10 Tips to Rock Your Beach Look This Summer

The warmth of the sun…

A drink in your hand…

Your toes in the sand…

The beach – the staple location of “summer.”

With the warm, fresh air, the slight breeze from the ocean, and just the overall relaxing nature of the atmosphere, I can almost taste a Piña colada now just thinking about it.

It is the perfect relaxing getaway, a quick way to get a dark tan, and the perfect place to rock some of the hottest summer looks.

However, the beach has its own dress code. Most likely, you won’t find many people rocking Nordstrom’s Topshop Clear Mom Jeans that sent the internet into a frenzy earlier this year.

You will find beach-goers rocking more laid back and light outfits.

So, whether you are hanging out in the sand or just headed out for a casual dinner by the beach, here are 10 tips for rocking your beach look this summer:

1. You can’t go wrong with the floppy hat
From the immense amount of shade provided to the fact that you basically don’t have to do your hair if you wear it all day…
Just throw in the added bonus that it is absolutely adorable and you just can’t pass up throwing a staple floppy hat into your beach look this summer.
Perfect for on the beach soaking up the sun, off the beach enjoying some fish and chips, or even later on when it is Derby time – you are sure to be rocking this staple beach look even once summer is over.

2. Make your favorite kimono your new swimsuit cover-up
When you’re going to the beach, it is no secret you are looking for something light and airy, but also something that shows off a little skin since you spent all year working on your summer body.
Remember that kimono you bought last spring to wear with skinny’s and a cute tank? Time to pull it back out because it doubles as a simple and fashionable bikini cover-up.

3. The iconic white dress
Everyone girl who has been to the beach for years in a row probably has a family – or individual – picture in a white dress.
A solid white dress is a staple beach look every year. Grab one now and save it for next year, too! It is the outfit that just keeps giving as you use it year and year again.

4. Shop for the crop top
Crop tops are a trendy way to beat the summer heat. Try pairing it with your favorite floral maxi skirt for a cool and fashionable formal look.
These make a great pair for a night out!

5. Printed palazzo pants
The loose-fitting style makes them super comfy, while still being super fashionable.
These are great for when you just need to slip something on super quick but still want to look like a million bucks.

6. Graphic tees
Graphic tees are probably not the first thing that come to mind when you think “summer beach look,” but…
The quirky labels found on them can be beach-related. Find a graphic tee that expresses how feel about the beach so you can sport the beach even when you can’t be there.

Visit wunderlabel to get some ideas or find an inspiration.

7. Big, button up
Like the kimono, a button up that is just a size too big can make the great bikini cover-up.
It is light and can be buttoned all the way up to protect your upper body from sun rays or left unbuttoned to show off your swimsuit while still shading your shoulders.

8. Jean shorts
Jean shorts are just a summer staple in general. But, they are even better for your summer beach look!
Throw a pair of jean shorts over your swimsuit and leave them unbuttoned for a casual, trendy beach look.

9. White pants
White pants and the staple white dress go hand-in-hand. If dresses aren’t your thing, then the white pants are a beach picture must-have.

10. Large handbag
Once you have your outfit just right, it’s time to focus on getting your towel and shades to the beach.
Grab a large handbag to double as a purse and a beach bag. Large handbags without any dividers in the middle are the best so that you can just throw everything in it without organizing it.

This guest post is written by Annabelle Short blogger of wunderlabel

Beauty Trend: Pink All Over

Earlier this season we saw pink and other bright hues make its way onto runway shows, in other words onto the eyes, cheeks and lips of models creating princess feel that has now made its way amongst celebs who have been rocking pink all over the red carpets lately.

Soft pink and shimmery rose shades are being used as blush, eye shadow and even on the lips that throws us back to that Californian teenager look.

Draping, replacing the ever popular contouring technique, has made a comeback in the beauty world and is being used for a more intense or avant-garde look by wearing your blush all the way up on the corner of your cheeks and to the side of your eyes.

Get the look:

NARS Cosmetics Duo Eyeshadow in Bouthan ($35)

DIOR Palette in Tutu ($62)

MAYBELLINE The Blushed Nudes Palette ($13)

URBAN DECAY Naked 3 Palette ($54)

MARC JACOBS Air Blush Palettes ($42)

The Met Gala 2017

The Met Gala is inarguably fashion’s biggest night, where actresses, models, and athletes  go the extra mile to wear dresses or even outfits they wouldn’t dare to wear otherwise. Honoring unconventional fashion designer Rei Kawakubo. This year’s theme was “Rei Kawakubo & Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between” where eccentric and avant-garde looks dominated (for better or worse) the red carpet.

The showstoppers:

Rihanna in Comme des Garçons.

Wearing the honored designer, Riri managed to top her infamous 2015 Met Gala Guo Pei gown. As we expected nothing less from her, Rihanna was the talk of the night with this perfect interpretation of “Fashion is art”.

Katy Perry in Maison Margiela

Definitely the risk taker of the night but the whole ensemble is confusing. Katy Perry looks miserable and trapped inside a red cage.

The best dressed:

Gigi Hadid in Tommy Hilfiger

Gigi made Avant-Garde sexy in a nude tulle dress by sportswear designer Tommy Hilfiger with yes, a leg pop!

Cara Delevingne in Chanel

Nobody rocks a suit on the red carpet better than Cara Delevingne. This sleek, shiny and sexy evening suit is everything and that pixie hair-do is such a clever accessory!

Zendaya in Dolce & Gobbana

In this tropical print full ball skirt, Zendaya is the epitome of romanticism.

Lily Collins in Giambattista Valli

Punk-Princess? Lily tapped into her dark side and showed us an edgier side of her and we don’t hate it!

Priyanka Chopra in Ralph Lauren

I dare you to rock an oversized trench coat better than Priyanka. With the sleeves pushed up, a bold makeup and THAT TRAIN, Priyanka looked fierce on the red carpet.

Not on theme:

Jennifer Lopez in Valentino

JLo graced a gorgeous light blue dress that invites us to a night on the Côte d’Azur rather than the Met Gala. But when you look this ethereal who cares right?

Blake Lively in Versace

As stunning as she looks (I mean when doesn’t she?) this dress is almost too “common” or “typical” for Blake. I would’ve loved for her to have raised the bar last night and show a bit more creativity. This isn’t Cannes after all.

Kylie Jenner in Versace and Kendall Jenner in La Perla

Although both dazzling dresses, I’m not sure how they fit the theme… Both dresses seem more appropriate for a Gatsby theme than an homage to Kawakubo.

Selena Gomez in Coach.

The past couple of years we’ve seen Selena Gomez transition from “good girl” to a more sexy and mature woman. But last night’s choice of dress was a deception. Although nothing wrong with the aesthetic of the dress, Selena looked too “sweet”.  Gomez’ dress lacked the boldness that usually accompanies her on the red carpet, but her daring makeup more than makes up for this.

Gisele Bündchen in Stella McCarthy

Two words: too dull.

From Football to Fashion

Football, (soccer to Americans) is called “the world’s sport” and “the beautiful game”. As football players gain celebrity status, it is no wonder that they become supermodels or brand ambassadors to some fashion brand. Since the days of Pele, the world has looked at football players not only for the latest in style but also for inspiration. As the worlds of sports and fashion have been intertwining over the years, it can be said that football and fashion go hand in hand.

Some of the most popular players have their own clothing line or have a collaboration with fashion brands. We’ve all drooled (hopefully just us girls) at Cristiano Ronaldo’s underwear line CR7 and David Beckham’s collection with H&M. Following their footsteps at only 28 years old, is our very own Donald Guerrier, left midfielder of Haiti’s national football team.

After opening a store in Poland last year, Donald Guerrier opened a second store this March in the city of Alnyaspor Turkey where he is currently residing and playing for the Alnyaspor football club. His newest 77 Collection showcases his latest designs in sports and casual wear.

I’ve had the chance to meet and talk to Donald regarding his new 77 collection, and here is what he had to say:

FA: What does fashion mean to you and how did you get from playing football to having your own clothing line? What inspired you to have a clothing line?

Fashion means a lot to me, I love clothes in general and Cristiano Ronaldo is my favorite soccer player, and my inspiration in both football and fashion. The idea of having my own clothing line came from my mom. She pushed me to have my own line and together we came with brand name DG 77 at first, and eventually changed it to 77 Collection (pronounced 7 to 7) as 7 is my number.

FA: Do you design your own collection?

Yes they are my own designs, I designed the collection myself. And it’s taken me some time to come with the perfect name 77, to make it simpler and nicer.

FA: Does your Haitian heritage influence your designs?
Euhh… Not really, only my mom  gave me some ideas for my collection, but my Haitian heritage does not really influence my designs.

FA: What kind of material do you use for your collection?
I’m using 100% cotton

FA: What is your favorite piece in this collection?
*laughs* Actually I don’t have a favorite one, I love all of them!

FA: How often do you plan on releasing a new collection?
Every two weeks we have new styles and new designs coming

FA: How would you describe your personal style?
I like complicated clothes, distressed clothes to be exact. I like T-shirts with holes in them that look destroyed.

FA: What is your favorite item of clothing? And what’s a must have in your closet?
T-shirts and jackets! In my closet I must have white T-shirts, I love white T-shirts.

FA: What are your future plans? Are you planning to open another store somewhere else?
I’m planning to open a store in the U.S. I’m working towards that because a lot of people from the U.S are interested in my designs.

FA: Would you want to work on a line for women as well?
Yes I am thinking about it a clothing line for women, it is in my future plans and also kids’ clothes

FA: Are we going to see any of your collections in Haiti?
Yes, last year I brought my collection to Haiti but it wasn’t as successful back then but it is in my plan to bring my designs back to Haiti and eventually open a store in Haiti.

Eklà Beauté: Your Getaway Beauty Salon

On October 1st, I was invited to the soft opening of a new hair salon called “Eklà Beauté” located on Rue Rebecca. Stepping inside the small salon, I was greeted by a calm and relaxing music, along with a soothing and zen decor: wooden furniture and accent pieces, candles, and Buddha heads, designed by owner Christina Fils-Aimé. I was instantly filled with an overwhelming peaceful sensation, which I thought was very odd for a hair salon.

But that was exactly her goal. To create a small place where her clients can leave their worries and workload outside while getting pampered. A place where her clients can be fully attended to without being rushed and without the crowdedness of typical hair salons. A place that works by appointment only because one on one is extremely important. “I want it to be 100% about my clients. I want them to walk out feeling good about themselves and with a smile on their faces. That’s what I enjoy most of my job, to be able to put a smile on my clients’ faces”. 

For us women, getting our hair and nails done is a weekly obligation. Be it to get a wash and blow dry, a hair coloring, or simply a mani-pedi, us women spend a minimum of 2 hours getting dolled-up at the hair salon on week-ends. Needless to say that hair salons have become a meeting point, or better yet a social encounter where the latest gossips travel under the boisterous sound of hair dryers.

If you are looking to escape the cacophony of hair salons, then Eklà Beauté is the “getaway” salon for you. While her specialty is hair coloring and hair treatment, Tina also offers various other salon services such as blow dries, hairdos, mani-pedi, and makeup with also a selection of hair products available for sale.

Christina, “Tina” left Haiti at the age of 18 and moved to New York. There, she became a hair colorist and makeup artist and worked in many hair salons before eventually working for Kérastase and L’Oréal. At 30 years old, she moved back to Haiti and left the hair and makeup business. However her love for fashion and hair care pushed her to go back to the hair business. “Everybody has their own beauty, and as long as I can bring that out for them, to me is priceless.”

Eklà Beauté is open Monday-Saturday from 8AM-5PM by appointments only. To get your special treatment, call 4700-1212.

Haiti Needs You

On Friday I had the opportunity to fly to Jeremie, one of the many towns that was severely hit by hurricane Matthew. I got to see for myself what remains of this town after the passage of Matthew and for as much as I try to share my quick visit there, words fall short to describe what I saw.

It was as if the angel of desolation had passed through the town. Houses, schools and hospitals are completely destroyed, plantations are devasted, and what’s left of the roads are covered in sludge and full of debris. In other words, the town is entirely washed out.

I am not going to fill this article with heart wrenching pictures and videos nor am I going to continue describing the desolate state in which these people are left. I am however, going to ask for each and every one of your help. The storm may have passed but tough times are only beginning. Thousands of people were left homeless and infections and contaminations are just starting. While many charitable organizations, NGOs, and foreign aids are collecting donations and are preparing relief missions to help the affected areas, I strongly suggest to do research before donating to the organization of your choice. Jeremie is only one of the towns that was harshly affected. Let’s not forget Les Cayes, Aquin, Port-Salut, Miragoanes, Anse d’Hainault, Dame-Marie, île à Vache to name just a few. A little bit can do so much and during these harsh times, let us keep in mind our nation’s motto: “l’union fait la force“.

Sow a Seed organization preparing hurricane relief mission for the South

Fondation Rose et Blanc giving out shelters to the South

Haiti is a country that has suffered enough. From a devastating earthquake, to numerous hurricanes and flooding, to dangerous and unstable political turmoils, the Haitian people always manage to come through and overcome these hard times by always holding on to one thing: faith.

Miss Universe Haiti 2016: Raquel Pelissier

25 years old, 5ft9, a degree in optometry, and a charming smile, Raquel Pelissier is our new Miss Universe Haiti 2016.

Born and raised in Haiti, Raquel is passionate about aerial skills (acrobatics hanging from a fabric), she practices cross fit regularly, and enjoys cooking and reading on her free time. She is currently finishing her master’s degree in scientific research, her love for Haiti pushed her to apply for  the Miss Haiti pageant to accomplish her life long dream of being able to represent her country and will do so at the Miss Universe pageant in the Philippines in January.

10 questions with Miss Universe Haiti 2016

What incited you to apply for miss haiti ?
I chose to apply for the Miss Haiti pageant because I wanted to represent my country. I realized that Haiti is the foundation of the woman I am today. I am Haiti. Winning a crown is my way of giving back to the land that bore me since it gives me the opportunity to expose its colors and culture abroad. I want to change the way the rest of the world sees us and make a good impact.

Who inspires you?
I am truly inspired by an author who fights for protocol and values in the Haitian society. Her name is Galy and I have the honor to be her daughter. I admire her so much that I want to continue what she started and pass on everything she had thought me for a better education in the society.

What are some challenges you encountered during the pageant?
One of the challenges I encountered in the pageant was, having to be on my heels sometimes at 5 am and looking pretty. Those moments were truly those which made me realized not only that my goal was not easy but also that I was determined enough to make sacrifices to reach it.

Another challenge is to always be ready. Most of the time when they were filming us, we only had one shot so we had to make sure to give our best.

What are some of the best moments you shared during the competition?
My two favorite moments were the first and last day of the pageant. The first day because it was a day full of excitement during which I met all the candidates that have been selected for the competition and the last day because it was the day I realized that participating in Miss Haiti 2016 was the best choice I have ever made.

How was/is your diet as a miss haiti contestant? Any diet or fitness tips  you can share with us?
I wouldn’t say I’m on a diet I have just adopted a lifestyle about four years which consists of eating healthy and working out around 8-9 hours a week. However, now that I am going to compete internationally I have to go on a strict diet and add more cardio to my routine so as to lose a few more pounds. My tip is to always be aware of what you are putting into your system. Read or do your research because nothing is more valuable than health.

How were your relationship with the other contestant?
During the pageant, I got along pretty well with all the contestants. I am truly grateful to have met all these dedicated and strong women with a great vision and love for the country. I never felt like I was competing against them. My only competitor has always been myself.

Have you felt at some point of the competition that someone else might win?
When I applied for Miss Haiti, I was aiming the Miss Universe Crown. I knew I fit the international standards to represent Haiti in this pageant since Miss Universe is about being confidently beautiful, elegant and classy. Even though, I never felt threatened by anyone, I had recognized the strong contestants of the pageant and I have learned a lot from them which gave me a stronger reason to focus and do my best at all times.

As a contestant, what are your thoughts on the miss haiti organization? And what do you think can be done in order to improve the organization and the process?
I personally think that the Miss Haiti Organization did an amazing job. It is tough work handling 20 young women. Behind the scenes, there was good energy and team spirit but also moments of tears and tension and they always kept things in order at all times so they really deserve the credit for that. For improvement, I would propose to add to the agenda more hours public speaking, protocol classes and runway so as to make a greater impact.

What’s next for you as miss universe haiti? When and where will you go to the miss universe competition?
I will represent Haiti in the 65^th edition of Miss Universe in Philippines in January. Before that, I am also going to Bolivia to represent Haiti in Reina hispanoamericana in November.

What can we expect from you as miss universe haiti? Any special project or vision you can share with us ?
My project for Haiti consists of teaching the youth manners and values. I also want to fight for community service to be included at school so that everyone can contribute for a cleaner and better Haiti.

 

Miami Swim Week 2017

From left to right: Luli Fama, Maaji, Luli Fama

All eyes were on South Florida last week as Miami held it’s annual Swim Week. Press, bloggers, buyers and fashionistas, crowded the streets of Miami Beach as they made their ways to runway shows, trade fairs, pop-up shops and parties, that were all centered around swimsuits.

Siniesa Karol show at the Setai. Photo by Saint-Cyr Studio

This year I got to attend fashion shows and events from Funkshion for the first time, and the island girl in me was beyond excited to see what the designers have in stores for us in 2017. Yes, these bathing suits will not hit the stores until next year. If you were following fashionayiti on Snapchat and Instagram, you already had a little preview of the fashion shows I attended which are: Beach Riot, Blue Life, Kai Lani, Ana Kosturova, Maaji, Monica Hansen Beachwear etc… to name a few.

With 2 Haitian models participating at Funkshion Swim Week.

So, recapping Miami Swim Week in general, here are 8 of the hottest trends that we will see in swimsuits next year:

• Plunging One Piece
  One piece suits are here to stay and this time the more revealing the better!

From left to right: Beach Riot, Aguaclara, Blue Life

• Halter Bikinis
  A less conservative halter tops were a favorite on the runways. Designers added a risqué side to the halter tops with creative and sheer cuts.

From left to right: Luli Fama, Kai Lani, Tori Praver

• Creative Cut-Outs
  Designers went the extra mile to give us more creative designs with fun and slick cut-outs on both one pieces and bikinis.

From left to right: OMG Miami Swimwear, Luli Fama, Magic City Swimwear

• Wrap Around Tops
  This season designers played around with the basic triangle bikini top giving it a little “extra” with intricate ties and wraps on bikinis tops, bottoms, and one pieces.

From left to right: Versakini x Amanda Perna, Luli Fama, Kai Lani

• Bold Prints
  Florals, tribal and ethnic prints, stripes and colors were not scarce on the runway.

From left to right: Luli Fama, Beach Riot, Laundry by Shello Segal

• Tassels
  This swinging and playful accent adorned some bathing suits and ever cover-ups, creating a hippie vibe for the boho girl.

From left to right: Ana Kosturova, Maaji, Ana Kosturova

• Straps
  Straps were everywhere on the runways evoking a playful sensation.

From left to right: Blue Life, Luli Fama, Magic City Swimwear

• Creative Coverups
  Because a beach attire is never complete without a fun cover-up!

From left to right: Luli Fama, Blue Life, Ana Kosturova

Finale at Maaji, photo by Maaji Swimwear

Do you have your eyes on your next bathing suit purchase yet? Let us know which bathing suit you must have for next year!

All pictures were courtesy of Saint-Cyr Studio unless stated otherwise.

With some of the Haitian community in the fashion industry in Miami, at the Swim Week kickoff party at the W.

Deux Mains Designs: Creating Sandals From Repurposed Tires

 

On Tabarre road, hidden by the boisterous and hectic day-to-day activities of the airport, lies a local shoe manufacturer called “deux mains designs“.  At the atelier artisans craft beautiful handmade sandals and accessories from repurposed tires and local genuine leather.

Yes, you read right, repurposed tires! After hearing about this atelier, I was intrigued by how they use car tires to create those beautiful sandals and tote bags I saw online.  So I contacted deux mains’ VP and part Shareholder Sarah Sandsted. Sarah was more than happy to give me a tour of the workshop.

 
After the 2010 devastating earthquake, CEO and founder Julie Colombino came to Haiti on a complete leap of faith as a disaster response volunteer. In August, 2010, she founded REBUILD globally in an effort to seek alternative methods to traditional forms of charity, and employed four women to hand-make sandals from tires. Over the last five years, through expert guidance, product development and mentorship, REBUILD globally provided the start-up capital and training necessary to develop deux mains designs, an ethical fashion company, registered as a société anonyme in Haiti.

“deux mains” is a small footwear workshop in Port-au-Prince with about 20 employees and craftsmen that work together to create beautiful accessories with materials sourced in Haiti. “deux mains” started off with creating one simple sandal design. Now the atelier have expanded their creations to other accessories such as tote bags, clutches, earrings, passport holders to name a few.

The evolution of Deux Mains sandals

Over the years, the atelier invested in the research and development, and in the designs and aesthetics of sandals, wanting to create more appealing and wearable sandals. What were once plain and staple flip-flops are now sandals designed by Kenneth Cole and supermodel Heide Lindgren.

“Bèl Nanm” sandals designer by Heide Lingrend meaning “beautiful soul”

The Kenneth Cole “Love Haiti” for him sandals

While visiting the workshop, I had the privilege to meet and talk to a few employees. I was amazed at how passionate they are about what they do (some are even part shareholders in the company!) deux mains sandals are so beautifully crafted that you wouldn’t even think they are made with used car tires (believe me the fact that they are, makes them even more appealing!) I couldn’t help but wonder however, how I had never heard or seen them before. Sarah informed me that most of their sales are international and explained to me the difficulty she has penetrating the Haitian market. Surely such incredible work of art should be recognized locally as well. Therefore, I invite you to visit their atelier in Tabarre and check out their website deuxmains.com.

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Below are some employees’ testimonies:

Born and raised in upstate New York, Sarah Sandsted came to Haiti at age 19 to help her mom, a horticulturist, as a French language interpreter. After falling in Love with Haiti, she moved in 2008, as an English teacher in Les Cayes before leaving again to come back after the earthquake in 2011, and finally becoming part of deux mains designs in 2013.

“I believe really strongly that the fashion industry has the power to end poverty worldwide. The ethical fashion initiative is stepping up and challenging traditional fashion industry to make sure they are compensating people appropriately and using ethical practices. 20 families' lives have changed here at deux mains and our vision is to employ millions of people one day.” Sarah, VP.

 

“I used to have my own little cosmetics business before the earthquake. January 12th happened and I lost all of my hard work. Months later I met with Julie, founder of deux mains who employed me and I have been working with her ever since. This job means and represents everything to me. Over the years I bought a land, built my own home for my children and I, and now I am a part shareholder in the company. I love everything about this job and everything I do, my sandals are beautiful and I’m proud of being part of deux mains.” – Jolina.

 

"I’ve been at deux mains for 4 months. I intend to make the sandals even more beautiful than they are and help Haiti move forward. The pèpè business has been like bumps in the road for us but we are here to break the pèpè business.” Alexandre, cobbler.

 

Item of the Week: Long Denim Jacket

This week item of the week is the Zara long denim jacket.

 Denim has been a favorite trend for quite some time now. Most stores even have a denim section with items such as shirts, jackets, skirts, overalls etc…

I found this long denim jacket from Zara’s I am Denim collection. Long sleeves, ripped details, and side pockets, this jacket can be worn as a dress alone or over different outfit as a jacket.

 Scroll below for different looks:

Picture credit: Verdy Verna
Location: Fort-Jacques, Haiti

Item of the Week: House of Emmanuele Jewelry

Forget less is more. This summer, when it comes to accessories more is more and bigger is better with House of Emmanuele jewelry.

Scrolling through my Instagram feed, I can’t help but stop and stare at how glamorous and regal the jewelry looks. House of Emmanuele evokes a story of pure fantasy and mythology with it’s glamazonian necklaces, gladiator crystal gloves and footcuffs, chokers, earcuffs, head and body jewelry. Handmade in Australia, they are designed with precision and elaboration with oversized Swarovski crystals.

Created in 2003 by designer Emmanuele Tsakiris, House of Emmanuele has graced covers and editorials of magazines such as Vogue, Harpers Bazzar, Grazia, Cleo, OK and InStyle to name a few. His Celebrity following includes Beyonce, Rihanna, Kim and Khloe Kardashian, Madonna, Fergie and Amra Olevic.

  
GLAM UP!

Item of the Week: Pom-Pom Sandals

Pom-poms seem to be everywhere this year and are the perfect add-on quirkiness to most accessories: keychains, totes, wallets, backpacks etc.. This summer, we are seeing these playful pom-poms on Sandals, both heels and flats, and are the perfect complement to a summer’s outfit.

From sandals, to heels, to even lace ups, it is no wonder that this vacation-ready trend is one of the hottest this summer.

 Aquazzura’s Pom Pom 105 Sandals are a favorite amongst Karueche and Rihanna

Model Amanda Vanderziel in playful flats from Greek shoe designer Elina Linardaki

Item of the week: The Bandana

This week’s item must have is the western inspired accessory known as the bandana.

Worn around the neck, or as a headband to pull back your hair, this 90’s go-to accessory is making a major comeback (like most 90s trends these days).

  

Celebs and bloggers have been spotted rocking this extra, making it the hottest accessory at coachella and a street style favorite!

Ashley Benson and Shay Mitchell

Caroline Receveur

Danielle Bernstein from We Wore What

Poze Brand’s 4th Collection

Based in Miami, but inspired by Haitian culture, Poze brand is a Haitian street wear brand for both men and women. The word “Poze” meaning “chill” or “relaxed” in Creole, is heard in most conversations between Haitians. The brand, founded in 2014 by Jeff Appolon, prides itself in teaching the world about Haitians, one word, one picture, and one story at a time. So far 3 collections have been released and the 4th one is forthcoming.

Check out our interview with Mr. “Poze” himself, where he discusses his latest collection.

Tell me about your new collection and what was the inspiration behind it.
• This collection follows up on the previous one which pushes the boundaries further. I want this collection to be engaging to the mind and also laid back. Half of the pieces in the 4th collection visit our rich history and capture moments of glory. As a country, we’ve taken so many L’s in the past that we forget that we were once great.

 

How does the collection reflect your Haitian background?
• One of the shirt is inspired by the current success of our Haitian national soccer team. I mean, we haven’t won any world cup but we are doing better now. The shirt I’m referring to shows the picture of Haitian soccer Legend Manno Sanon as he scored the famous goal against Italian goalkeeper Dino Zoff during the 1974 world cup match Vs Italy. That goal ended Dino Zoff’s long standing 1142 minutes without getting scored on. After I read about it, I thought that it was important to celebrate that moment and glorify him.

• Another shirt I have is a drawing of the statue of Marie Louise Coidavid, who was Henry Christophe’s wife. I visited the Palais Sans Soucis a couple of years ago and I remember seeing the statue. I remember how proud it made me feel. Somehow I feel that it’s the same feeling that a diaspora gets when they first visit Haiti. Even though only the ruins are left, it shows greatness once existed in our country. I feel like back then, our ancestors were a bit more courageous than us because they did more with less.

When and where can one purchase the new collection? Will it be available in stores in Haiti?
• Yes it will be available in Haiti. I had the perfect store to sell, but unfortunately with the economic instability, the store had to close down. I am looking at some other places to carry it in PV. More information will be provided soon. Everything should be available beginning of June.

 
How does the brand Poze reflect your personal style?
• I tend to be more on the conservative side, so my designs will be a bit minimalist. I don’t really like loud colors and too much going on in a t-shirt. I usually go for neutral designs that you can wear when you’re out. But every now and then, I’ll collaborate with someone who may have a different taste than me. I try to have the designs balanced. I’ll take suggestions from my friends and see what they prefer. After all Poze is not my personal brand, it’s the people’s brand.

 
Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
• I try to keep up with the current trends and add a bit of Haitian mix to it. I’ll be on fashion blogs all day and Instagram when I have some free time. If I see something that catches my eye at the mall, I put a note on my phone. Basically my whole environment.

Is there someone from the fashion world that inspires you?
• I’m a big Kanye West fan. A lot of times I like his style but other times I feel like he pushes the boundaries but then again that is what fashion is all about. I like his style better when he’s rocking the tall tees, ripped fitted denims and yeezys. I also like Big Sean’s style, he’s always on point.

 

What is your personal favorite piece of the 4th collection?
• I really like the Manno Sanon t-shirt and the hat with the Poze hands. I feel like I can see those items on the shelf of an Urban Outfitters store. I like that they are Haiti related but with a touch of pop culture.

What can we expect from Poze in the near future?
• I really want to branch out to different things. I wanna go deeper into female and kids clothing but I’m a bit limited as far as man power. I want the brand to evolve and get better with time. My goal is to keep the brand alive so that one day I see it in a website like Complex, The Source or Highsnobiety as a street wear brand to watch out for.

 Fashion Ayiti, the models and Mr. Poze doing the Poze hand sign.

Adidas Originals X Pharrell Drop “Pink Beach” Collection

Hip-Hop icon Pharrell Williams teams up once again with German giant Adidas to launch the Spring/Summer 2016 collaboration “Pink Beach”.

Pharrell’s passion for arts, music, and fashion comes to life just in time for Summer with this new collaboration of footwear and apparel.

Distinguished by vibrant colors and inspired by tropical prints and island vibes with doodles and words created by Pharrell himself, the Pink Beach collection includes a selection of tanks, leggings, swimsuits, jackets, and ponchos for men, women, and kids.

The footwear collection is an adaptation of the classic Adidas Stan Smith remodeled for the beach. Using molded nubuck heels and patched-tape uppers, the Elastic Slip On and Lace Up kicks are available in white as well as cool colors such as bright blue and sand grey.

See more of the collection below:

The first part of the collection dropped on May 5th, with the second part released this past Thursday. Pink Beach is available at the Adidas online store and retailers.