Sabrina Carpenter’s latest album, Short n’ Sweet, released on August 23, 2024, is a bold follow-up to Emails I Can’t Send. This new release, featuring 12 tracks, blends playful pop with witty lyrics and introspective themes. It marks a significant evolution in Carpenter’s musical journey, covering relationship highs and lows as well as more carefree vibes.
Short n’ Sweet presents a diverse range of emotions and experiences, showcasing Carpenter’s growth as an artist. The album’s energetic beats and catchy melodies are complemented by clever lyricism, making each track engaging and memorable. The combination of light-hearted pop tunes with deeper introspective themes allows listeners to connect on multiple levels.
Sabrina Carpenter ‘Short n’ Sweet’ Album Artwork. Photo: Bryce Anderson
Artistic Evolution
Carpenter describes Short n’ Sweet as the “hot older sister” of her previous album, Emails I Can’t Send. This comparison reflects her view of the new album as a more mature and refined project. The album benefits from the production expertise of Jack Antonoff, known for his work with artists like Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey. Antonoff’s influence is evident in the album’s strong ‘90s pop vibes.
The collaboration with Antonoff has allowed Carpenter to experiment with various sonic elements. This fusion of nostalgic and modern sounds is evident in tracks like “Taste,” “Espresso,” and “Please, Please, Please.” These songs showcase Carpenter’s artistic growth and her ability to blend different musical influences seamlessly. Notably, “Please, Please, Please” has achieved significant success, topping the Billboard Hot 100.
Sabrina Carpenter ‘Short n’ Sweet’ Album Artwork. Photo: Bryce Anderson
Notable Tracks
One standout track from the album is “Taste.” It features catchy melodies and a darkly humorous music video starring actress Jenna Ortega. The video’s storyline, focused on revenge and empowerment, adds an extra layer of depth to the song. Carpenter’s performance enhances her evolving artistic persona, making the video a compelling visual counterpart to the track.
Another notable song is “Espresso,” which combines a playful melody with introspective lyrics. This track explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth, demonstrating Carpenter’s ability to blend fun and meaningful content. Additionally, “Bed Chem” and “Lie to Girls” delve into modern love and relationships. These tracks provide clever commentary on contemporary dating experiences, resonating with listeners through relatable lyrics.
The album’s diverse themes and musical styles highlight Carpenter’s versatility as an artist. Each track offers a unique perspective, engaging listeners through various emotional and thematic explorations. Whether addressing vulnerability or celebrating playful moments, Short n’ Sweet captures the essence of Carpenter’s artistic growth.
Fan Reaction
Despite the album’s strengths, some fans have noted its brief runtime. At just over 30 minutes, the album’s length has led to mixed reactions. While some listeners appreciate the focused and punchy approach, others feel it leaves them wanting more.
This brevity could hint at a potential deluxe version in the future. Carpenter has a history of revisiting successful projects and expanding upon them. The possibility of additional content or remixes adds excitement for fans who may eagerly anticipate future releases.
Final Thoughts
Short n’ Sweet is a memorable addition to Sabrina Carpenter’s discography, balancing charm and lyrical depth. The album has received positive reviews for its catchy pop hooks, relatable themes, and Carpenter’s wit. Each track offers a unique experience, reflecting her growth and versatility as an artist.
The release also includes a vinyl edition with exclusive artwork by Carpenter, her sister, and collaborators. This special edition adds a personal touch and offers fans a collectible item celebrating Carpenter’s artistic vision. The vinyl edition enhances the album’s appeal, providing an additional layer of engagement for fans.
In summary, Short n’ Sweet captures Sabrina Carpenter’s artistic evolution while delivering an enjoyable listening experience. The album’s blend of playful pop, introspective lyrics, and diverse themes showcases her ability to connect with listeners. Whether exploring vulnerability in “Lie to Girls” or reveling in her playful side with “Espresso,” the album highlights Carpenter’s growth and adaptability. Fans can enjoy this album and look forward to any future releases that may build on its success.
In the glitzy red carpets of Hollywood, few stars have dazzled as brightly or evolved as dynamically as Zendaya Coleman. From her early days as a Disney Channel sweetheart to her current status as a fashion-forward force and silver screen sensation, Zendaya’s style journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride through the realms of glamour and grit.
In the halcyon days of “Shake It Up” on the Disney Channel, Zendaya burst onto the scene with a sassy, youthful vibe that instantly charmed audiences. Her playful ensembles and signature accessories served as a harbinger of her budding fashion prowess, hinting at the style icon she would soon become.
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Transitioning from the tween scene to blockbuster territory, Zendaya leapt into the web-slinging world of “Spider-Man,” embodying the role of MJ with a newfound edge and sophistication. On and off the red carpet, she embraced daring cuts, bold silhouettes, and high-fashion looks that signaled her arrival as a bona fide fashionista.
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However, it was her role as Rue Bennett in HBO’s “Euphoria” that truly pushed Zendaya’s style evolution into overdrive. As the troubled teen navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence, Zendaya’s character became a canvas for the show’s boundary-pushing fashion choices, blending streetwear with avant-garde flair in a captivating display of sartorial prowess.
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Off-screen, Zendaya continued to captivate with her red carpet appearances and fashion collaborations, becoming a muse for top-tier designers and cementing her status as a trendsetter in her own right. With each public outing, she effortlessly blended elegance with an edgy sensibility, proving herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of fashion.
Now, as she steps into the epic world of Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune,” Zendaya’s style odyssey reaches new heights. As the enigmatic Chani, she embodies the mystique and allure of the desert planet Arrakis, seamlessly blending futuristic elements with earthy, tribal motifs in a mesmerizing display of character-driven couture.
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Zendaya’s journey from Disney darling to Dune diva is a testament to her talent, versatility, and unapologetic approach to style. With each new role, she continues to push boundaries and challenge expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and fashion landscape alike. As she continues to ascend to ever greater heights, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, spellbound by her every move.
In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of popular music, few artists have managed to captivate the world’s attention quite like Billie Eilish. Born Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell on December 18, 2001, in Los Angeles, California, this remarkably talented and unconventional artist has taken the music industry by storm, leaving a lasting impact on both the sonic and cultural realms. With a distinct sound, unique fashion sense, and a willingness to explore dark and emotionally charged themes, Billie Eilish has reshaped the way we think about pop music and what it means to be a young, influential artist in today’s world. This article explores the phenomenon known as “The Billie Eilish Effect.“
A Fresh Sound in Pop Music
Billie Eilish burst onto the music scene in 2015 with her debut single “Ocean Eyes,” and the world couldn’t ignore the ethereal voice and haunting lyrics she brought to the table. Her unique blend of pop, electronica, and dark indie has redefined the pop music landscape. In an industry often saturated with formulaic and predictable hits, Eilish’s approach is nothing short of revolutionary. Her music doesn’t conform to established genre norms, and she’s unafraid to experiment with different styles, sounds, and moods.
Eilish’s production is characterized by minimalist and atmospheric beats, often filled with eerie, distorted sounds that perfectly complement her dreamy vocals. Her brother, Finneas O’Connell, has played a significant role in shaping her sound, producing most of her tracks. This sibling collaboration has given her music a distinct authenticity and personal touch that fans find incredibly relatable.
The juxtaposition of her angelic voice and dark, introspective lyrics creates a unique listening experience. Songs like “Bury a Friend” and “Bad Guy” delve into themes of anxiety, depression, and the darker aspects of human nature. Eilish’s willingness to address these difficult subjects has resonated with a generation grappling with its own set of challenges.
Billie Eilish Effect: A Style Icon
Billie Eilish’s impact extends far beyond her music. Her fashion sense is as unique and boundary-pushing as her sound. She’s unapologetically herself, often seen sporting oversized clothing, vibrant hair colors, and an array of eclectic accessories. Eilish’s choice of wardrobe defies traditional gender norms and the often shallow beauty standards of the entertainment industry. Her message is clear: be yourself, and embrace your individuality.
Her fashion choices have also sparked important discussions about body image and self-acceptance. Eilish has been candid about her struggles with body image and has used her platform to advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness. She reminds her fans that one’s worth is not determined by their appearance but by their talent and character.
The impact of Billie Eilish’s fashion extends to her role as a fashion icon. Many young people have found inspiration in her fearless approach to style, giving them the courage to express themselves in a world that often pressures them to conform. Her influence can be seen in the resurgence of ’90s-style baggy clothing and the embrace of alternative aesthetics in mainstream culture.
A Voice for Youth
Billie Eilish is more than just a singer; she is a voice for the youth. Her lyrics touch on subjects like mental health, anxiety, and existential questioning, providing a sense of solace to her young audience. In a world where social media pressures, academic stress, and the existential weight of the future bear down on many young people, Eilish’s music offers a refuge.
The open and honest way she discusses her own struggles with mental health has made her an advocate for destigmatizing these issues. Her message is clear: it’s okay not to be okay, and it’s essential to seek help and support when needed. Her transparency resonates with her fans, reassuring them that they are not alone in their struggles.
Moreover, Billie Eilish has used her platform to address pressing social and environmental issues. She is an advocate for climate action, and she has used her global influence to raise awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change. Eilish’s commitment to making the world a better place showcases her sense of social responsibility and her dedication to being a positive role model for her fans.
The Digital Age Superstar
In a digital age where the internet and social media have transformed the way artists connect with their audiences, Billie Eilish’s rise to fame is a testament to the power of online platforms. Her early success can be largely attributed to the internet, where “Ocean Eyes” went viral on SoundCloud. This was a time when traditional gatekeepers of the music industry were no longer the sole arbiters of success.
Eilish’s use of platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok has allowed her to maintain a close and authentic relationship with her fans. She shares personal moments, updates, and insights into her life, creating a sense of connection that transcends the stage. This level of interaction and transparency has endeared her to her audience and contributed to her meteoric rise.
The Billie Eilish Effect also highlights the democratization of music creation and distribution in the digital age. Eilish and her brother Finneas produced their early songs in their bedroom, using affordable equipment and software. This DIY approach to music production has inspired countless young artists to create their own music without the need for a traditional studio or label backing.
The Cultural Impact
Billie Eilish’s influence extends far beyond music and fashion; she has significantly impacted youth culture in the 21st century. Her authenticity, vulnerability, and outspokenness have set her apart as a cultural icon. In an era when many celebrities maintain a carefully curated public image, Eilish’s transparency and willingness to discuss personal struggles have resonated with fans.
One aspect of the Billie Eilish Effect is the way it has shattered preconceived notions of what it means to be a teenage pop star. Historically, the music industry has often portrayed young artists as purely commercial products, prioritizing marketability over authenticity. Eilish’s success demonstrates that today’s youth are hungry for artists who reflect their reality and challenges, and they are less willing to accept manufactured personas.
Furthermore, Eilish’s impact can be seen in the way young people view mental health and body image. She has sparked conversations about the importance of seeking help when needed and embracing one’s unique qualities. Her messages of self-acceptance and resilience resonate with a generation grappling with the complexities of modern life.
A Legacy in the Making
Just a few years into her career, it’s clear that Billie Eilish has already left an indelible mark on the music and cultural landscape. Moreover, the Billie Eilish Effect is not just a fleeting trend; it’s a testament to the enduring power of authentic artistry, self-expression, and the courage to be unapologetically oneself. She has paved the way for future artists to embrace their individuality, prioritize mental health, and use their platform for social and environmental change.
As Eilish’s career continues to evolve, it’s fascinating to imagine what lies ahead for this young icon. Her willingness to experiment, evolve, and confront difficult themes in her music suggests that she will continue to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of pop music. The Billie Eilish Effect is more than just a phenomenon; it’s a cultural shift that reminds us of the transformative power of music and the enduring impact of genuine self-expression.
The Billie Eilish Effect is a multifaceted phenomenon that encompasses Billie Eilish’s groundbreaking music, unique fashion sense, and her role as a voice for today’s youth. Beyond the charts, Eilish’s impact goes into the hearts and minds of her fans, leaving a lasting legacy that reshapes the cultural and social landscape. As she continues to break boundaries and inspire countless others, Billie Eilish remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of pop music and beyond.
In the ever-evolving landscape of popular music, few artists have left a mark as indelible as Taylor Swift. With a career spanning over a decade and a half, Swift has consistently reinvented herself, not only as a musician but as a cultural icon. One of the most remarkable manifestations of her cultural influence was the Eras Tour, a groundbreaking concert series that celebrated her journey through various musical eras. This tour not only showcased her versatility as an artist but also served as a testament to the profound impact she has had on contemporary culture.
Taylor Swift’s career can be divided into distinct eras, each marked by a unique musical style, image, and message. From her early country-infused albums like “Fearless” and “Speak Now” to the pop-centric “1989” and the introspective “folklore” and “evermore,” Swift has successfully navigated a spectrum of genres. The Eras Tour was an ambitious endeavor to bring these phases to life on stage, allowing fans to relive their favorite moments and connect with the evolution of an artist who had grown up with them.
One of the most striking aspects of the Eras Tour was Swift’s meticulous attention to detail. Each era was meticulously recreated, from the stage design to the costumes, to capture the essence of the corresponding albums. Fans were treated to a visual and auditory journey through time, with Swift’s performances mirroring her artistic growth. The tour was not merely a series of concerts; it was a living testament to the power of transformation and self-expression.
Beyond the musical spectacle, the Eras Tour held a mirror to the cultural shifts that Swift herself had played a role in shaping. Her evolution from a country sweetheart to a global pop sensation reflected the changing landscape of the music industry, where genre boundaries were becoming increasingly blurred. Swift’s willingness to adapt and experiment with her sound resonated with a generation that valued authenticity and self-discovery.
Moreover, Taylor Swift’s advocacy for artists’ rights and creative ownership had a profound impact on the industry. Her high-profile battles with record labels over the ownership of her music catalyzed discussions about the rights of musicians and the need for more equitable agreements in the music business. The Eras Tour served as a platform for Swift to emphasize the importance of artists having control over their work, empowering both herself and countless aspiring musicians.
Swift’s influence extended far beyond music; she used her platform to address social and political issues. Her activism on topics like gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and voter engagement resonated with her predominantly young and socially conscious fan base. The Eras Tour featured moments of reflection and inspiration, reminding audiences of the power of using one’s voice for positive change.
Another notable cultural impact of the Eras Tour was its role in fostering a sense of community among Swift’s fans, affectionately known as “Swifties.” These concerts became safe spaces for fans to express themselves, share their stories, and connect with others who had similar experiences. Swift’s genuine connection with her audience created a bond that transcended the boundaries of music, making the Eras Tour a pilgrimage for her dedicated followers.
Final thoughts, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour was more than just a series of concerts; it was a cultural phenomenon that celebrated an artist’s evolution and the impact she had on the world. Swift’s ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her core values resonated deeply with fans and the broader cultural landscape. The tour exemplified the power of music not only to entertain but also to inspire change, foster connection, and reflect the ever-changing nature of our society. As Taylor Swift continues to evolve, her cultural impact remains as potent as ever, a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the greatest artists of our time.
In recent years, the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the world of art. AI has made it possible to improve the quality of images, automate certain aspects of the photographic process, and enhance creative possibilities.
The story
One area where AI art has made significant strides is in image editing. With the help of machine learning algorithms, AI-powered photo editing software can analyze an image and automatically make adjustments to improve its color, lighting, and other parameters. This makes it easier for artists to create stunning images with less effort and time spent on editing.
Another area where AI is transforming art is in the creation of new images. AI-powered servers can now generate realistic images from scratch using generative adversarial networks (GANs) like Midjourney. These networks are trained on vast datasets of real-world images and can generate new images that are indistinguishable from those taken by human artists and artists.
AI-powered cameras are also able to automate certain aspects of the photographic process, such as choosing the optimal camera settings and focusing on the right subjects. This can be especially useful for amateur artists who may not have the technical expertise to take professional-grade photos.
In addition to these technical advancements, AI is also creating new creative possibilities for artists. For example, some AI-powered software can apply artistic styles to images, turning them into paintings, sketches, or other styles. This allows Artists to experiment with new styles and create images that stand out from the crowd.
However, there are also concerns about the use of AI in art. Some worry that the use of AI-powered servers and editing software could lead to the homogenization of art, with all images looking the same. Others worry about the ethics of using AI-generated images for commercial purposes, as it can be difficult to determine who owns the rights to such images.
Whether you’re onboard or not, AI is transforming the world of art, from improving image quality to automating the photographic process, AI is making it easier for artists to create stunning images. However, there are also concerns about the impact of AI on the art and ethics of art. As AI continues to advance, it will be important for artists, artists, and society as a whole to consider these implications and find ways to use this technology in a responsible and ethical manner.
Spring/summer fashion 2023 is all about vibrant colors, playful prints, and bold patterns. As the world slowly recovers from the pandemic, designers have focused on creating optimistic and joyful collections that celebrate life and the return of social events.
One of the key trends for spring/summer 2023 is bright colors. Designers have embraced a spectrum of colors, from citrusy yellows to hot pinks, ocean blues, and fiery reds. These bold hues can be seen in everything from dresses and blouses to pants and accessories. The key is to mix and match colors in unexpected ways, creating a playful and daring look that is sure to turn heads.
Another major trend for spring/summer 2023 is the use of prints and patterns. From classic florals and stripes to more daring animal prints and abstract designs, there is something for everyone this season. Mixing and matching prints is a popular way to create a bold and statement-making look, but it’s important to keep the rest of your outfit simple and understated to avoid looking too busy.
When it comes to clothing styles, designers have embraced a variety of silhouettes for spring/summer 2023. Flowy maxi dresses with ruffled details are a popular choice for those who want to look feminine and elegant. Crop tops and high-waisted shorts are perfect for those who want to show off their midriff and legs. Tailored suits in bright colors and bold patterns are perfect for making a statement at the office or a formal event.
Accessories are also an important part of any spring/summer look. Oversized sunglasses, statement earrings, and colorful scarves are popular choices this season. When it comes to shoes, chunky sandals and heels in bold colors and patterns are a must-have. For those who prefer something more classic, pointed-toe flats and loafers in bright colors are a great option.
When it comes to makeup, the emphasis is on bright and bold colors. Think bold red lips, neon eye shadows, and brightly colored nails. Hair trends this season are all about natural texture and relaxed styles. Beachy waves, messy buns, and braids are all popular choices.
Spring/Summer fashion 2023 is all about celebrating life and having fun with fashion. Whether you prefer bright colors, bold patterns, or feminine silhouettes, there is something for everyone this season. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and trends to create a look that is uniquely your own.
Aloha shirts have long been the side joke of Summer fashion and I’m tired of it and I’m calling you out. Deep down you know you love wearing them, in fact you have some in your closet and can’t wait for the inevitable Aloha themed Summer party you pretend to hate.
Bring those shirts out from the back of the closet and bring a splash of color to your Summer clothing routine.
The golden era of the aloha shirt would last from the ’40s through the ’50s, the decade when Hawaii’s tourism soared from 50,000 to 250,000 visitors annually. Tourists and servicemen aside, A-list celebrities popularized the aloha shirt as well. There was Bing Crosby in the 1930s. Hawaiian waterman and Olympian Duke Kahanamoku in the ’50s. Montgomery Clift in 1953’s From Here to Eternity. Elvis in Blue Hawaii in 1961. Presidents Harry Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower even stepped out in the shirt, increasing its visibility world wide. Magnum would bring it back in the 80’s and the Montague boys and Romeo (Leonardo DiCaprio) would bring it back in the 90’s.
Now if the strict version of the Aloha shirt isn’t your cup of tea then “Aloha style” or “Hawaiian adjacent”type of shirt may suit you more. Bright patterns with flowers and animals can be found in a lot of designer’s Summer look books and can be a gateway to the more fun and expressive Aloha shirts. With that being said, try your best to source from authentic Hawaiian designers as since the 50’s major fashion labels have stolen designs from local Hawaiian designers and appropriated the culture for their own gains. The shirt’s origins are from 1935 from a local Hawaiian designer selling them to tourists and servicemen and helped the now exploited and subjugated native Hawaiians make some money.
Treat yourself to a little fun this Summer and buy yourself a Aloha shirt. If you’re the stuffy sort they look great with dress pants, just ask Frank and Leo. If you’re looking to have some fun on a day trip just throw on a pair of jeans like Brad, maybe culottes or shorts like Mads.
Have fun, be colorful and enjoy the smiles and nods you will get with your proud, loud and stylish fashion choice.
It has been two months since I packed up my life and moved to London. I made this decision 2 weeks before my departure and did not look back. It was extremely terrifying and vulnerable for me. However, I knew it was right. As a person who is super in tune with their intuition and gut feelings, I tell myself that is how I justify these crazy decisions and moments. I also want to note that I made this decision amidst a pandemic. COVID-19 truly changed my outlook on life and opportunities and I never want to take that for granted. Now if that makes me selfish or irresponsible, so be it. I told myself that this was my time. My time to be reckless and do everything that I desired.
London Girl.
So I packed up my bags. Emailed multiple agencies and set out to London with no real plan. All I knew was that I envied the modelling industry out there and I wanted nothing more than to be a part of it. I knew that London embodied all that I was fighting for: Diversity, inclusion, fashion, and opportunities.
The reality is that life is not so black and white. Especially when it comes to making decisions that push you past your threshold. I became increasingly aware of this when I began first-year university. Life switched from certainty to having to adjust to every moment of adversity and failure. My path constantly changed and I found myself dealing with issues such as feelings of depression, an eating disorder, and heartbreak, and I never stopped questioning myself, who I was, and who I was going to be. Because of this, I strived for success but prepared myself for failure. I knew that I could be heading to London with no real promises and no real representation. I gave myself two goals. One was to sign to an agency and two was to walk in London fashion week which was happening in two weeks so I was cutting it a bit close.
Now you have to be super mindful of your personality type as well. I personally gravitate towards being very Type-A. I latch on to having a plan and I find comfort in telling people what I am going to do and how I am going to get there. I did this in university, in sports, and in every other facet of my life. This time I told everyone that I was going to London to model and I confessed that I had no real plan. Some commended me for it and some thought I was plain naive.
Editorial shot in West Minister, London [Published in SELIN Magazine]
Life In London // The UPS and DOWNS
When I first moved to London, I felt like a fish out of water. Much like what I felt when I moved from Toronto. This time was different. I had moved to an entirely new continent with an entirely different culture. My first week here was spent navigating the tubes, and trains, and learning the social cues. Although it was exhilarating and new… It was also vulnerable and terrifying. I feared failure and loneliness.
That is how I knew, I was testing myself. Instead of letting these feelings consume me, I set goals. I set the goal of signing to a model agency here, quitting my 9-5 job, and I aimed to find my place whether it be within people or places. I wanted to decipher which area resonated with me most (to live), who I wanted to surround myself with and who I wanted to be.
A new place will do that. It will make you question yourself, your place in society, where you fit in, and where you don’t. Essentially, it is the quickest way to cut the bullshit.
My First Week / Will I make it?My first week here, I isolated at my relatives home outside of London and prepared for my first agency meeting. This meeting came with a warning as I had been jet-lagged, bloated, and emotional. It was also just my luck that this was the agency that I “fancied” most. My cousin ensured me that he would drive me to this meeting since I had not yet learned how to navigate the tube system here so I kindly accepted. Fast forward to the morning of my first agency meeting. My cousin and I left late, which was already unacceptable as being punctual is essential within the modelling industry… I counted my luck and did my breathing/anxiety relief routine and then, just as I found my breath, his car slowly stopped moving and defaulted along the way. I was already late and found myself on the side of the road in a country that I had never been in before, scrambling to find an uber that could drive me there so I could perhaps build my case, even though I was 1.5 hours late. The uber took me through some sketchy backroad in the countryside and I struggled to contain my anxiety. Mostly, I was discouraged and afraid that I had blown my shot. Those thoughts of failure came flooding back. I had flown across the world, processed my work visa, and experienced the utmost discomfort to what? Show up to my dreams late? The toxic thoughts continued.
Make yourself stand out I arrived outside of the agency door, gathered myself, told myself my worth, and walked in with confidence and light. I emphasized why I was here and what I deserved. All my passion for being an Indian woman in this industry to bring diversity, inclusion, and advocacy made me a light. I felt my fire and I knew I could translate it at that moment. I was met with kindness and enthusiasm immediately. The woman who greeted me was actually another brown woman and I immediately felt at ease. Not because of the colour of her skin or her gender, but because right away, I knew she understood. We both fought to find a place in this industry and I acknowledged the invisible feelings of wanting each other to hold space and thrive.
I felt inspired and supported. I was then asked to take pictures, slate myself, and educated on the agency(this typically only happens when they are interested in you). Despite my chaotic arrival, I left feeling like a breath of fresh air. I continued to keep that energy for the rest of my meetings. I eventually learned the ways of transiting in and out of London and left the week with 3 offers from 3 great agencies. Throughout the week I really grounded myself and kept in touch with my intuition. I have always been big on “gut feelings” so that is what I stuck true to. I analyzed which agencies felt as if they were ecstatic about me and I took note of who kept in touch. Yes, I had moved across the world for this with absolutely no plan but that did not mean that I did not want to articulate my decision. The first agency I met with may have been the most chaotic and unprepared but somehow, it was the one that left the biggest impact on my heart. The main agent continued to email me, check-in, and expressed that he knew I was meeting with other agencies. He never showed a lack of respect and ensured me that they were awaiting my response. And that is how I knew…
They signed me.
Within my first week in London, I signed with one of the biggest agencies and I was immediately added to the London Fashion Week 2022 show package. Now some people would say that I did the impossible. Typically an agency signs you, develops you, puts you on their new faces board, and waits for their clients to get used to you… I however was placed on the mainboard and promoted for London Fashion Week. I felt extremely grateful but I knew I deserved this. In every single meeting. I communicated that I want to, and I will walk in LFW 2022. Most agents responded with enthusiasm while one simply looked at me with doubt and expressed that I did not have enough experience. The reality is that people will doubt you no matter what. This is why it is pivotal for yourself and your grit for you to believe that you can do anything you put your mind to. I believe that work ethic is more valuable than anything. My willingness to get my own work visa, fly out, and meet agencies on my own alone should prove something and someone who chooses to represent me will know that. BMA understood that and my decision was clear.
Taking yourself out of your comfort zone will MAKE you grow
If I had not stepped outside my comfort zone. One that I had become accustomed to because of the pandemic… I would have never signed to an agency in London, walked London Fashion Week, and lived my spirit. Yes, it was extremely triggering but it also had the most beautiful moments. Intentionally leaving the comfort zone goes hand-in-hand with developing a growth mindset. While the fixed mindset keeps us trapped by fear of failure, the growth mindset expands the possibility. It inspires us to learn and take healthy risks, leading to positive outcomes across life domains.
Moving has opened my eyes up to new experiences, people, cultures, and spaces
I was blessed to be a part of a London Fashion Week that was more inclusive, diverse, and beautiful as ever. This experience embodied what I want to come out of this industry. I will not stop pushing for what I deserve and what I wish to see out of this industry. Wherever I am. Wherever I end up. The world is endless and the opportunities are banging.
FOLKLORE MAGAZINE – “This year’s London Fashion Week brought out an array of guests to take in the new collections from over a hundred designers including exciting emerging Black talents such as Feben (@its.febs), Ahluwalia (@ahluwalia) as well as established brands like Duro Olowu (@duroolowu) and Dumebi (@atelier_dumebi)The designers played with textures and patterns, sending down collections with ruffles, floral prints and stripes rendered in bold colors and rich fabrics. With inspirations ranging from Nollywood and Bollywood films to jazz music, each designer showcased their unique perspectives and delivered moods that were altogether slick and joyful.”
Because I chose to move, I was able to do this all within the span of 3 weeks. I grazed multiple big publications, walked not only one, but three London Fashion Week shows, and signed to an agency. Don’t ever let anyone tell you your insane for wanting to make a big move. Keep that growth mindset and push yourself out of your comfort zone now!
MOVING SUCKS
In the move, your brain lost its working map of your life, and you have to start from square one and make a new one. And it’s hard. That loss of familiarity is what makes moving so stressful and traumatic. This is also what helps you grow and redefine. Think of it as a clean slate and allow yourself to grow through it. Don’t be hard on yourself and accept human emotions.
CULTURE IS EXPERIENCE
Culture is a lived experience in the sense that it is the source of living Culture. When you enter new spaces and places, you find different foods, expressions, and people. This is overwhelming and beautiful and you must remember that you also bring your own culture along with you. Do not assimilate, rather stay open. The main cultural experience definition is the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes an institution, organization or group or country. In this context you will learn to appreciate the various cultures we have in different parts of the world.
TRUST YOUR PATH
I used to want to control all aspects of my life. What was next, where I was going to go next and how I was going to do it. Now I have learned the brilliance of taking things in stride. Setting mountain top goals and enjoying the little landmarks along the way. When you essentially surrender to your path and follow your heart, you never know where you will end up. Mine brought me to London and I trust it.
BEAUTY IN BEING PATHLESS
There is beauty in changing your mind too. Let’s say you planned on being in Law school and now you are a full-time model. Paths change and that is okay. If you take this as a failure, you are not embodying a growth mindset at all. Being pathless to me is essentially being ruthless. I took the traditional path for so long that I became a robot. I thought that if I stayed on trek that I would succeed and not disappoint anyone along the way. In turn, I may have ended disappointing myself. The only path I desire to be on is my own.
Now if London Is your next move
Benefits of living in London // The number of new arrivals in London each year and the ripe climate for businesses in the city are proof of the many benefits on offer. Whether you’ve just got a new job in the city, you’re studying at a London university or you just fancy some excitement, London has a lot for the taking. Especially if you are a model or creative. The industry here is as diverse, inclusive, and booming as ever. It is beautiful and inspiring. Feel free to message me or email me regarding your questions and to elaborate on where you should head next.
Vancouver-based fashion house Aritzia Inc. put together yet another attractive quarter as net profits soared 86 per cent on a massive jump in revenue for Q1.
On July 7th, 2022, the company announced it earned an increased profit of 85.5 percent – $33.3 million or 29 cents per diluted share in the first quarter, up from $17.9 million or 16 cents per share in the prior year.
Sales in the first quarter, which ended on March 31, rose 65.2 per cent, to $407.9 million, compared to the same quarter a year ago. Profits during Q1 surgered drastically to $33.3 million. Bricks-and-mortar stores helped that bump, as the company’s e-commerce revenue during the period was a comparatively small 15.5 per cent, to $120.1 million. The company’s profit margin increased slightly, to 44.3 percent, up from 44.2 percent one year ago.
The company’s newest CEO, Jennifer Wong, in a recent release attributed the success to the “Incredible reception to our spring and summer products.”
She said the company saw strength across “all geographies and channels, and we were particularly pleased with our ongoing momentum in the United States, where revenue grew 81 per cent.”New stores’ performance also exceeded Wong’s expectations, she said. The company said that it is on-track to sell between $440 million and $460 million worth of products in its second quarter, which would be an increase of between 26 per cent and 31 per cent, compared with the same quarter a year ago.
That sales growth anticipates continued strong sales south of the border as well as in Canada. This revenue range for the second quarter reflects all stores open with no COVID-19-related restrictions in place, compared to last year, when 27 of the company’s stores in Canada were required to close for approximately one-third of the quarter.
“What I found remarkable is that slightly more revenue is now coming from the U.S.,” Retail Insider Media owner and co-editor-in-chief Craig Patterson told BIV.
Indeed, U.S. sales represented 50.7 per cent of Aritzia’s first-quarter sales. One year ago, in its first quarter, 53.7 per cent of the company’s sales came from Canada.
“Aritzia recently signed a couple of significant leases, including its largest store in the world, which will be on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago,” Patterson said.
He said that Aritzia’s future Chicago location is expected to be 46,000 square feet. To contrast that with the company’s Vancouver flagship location, at the corner of Robson and Thurlow streets, Patterson said that the Vancouver hub is 10,000 square feet, plus a separate 3,000 square feet to the east in what is a Wilifred-branded store that is also run by the company.
Aritzia’s outlook is to generate between $1.875 billion and $1.9 billion in the current fiscal year, up between 25 per cent and 27 per cent compared with last year.
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