Author Archives: Judea

Judea

About Judea

Passionate about fashion, and having worked in the industry for over 20 years; I am now a writer specialising in fashion, fragrance, arts and culture.

Queer Fashion | Fit to A Tee

Queer Fashion | Fit to A Tee – To say that T-shirts are a style staple is an understatement. It is the comfiest and easiest thing to wear. It is easy to accessorize, easy to pair with anything in your closet. Did I mention that it’s comfy and cozy?

Denim and T-shirts are the uniform of the 21st century, still there’s no reason why we can’t mix it up. We know that white tees are the best (and they are), but we’re here to step away from basics and show you 4 new T-shirt designs that you’re sure to fall in love with.

Raglan T-shirts

Athletic-inspired fashion is all the rage these days, and a raglan tee is one of the simple ways you can mix some sportswear into your look. Remember, you’re not on the pitcher’s mound so don’t overdo this trend. Wear your raglan tee with a skirt or with jeans and strappy sandals for a more feminine casual look.

Tomboy T-shirts

Steal some ideas from the Tomboy’s department and grab a slouchy T-shirt. You don’t actually need a boyfriend to own this trend (you can borrow from your brother maybe), because there are so many stores that carry this style. The relaxed and loose fit of this tee is ideal for summer layering.

Striped T-shirts

We know that everyone has a basic white and basic black T-shirt that you practically live in. Here’s another T-shirt to add to your basics—the classic striped tee or the Breton shirt. These shirts were originally designed for French sailors, and now these tees are on the backs of the chicest celebs like Jessica Alba, Hillary Duff, and Mila Kunis.

Tunic T-shirts

Swap out your typical T-shirt length for tunic T-shirts that you can wear over leggings or jeans. These tees are made out of lightweight material and usually ends mid-thigh or just above the knee. You can also use these as a beach cover-up. For petite girls, tunic tees can even be worn as dresses!

 

CK One’s New Ad Embraces Sapphic Love – #Ckmeforme

Shot by Mario Sorrenti, Calvin Klein’s new advert for CK One starts predictably enough with Klein’s iconic undie-roots, however plays into the infamous Instagram generation’s of selfies. With a dedicated tumblr page and me-centric hashtag – #Ckmeforme, the voyeuristic ad campaign blurs all the lines between public and private, with straight and gay.

Featuring Taeyang, Dev Hynes, Samantha Urbani, Say Lou Lou, Kelela, Soko (famed for her appearance in the ‘First Kiss’ viral advert) and more, this advert would once be considered shocking, or even ‘risqué’ and ‘inappropriate’ by some ageing marketing executive, but for the summer of 2014, it simply feels laid-back, un-retouched, raw and intimate.

Calvin Klein’s has often planned on gender norms, and embraced Sapphic Love. Jenny Shimizu once went topless and androgynous for one of CK’s early campaigns.

Shot by Mario Sorrenti. Featuring Taeyang, Dev Hynes, Samantha Urbani, Say Lou Lou, Kelela and more.

 

Queer Fashion | Curves Ahead

Embrace your every curve and have fun with fashion! We’ve picked out 5 summer fashion must-haves are perfect for your figure. You’d be surprised at some of our picks and fashion tricks. (Helpful Hint: Not all stripes are evil.)

Nautical Stripes – Yes, you heard us right. Stripes can be slimming, the right kind of stripes that is. Choose a slender stripe in a dark background color and make sure that the fit is not too loose. A striped top worn with distressed denim, espadrilles, and red lips—can you say tres chic?

Maxi Dress – A long, flowing dress is a quick fashion fix, especially during the warm summer months. Don’t get those strapless or empire maxi dresses, those tend to be unflattering. Choose a maxi dress with a vertical drape from the bust line that’ll elongate, or opt for a maxi tank dress and show off your curves.

Sheer Kimono – A sheer lightweight layer over a tank top or a T-shirt is summer layering at its best. Steer clear of those draped cardigans; it looks bulky when layered. Sheer kimonos are refreshing and right on trend. Pick a kimono in a fun and playful print, and it’ll up the style quotient of your summer outfits. Bonus: you can use these as cover-ups either beachside or poolside.

Printed Skirts – Full skirts are a bona fide spring/summer trend. Show off that gorgeous hourglass in full skirts that cinch at the waist. The volume of the skirt is very flattering. Choose a skirt that ends in the middle of your calf and pair it with wedges or kitten heels, skirts are the best part of seasonal dressing so have fun with it! Printed bottoms are a great way to balance out your body. If you want a shorter hem, go for a printed skater skirt. It has a flattering cut and skims your hips quite nicely.

Espadrille Wedges – Cork and wood wedges are permanent fixtures in any woman’s shoe rack. Espadrille wedges are summer’s it shoe. Wedges make your calves look amazing and the height instantly makes you look more statuesque, all without sacrificing comfort. Suitable for both your city escapades and weekend getaways, espadrille wedges give a global elegance to any ensemble. Plus you can wear it with almost anything!

Queer Fashion | Bling It On

You can dress up any outfit with the right jewellery. These sparkly and shiny accessories are essential in putting together a complete and finished look. Here’s a quick guide to summer’s hottest jewellery trends:

Chain Gang

Chain-link necklaces are big this season—the chunkier, the better. Big chain links either in gold or silver give your look a boost. Since these pieces are bigger, keep your accessories above the neck minimal. A nice pair of studs will do. If you’re feeling a bit daring, accent this necklace with some chunky bangles in a matching colour or finish. When shopping around, keep an eye out for unique add-ons like animal clasps or tortoise shell chain-links. A quick tip for you: Check out your local consignment stores, vintage stores, or flea markets for vintage chunk chain-link necklaces.

Art Deco

Geometric and art deco inspired jewellery continue their reign in fashion trends. The dramatic lines and angles of art deco lend itself perfectly to jewellery. Look for acid brights or jewel tones mixed with crystal to capture that contemporary art deco look. Pair this jewellery with jeans, tee, and sneakers for an unexpected twist to your daily style.

Gunmetal

Gunmetal is having a moment in jewellery. Gunmetal chokers are the best investment you can get this summer. These chokers are not the goth kind; it is usually a delicate sliver of metal that gives a sophisticated graphic edge to whatever you wear it with. Don’t be afraid to mix this metal with rose gold, gold, or brass. Putting together different tones, textures, and finishes of metal is another hot jewellery trend. Gunmetal is also a good counterpoint to this season’s uber feminine trends like pastel and full skirts.

Primary Colours

Red, blue, and yellow—these basic colours we learned in kindergarten are all the rage in accessories. When you’re out shopping choose pieces that are bold, loud, and geometric, the rule of thumb with this trend is: the bigger, the bolder, the better.

Don’t forget Coco Chanel’s style maxim,

“Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.”

Have fun bling-ing it on ladies!

Lesbian Fashion Icons – Yes We Have Them, and WOW They’re Hot

Our list of Lesbian Fashion Icons. From the way they wear a shirt, to the cut of their blazers, lesbian celebrities are certainly making their mark and the age of dyke chic is here…

Beth Ditto

We just adore Beth Ditto’s style. Why, because there is no one in this world quite like her or in her league when it comes to fashion. Known for her band, Gossip, Beth Ditto radical feminist ora could not give a crap if she is a size 26, as she has never heard of the term “self conscious”. In fact, give her an item of clothing three sizes too small and she’d be all over it. Her brightly coloured Lycra playsuits seem to be her favourite. She’s loud and proud and we look up to this.

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose certainly knows what she’s going to wear in the morning before she steps out the front door. She is the definition of style – tattoo’d sleeve, vests and skinny jeans is her signature outfit, along with quirky piece of jewellery, which she nails it every time. Ms Rose came out as a big lesbian young, and since then she has always had this edgy cool look about her – she is a women who know’s what she wants in life and that is always a positive thing.

Kate Moennig

In The L Word, Kate Moennig played the tomboy / butch, against the ultra femme backdrop. In playing Shane, she has started a trend, which queer girls all over the world began to copy. The look is simple – white vests with blazers, converse on feet, and straight black hair with a floppy fringe. Most want to be her, and in the L word every lesbian wanted her. Her just-out-of-bed hair, is now the definition of ‘alternative lifestyle haircut’ – its bends gender.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen’s classic suits, crisp trousers, body-conscious sweaters and vests are tailored to be youthful, trendy and flattering. Matched with bright, playful colours and worn with sporty white trainers, Ellen have carved a fashion look that American go crazy for. She is the lesbian staple when it comes to fashion – she proves that menswear is not just for stone butches, but soft and fuzzy day-time-TV super stylist divas too.

AzMarie Livingston

Far from being a classic metropolitan girl, AzMarie Livingston hails from the conservative mid-west town of Milwaukee Wisconsin. Standing almost 5’10″, AzMarie gay essence certainly informs her fashion style. Blazing her own trail, she is unafraid to show her tattoos and sports a crew cut. Her look is unique and she is stunning. We completely understand why Raven-Symoné is smiling so sweetly now.

 

 

Summer Shorts: The KitschMix Fashion Round-Up

It’s been a long time coming, but winter is officially behind us and summer is on its way, so shorts are now top of our wish list.

This means one vital change to your wardrobe – shorts. It’s time to ditch the jeans and invest in our key shapes for the season, whether you’re going away on a beach holiday or planning a much-needed stay-cation.

So are legs waxed and tanned to perfection? Well kinda –to the knee counts right?! So now the next question is which shorts style are you going for this season?

Sports shorts – yep, a pair of truly comfy, roomy shorts. For the standout summer look go for shorts have mesh detailing, which can go as part of a street inspired outfit, or lying poolside after a heavy night, or even as an option for gym.

Ripped Shorts – The staple check shirt and cut off tank are a must when it comes to building a retro inspired vacation outfit, but pair it with a pair of ripped denim shorts and you’ll be trending with the best.

Chino Shorts – Ladies when it comes to the dapper suit shorts, luxury printed chino shorts will make that statement this summer. Checks remain strong, along with luxury printed, but hot shades of blue, khaki, stone and burgundy should be a everyday staple. Remember, chinos are becoming a smarter alternative; and more.

Denim Shorts – Jeans are great, but sometimes they just aren’t right for what you’re doing. So when that is the case opt for the denim short, because this season it’s all about light washes, dark blues and black denim shorts.

Gotta Love a Well-dressed Stud | Butch Fashion Styles From Tumblr This Week

Butch Fashion styles grasp the masculinity of fashion with a sturdy leather shoes mixed with a well placed belt and a variety hair styles.

Although butch styles vary from person to person it is the overall masculinity that we love. From Techie chic, to Summer Whites, Jeans & Blazer, to the Dandy – this week Tumblr has presented the best of the best of STUD style.

We Can Be Free Here.. But Not There

British lesbians are lucky – this is one thing I’ve learned from my travels. Here we can be free, and we can be visible.

Having visited Jamaica and Kenya, I couldn’t imagine living there for very long because I’d have to live a lie. I’d have to be secretive about who I am, and that just isn’t me.

Abroad I’ve found all kinds of dangers that you just wouldn’t find in Britain. In Jamaica my partner and I were driving from one side of the island to the other when we were stopped by the police.

They pulled their guns on us and I started to panic. In those days I had long hair and looked quite femme and my partner was very buff and boyish. A lot of people would have thought we were gay, but not these policemen. Clearly their gaydar wasn’t very developed!

I then started to worry about them searching the boot of our car and helping themselves to our possessions. Corruption is a huge problem out there, partly because public officials are so badly paid. Fortunately they let us go on our way.

God knows what would have happened if the police had sussed out that we were lesbians.

I suppose the sad lesson I’ve learned from travelling is this: you can’t really be open about your sexuality in certain places.

Image source

The Best Camel Coats: The KitschMix Fashion Round-Up

For those who want to add a little glamour to their wardrobe, a camel coat could be the answer. Camel coats are a perfect solution to a transitional season, when your summer tops leave you freezing and winter jumpers can see you sweltering on the bus.

Why KitschMix loves the Camel Coat – well it’s simple, this sumptuous colour suits most skin tones and is a softer alternative to black. You can choose a three-quarter length, belted style if you want glamour, or opt for a classic crombie to smarten up your office look. Here, is our selection of camel coats to style to things up.

Vogue’s Bridal Spread Features Jenny Shimizu And Her Fiancé

Model and actress Jenny Shimizu and her fiancé, brand consultant Michelle Harper, will feature this month in Vogue. The couple often make a strike state through their fashion look, and have no trouble turning heads when they enter a room.

They are a fashion force to be reckoned with, and it doesn’t matter where they are or what they’re doing – these two look good. However, in Vogue’s new bridal spread they reach new heights. The feature showcases over 30 bridal looks – see the full spread here.

 

Jenny Shimizu 12

Summer Jackets: The KitschMix Fashion Round-Up

These days Summer Jackets are (unfortunately) a wardrobe must-have, but we’re lucky that this season see’s an influx of stylish lightweight garments to wear.

From denim jackets that are a perfect match with your favourite T-Shirt; to the aviator jacket which is a guaranteed fashion win. Or for a more elegant style, there is the modish mac – traditional yet with a fresh twist.

Then there are style-savi jackets in all shapes and colours to suit any wardrobe, leather jackets to turn any ladies head; or funky blazers to butch it out.

Denim Jackets – this season’s favourite is the denim jacket, with acid wash denim, or classic blue with jersey detail. You can team up your denim with a Dessert boots, or over-sized oversized baseball style vest. Create a flawless look that’ll keep you warm around the campfire during festival season.

The Blazer – You always need a decent blazer in your wardrobe; be it an Oxford blazer in light spring colours, or an essential black or Harris Tweed. Timeless tailoring never looked so good this season.

Leather jackets – or should we say the rock star staple. It’s the coolest in relaxed styling – an outfit finisher that looks unconsidered yet super stylish. If your wallet whimpers at the thought of real leather then try leather look jackets that are money friendly and just as cool.

Macs – Hot this season is the classic mac, or if you are looking for something a bit lighter, then go for a cropped mac, great for teaming with skinny jeans and brogues.

Queer Fashion | Heels to Die For

Queer Fashion | Is there any sexier feeling than making a show-stopping entrance in a fabulously fierce and always height-boosting pair of heels? Okay, we admit, that’s debatable. But here at KitschMix, we do love the sense of conviction that comes with putting on a pair of heels.

Here are three of our favourite heels for the season, so sharp they could be used as weapons (of self-confidence, of course).

Sheer

Letting a bit of skin peek through clothing, whether through cutouts or sheer material, has been a fashion mainstay for the past few years. It’s only fitting that this trend finds its way to sheer shoes. These black lace stilettos from Dolce and Gabbana are too elegant for the fact that we’re drooling over them. If you’re not willing to break the bank, try this pair from Pink Pepper Dinka lack the lace, but the mesh-like details give it sporty vibes, right on trend.

Strappy Pumps

The basic pump is the sort of accessory that you can throw on any outfit, whether for work or going out. It’s a versatile piece, but we love how the runways have switched up this classic shoe with straps that wrap around the ankle. The trend is a call back to the ‘90s, but with its sleek and metallic design, it finds its unique place in 2014. Take inspiration from these heels from Roland Mouret, which embrace white, one of this season’s chic colours.

Mules

Last, but certainly not least, might be 2014’s most controversial shoe trend—the mule. Mules are open-backed and close-toed shoes, and women over the age of 60 generally love them. This year, though, they’ve been given a youthful makeover. You can find them with block heels or stilettos, and they come both in boot-style or pump-style. Plus, they’re super easy to wear—throw them on with a pair of jeans and you’ve got a polished look for the rest of your day. Here’s a great pair from Stella McCartney, which don summer 2014’s other dominant colour: pink, pink, pink.

So, add a sizzling pair of heels to complete your summer outfit—you’ll look so hot that you’ll give new meaning to the phrased “dressed to kill.”

5 Tomboy Fashion Bloggers to Follow

Tomboy fashionistas and fashion brands have taken internet by storm with their well crafted fashions blogs. Here is our run-down of the 5 top profiles online.

But I’m a Tomboy

Menswear, androgynous wear and tomboy chic – these are the passions of Sunny, an art student from New York whose site also deals with non-fashion issues.

Website: www.but-im-a-tomboy.com

Wild Fang

Self-described Robin Hoods, Wild Fang are busy reinventing menswear for tomboys all over the world. Check out their amazing designs, some of which are modelled by Kate Moenning and Casey Legler.

Website: www.wearewildfang.tumblr.com and www.wildfang.com

Switch Teams

Never has someone looked so good with dyed blue hair. A beautiful blend of very personal work and more referential stuff.

Website: www.switchteams.tumblr.com

Qwear

Boston’s best LGBT style blog, Qwear began life in 2011. Founder Sonny Oram continues to wow the crowds with not only lovely images but enlightening op-eds and news reports.

Website: www.qwearfashion.com

Queering Style

Personal advice for LGBTS meets sartorial elegance. Alexa, who describes herself as “a queer with big hair”has used her Tumblr profile to promote her own sense of dapper style.

Website: www.queeringstyle.tumblr.com

 

 

Queer Fashion | Look Good, Save the World – Your Guide to Eco-Fashion

It’s 2014, so buzzwords like “sustainable” or “eco-friendly” or “recycled” are no longer just trendy. Taking care of our world has just become common sense. Saving the Earth doesn’t just have to be limited to your home’s recycling bins and compact fluorescent light bulb. If reducing your carbon footprint through your wardrobe strikes your fancy, you’re in luck. Here at KitschMix, we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best eco-fashion companies so you don’t have to.

HELPSY

The U.S.-based HELPSY was founded on the grounds of ethical fashion. Their clothing is made with eco-conscious materials, and they provide pieces from cruelty-free sources, Fair Trade, local production, and recycled material. What we love most about HELPSY, though, is their androgynous clothing. Their graphic tees cleverly label famous pictures with captions (Frida Kahlo’s self-portrait with the word “SELFIE” is an apt choice), and their bow-ties are printed with brilliant floral patterns.

 

Loomstate

For flattering basics that look good and last forever, check out Loomstate. This company’s entire clothing collection comes from organic cotton farms. Pieces made from organic cotton not only avoid synthetic chemical fertilizers and pesticides, but they generally come from farmers that are self-sufficient. Eco-friendly and economically conscious? We think that’s pretty great. Plus, the brightly colored clothing falls right on trend with summer 2014’s summer palate. If you’d rather have a geometric print than bold colors, make sure to look at the men’s collection of tees.

H&M Conscious Collection

You may have noticed by now—green fashion isn’t always kind to your wallet. If you’re convinced that your budget simply can’t stretch to include eco-friendly clothing, try walking into your local H&M. The company’s Conscious Collection matches the price point of their other affordable clothing, but pieces are made from sustainable and organic sources.

There you have it — three places to shop so that you can look hot and save the world.

Queer Fashion | The Fringe of Vintage

Queer Fashion | You’ve heard the saying “everything old is new again.” The mantra is not only the title of everyone’s favorite show tune, but a spot-on fashion philosophy. Style is never unfashionable, but trends are cyclical. In 2014, runways were filled with a total onslaught of 1990s styles, as well as bits and pieces from other points in fashion’s long history. Of course, designer prices mean that only royalty, celebrities, and trust fund babies can snatch up the runway. That’s why the rest of us should look elsewhere.

More specifically, those of us on a budget can’t go wrong with a thrift store or consignment shop. Finding something that fits and won’t fall apart within days turns any thrift shop visit into a treasure hunt, but that’s what makes it all the more satisfying. Take fringe, for instance. Fringe was madly popular in the 1970s and 1990s, but in 2014, the bohemian texture is no longer just a small detail. Take a look at this Calvin Klein dress from Spring 2014 – it’s everywhere! So take an afternoon off to shuffle through those racks and find some fringe to accent your signature summer outfit.

If relying on clothing previously owned by strangers doesn’t appeal to you, no worries.  Try raiding your parents’ closets instead. They surely lived in the 1990s and, as the case may be, they might even have been young(ish) and cool(ish) once too. While you’re on the hunt through their belongings, keep an eye out for overalls, crop tops, and slip dresses. To cinch together your outfit with the ultimate ‘90s touch, find accessories such as platform shoes and choker necklaces.  In fact, you might be able to find those choker necklaces in your own childhood closet!

Last, let’s talk prints. Florals are certainly not new to 2014 (who can forget Miranda Priestly’s sarcastic, “Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking,” in The Devil Wears Prada), but what sets this year’s florals apart are the ‘90s feel.  This year’s floral pieces are lightweight and without much structure, sitting loosely on the body. If you’d rather go for a solid color rather than a print, bold citrus colors from the ‘90s have also made their mark this year—spotting bright hues of tangerine, lemon, and lime shouldn’t be too difficult.

Besides runway show galleries, the best place to find summer 2014 fashion insights is in your photo albums from 20 years ago. When you’ve had a good dose of inspiration, save the overpriced runway and High Street pieces for the suckers, and do the smart thing—go vintage.

New Bondage-Themed Video From Miley Cyrus Conjures Grace Jones

Miley Cyrus’ new video ‘Tongue Tied’ isn’t a single — it’s a Quentin Jones-directed, Grace Jones-referencing fashion film.

The bondage-themed visuals look like a mixture of Slave To The Rhythm and Madonna circa ‘Erotic’, with Cyrus wearing that bondage lightly – and literally. She stretches the definition of kink and turns it into pop.

Watch and enjoy…

Miley Cyrus: Tongue Tied on Nowness.com

 

The Seasons of Anna Wintour

While fashion trends can characterize a people as a collective; by economic class, era, nation, subculture, for day-to-day life or for special occasions; fashion is one of the most evident celebrations of individual expression.

Anna Wintour is exceptional in that she is not characterized by fashion. She is like a patron goddess of fashion who deigns to walk among the rest of us mere mortals. Wintour first began working in the fashion industry at the age of fifteen. She had attended fashion school and then declined to continue, saying that, “You either know fashion, or you don’t.”

Anna Wintour 03

Wintour followed her pure instincts into influential and immensely respected positions in a number of fashion magazines, most notably as chief editor of Vogue magazine. The high standards she demanded earned her the moniker “Nuclear Wintour”, and eventual worldwide recognition and acclaim. At the same time, she continually broke industry conventions and took risks promoting young upstart designers. Did she single-handedly create a culture of fashion to suit her convictions? Or was she simply attuned on a deeper level to the pulse of today? Perhaps it doesn’t matter anymore. She is an icon: her bob-cut hair, her fine bone structure, her personal preference for furs, and the commanding elegance with which she carries herself—all remain unmistakable and timeless. Fashions change, but for almost three decades in the industry Anna Wintour has continued to stand strong.

This strong standing has also applied to Wintour’s vocal support of LGBT equality. “As far as I’m concerned, having the right to say ‘I do’ is as fundamental as the right to vote,” she said in a video for the Human Rights Campaign website, on the occasion of the “New Yorkers for Marriage Equality” initiative. She has continued to be a vocal supporter of marriage equality progress over her Twitter account, and on talk shows.

Anna Wintour 01

Also see – http://www.vogue.co.uk/news/2012/01/10/anna-wintour-lgbt-award—honoured-for-gay-rights

Image source

Meet Yvonne Taylor, Laidback Party Queen

‘I love to party,’ says Yvonne Taylor as she hugs each of her friends in turn. ‘I just want to enjoy life’. Cool and laidback, Yvonne isn’t your typical pushy promoter, even though she has been organising Sunday Happy Day (SHD) for 7 years now.

LGBT London’s hottest happening, the SHD club night is known for its zany showgirls, flamboyant pole dancers, and irresistible house and soul music. Yvonne describes SHD’s home, the warehouse-like Soho Theatre Bar, as her ‘church … I always feel like I’ve found a great party [when I come here].’

SHD’s punters are an eclectic bunch. Alongside the Londoners busting their moves, you’ll find Americans, Egyptians, Spaniards and Bahamians having a blast too. Yvonne works hard to create a chilled-out atmosphere that welcomes everyone, whoever they are, wherever they’re from. For Yvonne a good party should not be ‘defined by issues like sexuality, gender and race. Just because I’m a gay woman, I don’t want to be defined by my sexuality. Many of the people that come to my events define themselves as gay, but they also bring their straight sister, brother or cousin.’

You might be surprised by Yvonne’s background. Born and brought up in Nottingham, she joined the British Army aged just 18 and started putting on events after being promoted to the rank of corporal. ‘I was being punished,’ she laughs, ‘and was sent off to some empty barracks where we decided to create our own club.’ A record collector from the earliest age, the then-Corporal Taylor had no problem enticing her colleagues onto the dancefloor.

Having a good time is ‘in my DNA’, she claims, and she’d be right. Her father was nicknamed “Party” in his younger days and her mother was a New York It Girl back in the 1970s.

Returning to civvy street in the early eighties, Yvonne carried on doing what she loved most: giving people a fantastic night out. ‘When I first came to London,’ she recalls, ‘it was a segregated community. You could only go to certain places if you were this colour or that sexuality. I wanted to change that.’ And she did, firstly as a successful DJ and now as one of the capital’s best-loved promoters.

SHD’s next party is this Sunday and  promises to be Yvonne’s best bash yet!

Source – www.colourfulpink.com

Casey Legler | The Male Role Model

Casey Legler, is a woman model currently earning her keep working as a male model. Although androgyny has often been celebrated by the fashion world; with women playing male roles, and men playing female; there are not many making their living exclusively from such an act.

Yet, recently the trend has shifted. We have Andrej Pejic, a young male model, making a splash with his femininity, and now Legler who two years-ago signed a contract with Ford Models.

This new play on gender identity is one that is being embraced by both females and males across the global. However, Legler doesn’t want to be the poster boy for “gender identity” and “gender expression”. She labels her look an expression of ‘freedom’.

“I understand signifiers. We’re social creatures and we have a physical language of communicating with each other…”

Casey Legler

Standing 6’2, Legler clear defines her self as a female, but her close-cropped hair, neck tattoos and lanky frame give her just enough of a masculine look to model suits and baggy jeans as convincingly as the next male model.

“… it would be a really beautiful thing if we could all just wear what we wanted, without it meaning something.”

Casey Legler

Queer Fashion | Spice up Your Life and put SEXY back into Summer

Queer Fashion – By now, it’s become glaringly obvious that the 1990s have made their return to the runway. Everything from grungy plaid to light-wash denim overalls have been dominating popular fashion trends for the past few years. This summer, if you want to keep ‘90s trends fresh and sexy, look no further than The Spice Girls.

Yes, that’s right. No matter what your age in the 1990s, you definitely had a giant crush on Posh, Baby, Sporty, Scary, and Ginger Spice. They were confident, talented, funny – and they totally owned sex appeal.  Whether consciously or not, today’s designers are definitely taking note from everyone’s favourite girl group.

You remember the slip dress, right?  Posh, Baby, and Ginger Spice loved it. Wearing the simple silhouette with barely-there straps in a thin fabric is the equivalent of wearing a nightgown out in public. Want to really make admirers take a second (or third) glance? Give them a hint of your most private style: your bedroom style.

Pair the dress with knee-high socks to tease onlookers with schoolgirl vibes, or pair it with a light jacket or blazer to update the look for 2014. You can also wear studded accessories to toughen up the look.

If the slip dress is still too feminine for you, take inspiration from the Mels instead. Scary and Sporty Spice didn’t embrace the slip dress, but they rarely said no to showing off some midriff with crop tops. Mel C obviously lived up to her name by choosing tops shaped like sports bras. She paired them with joggers to show off her perfect washboard abs, which, we can all agree, was quite a treat for the eyes.

Mel B, aka Scary Spice, got far funkier with the crop top trend. She wore her tops in shimmering metallics, matched it with trousers for a tie-dye ensemble, or mixed in-your-face prints. Her crops were bold and brilliant, and only the most adventurous dressers should follow her example.

If the notion of baring your body sounds as horrifying as facing Freddy Krueger, remember that you don’t need society’s narrow definition of a perfect body to show some skin. In 2014, you can opt for a boxy cut that’s both sophisticated and displays just a sliver of your midriff, or you can go for a risqué bralet and effectively wear lingerie in public.

The point is, dressing sexy for the summer time is all about exuding confidence. The Spice Girls have always known the secret: dressing yourself sexy is Girl Power!

Queer Fashion | Welcome to the Boys’ Club – How to Wear a Youthful Spin on Androgyny

Androgyny and high fashion have long been the best of friends—think all the way back to boyish haircuts and shapeless dresses of the 1920s. Fashion refuses to conform to the heternormative roles of society, and this rejection is damn exciting. It’s too bad that the general public is too busy dragging its feet in judgment to catch up.

This year, androgyny is hitting the runways in a major way, but it’s breaking away from sources of inspiration we’ve seen in recent years, like military jackets and lumberjack plaids. Instead, 2014 is ageing in reverse by way of Benjamin Button; it’s more boyish than masculine.

This season’s androgynous trends are heavy with a youthful, devil-may-care attitude. The slouchy, oversized pieces are for creating outfits that are both effortless and cool.  Designers are taking us back to secondary school, but this time, we’re leaving the insecurities behind and embracing the easygoing confidence that we wish we had in our adolescent years.

To pull off this year’s androgynous style, go for baggy silhouettes that obscure any defining masculinity or femininity. Remember those calf-skimming cropped trousers called culottes that made in appearance circa mid-2000s? Well, they’ve made something of a comeback this year, which is a great trend for the more daring. If you’ve sworn off culottes after experimenting with them in 2004, no worries! Wide-leg trousers are laid back this year, which makes the easy and relaxed rather than stuffy.

For tops, consider slouchy and relaxed layers. Keep jackets unzipped over oversized tees as spring turns into summer, or layer oversized vests and unbuttoned shirts. Keep tops untucked, or consider tucking them in the front of your trousers to give your outfit that “can’t be bothered” touch. Don’t overdo the layers, though; minimalism balances the baggy shape of the clothes.  Put the finishing touch on your outfit with masculine shoes, either with sporty trainers or lived-in Oxfords, loafers, or biker boots.

Once your outfit is complete, take a look at yourself in the mirror. Dude. You look good.

Image source –

Queer Fashion | East End London Scene

If London were a quilt, its East End would be that offbeat patch stitched into its far side, made up of bright colours and multiple patterns. Strangely enough, this clash of differences works together harmoniously.  Both an array of immigrants and creative types call it home, and the area is constantly pulsating with their energy. The very best thing about East London, though, is how the locals’ style is both exciting and laid back. Does it sound like a contradiction? Perhaps, but let us explain. Clothing has been an intricate part of the East End’s economy since the rag trade began there in the 17th century. It’s certainly a part of London that knows its style. But unlike other parts of the city, the unspoken rules of fashion are much more relaxed, which makes it easier for East Enders to be inventive with their wardrobes.

So, if you walk through one of the East End’s many street markets, you’ll find everything from students with brightly coloured tights (and hair) to middle-aged artists in fur coats and combat boots. The ladies of the East End tend to follow this mantra: more is more (is more). More mixing prints, more septum-style nose rings, more metal embellishments, more butch boot buckles, more bright lip colours. Other cities might bemoan this style philosophy, but the East End embraces contrasts and creativity.

If you’d like to shop like an East Ender, markets are a must. At Brick Lane Market, you’ll find a real smorgasbord of assortments, but that’s pretty representative of the East End itself. Some shops are filled with unique pieces and secondhand stock, and others are prime locations for bargains if you’re up for a haggle.

The East End is also chock-full of independent designers. Take Illustrated People, for instance. Their collections are bold and distinctive, from the nineties-inspired art prints to a pattern they’ve named “shark polka.” Stop by Kate Sheridan’s shop for its offbeat accessories that just ooze cool or the East End Thrift Store off Mile End for some really satisfying vintage steals. If you’d rather take a note from the locals and put together your own outfit from scratch, go visit the Hand-weavers Studio for an array of resources, from yarns to dyes, fleeces to fibres. It’s probably pretty obvious by now: here at KitschMix, we love the East End. Fashion is all about freedom of expression, and there’s no better place to embrace your differences than the most engaging district in one of the world’s greatest cities.

From Butch to Femme – Coco Layne Transformation to Secure a Job

How far would you go to get the perfect job? When artist Coco Layne was interviewing for a job that would require her to look “conservative,” she realised how slight changes in her look affected how people treated her. This thought inspired ‘Warpaint’ – a project that explores the gender presentation within the masculine and feminine spectrum – going from a tomboy to a lipstick-wearing lady.

Coco started her photo series wearing a striped button-up shirt, jeans, boots, no make-up and combed her bleached blonde hair back to reveal the shaved sides of her head. Gradually she adopted a more feminine pose in each frame, softening her hairstyle, adding eye liner, mascara, blush, bright red lip colour, jewellery and high heels topped off with a skirt and floaty blouse. The final shot shows her seductively pouting at the camera.

‘The project was a reflection of my existing style choices regarding gender presentation from day to day. Although my physical appearance may fluctuate, there’s never any behavioural shift with me. Warpaint comes from the perspective a cis-gendered queer woman of colour, so it reflects my own unique experience and isn’t meant to speak for other queer people, although our experiences may intersect in some ways. It’s important to open up this conversation about gender presentation because its often confused and read as gender identity. Gender presentation is not about sexual orientation at all! Playing around with gender expression is strictly an avenue to explore my identity as a queer person not my sexual identity. Some days I’ll feel like wearing a lot of make-up and heels, while other days I’ll just do my eyebrows and dress down. I’m always still the same person.’

Coco Layne 

 

London Underground Signs to Make Any Commuter Smile

Someone has made fake London Underground signs, and whoever did it is a ruddy genius.

Jessie J responds to her ‘Coming Out Straight’ Issue on Twitter

Yesterday, Jessie J  posted a lengthy response on Twitter that she never lied about her sexuality. In her response, she insisted it was ‘NEVER a publicity stunt or for album sales’ and she will continue to be supportive of same-sex couples.

‘I see my fans becoming who they are and it’s amazing!’ Jessie J says. ‘Whatever sexuality they chose, or have chosen, love is love.’

The full statement is below:

‘Warning: This tweet is defo over 120 characters…. The hate on my TL is uncalled for and ridiculous! I never lied about my sexuality, I never labelled myself, the media and some of the public did. I said almost 5 years ago now. I have dated girls and boys. Quote me! Which I had! Am I denying that…?No! I was young and I experimented! Who hasn’t? Not with just this topic, but anything! It’s part of life! No lies there. So happened I was becoming famous at the very same time and felt pressure to tell everyone all my business that really looking back was really no ones to know. I fell for a person who happened to be a girl. Every other relationship I’ve had has been with a man. My record label didn’t care and it wasn’t part of my launch! Then I was asked in an interview back in the day about relationships, first time ever, and I was honest and then BAM it took over, the word bisexual before my name on almost every article I read? Like I had to say it when I introduced myself?

‘It was crazy. Instantly I was boxed. But at the same time felt I was put forward as spokes person to break out of those same boxes? Weird. Who made it a big deal? Me? No. The media? Yes. I’m not looking for sympathy I am just being real. And yeah I have learnt to keep things private the hard way because of this exact reason. So I keep my relationships private now. To keep my sanity. I put it into songs not articles that can be edited. I apologise to anyone who is offended by me calling dating girls a “phase” but I have to be honest with me for me. And for me it was. What else do I call it if I no longer have a want for it anymore? I’m talking for me remember. Not you. I didn’t generalise, I didn’t say bisexuality isn’t real. It is for some and some people grow up dating both men and woman forever. And that’s ok. And some don’t. Simple. And I don’t have any reason to lie? Should I have lied and said I am bi, because I’m not, yet isn’t that worse than telling the truth? How would of people have reacted then?

‘Please tell me what I have done wrong here? I haven’t spoken of being bi for years. All my songs are sung from me about “him”. I didn’t discuss my personal life in my autobiography. Which came out 2 years ago. Reading “Jessie J comes out as straight” today, even typing that feels absolutely ridiculous. What has the world come to? Lol! Seriously, this is crazy. The media ofcourse are going to make this a HUGE thing. Which they are. for your originality. But I won’t stand down and be made to feel like I have killed someone or said something that deserves the messages I am currently receiving. I did and still do stand for love who you love, whichever gender that is. And I will continue to stand for it and just not act on it because I don’t want to. It isn’t who I am. I see my fans becoming who they are and it’s amazing! Whatever sexuality they chose, or have chosen, love is love.

‘Everyone has their own journey and story, and mine can’t go how you would rather it go. I have to live for me. Just to be clear this was NEVER a publicity stunt or for album sales. I won’t even argue that point. Because it’s just so silly and such a lazy accusation that I won’t even go there. I will say this, the reason I decided to put it out there in a more direct way. Even though it isn’t what I thought I would ever even do. Is because some people believed what they read instead of what I was/am saying and singing about then and now. I was getting increasingly frustrated with still feeling like sexuality was defining me as an artist. Behind close doors I am evolving into the woman I want to be forever, wanting a husband and kids one day and dreaming up my future just like everyone else. Yet I go to work and it was like people were 3 years behind and wanted me to be someone Im not.

‘I soon realised unless I said it more in black and white it would continue. People accusing me of dating my female friends, yet when I was out with a man I was actually dating no one would say anything or even notice. Weird. People were seeing and noticing what they wanted and not looking at the truth. So I as I am writing my 3rd album I believe I owe it to myself and my fans to be me. Which I am doing tbh, just speaking on something to set the record straight. That wasn’t supposed to be a joke. And at 26 I shouldn’t be anything but. Whatever backlash and hurtful things I will incur. I am only singing about loving a man and being broken hearted by a man. Because I only date men. I want my music to come out and people understand where it’s coming from, and for me not to feel guilty when people are painting a picture of me when the brush isn’t in my hand. I took the brush back. I have always been true, and honest.

‘Which is so rare in this industry. I will admit maybe not always gone about it the right way but hey I’m still new to all of this too remember. I ask that you support my music. As I did back in 2010 on YouTube. I ask that you respect that I don’t judge you on every detail of your past as I will never know of your past. And you let mind stay as mine and let me continue to grow and change just like every other human being. I will not speak on this topic anymore. It’s irrelevant to what this dream Is supposed to be about. Irrelevant to why people even know who I am if they do in the first place! The music! It needs to be about the music. Thank you to everyone who supports my music. Now to the studio I go to finish my 3rd album.’

Personally, I don’t care what Jessie J identifies as, but to equate being straight to “growing up” is a slap in the face to a lot of people. Words pack meaning – we all all hear how our LGBT sexuality is just a phase – we’ll grow out of it and get back to reality. Having that confirmed by such a public figure sets us back big time. Like many I wish she had just chosen to keep quite. There is fame and there is fame.

Collier Schorr’s 8 Women – Exploring Gender and Sexuality

Born in 1963, Collier Schorr grew up in Queens, New York and studied at the School of Visual Arts. Schorr’s photographs examine the way nationality, gender and sexuality influence an individual’s identity. Known for her portraits of adolescents, Schorr’s pictures often blend photographic realism with elements of fiction. 

8 Women is Schorr’s third photo book, following Jens F. and Blumen and it spans her work from the mid-nineties and includes her appropriated adverts from fashion magazines. Described as “a new 8-track photograph”, this series of photos features a variety of subjects, all of whom are involved in performance, be it as artists, models or musicians.

 

Collier Schorr About Her Photography

Being a Lipstick Lesbian

A lipstick lesbian is simply a homosexual female that has a highly feminine style and attitude. It can be hard to shake off the stereotype that all lesbians have to appear masculine, but there is no reason why you can’t be feminine and like other women.

Here are some pointers to help.

First, The Lipstick Look. Its simple 1) make-up, 2) heels, and 3) ditch the trousers. Well, actually, there are no a strict rules on how to be a Lipstick Lesbian. You can wear as much or as little make-up you want.

With regards to heels, yes they are the perfect feminine shoe, but it’s your choice whether these are high-heels or a simple Kitten heel.

And trouser wearing, some femmes opt for skirts and dresses, some don’t. You don’t have to wear short or revealing clothing, just any shape or style that you are comfortable in and that makes you feel more womanly. Remember if it makes you happy, go ahead and wear it ladies.

Secondly Be Honesty. If you are asked whether you are straight, don’t just shy away – be proud and honest about your sexuality.

And Finally You don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Often you’ll hear people say you’re not gay because you seem too feminine, and many have the cheek to demand you prove it. You don’t have to prove it, because if they don’t believe you in the first place, why are they worth proving it to? However, you are free to do so if you choose. It is your own decision.

Yoga Meditation for Helping with a Breaking Up

Break-ups are never easy and it is especially painful if you are finding it hard go.  A break up often bring up feelings of rejection and loneliness, leaving us wondering if we will ever meet another person.

If you’ve gone through a break up in the past, or are going through one now, then mediation is very good way to clear the mind and re-build the soul.

Here is a powerful meditation to try, which can help break-ups and healing the heart;  Kundalini Yoga – Meditation for Breaking Up and heal your heart.


This Kundalini yoga meditation was originally taught by Yogi Bhajan, who taught the meditation for moving on, turning the page and helping one to not feel abandoned.

The yoga guru said that the ultimate elements to a deep relationship are, “Passion, Intimacy, Love”.

Never settle for anything less. Being satisfied in your relationship with yourself is far more fulfilling than being in a toxic relationship with another.

In the fishing world they say, “Throw it back into the water.” If a potential relationship doesn’t meet your calibre, “Throw it back,” and the universe will have to accommodate you.

 

Things We Love – TV Cat Beds

Totally in love. I am came across these Cat Beds, designed by Miles and Aimee are the creative minds behind Atomic Attic, an Etsy shop full of vintage-items-turned-works-of-art, including a variety of one-of-a-kind cat and dog beds. This colorful television set was transformed into a unique cat bed that comes with a removable, machine-washable cushion and a matching dangling mouse that will ensure there’s always something adorable to watch on TV.