years I’ve added Concha Buika’s
rare but exquisite albums. Any other music I hear is by accident.
AM: With New Years Eve just around the corner, what's the perfect playlist that we should be creating to celebrate the end of 2017 and the start of 2018?
DC: Any of Amy Grants 5 Christmas albums. Amy is my husband Curtis’ favorite artist of all time…. It just ain’t Christmas without Amy Grant.
We enjoyed finding out more about Desmond Child and his home which is currently on the market. We sat down with Louise Phillips Forbes of Halstead properties to find out more about 1215 Fifth Avenue #8CD as well as the neighborhood it resides in.
ATHLEISURE MAG: There are so many great aspects to this apartment, from its layout to the INCREDIBLE views of Central Park - what can you tell us about this property?
LOUISE PHILIPS FORBES: What’s not to envy in this exceptional home?! It’s a full-floor combination apartment with panoramic views of Central Park that are breathtaking year-round, and an abundance of custom designer details like art-deco moldings and Venetian plaster walls. The grand and expansive formal living room is an entertainer’s dream with four large picture windows (manufactured by Hope's) facing west, high-beamed ceilings and a statuesque
wood-burning fireplace. Plus, the spectacular views carry through to the formal dining room. A peaceful retreat, the master suite also showcases the Central Park views and features superbly crafted built-ins and an oversized walk-in closet that resembles a luxury boutique. You can escape to the spa in the elegant Vitrolite tile and Terrazzo master bathroom with a deep soaking tub, double sink vanity, walk-in steam shower, and heated floors. But it's the park views that will transport you to another world. A culinary delight, the eat-in chef's kitchen is the heart of the home with an open design that includes a substantial casual dining/living and media area. Kitchen highlights are the sophisticated Terrazzo countertops, abundance of pantry storage cabinets, and high-end appliances. A coveted laundry room holds the side-by-side and full-size Miele washer and Asko dryer with a sink and storage. To top it off, there is a new state-of-the-art Lutron lighting system and Crestron integrated surround audio system with built-in
speakers all through the apartment. Two oversized bedrooms and a second full bathroom complete the home with through-wall AC's in every room and great closets throughout. It’s pretty close to perfect!
AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents?
LFP: A pre-war treasure, the Brisbane House at 1215 Fifth Avenue was developed and built in 1928 by distinguished journalist and columnist for Hearst newspapers, Arthur Brisbane, and designed by the renowned architectural firm Schultze & Weaver. The beautiful 16-story limestone-and-caramel-brick building boasts an elegant lobby and full-service amenities, including 24-hour doorman, live-in superintendent, private courtyard, fitness area, central
laundry room, personal storage, bike storage, and pet-friendly attitude.
AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building and what neighborhood is this considered?
LFP: A premier residence nestled near Carnegie Hill, this elegant gem is conveniently located across from Central Park and along Museum Mile with easy access to world-class exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Guggenheim Museum, and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, among others. Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue
beckon with high-end boutique shopping and fine art galleries, plus there is an abundance of distinguished restaurants, charming cafes, gourmet grocers, supermarkets, Equinox Fitness
Club, the 92nd Street Y, and many popular retail destinations.
AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?
LFP: It would be very easy to call this stunning apartment home given the grandeur of the rooms, designer details throughout, and abundance of Central Park views! To schedule an appointment, simply contact me directly and I will be happy to give you a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. You can reach me via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.
AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?
LFP: Visit my website and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from
downtown to uptown. The available homes range from a three-bedroom loft apartment in Tribeca to a 6-story grand townhouse on the Upper East Side.
Read more from the Dec Issue and see NERVO YORK in mag.
There are a number of events that are taking place in the first few days of December as we begin to close out your year. From music festivals Art Basel Miami and more. Sole DXB takes place in Dubai Dec 7th - 9th and focuses on Fashion, Footwear and Lifestyle by merging a number of brands and musicians together for a fun experience. Sole DXB is helmed by Hussain Moloobhoy (began his career at Saatchi London and moves to the Middle East and joined Saatchi and Saatchi Dubai where her served as its Creative Director - he took a sabbatical to explore global designs and fashion industries which led him to create a creative agency), Joshua Cox (serves as Co-Founder of Sole DXB to create a platform to help revive culture and inspire the urban fashion industry of the region), Kris Balarite (with a focus on creative design and advertising as well as freelancing with sports brand consulting, he serves as a Co-Founder of Sole DXB and is the brand creative director for the first ever basketball concept store in the Middle East known as Conquer) and Rajat Malhotra (in addition to being a partner in the Sole DXB, Rajat established a media and telecom business where he served as a CEO as well as partnering with Sunny Rahbar as a Co-Founder of the Third Line Gallery which has allowed curated exhibitions in NYC's gallery Stellar Rays).
With their creative backgrounds, we wanted to know more about what Sole DXB is as it has taken place for a number of years and is constantly focused on specific cultures that are being presented. With its mixture of art, sports, music and footwear, we took some time to find out more about this event.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Summarize in your own words what Sole DXB is?
SOLE DXB: VERY. DOPE. A celebration of hip-hop culture that has been so integral to our lives. We're simply creating an event that we, as people, wold want to go to. Just so seems there's a lot of others like us too...
AM: What is the decision behind celebrating various cultures at various points of your event from Amercan Hip Hop one year, British Hip Hop and this year, Japanese contemporary design?
SD: Culture is global, its nuance local, our individual upbringings widespread. As partners, we all grew up across different cities all around the world, but moved to Dubai eventually. During that process, Dubai had so much to offer, but there were parts of our past lives that we missed and we didn't feel that we should have to get on a place everytime we wanted to experience it. Last year, we looked at how the scene goes down in London. For many it was the year of grime, so we brought out champions of UK sounds like Skept, Stormzy, Little Simz, and Chipmunk. The year before it was very much a look at how the orginators of hip-hop, the US, did things. So we brought in legends like Mobb Deep and DMC (of Run DMC). We consider ever event an education through experience for our consumers. This year. we've looked East, especially at the real design finesse from Japan. So we're bringing out (Fragment founder and) icon Hiroshi Fujiwara to give a talk. Then we have brands like Visvim, Wacko Maria, Neihgborhood and Undercover showcasing their wares. Beyond that, there's some real godfathers of the industry coming down - we have Mass Appeal offering an exclusive international screening of (yet to be shown) Word is Bond. And that's before we even talk music (read: Kano, Pusha T, Goldlink, IAMDDB and more ...).
AM: What are the pillars of DXB offerings that attendees come to expect regradless of the theme running within the year?
SD: The best in beats, kicks, design, food and vibes, all under a big blue sky in the sun. As Bobbito Garcia, our longterm guest and friend said, "there really is nothing else like it in the world." We pride ourselves on a humble and open atmosphere. The days are smooth, the parties are bumping.
AM: What is the Dubai Design District (d3) and why has this partnership been integral to your event?
SD: Dubai Design District is our home, and moreover, the city's destination singularly dedicated to to design. It's the chosen home for the region's growing collective of creatives, artists and designers - and an institution we are very proud to work with. We have been partnered with Dubai Design District for three years now, and recently signed a further three-year contract to mark our mutual respect, and furthermore, agreement to nurture the Middle East's creative culture together. If the last 3 years have been about building our brand and establishing a global presence, the next 3 years will be about nurturing and fostering regional talent We will serve as a platform to showcase our stories to the rest of the world and to connect our international visitors to the community here d3 are central to all of this.
AM: You have a number of amazing entertainers and brands that are participating this year, who are you excited about?
SD: NxWorries (presented by PUMA), King Push, Kano, Teyana Taylor (presented by Reebok), Goldlink, IAMDDB... We have such a variety of great performers it's difficult to pinpoint just one. But there's also the talks, the brand showcases, the art. Hiroshi Fujiwara (Fragment), Jeff Staple (Staple Design), Melody Ehsani, and Peter Bittenbender (Mass Appeal Records) are all speaking amongst others. Then we have the Nike basketball tournament in conjunction with Ball Above All. And Cadillac is hosting the regional debut of Cadillac X Warhol: Letters to Warhol. FRAME is a concept store bringing down some of Japan's leading brands. Then there's' a wealth of really exciting local brands, like amongst few and ANTHLGY doing their thing. And really, that's just the start of it There is a lot to see and do.
AM: Are you already planning next year's event and will there be future cities that you will bring this to?
SD: We are always cooking up plans. 2018 will be a madness - trust us on that!
AM: Is there anything else that you would like to tell us about DXB and how those of us who may not be attending can still be a part of this event?
SD: Follow us on Instagram @SoleDXB - you might not be there but it will definitely make you want to visit.
Read more from the Nov Issue and see Footwear.Fashion.Lifestyle Soul DXB in mag.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Matt Barnes
"You can't know where you are going, until you know where you have been." This quote always seems to take on more meeting when we find out the varied paths that people get to where they want to be. We sat down with Lights (Warner Bros Records) to find out how she got into the industry, her upcoming tour next year, her new Skin&Earth album, which also includes a series of comic books, her favorite travel destinations and how she defines balance as a songwriter, performer, wife and mother.
ATHLEISURE MAG: How did you get into the music industry – tell us a little bit about your journey.
LIGHTS: That’s a loaded question! I started out having no idea about how to get into the industry and I don’t think that anybody does. And there really isn’t one specific way to do it. I
think at the beginning, I had a pretty skewed view of how it was to be done and how it would pan out. I did music because I loved it and I started writing songs when I was 11 – I had my little
8-tracks and I started producing when I was 13. By the time I was 15, I had multiple albums of music and at that time, it was before MySpace, Peer Volume or YouTube and there was no place to put it. You actually did have to have a way in. So I enter contests like songwriting
contests, local singing contests and stuff – just to see what would happen.
Randomly, my way in came. My mom worked at Walmart. She was an employee, so you could be in the flyer. We took a picture which they selected and we had the opportunity to be in
the flyer. The photo I sent in had me with a guitar and they picked me. They came to my town and shot some pictures of me and a few other locals for the Walmart flyer. I got $30 and modeled their turtleneck – it was great. So the makeup artist said, “oh the picture that you sent in with you in the guitar – do you actually play?” I was like, “Yeah, I have a whole EP.” I was like 14 or 15 at the time. So he asked me to sing for them and I did a Mariah Carey song in the trailer and he asked me to bring the EP by his hotel, which I did and then he brought it to his friend who was in the industry that happened to be coming into the area later that summer for a
festival and he ended up becoming my manager. We worked on the music for a couple of years and then shopped it to the labels and then a couple of years later, I got a development deal with Sony and then I made some connections in the industry and 2 years after I was dropped from the development deal, I got signed to publishing which is songwriting for TV shows as well as working on my own music with sessions with other writers.
At this time MySpace came along and that’s when I was able to put my stuff up and everything changed. It wasn’t the label that launched my career but an online platform that allowed other
people to have access to me. Then Old Navy used a couple of my songs in their campaigns and that is when other people found out about me and then I got signed on from there at 19 with Warner – everything went from there!
AM: We never figured that Walmart would play into this story!
L: You never know where your break is going to come from! The most important thing is to do what you love and to take the opportunities that present themselves. You never know where it
will lead to! With that said, many people ask me what way they can get into the industry and I tell them that they have what they need right in front of them as the access is online to get your music out there!
AM: We’re beyond bummed that we missed your show here in NYC earlier this month, but what can we expect when we go to a Lights show and what kind of music is it that you are doing?
L: It’s really about putting my shows into a story arc and that’s even more imperative now with the comic that comes with the record as we will be implementing that into the next tour. It's an emotional journey and it starts out energetic as I want to make sure that everyone is comfortable and singing along. My favorite part is to see that in a show and then I like to break it down to more of an intimate tone and then end it on a high note. Set lists are always really well thought out. People should come ready to dance and ready to sing and of course there are cool lights – literally, which is really cool.
AM: What is your personal style in terms of dressing at your shows versus out and about with you and your family?
L: It’s interesting how I dress for a show isn’t too far from how I dress day to day, it’s just more amped up. It’s more extreme and over the years, I have come to know that how I dress really affects how I walk and how I am on stage. I need to feel empowered and I need to feel like a woman. It’s somewhere between Lara Croft from Tomb Raider with short shorts and big boots – I always wear big boots and big socks even in the summertime. I love a crop top that channels my whole Anime Manga face with the bright hair. I like a little spice of fantasy mixed in with a bit of a warrior.
AM: Obviously you are extremely talented, how did the comic book into this portion of your music as well?
L: I have always loved comics and have been reading them for years. I think that comics, like music is one of those forms of entertainment that all the fans want to become the creators.
Once you read comments you want to make it, you want to try it – to create the content. I have always wanted to do it and it has been a dream of mine for a long time. Part of that dream has
been wanting to see out in that world a music comic project, by a woman. It just didn’t exist and there were a few things here and there and even with dudes, it wasn’t that common. So I
wondered, when is a girl going to do this? One day I was like, “why can’t it be you – get to your computer girl!”
I shrugged off the fears of not knowing how to do it as I think that is one of the major factors that holds us back from doing what we want to do because we feel that we don’t know how
to do it. I just taught myself how to do it! I did the research, I got the books - went online and watched webinars and tutorials and I just had to start from somewhere. I have seen my dreams come true in putting this together over the last year. It’s just been amazing. I did a lot of work – I write it, draw it, render it, color it, package it and ship it! I send it to the publisher and it’s from my heart and mind and it’s so cool to see it all come together!
AM: That is so cool so do you go to Comic Con with this?
L: Yeah! I have always gone to Con as a fan and last year I was at Toronto Fan X which I have gone to for 10 years as a fan. This year, I was there as a guest with a professional pass and people were CosPlaying as my character! It was so awesome!
AM: This is so inspiring and once again, we’re bummed that we didn’t see you tour!
L: Well, when we came through the fall last year, it was a shorter set as we were supporting Paris but next Feb/March when we come through, it will be a full production experience and a
full set! It will be directly related to the comic.
AM: Obviously you travel a lot, what are some of your favorite places that you love going to?
L: Oh one of my favorite cities to go to is Amsterdam! Everywhere you look is an Instagram shot – it’s so scenic and there are flowers all over the place. It’s gorgeous and I have even more of an appreciation for it especially doing the comics – as an artist now. You have to do studies and backgrounds in art and lighting. I’ve noticed things in the environment that I would have never noticed before like the way a shadow falls – so you notice your surroundings more and Amsterdam is one of those cities that everywhere you look it’s picturesque and inspiring. Another area is Mexico – I love the beaches and it's one of my favorite places in the world.
I grew up traveling and last year, my husband and I went to Thailand and explored the jungles and then we went to Tokyo – that trip itself was a bit of a catalyst that made me really want to
do the comic and a month later I was drawing!
AM: We love Tokyo, being there really changed the way we looked at things for sure!
L: I know – when I got there I was like, “I want to do music and have it played here – how can I make this happen?” So, we have Giants in four different languages and Japanese is one of them!
AM: This holiday season, are you doing a lot of performances, will you be doing festivals for 2018?
L: Yeah it’s going to be a festival summer this year I think and our tour is 2.5 months in the spring with the festivals in the summer and then touring in the fall. The final issue of the comic comes out next month and then we will be packaging it into a graphic novel and then will tour on that in comic shops which will be some pretty cool stuff on that as well.
AM: Clearly your busy, how do you take time for yourself – are you a yogi – what do you do?
L: I do a bit of that. It’s all just balance. I’ve learned a lot over the years and still have a lot to learn about getting work done and taking time. I mean it’s not about saying I’m going to work here this week and then take time out here on this day. There was a time in my life, that I thought that was the way to do it. Instead it’s more like, today I am going to work 4-5 hours and then have dinner with my kid or spend some time tonight to do whatever. Everyday is in
front of you so you need to take the time daily you need to do the work but you need to take the time. I mean life moves and we spend so much of our time waiting for life to happen and
it’s right now and we need to enjoy it while getting stuff done.
AM: What would you like to share with Athleisure Mag’s readers that you may not have been able to share?
L: I’d say check out the album …… it’s my Opus and the greatest thing that I have done so far and I’m proud of it. Listen to the music on its own, read the comic on it’s own and then do so
together – it’s a totally augmented experience and check out the Instagram page @SkinAndEarthWorld – it’s a map of the world from within the comic and its interactive - click through the various accounts and explore the world and go to different locations and find hidden song clips. It’s just a fun way to experience the world without having to pay for anything right now.
| PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas |
September marked the first annual Goldie Awards DJ and Beats Battle in Brooklyn, NY. Presented by Fool's Gold, Thump, Noisey, TMWRK, and Serato - the night featured an array of
promising beats and DJ artists from around the globe. The star-studded judges panel was stacked with Diplo, Just Blaze, DJ Craze, Destructo, Mija, The Whooligan and Mannie Fresh,
who rooted on the artists with awe and strong community vibe. Dave East joined in with hosting duties for the evening breaking up the show with light and crisp banter, always with a
brew in hand.
The packed house cheered and bopped to beats, scratches and remixes as they filled the air for each battle. The battles were a good formula and the pulse was fresh through the show. The
few moments of downtime between sets allowed for some drink breaks, audible digestion, and IG moments.
A-Trak is right, all of the artists are winners in gaining some great exposure with the event. You never know who s watching and what next lies in store. Congrats to all artists that performed.
The Beat Battle contestants were: Brace, City the Beatmaster, Fresh Kils, HOLLY, MSCLS, R!OT, STFU, and Young Sidechain. The DJ Battle contestants were: John Beez, K-Swizz, Kayper, Miles Medina, Rafik, Rocket Jackson, Vekked, and Yuto.
The Goldie Awards bring good recognition and flavor to the industry truly cutting across genres. It is highly recommended for fans of various musical tastes. DJ’s don’t sleep on this – make sure you have your short demo submissions hashtagged and ready for next time.
Read more from the Sep Issue and see The Goldie Awards Shine Bright in Brooklyn in mag.
| PHOTOGRAPHY Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Global Citizen - Green Day |
On Sept 23rd, the 2017 Global Citizen Festival came back for its 6th year on Central Park's Great Lawn in NYC. This event culminated Global Citizen Week, a series of more than 30 public, advocacy-driven events and digital activations that took place across NYC. Prior to this week, Global Citizens took 1.6 million actions over 2 months that secured 29 commitments, 55 announcements and 13 calls to action which totaled $3.2 billion to assist in affecting the lives of 221 million people. These efforts will continue to assist in holding governments and business accountable to deliver on their promises for years to come. The concert and summit like festival included world leaders, non-profit organizations, social conscious focused artists and Global Citizens that are intent on leading the world to Global Goals for Sustainable Development to end extreme poverty by 2030.
Over 60,000 attendees and millions watched live (via broadcasting partners at MSNBC, Youtube and Twitter) with performances by Stevie Wonder, Green Day, The Killers, The Lumineers, and featuring the Chainsmokers, with special guest performances by Pharrell Williams, Big Sean, Andra Day, and Alessia Cara.
| PHOTOGRAPHY Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Global Citizen - Model & Activist Joan Smalls |
Top Campaign Victories
Economic Empowerment | Accenture, Citi, Ernst & Young, and Procter & Gamble each committed to source $100 million from women-owned businesses - a majority of whom will be based in the developing world. This amount totals $400 million will be delivered through Global Citizen's partners at WEConnect International which brings the amount to $1 billion committed on the Global Citizen stage from corporate entities towards women's economic empowerment in the past 12 months.
HIV/AIDS | Global Citizen partners Johnson & Johnson commits to accelerating the healthcare company’s HIV vaccine and announced that for the first time it is going into late-stage human clinical trials. It is the world’s first ever “global” vaccine, which means it can protect against all strains of HIV. In early-stage studies the vaccine has shown 100% success rate.
Famine | U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Delaware), as a member of the Appropriations Committee announced that encouraged by Global Citizens taking over 60,000 actions, his colleagues in the Senate have proposed $311.5 million more in funds for International Disaster Assistance compared to last year.
Yazidi Justice | Three years since the genocide was committed by ISIS, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, Matthew Rycroft, announced that the UK led the UN Security Council to a unanimous vote this week on the decision to set up a UN Investigation Team to pursue justice for the Yazidis. The UN resolution on ISIS accountability was described as a “long overdue first step” by the UN Office for the High Commissioner on Human Rights. This comes after an 18 month campaign and over 100,000 actions taken by Global Citizens.
| PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Global Citizen - Priyanka Chopra; Demi Lovato; Michelle Monaghan; Freida Pinto |
Top Accountability Updates
France | Thanks to Global Citizen’s two year long campaign, and nearly half a million actions, including those of Global Citizen and Global Partnership for Education Ambassador Rihanna, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that for the first time ever a G7 country — France — was to co-host the Global Partnership for Education replenishment with an African country — Senegal in order to raise $3.1 billion to provide 870 million children with vital education.
GHANA | President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, committed on the Festival stage to end child marriage. The newly elected President inherited the initiative to end child marriage in the country from his predecessor, so this stage moment provided confirmation that the new president has officially committed to continue with the National Strategic Framework on Ending Child Marriage in Ghana. As part of this announcement, the President also reaffirmed his pledge to provide universal free secondary education.
Famine | Executive Director of the World Food Program, David Beasley, confirmed that $575 million of $990 million committed by Congress in May — a commitment helped by 49,291 actions taken by Global Citizens — has been released to the WFP and others to immediately fight the famine. He then issued a powerful call to action to Global Citizens, revealing that after years of progress, the number of hungry people in the world is going up.
Partners of Global Citizen Week included: Gucci and CHIME FOR CHANGE, MSNBC & Comcast NBCUniversal, Live Nation, Johnson & Johnson, Citi, HP, Cadillac, T-Mobile, iHeartMedia, NYC Parks, lululemon, P&G, The New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs, Bira 91, Universal Music Group, the Empire State Building, Forbes, Guardian US, Omaze, TOMS, and Tribeca Enterprises.
Partners of the 2017 Global Citizen Festival included: presenting partner GUCCI and CHIME FOR CHANGE, premier media partner MSNBC & Comcast NBCUniversal, entertainment partner Live Nation, global health partner Johnson & Johnson, and other major partners Citi, HP, Cadillac, T-Mobile, iHeartMedia, and NYC Parks.
PHOTOGRAPHY | THE RIKER BROTHERS
Growing up, we remember watching Denise Austin as her fitness DVDs ensured that we targeted areas of our body that we wanted to optimize. Her videos included positivity, fun outfits, beach locales when she was outside of her studio and Katie Austin appeared on set from time to time as a child.
Clearly, Katie is all grown up and is continuing in her mom's footsteps. We caught up with Katie to find out what brought her to the fitness industry, what we can expect from her fitness methods and more.
ATHLEISURE MAG: We know your mom (clearly) as we grew up watching our mom's work out to Denise Austin, when did you have that moment that you knew you wanted to delve into the
fitness industry?
KATIE AUSTIN: It was never a moment it was more like steps I took in life to realize! Ever since I was little, I grew up watching my mom film her shows and got to travel with her to all these different cool locations. My mom always tells me that even when I was 3 years old I’d sit and watch her film as my sister would be playing in the pool or catching lizards. She said she knew
then that I’d be into it! BUT it wasn’t until college that I thought of the fitness industry as a career. After I moved on from playing D1 lacrosse at USC, I decided to do weekly fitness segments on the college station. After a great reaction from my student segments for a year, I decided to start a blog. And it started from there.
AM: Having a fitness icon such as your mom, what did you learn from her that you have applied to your unique mark in the industry?
KA: I feel like there are three big things I have learned from her.
1. Always be positive- no matter what. People look up to you for that light.
2. Make your workouts practical for your target demographic. She knows exactly what the regular girl wants and can do for their daily lifestyle.
3. Sounds cliché, but always stay true to yourself! Be authentic, and just be you. Because people will love the real YOU.
AM: Tell us about Get Fit With Katie.com and what one can expect from this membership workout site.
KA: So my site is still kind of new!! I just launched my membership program about 2 and a half months ago. It’s really exciting for me because it’s a subscription plan for all my followers. Meaning it’s a big library of all my workout videos, 50+, and counting because I always add new ones! So you can either pick and choose what workout you’re feeling up to that day whether
that’s abs, booty, cardio, etc. OR follow my exact workouts I give you in my Daily Workout Calendar- like a guide within the subscription!
AM: What is your goal with Get Fit With Katie.com and where do you see it in 5
years?
KA: My dream for forever has been to My dream for forever has been to have a TV show. I studied TV production at USC and just fell in love with it. I actually am a sports host for Fox on
the side as well, so combining my love for hosting and TV with fitness is the goal. So to have a fitness/wellness TV show like my mom did would be my 5 year plan!
AM: Everyone is focused on how they can have energy packed meals that they can take with them for lunch, what are 5 dishes for the work week that are easy to make that can be enjoyed
on the run?
KA: Well I’m all about keeping meals SIMPLE. In my food guide, my recipes are all 7 ingredients or less, so it’s never anything too complicated. Usually I do a grain (brown rice- or quinoa, not technically a grain but I consider it one), with a healthy fat (avocado), with a protein (grilled chicken or salmon) and 2 different kinds of veggies (like zucchini and carrots).
AM: What is your personal style when you are working out versus when you're going out to brunch?
KA: When I’m working out I love being colorful, I love wearing bright sports bras and leggings. I also LOVE high-waisted workout leggings because they hold everything in!! For brunch, I would usually wear a sundress with some wedges! I also love wearing one piece leotards right now.
It’s funny because I always wear my mom’s old 80’s workout leotards to go out in, and ALWAYS get compliments and questions on where they’re from. I have to use that Mean Girls line... “It’s
my mom’s from the 80s.. Vintage!”
AM: When you work out, what is on your playlist?
KA: I love the two opposite types of music. Hip hop/rap or country. So usually Drake, Future, Nicki Minaj, OR Little Big Town, Maren Morris, or Jason Aldean!!
AM: What are 3 of your favorite workouts and what areas are they targeting?
KA: I love HIIT [High intensity interval training], dance cardio, and basic toning moves. Dance cardio is a great way to have fun while burning calories, and my toning moves (like leg lifts, bicep curls, etc.) are a great way to sculpt my muscles. But, I definitely see most results with HIIT workouts. Usually, my HIIT workouts are a combination of cardio and toning, and they’re QUICK! So they’re more intense in a shorter amount of time to make them super effective.
Read more from the Aug Issue and see Keeping it Simple with Katie Austin in mag
NYC PRIDE took place June 16th - 25th to bring the community together under this year's message, "We Are Proud". With an array of events offered - kicking off with The Rally, there
was something for everyone from the Pride Luminaries brunch which was held at The Garden at acclaimed David and Burke Kitchen, which honors business leaders that make an impact on
LGBT workplace equality, Family Movie Night and a number of parties and performances. Of course, The March is another key event that took place that is one of the closing activities of this week. This year's March included over 45,000 marchers, over 500 marching groups as they covered 2.1 miles of the city! This year, ABC7 broadcast the parade for the the first time.
One of the exciting events that took place this year - PRIDE ISLAND provided entertainment across various genres on each day of the weekend. The kickoff of the music festival included Patti Labelle and Deborah Cox for a night that embraced R&B. Electronica hit the stage on Saturday with a number of acts, including Grammy nominated duo Tegan and Sara, Gallant
and Dimitri from Paris to name a few. Sunday night brought Pier 26 to the next level with Grammy Award winner Nelly Furtado.
A number of dance parties took place throughout the week. Notably, there were those that were dedicated to women dancing the night away such as Teaze (with Orange is the New Black's Taryn Manning who is also a DJ spinning), Moxie and Femme Fatale.
It was exciting for Athleisure Mag to be a media sponsor for this event and to share with you what was taking place throughout the week. The message of unity and having fun regardless of
who you are and just being yourself is one that we share and are happy to promote.
Read more from the June Issue and see We Are Proud in mag.