April | 2013 | Hold the Glamour

April 23, 2013

Kansas City

For my last job, I traveled to Kansas City, Missouri for a couple of days. I’ve been there before however, it’s been a long time. I’ve shot in K.C. for a jewelry company and for a magazine shoot or two (editorial). Kansas City is in the middle of American, or so people say.

I arrived the evening before the shoot started and stayed at a lovely and relatively new hotel called the Ambassador Kansas City. The shower and bed were amazing. I had a wonderful night of rest and sleep. Not what I’m always used to at home I’m afraid.

The other two straight-size models and I were picked up and taken to the studio which was nearby. We shot at Rush Wade 2 Studios on Locust Street. It was an impressive studio that was large, beautifully outfitted with all the treats and fun you’d expect in a studio that’s located outside of New York City, where space comes at a premium.

Kansas City – Rush Wade 2 studio

We shot an all American campaign for the denim company. Packaging jobs are fun and you can push the boundaries a lot more than with catalogue. Packaging/campaign shoots are more about the image or feel of a company rather than it being about the garment which is the case with the typical catalogue shoot.

The photographer (whose family own the business and studio) built a skate ramp for some downtime play. See below. I have never seen a skate ramp in a photographic studio ever before in my life. How very cool indeed.

Kansas City – skate ramp in the studio

I discovered an orange Vespa parked in some corner near the hair and make-up table. I’m not sure if it worked or if it was more like a piece you’d find in a museum (for display purposes only). Everything was strategically placed and clean. It was a vintage, hipster, rock ‘n’roll showroom.

Kansas City – 1964 white pick-up in the background

Art, history, technology and inspiration working together. It was a new playground for me to explore. I like new places. I like to learn new things and am curious about life. This shoot allowed me to delve into the lives of others that live in the middle of America.

Have you ever been to Kansas City?

If so, what did you do there?

Did you see Dorothy and her red shoes? I did… At the airport on my way home to New York.

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April 16, 2013

Hair, glorious hair!

Lucky for me, my parents gave me good hair. I have thin hair however, a lot of it. It really helps in my industry. My hair is worked on most days of the week so it’s important to have a lot of it and for it to be healthy and strong.

NYC – A hair piece

Many models and actors don’t have the same amount of hair as I do so they resort to hair extensions or hair pieces. I knew nothing of this until I moved to New York 11 years ago. It wasn’t something I had to deal with.

On occasion, when a client likes to use the wind machine and they love good hair, the hair and make-up artist will add some additional hair pieces to my own hair to fill in the gaps or the holes that the wind machine can create.

NYC – Bill Westmoreland taking my hair pieces out

I love working with Bill Westmoreland. He is old-school and has been in the industry a long a time. He knows how to handle hair and make you look your best with the face and hair you were blessed with. Bill is an artist.

NYC – Bill Westmoreland and I

The hair pieces clip into your own hair after it has been back-combed a bit. It adds some tension for the clips to hold on to (not fun combing/brushing it out at the end of the day though). Then you are good to go.

I don’t feel the hair pieces in my hair until the end of the day when they start to get heavy and my head gets a little sore. I really don’t know how the girls who rely on their hair pieces or weaves can handle it after so long. Thank goodness it’s an added bonus for my look, not a necessity. I am one of the fortunate ones I have come to realise.

NYC - Liz Polden, me and Bill Westmoreland

NYC – Liz Polden (stylist), me and Bill Westmoreland (h&m)

My team of Liz and Bill are bar none! They are fabulous and make my day so easy and fun. I had a great day at work. Lucky me…

I’ll find out some of the best brands to buy to make life easier for you. In the meantime…

Have you ever worn hair pieces or hair extensions?

What did it feel like?

Do you know of any good places to have these hair pieces/extensions made up for you?

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April 9, 2013

The Empire State Building, spring & the Wythe Hotel

NYC – Jack Studios shooting a bra campaign

What a busy day to end the week. I had a shoot at Jack Studios for a bra campaign that I recently went on a casting for. When I arrived, after saying hello to the many people who represent the company and the crew, I took off my clothes except for my knickers and put on a white fluffy robe. One can’t have bra lines or clothing marks on your body when shooting lingerie.

Outside, it was a beautiful spring day that was bursting with sunlight. You see, spring has finally come to New York. I am so excited!

The view from our 12th floor studio was of the Empire State Building. A prominent feature of the Big Apple’s skyline. The views are breathtakingly beautiful. I love this city.

NYC – The view of the Empire State Building outside our studio on the 12th floor

After spending two hours in the hair & make-up chair, I sat around on the comfy lounge waiting for my turn to ‘turn it on’ in front of the camera. The schedule was packed and with three models, there was no opportunity for me to sit down and eat lunch. I was up on set just before and we continued the shoot throughout. It was grab and go for me – I managed a quick bite or two of salad and shrimp/prawns when there was a set change.

NYC – Leaving the shoot with the sun behind me

After being inside all day, I was thrilled to be in the spring time weather of the city. It is a fabulous time of year. The trees are budding and the signs of warmer weather is apparent everywhere you look. Everyone seems happier in New York when the weather is like this.

I spend an hour or so at home with my family before Steve and I get in a cab and head over to the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg.

Brooklyn - Steve and I on our way to the Wythe Hotel, Williamsburg

Brooklyn – Steve and I on our way to Williamsburg

We were attending a friend’s birthday bash that started at the Wythe for cocktails. The views of Manhattan at sunset are amazing and some of the best of the west side of the city. See for yourself.

The roof bar was full when we arrived so we had to wait about 10 mins before we went upstairs. It was a well-oiled machine. Obviously, sunset is a favourite time for many to experience the city views.

Brooklyn – Wythe Hotel, Williamsburg

I haven’t been to Williamsburg in a while and when Steve and I arrived, I was reminded how cool, edgy, groovy and chic it is. There is so much going on and it’s the place to be if you’re young, single, creative, cute, good-looking, interesting and hip!

Brooklyn – the view from the roof of the Wythe Hotel at sunset

Our night ended with dinner at the Rosarito Fish Shack. It was packed and even with our reservation for 10 people, had to wait for 30 mins or so for our table. Whilst waiting near the entry, I bumped into two gorgeous blondes from my board at Ford – Inga and Danielle Redman. Life is funny and so random isn’t it? New York really isn’t that big.

Have you been to the Wythe Hotel?

Have you been to Williamsburg?

What do you like or love about it?

Any great places to share?

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April 2, 2013

It’s been a year!

I cannot believe that I started my blog, ‘Hold the Glamour’ at the end of March last year some 12 months ago. Incredible really! I’ve always documented my life in some way since I can remember and this past year I’ve gone public with it. So friends… Here we are. I can share that I’ve enjoyed the process, learning, growth and support of you all. Thank you very much.

NYC – Garment District (also known as the Fashion Capitol)

Last week I went on a couple of castings in the Garment District – the Fashion Center of New York. Wikipedia explains it best, “The Garment District, also known as the Garment Center, the Fashion District, or the Fashion Center, is a neighborhood located in the Manhattan borough of New York City”.

The District encompasses the area from 6th to 9th Aves – 34th to 42nd roughly. It is a highly concentrated area of manufacturing, fabric design, pattern making, design, couture houses and showrooms.

NYC - The Fashion District Needle & Button at 39th Street & 7th Avenue approximately

NYC – The Fashion District at 39th Street & 7th Avenue

One of my castings was for a bra packaging job and the other, for a big fashion label that specialises in straight-size and plus-size fashion. The views are always spectacular from their 40 odd floors above ground.

There is always so much activity and energy flowing in the Garment District. People are always on the move and rushing off to somewhere. Deadlines are endless and a part of life.

NYC – Paying respect to the creativity and hard work of fashion

In both castings, I signed in with my name and agency on a sheet of paper then sat down and waited till I was called. I tried on two bras for the first casting and two outfits for the second.

Photos were taken in the samples supplied by a photographer whilst the ‘panel’ looked over my book, comp card and me in the flesh. There were seven people deciding for the bra job and two for the second job. It always varies from job to job and casting to casting.

Fortunately for me I was successful in both castings! I love a good week. One never knows how a casting will turn out so it’s always refreshing and rewarding when you succeed… Especially when it’s two out of two!

Whilst I was waiting to be seen, I flicked through a magazine that rested on the coffee table in the reception area and came across the quote/saying below. It resonated with me. I hope it does with you too.

NYC – A saying I came across in a magazine whilst waiting for one of my castings

Have you been to the Garment District or Fashion Center in Manhattan?

Have you ever worked in the neighborhood?

Do you have a quote/saying you love to live by? Share it with me please… I’m all ears.

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April 1, 2013

Best make-up products according to Kelley Quan

I approached my dear friend and hair/beauty expert Kelley Quan for this weeks post. I want to share with you some of her favourite products on the market. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed and it should give you an insider’s view of what the professionals are using, loving and why. You will want to go out and buy these products right away!

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ME (L): Kelley, let’s start at the beginning – what in your opinion is the best primer and why?

Kelley (K): The most AMAZING PRIMER EVER has to be Miracle Blur. It corrects the texture, hides flaws and is also a sunblock so it’s great for outside. It just works so well for everyone especially those with less than perfect complexions.

http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/Offers/Samples/Miracle-Blur/Register.aspx

L: You put me onto this product and I love it! I use it most days I’m stepping outside. It’s a personal favourite of mine too and I can highly recommend it.

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L: Now, let’s talk about eyes and how to enhance them best.

K: For an eyeshadow I must have: Smashbox’s Limitless 15 Hour Wear Cream Shadows in Stone and Quartz. I love this formula for long wear and clean colour. The two colours are staples in my kit because I can use them on anyone with beautiful results. Really universal colours.

I use them alone for a sheer finish or as an under-base for eyeshadow if I need the shadow to really last like for a red carpet event etc.

http://www.smashbox.com/product/6025/21789/Eyes/LIMITLESS-15-HOUR-WEAR-CREAM-SHADOW/index.tmpl

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L: What about lips Kelley? You have to have some great brands and colours in your kit.

K: I ADORE NARS Matte Velvet matte lip pencils. The finish is really soft and while matte they never look or feel dry. My favorite colours are: for an orangey red that looks amazing on almost everyone is Red Square and for a blush/nude I love Belle Du Jour and Bettina. The best fresh spring colour is Calliope – it’s the happiest colour for everyone!

http://www.narscosmetics.com/color/lips/~/velvet-matte-lip-pencil

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L: I notice you love to use a cream on cheeks – who do you love?

K: I love this cheek cream: Kevyn Aucoin’s Creamy Moist Glow in Isadore. It’s a beautiful shade that goes on smoothly and yet has enough pigment to be worn alone or layered.

http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/p/Kevyn-Aucoin-Creamy-Moist-Glow-Isadore-Face/prod82310091_cat400803_cat399701_/?isEditorial=false&index=16&cmCat=cat000000cat000005cat000017cat10022cat399701cat400803

I am also a big fan of the Kevyn Aucoin Skin enhancers. These tiny pots are so concentrated you only need a teeny bit to do a lot. I mix mine with some lotion if I want a sheer finish or if I need some more coverage I can layer it right from the pot. Love the shades and it feels nice on the skin.

http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/p/Kevyn-Aucoin-Sensual-Skin-Enhancer-Face/prod82310065_cat400803_cat399701_/?isEditorial=false&index=1&cmCat=cat000000cat000005cat000017cat10022cat399701cat400803

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L: I have a serious thing for mascaras and I am always searching for a great one. I am lash obsessed!

K: I am not a beauty snob and sometimes, it is sheer practicality that dictates what products I use often. For example, because I need to throw my mascaras away about every two weeks or so because I just work so much and worry about contamination, even though I am super careful, you just can’t take the chance. I tend to use drug store/pharmacy mascaras on my models. Here are my top three:

1. Voluminous False Fiber Lashes™ Mascara. If I want that full lush lash look and need to bulk up the lashes, I use this mascara. It won’t flake and it’s a nice formula.

http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/Products/Makeup/Eyes/Mascara/Voluminous-False-Fiber-Lashes-Mascara.aspx?shade=Black&cid=lorus_rm_Bing_Makeup+B+Eye+Makeup_Eye+Makeup&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=Brand-Makeup

L: I too love this mascara! Thanks for reminding me of it – I need to buy a new one come to think of it.

2. Tried and true every time is Voluminous Carbon Black mascara. Works well every time. It’s my go to mascara.

http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/Products/Makeup/Eyes/Mascara/Voluminous-Carbon-Black-Mascara.aspx?shade=Carbon-Black

3. If I am splurging I’ll go for TARTE cosmetics: Lights, Camera, Lashes. It’s a really great mascara and it has a great formula that stays put but comes off easy with remover.

http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-lights-camera-lashes-mascara

BEAUTY NOTE: With ALL my mascaras, I apply using my Patent pending (not released yet) Mascara Wand which will give an amazingly strong lash line and feathery lashes without bulk or making the lashes look unnatural. It’s my secret weapon for lush lashes!

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L: What about other fabulous products that deserve a Kelley Quan mention?

K: My Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics are –

Lip Tar: I love this super pigmented lip colour because it is vegan and paraben free. No bad stuff in these products. Some of my favorite colours are Pale Tangerine, Narcissus and Annika.

L: I love the vegan and paraben free stuff. I try and use as many of the organic/natural products personally, as I can. With work, I don’t have much of say unfortunately.

http://www.occmakeup.com/lips.html

MAC Cosmetics Paints: I love these little pots of colour. I use them alone or under shadow. I love the shades Bare Canvas, Still Life and Sublime Nature.

http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/154/344/Products/Eyes/Shadow/Paints/index.tmpl

L: I have to agree with these little pots of colour. I love them and they last forever.

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Do you have any great make-up products to share?

To ask Kelley or myself about?

Next time, I’ll ask Kelley about hair products that you should know about.

http://kelleyquan.com

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Month: April, 2013