SUMMER = BIRKENSTOCKS

 By: Unknown    00:42  No comments

Birkenstocks, Birkenstocks, Birkenstocks - never has a shoe elicited so much hate and love simultaneously. Once regarded as the ugly shoe tasteless tourists wore with socks, over the last decade it's been worn by everyone from those mentioned tasteless tourists, to celebrities, to fashion bloggers.

Last summer saw the rise of the trend - UGLY sandal, this summer is not really any different - chunky, platform-style, masculine-influenced sandals occupy many places in homes sitting proudly alongside the latest Louboutins.

As of a few weeks ago, I'm now a proud owner of 4 pairs :D ..ok maybe one of them has seen better days ..but I like even numbers.

Those babies in the top pic are my current favourites, mainly because they're chunkier than others - look at the pic below - they've got a flatform !!

For those who aren't aware, there are actually two types of Birkenstock sandals - Papillon range and Traditional range. They both have the same footbed, but the papillon range tends to be a bit more adventurous - patterned options (and my chunky white ones). The pic above is from the Papillon whilst the one below is from the Traditional range.

The photos below are all from the Papillon range



The photos below are all from the Traditional range



BTW for those who want to get in on the trend, in Malta Birkenstocks are sold at Stivaletti.

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Shopping : Have You Visited LULÙ ?

 By: Unknown    23:36  No comments

The first time I discovered  Lulu` Boutique, I was driving to Busy Bee for cannoli. I was determinedly focused on convincing my parking angels to help me, when out of the corner on my eye an eye-catching blue shop front with a pretty display caught my attention. Food, and cannoli in particular, are of utmost importance but priorities are priorities and I found myself stopping and parking further up from Busy Bee, leaving the car and somehow walking towards this shop. 

This was actually about a year ago and it's one of those stories I've always meant to tell, but somehow I kept putting on the back burner. Recently, however, I visited the store and since this was a planned exploration, my camera actually came with me and kept itself busy, whilst I gabbed with Marisa the owner and looked around.

The shop has actually been open since April 2013 and they have different stuff for lots of different tastes and ages - I saw pieced I'd recommend to my mother and pieces that I gave a new home to. The shop is not a franchise, so it doesn't stock one particular brand or other - there are different pieces sourced from many different brands. This means you're never quite sure what you'll find. Shops like this are not that common anymore and whilst I love my favourite franchise stores, sometimes, I miss that feeling of simply popping in to see what they have rather than going straight for that piece you've spotted on the net. 

So my camera took these pics - intelligent ain't it ? It spotted this lace blazer below at once, it's perfect for wearing over a coloured dress to a Spring morning wedding or simply out to dinner over jeans on a breezy night.

This a-line skirt and crop top below is one of the cutest little outfits ever 



70s vibe all the way

And as per the usual for my shopping posts, there are even more photos for you to filter through, in the slideshow below






For the finer details of life : Lulu` Boutique is open from Monday to Saturday from 9.30a.m to 19.30p.m. We are in Malta so you know - there is ‘Lulu Boutique, Msida’ on Facebook.

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Spotlight on LEREN CONNOR

 By: Unknown    03:30  No comments

Leren Connor is one of the most interesting fashion designers I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She hails from a small English city called Derby and is a self confessed tomboy and geek. It's not often you meet people working within the fashion industry who willing talk about their geeky side. Her designs are fresh and interesting, some of them even influenced by the comic genre. 

Leren was nice enough to send me one of her designs to inspect up close. I can attest that the quality is lovely - Paul Smith fabric hand fashioned with great tailoring skill into a wonderful design. In fact ,I love it so much that whilst I was going to take a photo to include with this post, I've decided to save wearing it for a more important outing - anyway you've got all her great editorial photos to look at today

So it is with utmost pleasure that I present Leren Connor to you - and do remember to check out her links at the end of this article :)

Photography by House Of Denham

Who are you ?

I'm Leren Connor - I'm a 24 year old aspiring fashion designer from a little town called Derby in England and I've actually just graduated from Derby with a degree in fashion studies.

5 words to describe your personality

Vivacious, decisive, eclectic, chaotic and centred.

Describe your brand to us….what do you feel is your trademark?

My brand is just like my personality. I'm a person who loves many different things, I like that trait to speak out through my work. 

Leren Connor is a brand that aims to target a variety of audiences of all ages and interests - we're Eclectic and Versatile whilst also being Sophisticated and Edgy. 

" I hand-make all of my designs whilst also staying true to my roots of up-cycling and recycling. "

When did you first start to get interested in fashion design?

I was actually a late bloomer to the world of fashion. Interestingly, growing up, I wasn't really interested in overly girly things. I was a tomboy through and through - instead of spending my days playing with barbies, I would either be on my BMX, fishing or playing football. 

It wasn't until my early teens that I started paying attention to fashion and slowly started to develop my own style, trying new things out. Having said that, I had always been interested in art so there was that. So as my interest in fashion developed, I started paying more attention to the subject and began my own education in learning about the industry, researching designers and learning how their work comes together. From then on I've never looked back and now I couldn't picture my self doing anything else as a career.

When did you actually start designing?

I started designing officially as a business back in 2012. 

" I was 21 with no money and no experience. "

I was still in my second year of university, but me and a friend decided to open up a little boutique. What was great was that we had a little work room in the back where we did all our manufacturing. We also took on interns and it was whilst running this boutique that I new I had made the right decision in starting my own business. The boutique didn't go as well as we had hoped but nonetheless we gave it our all - it just wasn't the right time for either of us. I would say it was unfortunate but personally I think it was a blessing in disguise as it enabled me to solely concentrate on my own label which is now in its third year of business.

Any photos from any previous work/collections that you can share with us?

OWLS from our new GYGO range #getyourgeekon , S/S15 Free Fabric Jacket

Which is your all-time favourite piece that you have created?

My all-time favourite piece would have to be "The Jokers Quinn", it's from my graduate collection. It has been my biggest challenge in design so far - it's made up from over 600 joker cards which have been laser cut engraved and then inserted by hand into 5mm incisions. It took over 300 hours to make. The collection which this piece forms part of is called "A Twisted Love Affair" which is inspired and based upon the twisted love affair between two of DC Comics' most iconic characters The Joker and Harley Quinn.

From where do you draw on for inspiration and are there are any other designers that inspire

you?

Generally, life and experiences, but also moods and in-the-moment things. 

" I love old things such as styles and clothes, houses and music. "

I also like to draw inspiration from different aspects of things in life. I've always been inspired by the streets and the urban life and I think somewhere in my designs it always comes out to play - this is what makes Leren Connor edgy. I'm a huge fan of Henry Holland, I admire his vibrant prints and how he also has an influence from the street/urban style. Karl Lagerfeld is also deeply admired by me, he's a inspirational designer and I love his ethics to the Chanel label.

Future Projects and collaborations? And where can people buy your stuff from ?

I've been working alongside another independent brand called House of Denham, who specialise in photography and film, art direction, web development and graphic design, for the past year and a half. 

We consistently collaborate on projects and the lady behind the brand has now become a huge part of what we do at Leren Connor. This year I'll be working on some more styling projects and we're also working on a separate side to Leren Connor called GYGO which stands for get your geek on. I'm a huge geek and after designing and making my graduate collection I knew I had to also add this element to my brand. 

Last year, I had a stand at Birmingham Comic Con for two days, it was a huge risk as I had no idea what I was up against and had I done such a big event before. It was an amazing weekend and I found I had a audience here for my geek side so now I'm introducing GYGO.

You can buy my stuff from www.lerenconnor.co.uk and also from ETSY and

I'm also on Facebook 

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Interview : Marisa Grima - New Ventures

 By: Unknown    01:23  No comments

Marisa Grima needs no introduction and has in fact already been interviewed on this blog a number of times. Recent happenings, both with her agency SupernovaModel and a new project called Aura have led me to believe we should meet with her once again to get all the new gossip about these exciting ventures. 

Marisa, how would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you or heard of you ?

Passionate, simply love anything creative, loyal, eclectic, different, fun, happy:) 

Your modelling agency supernova has been around for a few years now ..any plans to expand or any exciting upcoming projects ? 

Supernova Model Agency is my baby, I have been scouting models for as long as I can remember. 

"Noelene and myself are constantly working towards making sure our models land the best jobs. "

We are also working with a number of foreign agencies and model scouts, to place our models 

abroad. 

How do you go about assigning a model to a job ? I s it the client who choose or do you give your own recommendations ?

It depends on the job really. We have clients who request models by name, we have clients who ask for recommendations based on specific requirements, or they leave the choice up to us. When the latter happens, we try to fit the model to the job required. 

If the job description asks for a bubbly fun model, there is no point in sending a model that is shy. 

That is why it is important to know our models well and build a close relationship with them. 

SUPERNOVA models in PINK magazine
Left Cover by Clint Scerri Harkins, Right Cover by Kurt Paris

We’ve heard through the grapevine that besides supernova, you’ve also just launched an exciting project AURA  - give us the gossip 

AURA came about due to a number of reasons,  my father passed away and I inherited a property in Naxxar Rd, BKara. It was a question of either selling, renting it out or doing something with it myself. Opening a clothes shop was out of the question, I do not want to go there, even though it is my line and my job. 

The solution came about by itself really. Last year, I met, purely by chance, Robert Aguis, a very stylish, cool person. I had no clue he was a trained hairstylist, but I loved the way his style. We started talking, and one thing led to another and voila AURA was born. AURA Hair & Beauty Salon offers a getaway from everyday stresses. The design of the salon is very relaxing, eclectic and calm. 

I hate black in a salon, and when I was deciding on the interior decoration, one thing I noticed is that many salons had a lot of black in their interiors. 

"I will be spending time in it as much as I can as I love it! "

In the morning as soon as I wake up, I go there, have some tea, sit on the sofa and start working from there.

What should people keep in mind when choosing a hairstyle ?

I think that is more a question Robert should be answering, but from experience I would say hair 

texture, facial features and lifestyle. 

________________________________________________________________________

Now for some personal info,  What do you eat for breakfast each morning ?

I skip breakfast but drink tea with no milk only. 

What makes you angry ?

Ignorance 

What excites you ?

My job. 

What is the first thing you look for when scouting a model?

Height, size and an interesting face. Not necessarily beautiful though. 

What are you looking forward to most in 2015 ?

More work, health and being happy:):):)

That's it folks ... leave me a comment to let me know what you think of this post !!

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Interview : Jade Bartolo - Venere

 By: Unknown    12:41  1 comment

In this new interview series, we will be meeting the Venere girls to get to know them a bit better.

Third interviewee is Jade Bartolo. I first met Jade ( when she participated in the Toni and Supernova Competition. If I have to be completely honest, for some reason, initially I din't pay her that much attention but others did and all of a sudden, although she wasn't the winner,  amazing fashion photos started cropping up on facebook. Photo above : Photographer: Steven Vella

Describe your personality in 5 words

Lively, realistic, outgoing and caring.

Describe your style in 5 words

Chic, relaxed, playful, trendy and slightly bohemian 

How did you get into modelling?

One night after my A’levels I was walking through Paceville when this cheerful woman with big blonde curly hair asked me if I was Maltese and if I was interested in modelling.. I told her that I was and she introduced herself and told me to consider auditioning for a competition.. I had no clue that I was talking to Marisa Grima, the manager of Supernova Models! 

Three years, two competitions and a few photo shoots and shows later .. Here I am .. One of the Venere Girls

What makes you angry?

Lies and deception.

What do you hate most about modelling and what do you like most?

There isn’t much in particular I dislike about modelling, as I think it’s a wonderful opportunity. Could I complain a bit if I tried? Probably. But I’m doing this because I want to do it and I enjoy it, and essentially having my hair and make-up done and taking amazing photos isn’t something that every girl gets the chance to do, so I love every moment of it. 

Favourite venere shoot 



The mermaid shoot by photographer: Keith Darmanin was my favourite Venere shoot so far. It was also my first! I was really excited and giddy about it, and having hair extensions was quite a fun difference

Least favourite venere shoot

The mermaid shoot was also my least favourite shoot! This is because I was very self-conscious about being topless and about making sure that my hair covered all the important bits, and I was very distracted. The above photo would have been my all time favourite if only I had concentrated a bit on my face that day and had a stronger look in my eyes. 

What's your biggest fashion sin

On cold days, I tend to choose comfort over style. I hate feeling cold and would much rather be cosied-up in an oversized jacket than freezing my butt off in a stylish little thing.

What do you eat for breakfast

Cereal with soya milk

Any future modelling plans

I will continue modelling with Supernova, and maybe possibly hopefully one day try my luck at modelling abroad 

Some more photos:

Read the other interviews here


Don't forget to enter my EYBROW EXTENSIONS COMPETITION

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Interview : Maria Grech - Venere

 By: Unknown    12:24  No comments

Maria Grech is our next Venere girl and she's actually someone I have not yet had the opportunity to work with, however she seems like a lovely girl that the audience is relating too...so here's Maria in her own words...

Describe your CHARACTER in 5 words

Fun, honest, outgoing, helpful, but sometimes a bit impatient

Describe your STYLE in 5 words

Black, safe, vintage, and bit of a tomboy, sometimes lazy but basically it really depends on my mood

How did you get into modelling?

Venere is actually my first modelling experience, I've always wanted to model but I never really believed in myself enough to try but then I thought I'd give Venere a shot and I still can’t believe I was actually chosen to be on the program wiht 8 stunning girls .

FAVOURITE Venere shoot?

When we shot this picture I was pretty nervous so I thought this will not be the greatest but after I seen the results I loved it! Hopefully I will get even better by time credit goes to

LEAST favourite Venere shoot?

I didn’t like my face it this picture need to learn a bit more how to relax my face , but hey practice makes perfect credits to

What's your biggest fashion sin?

"My biggest fashion sin is wearing heels I don’t know how to walk in."

What do you eat for breakfast?

For breakfast I mostly eat yogurt or cereal

Any future modelling plans?

After Venere I will hopefully do some fashion modeling that is basically what I always wanted to do

You can also read Michela Mallia's Interview here and Sarah Zerafa's interview here

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Interview : Sarah Zerafa - Venere

 By: Unknown    03:35  No comments

Sarah Zerafa is a girl who has always intrigued me - she's very sweet, has a great sense of style which she loves to mix up and change around and takes really great pictures. Whilst she may not have the height generally sought after for modelling, there's something about her that grabs your attention, simply put, her photos catch your eye. When she auditioned for Venere and got accepted I was very pleased and I have been following her success with a lot of interest.

With this in mind I've decided that she should be the second of the Venere girls you'all should meet - so ladies and gents I give you Sarah Zerafa.

Describe your CHARACTER in 5 words

Outgoing, fun, caring, kind hearted and friendly.

Describe your STYLE in 5 words

My style various from day to day. I always wake up wanting to dress in a particular style, but my style in 5 words would be: vintage, chic, classic, and mum-90’s-wardrobe.

How did you get into modelling?

The interest began when I was still a 10 year old, always eager to watch ‘America’s Next Top Model’s latest episode. I also remember wearing my mum’s high heels, running around the house, pretending I’m taking part in a famous fashion show. Then, at around 13 years of age I shot my first commercial and bill board and that gave my career a head start. - I later modeled for some local adverts and photographers started taking more notice of me on Facebook. Some time later, I took part in an international commercial, was part of Fashion Week 2014 and the biggest achievement of all… became a Venere girl!!

What makes you angry?

When my internet connection isn't strong enough to Skype with my boyfriend who lives in Slovakia :)

What do you hate most about modelling and what do you like most?

"What I hate most is: waking up with a big zit in the middle of my forehead on the day of an important photo shoot" 

I hate waking up with a fever and having to wear a summer dress in the middle of December. Last but not least, having to pose in a pair of shoes that are 3 sizes too small and somehow still make them look good!

What I love most in modeling is being able to wear all types of different clothing including the latest fashion trends and high end pieces which I only dream of buying. I also love having my makeup done by professional makeup artists and different hair styles for every look.

FAVOURITE venere shoot?



Photo : Clint Scerri Harkins

This is my favorite Venere photo because although it wasn't an easy photo shoot, I feel that I still managed to produce a good result.

LEAST favourite venere shoot?

Photo : Steven Muliett

This is my least favorite photo - I wasn't that comfortable at the location we where in and I found it very difficult to pose on a motorbike.

What's your biggest fashion sin?

"My biggest fashion sin has to be wearing the transparent bra straps with a strapless top - come on, every one can see they are still there!!"

What do you eat for breakfast?

I am not a big breakfast fan! I usually prefer to sleep an extra 30 minutes and have a big brunch later on in the day

Any future modelling plans?

After Venere, I already have a couple of photo shoots booked and hopefully I will be involved in some more commercials.



You can also read Michela Mallia's Interview here

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Interview : Michela Mallia - Venere

 By: Unknown    06:09  No comments

Photo by Kurt Paris

In a new interview series, we will be meeting the Venere girls to get to know them a bit better.

First up is Michela Mallia. I first met Michela (nurse by day, model by night) when she participated in the Toni and Guy Malta "Be The Look" Competition for which I was the stylist. I was immediately taken with her androgynous style, her bubbly personality and her confidence. I loved the result of that shoot. Michela progressed with her venture into modelling and now I've had the opportunity to work with her again for the lifestyle local program Venere.

Here is Michela, in her own words

HOW DID YOU GET INTO MODELLING?

I was sitting in a makeup artist's chair for a one on one learning session in 2012, when she suggested that I submit a photo to Toni and Guy Malta "Be The Look" Competition. Considering that I know the brand well, I never thought that I would be chosen to compete, but I was shortlisted and eventually chosen as the female model for January. 

Photo by Kurt Paris for Toni&Guy

I was also chosen to compete in Miss World Malta - I placed sixth with my hooded yellow lace Tarik Ediz dress - my own choice. Although it was a fantastic experience, I met and made friends with some amazing young women and gained a lot of recognition, I realised that my niche is high fashion, both in front of the camera and on the runway. This is the reason I applied to Venere; to gain experience and learn from the best people within the local fashion industry. 

DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY IN 5 WORDS 

Kind, caring, bubbly, funny, short tempered. 

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE IN 5 WORDS 

Black, androgynous, chic, fashion-forward, mine.

WHAT MAKES YOU ANGRY? 

I hate it when people are not honest with others, choosing to use trust to stab people in the back and get ahead. I am completely against bullying, especially racism. These strong feelings started because I was bullied as a child, and have gotten worse since I started working full time at the ITU and have cared for patients of all forms and colours. Finally, what I think makes me the most angry is child neglect and abuse - children are a gift from God, and it breaks my heart to see kids suffering because they have incapable guardians for whichever reason it may be. 

WHAT DO YOU HATE MOST ABOUT MODELLING AND WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST? Modelling is a form of self expression that if done correctly - especially in conjunction with fashion, can be translated into art. It is the most freeing experience to be able to pose in front of a camera and produce a phenomenal shot while wearing a huge wig covering half of your face. Apart from that, its fun to be made up from head to toe once in a while. However, it is difficult to be treated differently because of your professional portfolio, and 

"....you must prepare yourself mentally for the pornographic innuendos due to more revealing photos or outfits on the runway - no matter how tasteful they may be." 

You have to learn to trust only the right people because of this consequence. Unfortunately, wanting to look your best can sometimes be taken too far. It is saddening to see so many models that have made themselves ill in an effort to look thin like their colleagues. 

FAVOURITE VENERE PHOTO

Photo by Tonio Lomardi

This is my favourite photo because it's a completely different concept. The makeup was totally different to what I am used to having on my face and the wig made posing difficult as half my face was covered but I managed to produce what I think is a phenomenal photo; I can proudly call it mine. In my opinion, the emotion in my face when compared to the mask is really striking. I really wish it could have fared better in the actual Facebook competition.

LEAST FAVOURITE VENERE PHOTO

Photo by Keith Darmanin

This photo is my least favourite because it was my first shoot, and it was nerve wracking to pose in Bizazza Street full of people. Although the child that was paired with me was not cooperating, I think that I could have done a better job.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FASHION SIN? 

You can say that my younger adolescent days were my fashion sin decade. I was a tomboy and I used to wear the most unflattering items for my figure. 

"Nowadays, I feel comfortable wearing most of the things that I choose to wear........."

My fashion sin would probably be going overdressed to an event.

WHAT DO YOU EAT FOR BREAKFAST? 

Usually I have oatmeal with protein, or else a fruit smoothie chock full of protein, or else protein pancakes. Quite boring actually.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FUTURE MODELLING PLANS?

I would like to be recognised as a reliable, professional fashion model, and I would like to work with a number of prominent brands in future, namely Charles and Ron, Creative Factory Seven and Ritienne Zammit, both in front of the camera and on the runway. I'm hoping that the Venere team will help me learn more about modelling and the industry to be worth of such opportunities. Eventually I would love to work abroad. I know how difficult it is to break into the industry, but a girl can definitely dream!

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Interview : LUKEAZZOPARDI - RICOCHET

 By: Unknown    08:01  No comments

Last year, I interviewed Luke Azzopardi right before his first solo show, at that time around Malta's fashion scene, there was a buzz of excitement with everyone wondering what exactly he was going to show. He didn't disappoint and the show was a huge success. Over the last year Luke has met several other accomplishments including producing a bridal collection In collaboration with Camilleri Paris Mode Ltd. Once again we met up with Luke right before his show to get a taste and little sneak peek of what's to come. In his own words.

A year has passed since we last met - what has changed?

Nothing much. I'm still single, still loving the occasional tequila shot. Having said that, I am juggling more projects than I can count but I absolutely love it. We might have something very big coming up our way but i can't say anything for now. Our fingers are crossed. What i can say is myself and Andrea (his brand manager) are working very very hard to make this brand big. 

What is the inspiration behind your latest collection and can we get an exclusive sneak peek?

Conflict and power are celebrated in Ricochet. My Autumn/Winter 2014-2015 collection captures the female body in states of transition and evolution and vents out equal measures of light and darkness. The traditional structures of feminine garments are reworked into acute shapes and explosive silhouettes. 

Describe your collection in 5 words

Conflict, Power, Transition, Evolution, Warrior. 

Do you feel that the woman who wears your clothes should have a particular characteristic / feature ?

"I feel that the LUKEAZZOPARDI woman is a warrior who stands triumphant, enveloped in armour. "

I’m mainly interested in people and their stories, and my clothes add on to that to create a new narrative – one that might be semi-fictitious.

Are you excited / nervous for the upcoming show?

To be quite honest Caroline, I am quite relaxed. 

"I'm confident of what I'm presenting and that the final product will complement my frame of mind."

Can you give us an exclusive sneak peek?


As a designer, what is your general, daily routine?

I sleep for at least 10 hours a day. When I'm not working on an upcoming collection, I am reading for a BA in History of Art at the University of Malta. I also have a number theatrical projects lined up periodically.

What do you personally enjoy wearing most?

My hats.

Describe yourself in 5 words

Ambitious, Determined, an Aesthete, Gozitan, Well-Travelled. 

Any other exciting plans?

"I am the kind of person who likes to live life day by day. So I guess we'll have to see what new projects lie in wait, tomorrow." 

Past Collection :

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Interview Post : Adalia Bonanno Headpiece Artist

 By: Unknown    08:06  No comments

Ladies and gents there's a new Artisan IN TOWN. Meet Adalia Bonnanno - headpiece artist - who has been working away quietly, out of the limelight but has managed to build up quite a reputation and client list. Her hats were recently selected to form part of the new Maltese luxury brand Ferragiu which was launched in Riccione earlier this month and she was also just given the opportunity to create a headpiece for Kate Middleton herself, to be presented to her during her planned visit to Malta last week.

Adalia started out within the fashion industry as a catwalk model, she modelled in various fashion shows over the years and has always had a love for fashion. Although I knew about her work, I saw her first hat with my own eyes in Riccione modelled by Claire Ciantar. The hat is really well made and very beautiful. 

As those of you who check in here regularly would know, I happen to lurveeee headpieces and hats, I do, I do, I do... soooooo I decided to meet up with Adalia and ask her a couple of questions

How did you first begin ?

It all happened in 2008, at this particular photo shoot for a calendar; the dress the setting, everything seemed like it was not quite enough and I had suggested creating a striking headpiece for the model to wear..and my love for this art evolved from that moment on. However, well and truly, it was only at the beginning of 2014 that I decided to actually take it more seriously and focus more on bespoke headpieces for special occasions such as weddings, holy communions and Fashion events.

Where did you learn ?

I'm actually mainly self thought but I've also enrolled in various online Milliner Academics and even travelled abroad for interactive tutorials; Malta unfortunately does not as yet have any kind of Millinery training. I have a lot of love for fabric manipulation and new innovative techniques and I love working with a variety of different materials and tools. Also, every time I travel I make sure to visit Milliners' studios and hat shops to check out any new interesting techniques they might be using.

What's the process like ?
Once I get the materials, trimmings and fabric in hand, I immediately become inspired and spend hours in my workshop until I am happy with the result. I am a perfectionist, so attention to detail is essential.

So..on to the juicy bit.. this gift for Kate Middleton - tell us something more

I created a bespoke headpiece as a gift to her Royal Highness, Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Malta's Independence which was meant to be her first visit to Malta. This was ultimately given directly to the Royal staff during Prince William's visit who took his wife's place at the very last minute. It was suggested that the piece should be Malta-themed in some way so I chose white and ivory and added a touch of red to complement them.

It took weeks of research and designing, hand crafting and assembling the handmade pieces together. It displays 50 pieces of small, handmade Sinamay flowers with petite Swarovski beads on top of a blocked straw pillboxed shaped base. The hat box was also fully custom made with specially selected fabric and calculated dimensions.

It would be a great honour if she had to wear this creation of mine, who knows... maybe one day she actually will. :)

Any Future Projects

Besides the regularly commissioned pieces, I will also be working on my new collection to be launched beginning of next year which will include one-off compelling statement headpieces, exquisitely crafted and encapsulating current fashion trends.

You can contact Adalia on info@adaliabonanno.com  or +356 79701012

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Interview Post : Model Claire Ciantar

 By: Unknown    13:03  No comments

Claire Ciantar is currently one of Malta's hottest models - she has recently both won the Malta Fashion Awards Best Model Award and also been selected by Ferramoda to represent them at the New Model Today Gran Gala de la Mode competition in Riccione next week. Standing at almost 6 feet tall with legs that go on for miles and enviable looks to boost, Claire is definitely one to watch. 

Claire recently also modelled in a photoshoot for Ferragiu shot by Kurt Paris (a new luxury designer couture brand that will be launched at Riccione) - below.

Model : Claire@supernovamodel.com
Makeup : Krista Paris
Styling : Caroline Paris & Marisa Grima
Photographer : Kurt Paris
Hair : Robert Agius using LABELM

Let's get to know Claire a bit better:)



Who is Claire ? 

I am 18 years old and a university student studying communications and European studies. I consider myself to be an honest and a very positive person, I try my best to be very professional in all I do. Apart from modelling, I  also love singing and sports. In fact I'm also a basketball and tennis player. 

How did you get into modelling ? 

Pure coincidence! I was scouted by my fashion mummy Marisa Grima of Supernova model . She spotted me on Facebook and it all began from there, that same year (2012) I won the Supernova Competition and modelled at The Clothes Show Live in Birmingham. 

Has your life changed a lot, what about your personal style ? 

Yes it has changed in a lot of ways, to be honest, time is very limited nowadays as modelling and sport plus all the studying takes a huge chunk of my time. Naturally even my lifestyle had to adjust with all the activity around me. But what is most important to me is that I remain with my feet well planted on the ground and that I never change who I am. I definitely want to remain the same person people around me have grown to love and respect. 

My style has also changed a lot - I went from being plain jane to a risk taker when it comes to clothes! I love creating my own style, one that brings out my personality and I also learned not to care what other people think as much and and just be comfortable in my own style. I love fashion and I try to keep myself updated with new trends and styles and adjust them to my own liking. 

Favourite top model ? 

My favourite top model has to be Cara Delevigne, how can you not love Cara ?!! She's a tomboy with an impeccable taste in clothes, she eats and loves bacon like normal people. She knows how to have fun and isn't always serious, from photos of her in baths of beans to beanie hats she really shows us her true character. She has modelled for many big brands like Chanel, Victoria Secrete, Tom Ford, Mulberry, Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, the list is never ending ! Recently I also found out that she knows how to sing too, so that makes me like her even more ! 

Dreams and ambitions ?

My first objective is to graduate from university as i think it is of utmost importance that I finish my education and secure my future. In the meantime I aim to continue progressing in modelling hoping that one day I can achieve my dream of modelling for prestigious brands. I am also adamant to continue practicing my favourite sport 0 basketball. I have already represented Malta in two tournaments and I'm hoping Ill have more opportunities to wear the national kit in the future.

Model : Claire@supernovamodel.com
Makeup : Krista Paris
Styling : Caroline Paris & Marisa Grima
Photographer : Kurt Paris
Hair : Robert Agius using LABELM

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