Fashion

Noon Cottage Industry’s Hand-Dyed Mesh Tops Are a Visual Feast

Why buy art when you can wear art? Noon Cottage Industry’s artful tops are exactly that: wearable art….

While the side project started for practical, money-making reasons, it’s now completely rooted in creativity. As she began building a following on Instagram, her pieces became increasingly more bold and playful. “On Instagram, people are drawn to things that are visually striking. Your eye automatically notices something that’s brightly colored or that has a high contrast,” she says. Instagram isn’t the only place where the demand for her work has been noticed and picked up; stars such as Kim Kardashian West, Rosalía, and BbyMutha have all worn her spunky pieces too. “I was not expecting [Kardashian West] at all,” says Porter. “Her team reached out and bought some pieces. Now, I’m getting a lot of sales in L.A.”

The artist makes everything in her London studio herself, and uses two types of mesh for her garments: tulle mesh, which is see-through, and power mesh, which is stretchier and less transparent. She cuts the patterns herself, and applies prints using fabric dye. “Every single one is different, and during the painting process, there’s so much room for happy accidents, like the way the dye spills into other colors,” Porter says. Her feed offers a wide range of prints, from abstract tie-dye turtlenecks to slithery, snake-inspired dresses. Porter says she mostly does custom orders, working with customers to pinpoint color combos and prints. “It’s a good way to remain sustainable. I know that someone’s already buying it and I’m not wasting materials,” the artist says, adding that she averages two to three pieces a week. “Plus, I can make it fit perfectly.”

Image may contain Clothing Sleeve Apparel Long Sleeve and Scarf — Photo: Courtesy of Noon Cottage Industry

While her designs are spontaneous and done in collaboration with customers, Porter says the creations are also very much influenced by her filmmaking. (She describes her films as “nonverbal visuals.”) “I think very much from a cinematographic perspective—my placement in relation to an object, from an aerial view or from below—so a lot of the images on my tops replicate that kind of point of view,” she says. Even the hangers she shows her pieces on have artistic purpose; they’re shaped in the form of sycamore seeds, of which she says, “Just like how trees release sycamore seeds, I’m releasing these garments out into the world.” Porter says fusing art and fashion has proven to be a new experience for her altogether—but given her current amount of star-studded fans, it’s clearly working. She likes how tangible and personal the process of creating fashion is. “It just made sense to me to put ideas or imagery onto something that could be bought instantly,” she says. “[Art] doesn’t need to exist in a gallery space.”

Image may contain Clothing and Apparel — Photo: Courtesy of Noon Cottage Industry

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Fashion

Raekwon Unveils “The Emperor’s New Clothes” With All-Star Lineup

Raekwon, a legendary rapper known for his role in the Wu-Tang Clan, has just announced his long-awaited eighth studio album, titled “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” set to be released through Mass Appeal. Although no singles have been shared yet, the album is already creating a buzz and is highly anticipated this summer. It’s been seven years since Raekwon last released a solo album, and this new project feels more like a grand return than just another release.

He’s teamed up with a mix of familiar faces from the Wu-Tang Clan and some fresh talent in hip-hop. Listeners can look forward to clever lyrics and captivating stories filled with raw emotion. Raekwon has invited his Wu-Tang brothers Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Inspectah Deck to feature on the album, ensuring a classic blend that fans love. He’s also brought in well-respected artists outside of the Wu-Tang family, like Nas and members of the Griselda collective, Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, who are known for their gritty style.

Adding to the variety, singers Stacy Barthe and Marsha Ambrosius will provide soulful vocals to complement Raekwon’s hard-hitting verses. The album’s production features talented names like Swizz Beatz, Nottz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Frank G, and Roadsart, promising a rich, cinematic sound that matches Raekwon’s lyrical skills. Even with such an impressive lineup, there’s still a sense of mystery around the album. There have been no early songs or previews released, just the announcement itself, which builds even more expectation.

But for Raekwon, this is part of his journey. He has always delivered powerful lyrics and relatable street stories without much introduction. The title, The Emperor’s New Clothes, suggests a fresh start and a daring vision that might challenge the current state of rap. With his experienced flow and storytelling still sharp, Raekwon seems prepared to reestablish his place among the top artists in hip-hop.

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Fashion

Wendy Williams Makes Stylish Splash At Columbia Supporting Her Designer

In a delightful surprise for fans and fashion enthusiasts, Wendy Williams made a rare appearance at Columbia University on Tuesday, and everyone couldn’t help but notice her. The former talk show host was in high spirits as she showed up to support her longtime friend and fashion designer, Mel Maxi. Wendy looked fantastic in a stylish black-and-white outfit that included a Yankee hat and her trademark flair.

Designed by Maxi himself, her outfit was not just chic but also had a personal touch that highlighted her vibrant personality. In a heartwarming moment recorded on video, Wendy told Maxi, “This is amazing! This was specifically designed for me… this is really hand done.” Wendy came to cheer on Maxi, who was set to give a lecture about fashion design at the prestigious university. Her appearance was a meaningful moment between two creative friends who have supported each other for years. Wendy’s presence emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration in the creative world.

As she walked by, a nearby fan shouted their love for Wendy, and she instinctively responded with her signature warmth and enthusiasm: “Thank you!” she exclaimed with a big smile. After being away from the spotlight for months, Wendy’s visit was a refreshing change for fans who have missed her lively spirit. There were no fancy events or flashing cameras, just Wendy enjoying the moment, supporting a friend, and reminding us all of the significance of showing up for the people we care about.

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