#TRIBEGOALS

Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag and see #TRIBEGOALS in mag.

9LIST STORI3S | HARLEY PASTERNAK

Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S with Harley Pasternak in Mag. If you’ve missed previous 9LIST STORI3S or other 9PLAYLIST - see them here.

THE 9LIST

Read the latest issue of the Nov Issue and see The 9LIST in mag.

IN OUR BAG YOUR AIRPORT LAYOVER

Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag and see In Our Bag | Your Airport Layover in mag.

HOW TO DRESS FOR HOLIDAY DINNER TRAVELS

Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag and see How To Dress For Holiday Dinner Travels in mag.

ROCK THIS SLEEP STYLE OVERNIGHT TO BREAKFAST

Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Rock This Sleep Style Overnight to Breakfast in mag.

STYLE FILES | NYFW FW19

Read the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Style Files | NYFW FW19 in mag.

WHY MORE AND MORE KIDS ARE USING BOT TO COP YEEZY'S

Back in 2017, Kanye West made a promise saying that everyone who wanted to buy Yeezys would be able so do so in the near future. Fast-forward to the present, and that now appears to be true, sort of.

Over the last couple of years adidas and Kanye West have released a whole lot more Yeezys (in terms of models and units) when compared to the early Yeezy years. From saturating the market with a plethora of new adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 colorways, to introducing new models such as the adidas Yeezy 500, 700 and even the upcoming 500 High, they’ve released a lot. To put it short, if anyone wanted to buy a pair of Yeezys they were able to do so as long as they put a little bit of groundwork.

That said, not all Yeezys are created equal. Although adidas and Kanye West are now releasing certain Yeezys in larger quantities, they also continue to release exclusive and limited Yeezys that are still hard to get. Here’s a general rule of thumb when it comes to sneakers: limited quantities + exclusivity = instant hype and a high resale value. Human instinct is to what what you can’t have, or at least what very few people have. Most of us try to find ways to stand out from the crowd, to many this means rocking the most exclusive and limited sneakers out there.

Not all Yeezy’s are created equal

Take for example the recently released adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 in colorways such as Cloud White, Citrin, Lundmark and Antlia just to name a few. What do all these releases have in common? They all released alongside their respective “Reflective” counterpart. For those who may now know, the “Reflective” iteration of each of the aforementioned colorways listed above look almost identical to the non-reflective.

The major difference are the reflective hits noted throughout the Primeknit upper. That’s it. Oh yeah, there’s also one more major difference between the two.. The reflective pair is far more exclusive and limited than the non-reflective pair. So although both pairs retail for the same price, the resale value is between the two is like night and day. Put it this way: you can find certain non-reflective colorways of the adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 for close to retail in the aftermarket, you can’t do that when it comes to the reflective pairs.

For instances like these, this is where it appears as if more and more kids are now using bots to get these hard-to-get releases. Whether you like to admit it or not, Kanye West continues to be a major influencer in the sneaker industry. Sure, he’s lost some support over the past couple of years thanks in large part to his outspoken support of the POTUS, but a big chunk of the younger generation continue to see Kanye as their Yeezus. He can basically do no wrong in their eyes. When your fandom is as strong as Kanye’s, whatever you release essentially sells itself (see Kanye’s overpriced Pablo merch printed on Gildan apparel). Kids using bots to get these exclusive Yeezys may seem like a task that they’re not qualified to do since it seems to involve a lot of “tech savvy stuff”, but using bots to cop the latest limited drops is not as difficult or complicated as it sound. It’s just like riding a bike, once you get the hang of it, you’ll never forget how to do it.

The reasons behind using bots to cop Yeezys

So why are more and more kids using bots to cop Yeezys? It could be for several reasons. For many, these new Yeezys could be the very first pair that they’ve ever owned. Perhaps they were too young to buy pairs from the past and they can now finally afford to cop a pair. Maybe some of these kids are using bots to cop Yeezys to make some extra money on the side.

I mean, who doesn’t like making some extra cash, especially when you are young and you can do it from the comfort of your own home. Others maybe use bots (just like this) to get these limited Yeezys to end up using them a trade bait somewhere down the road. Although the overall demand for Yeezys is not as high as it once was, it still has its loyal consumer base that continue to cop. As long as someone is willing to cop, the kids will continue to use the bots.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

IN OUR BAG YOUR INFLIGHT FORECAST

Read the Oct Issue of Athleisure Mag and see In Our Bag | Your Inflight Forecast in mag.

HGTV'S LEANNE FORD TALKS BEDDING, DESIGN, HER NEW SHOW AND MORE

When you think about the layout of your home and more importantly the spaces within it, we all want our inner interior designer to be able to make those changes or at least point us in the right direction. We thought that we’d give you some insider secrets with a fun Q&A we had with HGTV’s Leanne Ford who shared with us the need to have an inviting bedroom and how we can go about it courtesy of Leesa! In addition to outfitting our bedrooms, she also shares a bit about her new show which is available on HGTV, Rock the Block, her new book Work in Progress. We also ask her about the upcoming holiday season as well.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

HOW TO GET THE ATHLEISURE LOOK

Ten years ago, if you had mentioned the word “athleisure” to somebody, they’d likely have replied with a confused stare. Today, however, it’s one of fashion’s leading trends. As its name suggests, this is the progression of sportswear into mainstream fashion, and is largely inspired by those of us who choose to flaunt our kit outside of the gym.

Follow our top tips and you can be rocking the athleisure look in no time!

Tops

Love wearing sports tops? If so, who could blame you? They’re not just comfy, they’ve long been the pinnacle of creative design. From bright leotards to fancy sweatshirts, there’s pretty much a top to suit every taste. And they look great with everyday clothes, like a skirt or your favourite pair of jeans. Try pairing Mom jeans with a bold leotard underneath. or why not boost the fit factor of your outfit with a pair of athletic trainers? Whoever said that you need to exercise to be sporty?

Bottoms

Ah, jogging bottoms. Designed for maximum comfort, they’re perhaps the best thing to come out of sports fashion yet. Luckily, this trouser type is no longer being confined to the home — the best dressed are wearing them as a serious style statement. So, why don’t you follow suit? You won’t just look good; you’ll also feel it. If you’re wanting to blend comfort with class, you may want to accompany your soft trousers with a dark t-shirt. For a more breezy, casual get-up, how about a patterned top or sweater in a lighter shade to wear with your joggers? The beauty of this kind of clothing is that it goes with practically anything!

Trainers

Practical, soft and reliable shoes. We could only be talking about trainers. Now, the feature of this shoe design in mainstream fashion is nothing new. In fact, it’s been happening for decades. But it’s fair to say that athleisure is taking casual sports footwear to the next level. Have you spotted the current trainer and feminine dress combo trend, for example? All you need to do is pair a traditionally pretty dress — displaying, say, a floral pattern or a taffeta fabric — and a pair of trainers, typically chunky in build. This juxtaposition of fancy and functional styles makes for huge visual appeal.

Save your pennies

As long as you plan your outfits wisely, athleisure needn’t be a pricey trend. After all, you’re effectively just finding new ways to wear clothes that you already own. With your wardrobe all sorted, you’ve got more time to spend on your life admin, whether it’s sorting those little jobs around the house or doing some financial planning.

Swept up by fashionistas, sports fans and comfort cravers alike, athleisure is one of the hottest styles on the market. With these key tips, you’ll be able to make your own mark on it, hassle-free.

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

9LIST STORI3S | GUNNAR PETERSON

Read the Sept Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S with Celebrity Fitness Trainer and Director of Strength and Endurance for the LA Lakers in mag.

STYLE FILES | NYFW SS20

Read the Sept Issue of Athleisure Mag and read Style Files | NYFW SS20 in mag.

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.

IG @IGCHospitality

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.

IG @Laniidoa_Cosmetics

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.

IG @Brooke_Bogle

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.

9LIST

Read the Sept Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST in mag.

ROCK THIS LOOK DURING SWEATER WEATHER

See the Sept Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Rock this Look During Sweater Weather in mag.

THE PICK ME UP

Read the Sept Issue and see The Pick Me Up in mag.

MEN - WHY A NEW PAIR OF DESIGNER SNEAKERS SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT BIG FASHION INVESTMENT!

When it comes to fashion, there are some things where it really pays off to spend a bit more on something that looks really good and which is made with the best quality and design. Shoes are definitely one of these things, as while you can spend less on fast fashion brands for things like jeans and shirts without it being too much of a problem, the wrong shoes can ruin your outfit, and can also be a false economy as they won't last as long while still looking good, and are unlikely to be as well designed and comfortable.

This is why designer sneakers can be a really good addition to your wardrobe. They can give you a great look with minimal effort, and they can also make sure you feel comfortable as well as stylish. Here we look at three more reasons why your next big fashion purchase should be some high-end sneakers:

The Perfect Smart Casual Shoe Solution

These days, a lot of offices and other workplaces opt for a dressed down dress code, especially if you work in an industry like tech or media. Of course, while it kind of sounds like you can wear anything when your workplace has a dress code like this, you do generally still want to make a good impression, as your co-workers are probably the people that you see the most throughout the week and you may also have to meet with people from outside the business such as clients.

Designer sneakers can add smartness and sense of expensive luxury to a casual outfit, and make sure that you look like you have good taste! Choose from one of the designer men's sneaker brands at SSENSE, for instance, from their stunning range of Givenchy sneakers, and you can add some high fashion detail to even your most low key everyday looks. SSENSE has all of the latest ranges by all of the most coveted high-end fashion labels.

Great for Dates

If you're dating, then you may be surprised to know that one of the first things women judge men on is their shoes. This is often done subconsciously before you say that you wouldn't want to date someone who was picky over such an unimportant sounding thing! For casual dinner dates, going to a bar, a concert, the movies, or even just coffee, designer sneakers fit the occasion while giving that good impression you're looking for.

Sporty Style

While you wouldn't actually train in designer sneakers (it is always best to go for athletic shoes made for the sport you do to get the right foot and joint support), they still pair well with more sporty fashion, allowing you to adopt the current athleisure trend for streetwear. Athleisure is comfortable and practical but has a trendy, stylish edge, and is a great way to dress if you want to look effortlessly cool.

There you have it, all the reasons you need to start shopping for a new pair of great looking designer sneakers this fall!

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

9LIST STORI3S | NGHTMRE

Read the August Issue of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S | NGHTMRE in mag.

THE JEWEL OF THE COURT WITH DANIELLE COLLINS

This month, our eyes turn to the US Open which takes place here in NYC. A number of tennis greats will battle with the best in their sport to walk away victorious. In addition, there are a number of fun activities around this time of year to hang out with your favorite player, to take in the game and more. Right before the Taste of Tennis, a culinary event that celebrates the US Open along with a number of athletes within the game and outside of it, we had the chance to chat with Danielle Collins who is known for her phenomenal playing as well as making jewelry for the court. We talk with her about the game, her passion for it and being a jewelry designer.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about what made you fall in love with tennis and drew you to the sport?

DANIELLE COLLINS: My draw to the sport goes back to my grade school days. Back then, every Monday to kick off the week we had Show and Tell. There was a boy at school who would bring in these shiny trophies he'd won over the weekends to show our class. I remember seeing the trophies and asking my Dad how I could win trophies like that, and he told me if I worked really hard I could win some trophies, too. I guess you can say that I've always had the competitive spirit from an early age, and loved the way tennis makes you problem solve on your own.

AM: What was the moment when you realized that you wanted to go pro?

DC: I knew I wanted to go pro when I was seven years old watching the Grand Slams on television with my parents. I didn't really know how to put my game all together as a junior, and didn't have the opportunity to turn pro right out of finishing high school. College helped me grow so much personally and as an athlete. Winning two national championships at UVA gave me confidence to know I could also have success at the professional level.

AM: How was playing in the quarterfinals in doubles at Wimbeldon?

DC: I absolutely loved competing with Bethanie. She was so much fun to share the court with and her energy is contagious! Getting to the quarterfinals was really huge for me personally, as I had never made quarterfinals in a Doubles Slam before.

AM: How has the current season been since the US Open is around the corner?

DC: The current season has been great. I am continuing to make progress within my game, and gaining the experiencing I need. Sometimes I don't get the results I want, but right now I am more focused on trying to continue to develop my game, and on the daily process to get myself to the next level.

AM: What is an average day like when you are in training for your next match?

DC: Training days are always different unless we are in pre-season. When I'm on the road, there are many variables during tournaments. We make time for strength and conditioning workouts everyday, put the hours in on court, and work with my sports psychologist/ performance coach. We also spend a lot of time focusing on recovery and making sure my body is getting what it needs to relax.

AM: What is the tennis season like?

DC: The tennis season is very long, but perfect for me since I love competition and traveling.

AM: We love accessories, what drew you to jewelry and how did this interest become another passion?

DC: What I love most about jewelry is the story each piece can share, and how sentimental jewelry is for people. For me, every piece of jewelry I own has some type of unique story behind why I designed it or what drew me into buying it. Designing jewelry allows me to use my creativity and imagination, in a way that is much different from tennis. I've always been passionate about fashion and art, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to partner with Ritani to showcase my other passion in life.

AM: We know you have partnerships/sponsorships with New Balance and Head Racquets. When did you start working with them and what do you do with each of these relationships?

DC: Head and New Balance have been incredible for me and my career. I have been working with Head for about two years now and New Balance for a little over a year. There is no better feeling when you have two highly respected companies like these two, giving so much care and support to my career. The teams that New Balance and Head, work so diligently behind the scenes to make sure that we have the best equipment. Head has been so great in helping me accommodate to any specific needs that I have had with making sure my racquet is just the way I want and need it to feel. What both of them do is really special, and I am so grateful to have them a part of my career. They mean the world to me!

AM: Tell us about the Danielle Collins Jewelry line and of course about your diamond tennis bracelets?

DC: Launching at Wimbledon was so incredibly special to me. Wimbledon is the holy grail of our sport, and the rich tennis tradition is something that cannot be compared anywhere else in the world. When we launched, I was happy to carry on the tradition of elegance that the tennis bracelet represents. So many of the fans and jewelry lovers remember back in the 70s when Chris Evert was sporting her diamond tennis bracelet on court. I loved bringing back that vintage aesthetic, and was proud of the exquisiteness that Ritani engrained into each of the small details and sparkly diamonds.

AM: What is the full offering of pieces available at Danielle Collins Jewelry line?

DC: The full offering available is Necklaces, Bracelets, and Earrings. We offer some finer pieces and some more fun whimsical ones as well.

AM: What pieces from yourdo you wear during your matches?

DC: The jewelry that I wear during my match are a diamond tennis bracelet and double pendant diamond necklace.

AM: When creating your line, what inspires your pieces from legendary tennis players to various aesthetics?

DC: When designing, I enjoy creating a variety of different pieces. All of my pieces have one thing in common -- they are timeless, and will not go out of style. While some pieces are more whimsical and playful, and others follow a more classic design, at the core, it’s about the meaning behind them.

AM: When you are creating your pieces as you intend to have them worn during playing, what are you looking to include and to avoid?

DC: When I am creating my pieces and intend to have them worn I like wearing pieces that are edgy and sophisticated. I try to make sure each piece is lightweight enough to wear so that I am 100% comfortable moving around on court. The material that I like to include the most is diamonds. They are one of the world’s toughest materials, and at the same time, they shine and are sophisticated. I try to be one of the toughest players on tour, and at the same time I try to be fashionable! The art of jewelry and wearing these pieces allows me to showcase my creative sense of style, and reminds me to be tough on court.

AM: As a professional player and entrepreneur, what lessons did you learn that inform how you go about your endeavours?

DC: Being both a professional tennis player and entrepreneur has taught me a lot of lessons along the way. Both have taught me how to network, organize, and manage my career and jewelry line. But the most important thing both have taught me is knowing how to take appropriate risks.

AM: In St. Pete, Florida, where can we find you grabbing a meal/cocktail, working out and going shopping?

DC: On the weekends, you can find me at Bern's Steakhouse in Tampa, grabbing my favorite meal. I enjoy going to hot yoga on the weekends, and shopping at Restoration Hardware to draw inspiration for my home.

AM: What are 3 items that you tend to carry in your carry on when you’re traveling?

DC: Three items I carry in my bag when traveling: sunscreen, hair brush, and mascara.

IG @DanimalCollins

Read the Aug Issue of Athleisure Mag and see The Jewel of the Court with Danielle Collins in mag.