Fashion

Sarah Jessica Parker, Christopher John Rogers, and Vogue’s Hamish Bowles Discuss the Resiliency of New York

At Vogue’s Forces of Fashion summit, the New York-based entrepreneurs discuss how the city can survive a post-pandemic world….

Actor and shoe designer Sarah Jessica Parker and designer Christopher John Rogers are two of New York City’s leading lights, representing the immense pool of talent based here. Today, they joined Vogue’s Hamish Bowles for a 30-minute conversation discussing the resiliency of the city as part of the Forces of Fashion summit. They imagined how New York can thrive again in a post-pandemic climate, and how they remained creative—and financially afloat—during such a challenging year.

As two New York transplants, Parker and Rogers began the conversation by looking back at what first drew them to the city. Rogers grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and said Manhattan served as a beacon of opportunity in terms of becoming a designer, though didn’t come without its challenges. “I’ve never worked harder in my life than while being here,” he said. Parker, who came to New York as a child, was instantly inspired by its “chaotic” energy, as she describes it. “When we arrived as a family in 1977, the city was in terrible economic shape,” says Parker. “It wasn’t at its most beautiful. But as someone who was drawn to color and art and beauty, I was seduced. I found excuses to go down streets that I had no business going down, just to look through the store windows.”

During the discussion, Parker and Rogers also spoke of how they navigated keeping their businesses alive during the pandemic. For Rogers, he took the lockdown as a moment to rejig his business model, and to reignite creativity for his designs. “One of the positive things was slowing down,” Rogers says. “There was nothing to do but relax and take stock of the situation. It made me think about who I am as a designer, what makes me happy, and what I want to put out in the world.” Parker, meanwhile, took a risk and opened a brick-and-mortar store for her footwear line, SJP, in July. The duo also discussed keeping their businesses small, the pros of working with a small, intimate team, and how they’ve focused and sharpened their design aesthetic.

Watch the full conversation—and many other speakers including Lizzo, Sarah Burton, Bella Hadid, Albers Elbaz, and more—at Vogue’s virtual Forces of Fashion summit.

Buy tickets to Forces of Fashion here.

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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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