Fashion

Roland Mouret Spring 2021 Ready-to-Wear

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Sexy pragmatism: a good profile for Roland Mouret’s outlook. In his new lookbook, he’s meted out his pieces one at a time, shooting each of them on Georgia Howorth on its own, or with underwear. It’s almost as if she’s carefully considering the merits of each skirt, top, dress, and pair of pants as she is trying them on in front of her bedroom mirror. Is this an accurate reflection of how we’re judging our relationships with clothes in the age of e-commerce, lockdown and working from home, or what?

Credit to Mouret for his insights into the point of view of his customers, and into the way of the world we’re all living in. “I thought of how every piece would work in a woman’s wardrobe, thinking about how it could fit with other designers,” he says. “Because that’s how women dress today.” That kind of honest insight made him attend even more closely to defining the fine line between reinforcing what is recognizable as ‘Roland Mouret,’ and what could feel new.

So there are the particular Mouret points of difference in both categories. The signature construction with which he began his career plays into the folding technique of the pink skirt, and the signature dresses which won him a reputation as a maker of the ‘It-dress’ in the aughts. Abstracted frills, split-leg flares, and his softer, assemblages of separates—a knitted sweater with bloused sleeves; a draped khaki shirt with epaulettes, and a matching skirt —read as new. Still targeted at a Roland Mouret woman who knows how she wants to look, though: a bit more relaxed, but not giving into sweatpants.

Mouret reads his market well. Not everyone in that constituency is working from home at all times. For those women whose job is to front up in public-facing, corporate and media roles there’s a matching mask with every dress. “They’re delivered attached inside the shoulder of each one.” Designed for the new cohorts of women moving to the political front, is that? “I watch the news,” he says. “These are women who buy my clothes too.”

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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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