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Branda Ayo

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Cipriani Host WWD 2023 Honors

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

On the evening of October 24th, Cipriani South Street hosted the highly anticipated WWD 2023 Honors, a dazzling event that brought together the titans of fashion and entertainment. It was more than just a night of glitz and glamour; it was a reminder of the industry’s profound impact and the individuals who make it all possible.

The venue, nestled by the Staten Island Ferry with a breathtaking view of the New York Harbor, set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Attendees arrived in style, embracing the night’s theme that seemed to revolve around Dior. The unmistakable presence of Dior bags and insignia paid homage to Maria Grazia Chiuri’s influence, a designer who has brought a unique touch to the fashion house. Grazia Chiuri has broken a long-standing tradition by being the first woman to helm the Dior women’s line, succeeding a line of male creative directors.

Thomas Doherty
Madelyn Cline
Kathryn Newton

The annual WWD Honors Gala is a celebration of trailblazers who have left a mark on the fashion industry over the past year. WWD recognized outstanding designers, fashion brands, beauty houses, and retail companies for their contribution to the space. Notable guests included Madelyn Cline, Thomas Doherty (Wearing B57 Dior by Kim Jones shoes), Christopher Briney, Lola Tung, Kathryn Newton, Myah’la Herrold, Melissa Roxburgh, Carolina Herrera, Wes Gordon, and others.

One luminary of the evening, Dries Van Noten, arrived to accept an award, dressed in his own creations, confidently stating, “I’m wearing me.” Notably, some designers chose to step away from the Dior camp, such as honoree Jaques Agbobly, a talented designer from Togo & Ghana. Agbobly sported a jacket from his Agbobly line and a striking Neon Telfar bag, exuding the vibrant spirit of Black fashion. His braided hairstyle, skillfully done by Hairstylist Helena from Slayed In Braids, perfectly complemented the look, reflecting a harmony of colors and a shared appreciation for cultural aesthetics.

Jacques Agbobly

Among the distinguished guests, Jennifer Lawrence graced the event in a Dior Spring 2024 black wool dress, presenting the John B. Fairchild Honor for Lifetime Achievement Award to Dior Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri. This honor recognized Grazia’s illustrious career, solidifying her status alongside fashion icons like Tommy Hilfiger.

We asked honoree Gucci Westman, Co-Founder & CEO of Westman Atelier, who accepted the Best Performing Beauty Company, Small-Cap Award what advice she would give her younger self, Gucci responded, “Be brave, stretch yourself, be grateful, and soak it all in.” In a similar vein, Thomas Doherty conveyed the essence of the event, saying, “It’s fashion; it’s always chic; it’s great; enjoy.”

 

 

Lola Tung
Christopher Briney
Madelyn Cline
Heléne Yorke
Heléne Yorke
Kathryn Newton
Julia Schlaepfer
Julia Schlaepfer
Myha’la Herrold
Jacques Agbobly
Dries Van Noten
Dries Van Noten & Marc Puig
aul Arnhold & Wes Gordon
lyah Chanelle Scott & Reece Feldman
Jacques Agbobly & Ethan Holding
Myha’la Herrold
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence
Melissa Roxburgh
Jennifer Lawrence & Maria Grazia Chiuri

 

 

 

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Li-Lac Chocolates Celebrates 100 Years at Their Chocolate Factory in Industry City

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Li-Lac Chocolates, the beloved confectioner renowned for its handmade gourmet chocolates, recently celebrated its 100th Anniversary in the heart of New York. The Industry City factory and store were abuzz with excitement as the chocolatier celebrated this significant milestone in their storied history. This special anniversary event, the fourth in their series of centennial commemorations, drew a crowd of chocolate enthusiasts and community members eager to partake in the festivities. For those who cherish their timeless creations, it was a golden opportunity to join in the celebration.

Li-Lac Chocolates treated their loyal customers and newcomers alike with some sweet surprises. Among the highlights was the limited edition 1923 Vintage Collection Chocolate Gift Box, priced at just $19.23 for the first 300 customers. This exclusive collection was a tribute to the very beginning of their journey. The celebration continued with free gift boxes for the first 100 visitors, acknowledging the ongoing support from their dedicated patrons. The store also extended a generous 20% discount on all their offerings, making it a sweet day for everyone in attendance.

Li-Lac Chocolates’ 100-year journey is not just a reflection of their culinary excellence but also a celebration of their tradition of craftsmanship. As they continue to be an integral part of New Yorkers’ milestones, their commitment to quality and tradition remains unwavering. The Industry City factory and store served as the perfect backdrop to celebrate a century of sweet memories and continue to create many more. 

Li-Lac Chocolates Locations

  • Hudson Yards: 20 Hudson Yards, Level 4
  • West Village: 75 Greenwich Avenue
  • Bleecker Street: 162 Bleecker Street (btw Sullivan & Thompson)
  • Grand Central Market: 43rd Street & Lexington Avenue
  • Chelsea Market: 75 9th Avenue (at 15th Street)
  • Brooklyn Factory/Store: 68 35th Street (btw 2nd & 3rd Avenue) Brooklyn.
  • Website: www.li-lacchocolates.com and Instagram: @lilacchocolates
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Passion Tree Launches New Line of Mini Seltzers In Target

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Southern California-based beverage company Passion Tree, the pioneer of the world’s first-ever mini-hard seltzer, hosted their official launch party for their new line of Passion Tree Minis in NY on October 7, 2023. Originally scheduled for an October 8 launch, Passion Tree Minis are now available in select Target stores including New York, Illinois, Florida, Texas, and California as of Monday. The seltzers come in five flavors, including Guava, Dragon Fruit, Boysenberry, and two new flavors exclusive to the minis variety pack: Lychee and Coconut.

Photo Courtesy of Passion Tree

Despite the immediate downpour, the event was a success. Make Believe, the rooftop venue where the event was hosted, offered a fantastic experience. The rain may have been falling outside, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of those inside. The room was filled with influencers, beverage enthusiasts, and Passion Tree co-founders Andy Kuklock, & Jake Ryder, who took the time to connect with attendees, sharing their brand’s vision for the future. The drinks had a subtle sweetness perfect for a housewarming matching the intimate and friendly atmosphere of Make Believe. The 7.5oz cans, with an ABV of 5.5%, are available in a Variety 10 pack for $18.99, or Guava and Coconut 6 packs for $11.99. Store locators can be found at drinkpassiontree.com.

Photo Courtesy of Passion Tree

Passion Tree takes pride in offering a friendly beverage option tailored to a conscious and responsible drinking crowd. It’s not about seeking intoxication during a night out; so much as it is a refreshing drink that doesn’t come with the lingering effects of a hangover. The lower alcohol content can strike a balance that allows for easy social drinking without taking a toll on your well-being. Their compact size is convenient for on-the-go activities, such as picnics, outdoor events, or carrying in a purse or bag. Passion Tree Minis empowers consumers to enjoy every moment in a precisely portioned, guilt-free package while reducing the risk of health concerns associated with excessive alcohol consumption. With their compact size, signature light carbonation, premium brewing process, gluten-free and kosher certification, and 70 calories per serving, these mini hard seltzers are sure to disrupt the seltzer market in a huge way.

For more information please visit drinkpassiontree.com and follow @PassionTree on social.

 

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Raoul Peck’s Silver Dollar Road Unearths a Family’s Fight for Land Rights

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Variety Gotham Week kicked off with a screening of Raoul Peck’s latest documentary Silver Dollar Road on Monday, Oct. 2 in partnership with Amazon Studios at the Angelika Film Center. Silver Dollar Road is a documentary film directed by Raoul Peck that tells the story of the Reels family in North Carolina and their decades-long battle to reclaim their ancestral land. The film sheds light on the historical injustices faced by Black families in America regarding land ownership.

The film is told through family matriarchs Mamie Reels Ellison and her niece Kim Renee Duhon who continue fighting for their families’ land even after their brothers and uncles Melvin and Licurtis are wrongfully imprisoned. Melvin and Licurtis become two of the longest-serving inmates for civil contempt in the country spending close to eight years behind bars for refusing to give up their property. Their struggle is a reflection of the broader challenges faced by Black communities across the country. Something that was once seen as invaluable has now become a commodity and the Reels stood in the way of that greed. Despite living on the land & raising their families, they were deemed inferior to those who only saw the land as property and possession.

Courtesy of Prime Video

Raoul Peck joined Variety Gotham Week for a Q&A following the film. During the Q&A he emphasized the importance of authenticity, empathy, and the enduring impact of the film. Peck highlighted his intention not to overly stylize the documentary but rather allow the Reels family to be themselves. He stressed the need to protect both the people involved in the film and the protagonist, ensuring that their story was portrayed with integrity. His goal was to avoid depicting the family as victims and, instead, to present them as parents, uncles, and human beings. By doing so, he aimed to create a connection with the audience, so that when the dramatic moments unfolded, the empathy would still be central.

Peck touched upon the broader context of land ownership and deprivation, a theme that extends beyond the Reels family’s experience. He noted that many people have come from land somewhere and were deprived of it, often involving their parents. This phenomenon is not confined to rural areas but also manifests in cities through gentrification, where marginalized communities are pushed out.

Courtesy of Prime Video

In the context of Beaufort, North Carolina, where the film is primarily set, Peck noted that the town’s residents generally know each other, implying a sense of familiarity and community. However, beneath this surface of familiarity lies a deeper issue related to racial and economic disparities. This is where the power structure comes into play.

Peck observed that despite the close-knit nature of the community, the Black population in Beaufort was disproportionately affected by land dispossession. These disparities reflect a broader pattern in America that particularly affects Black Americans and their access to economic justice. In his own words, Peck emphasized that the film isn’t just a story but a lasting memory. He didn’t want the film to be a detached narrative but he also wanted people to care for the characters as much as he did.

 

Silver Dollar Road will be available to stream on Prime Video 10/20 and open for viewing 10/13 in select theaters

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Max Brings Young Love to Life at Fort Greene Park

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Set against the backdrop of Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn, NY,  Max hosted an immersive screening of Matthew Cherry’s new animated series Young Love this past Wednesday. The Chicago-based show follows an African American couple voiced by Issa Rae and Kid Cudi as Stephen & Angela, along with their daughter Zuri, played by Brooke Monroe Conaway. The animated series was greenlit by  Max in 2020 and launched 9/21 for streaming on Max.

The new series for Max is created by Cherry, who will showrun with long-time animation creative Carl Jones (The Boondocks, Black Dynamite). The series will be executive produced by Blue Key Entertainment’s Monica A. Young (producer of Hair Love) along with Lion Forge Animation’s David Steward II and Carl Reed.

 

For the family-friendly event Max hosted immersive activations in partnership with Scene In Black & The Lay Out based on the 12-part TV show including:

  • Angela’s Salon: Hair Braiding presented by Yeluchi by Un-Ruly
  • Stephen’s Studio: Beats Making presented by BeatClub & Serato
  • Zuri’s Reading Corner: Kids Activities presented by Penguin Random House
  • Photo Moment: Family House

DJ BMAJR kept the mood alive and upbeat as the official DJ of the evening playing throwbacks and new singles for their set.

The event kicked off promptly at 6 PM, drawing a crowd of eager parents and their little ones, all grabbing snacks and preparing for the evening’s screening. However, the show didn’t start until after sunset, around 7 PM, heightening the anticipation among the attendees. While some episodes had already been released on Max the week before, the opportunity to gather and celebrate a Black TV show in the heart of Brooklyn felt like a powerful statement.

Notably, the local partners that Max collaborated with were predominantly Black vendors or organizations, further emphasizing the event’s intentional commitment to diversity. This choice was in line with the show’s creator and showrunner, Matthew Cherry, who is a Black filmmaker and first-time father. It was an inspiring moment, given the historical significance of Black hair and how it has defined the Black community, to see a light, family-friendly show portraying everyday struggles such as dealing with family expectations, life after a setback, and parenthood, especially to a bright young Black girl. These are challenges that the young couple must contend with, and the TV show skillfully highlights their journey.

Amidst these pressures, the TV show shines a light on the joy and love that the family members have for each other and those around them. Angela’s return to her life after her cancer remission includes relearning her trade as a hairstylist, with mistakes made but ultimately giving herself grace. Stephen grapples with embracing his musical talent and recognizing that his work may not appeal to everyone, understanding that artistic taste is subjective. Meanwhile, Zuri, as cute as ever, urges her parents to participate in a school project, not just to fulfill an assignment, but to showcase how cool and supportive her parents are. Angela and Stephen manage to arrive just in the nick of time, making Zuri proud and treating the kids to some great music for dancing.

Photograph Courtesy of Max

Max screened the first two episodes interactively, engaging the audience with trivia questions related to influential Black movies and TV shows embedded in popular culture. As the evening came to a close, Matthew Cherry, along with other key members of the show, took the stage to express their gratitude to the guests for joining in the celebration of the continuation of their storytelling journey, from Hair Love to Young Love. The Brooklyn audience gave Cherry a well-deserved round of applause, echoing their appreciation for the screening.

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Hortus NYC Blends Contemporary Asian Cuisine with New Brunch Menu

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Whether you’re a seasoned brunch enthusiast or looking for a new place to try Hortus NYC promises to deliver with their affordable brunch in the heart of 5th Avenue. Known for its Michelin-starred Chef Geo Park, the restaurant has been making waves with its innovative approach to cuisine. With their doors opening at 10:30 am on weekends and 11:30 am on weekdays, Hortus NYC welcomes brunch enthusiasts into their beautiful upstairs dining room and hidden garden oasis, until the last call at 2:15 pm every day. The name Hortus NYC, Latin for garden, reflects the emphasis on freshness, and the theme of the garden runs through the interior.

While the traditional brunch offerings like chicken and waffles have their own charm, Hortus NYC has reimagined the brunch landscape with menu items like Mochi Pancakes accompanied by Butter Cream and Kimchi Jam, and Korean-style poached eggs with house-made hash browns, seasonal mix salad, topped with rice vinegar soy sauce. What sets this brunch experience apart is the unique way the meals are served. At $30 per person, the menu is designed for groups to share five plates, including three appetizers for the table and the choice of two entrées. The team at Hortus NYC will adjust the portion sizes to ensure each guest is well-fed.

 

In addition to the new dishes, Hortus NYC is offering 2-hour bottomless cocktails for $25 per person. Curated by Managing Partner Suhum Jang (Daniel, Jungsik) these unique cocktails are rooted in Asian influences. For a refreshing start, Pear Affair blends Hummy Seltzer, Pear, and Soju, garnished with mint. If you’re in the mood for a twist on the classic, the Yuzu Aperol Spritz is crafted with Prosecco, Yuzu, Aperol, and orange slices. You can’t go wrong with the timeless Mimosa or their signature Hortus Hugo cocktail blends Prosecco, elderflower, lime, and is garnished with fragrant mint leaves.

To keep things interesting we asked for our appetizers and entrees to come out at the same time alternating between different plates and returning to our favorites on the table. We ended up with 6 dishes as our Korean-style poached eggs were compliments of the chef. 

 

Yuzu Bacon Rose Pasta: Our first dish was the Yuzu Bacon Rose Pasta. It featured rigatoni pasta in rose cream sauce with Yuzu bacon. As I took my first bite I tasted the balance and harmony of each ingredient complimenting the perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta. The bacon had a touch of maple sweetness, and the cheese added a mild bitterness. Each bite brought a burst of flavors—zesty bacon, creamy rose sauce, and depth from the cheese. It was a great start to the meal and an unforgettable dish.

Prime Meat Ball Sandwich:  For our second dish, we tried the Prime Meatball Sandwich, featuring Galbi marinated beef, pickled mushrooms, red onion, and truffle. At first glance, it resembled a classic hotdog bun, but with a gourmet twist. Instead of plain white bread the chef used a toasted brioche-style bun to hold the rest of the food substituting franks for meatballs. The optional truffle which we opted for added a rich flavor to the meal and complimented well with the other ingredients without overpowering the dish. The overall texture wasn’t overly cooked but tender and soft. 

Fruit Salad: For our third dish, we enjoyed the Fruit Salad which comprised a medley of cucumbers, assorted fruits, creamy yogurt, and a subtle touch of chili oil. The inclusion of cucumbers and fruit offered a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The yogurt base provided a refreshing contrast, balancing the dish’s overall profile. As we savored each bite, it became evident that the peaches and other fruits had been carefully selected for their freshness. The yogurt, with its sweet-mild tanginess, harmonized perfectly with the fruits. The addition of chili oil provided a subtle kick, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the dish.

Poached Egg (Korean Style): For our fourth dish, we tried the Poached Egg (Korean Style). This dish featured a house-made hash brown, a seasonal mix salad, and a drizzle of rice vinegar soy sauce. The hash brown had a unique appeal, offering a crispy exterior with a hint of seasoning. It was a delightful departure from the usual scrambled or fried eggs we were accustomed to. While the salad that accompanied the dish had a slightly bitter note, the addition of cheese with the soy sauce lent a savory balance.

Burrata & Beet: For our 5th dish, we tried the Burrata & Beet featuring a medley of heirloom tomatoes & beets accompanied by mozzarella cheese, and adorned with delicate basil leaves. We appreciated the creative combination of flavors and textures. Heirloom tomatoes took center stage, offering a burst of color and a fresh, juicy taste. However, the standout element of the dish was the yellow beet. Its vibrant hue added an eye-catching appeal to the plate. It’s subtle sweetness and tender texture offered a unique contrast to the savory components of the dish.

Mochi Pancake: For our final dish, we tried the Mochi Pancake featuring a combination of buttercream and kimchi jam on the side as well as maple yuzu bacon. The kimchi’s presence was not overpowering and had a balanced, pickle-like sweetness. The buttercream stole the show with its sweet airy texture. It was the perfect substitute for syrup and worked well spread across the mochi pancakes. If you enjoy an unconventional sweet and savory meal this will not disappoint.

 

To explore the complete brunch menu at Hortus NYC please visit here                                                                                                             We hope your culinary adventure at Hortus NYC is as delightful as ours. Bon appétit!

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NYFW Designer Ashlyn So Advocates for Mental Health in Her SS24 Collection

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

In a city known for its avant-garde fashion and creative expression, 15-year-old fashion designer and accidental activist, Ashlyn So, took center stage once again, capturing the hearts of New York’s fashion elite. Her latest showcase at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) defied convention and expectations, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. Ashlyn So’s journey into the world of fashion and activism is nothing short of remarkable. As one of the youngest fashion designers ever to grace the NYFW stage, she brought a unique perspective to the runway. Her SS24 collection, titled ‘Unseen,’ was a testament to her personal mental health healing journey and a call to break the silence on mental health stigma within the Asian community. A sensory experience against the backdrop of a live cellist, Ashlyn So’s collection told a powerful story. “Let’s create a world where no one feels invisible… I want to encourage everyone to break the silence on mental health stigma within the Asian community. Many of us go unnoticed and unheard, but together, we can change that narrative,” – Ashlyn So

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 10: Models walk the runway during NYFW: The Shows Ashlyn So SS24 Collection - Front Row on September 10, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 10: <> on September 10, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 10: <> on September 10, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)

The show began with an ethereal display of sheer garments, creating an illusion of disappearance into the surrounding environment. Suuvi played the cello, with music by Paul Leonard-Morgan, Camille Saint-Saëns, and Pedro Osuna added an extra layer of drama and depth to the show. The garments symbolized feelings of loss and isolation, a sentiment that Ashlyn had experienced personally. However, as the show progressed, the garments grew stronger, bolder, and more resilient, mirroring the designer’s own journey to rise above her darkness. What set this collection apart was the fusion of formal pieces with sneakers, giving each outfit a youthful and fresh feel. For the final piece, the model wore a giant puffer vest that symbolized a phoenix rising above the ashes of its former self. The crowd took it all in processing the moment as it unfolded.

In the world of fashion, Ashlyn So is a reminder that clothing can be more than just fabric and thread; it can be a canvas for emotions, a vessel for creativity, and a vehicle for change. Her clothing, like her words, embodied a duality – a blend of joy and sharpness, much like the chrome and glossy textures that graced her collection.

Notable runway guests included Jarry Lee and Skyelar Chase.                                                                                                                              Notable attendees included Paige Taylor, Asia Monet, Laya de Leon Hayes.                                                                                    Sponsors included Nike, Blume, New York Makeup Academy, and UNITE.

 

You can find more of Ashlyn’s   work on her website at ashlynso.com

 

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VFILES: A Decade of Influence, Creativity, and Transformation at NYFW

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

The New York Fashion Week events kicked off in style at the iconic VFILES SoHo location on 12 Mercer Street. Steeped in fashion history, this venue has been at the forefront of nurturing young talent since its inception in 2012. Opening its doors with a bang, featuring Hood by Air and ASAP Rocky in June 2012, the VFILES Store quickly became a cherished space for emerging designers to establish their brands in the heart of NYC. Julie Anne Quay, a driving force behind the VFILES Foundation, highlights the organization’s mission to elevate young designers and artists. She explains, “We are reestablishing a showcase at 12 Mercer and establishing the new VFDA (VFILES Designer Alumni) to further support those designers and artists who have been featured in VFILES Runway and in many iterations of the store over the past decade.”

Guests including Rebecca Black, VFILES fellow and professional ballet dancer Gabe Stone Shayer and 88 Rising artist Spence Lee joined the NYFW opening to see a stunning array of designs by talented individuals, including Kim Shui, Sami Miro, Elena Velez, Leaf Xia, Seokwoon Yoon, Hubane Cozy, Celine Kwan, Ari Serrano, Gypsy Sport, Skdrow fashion, and the iconic VFILES namesake brand. This exciting announcement coincides with the celebration of the tenth year anniversary of VFILES RUNWAY, which made its debut in 2013. The runway has seen the spotlight on celebrated designers like Gypsy Sport, Sam MC, Steven Tai, and Ammerman Schlossberg.

Aliza Kelly at VFILES NYFW Opening Night and Manifestation

 

To commemorate this milestone, VFILES Fellow Aliza Kelly, led the gathering in group affirmations, encouraging everyone to drop their thoughts into the Affirmation Wheel. Later in the night, VFILES continued the celebration by hosting a special NYFW edition of their beloved Pass The Aux series at Bowery Electric. The stage came alive with performances by Rebecca Black and Delly, accompanied by Godspeed.

Rebecca Black on stage at VFILES Pass The Aux

 

SCHEDULE OF NYFW EVENTS:

  • Sept 7th: Opening VFILES FOUNDATION @ 12 MERCER Fashion Week Manifestation with Aliza Kelly** VFILES Lab Fellow
    •  Sept 3rd: Gypsy Sport casting @12 Mercer studio – 1:00-5:00 pm ET
    • Sept 4th -10th : Sami Miro residency @12 Mercer Studio
    • Sept 8th – 12th: Ari Serrano’s Sweatshop – Upcycle sewing classes in the basement @12 Mercer Studio
    •  Sept 11th: Hubane Cozy Show @12 Mercer Studio
    • Sept 12th: “Love Kelly” @12 Mercer Studio

The VFILES NYFW schedule is packed with dynamic events, including a casting session by Gypsy Sport, a residency by Sami Miro, Ari Serrano’s Sweatshop offering upcycle sewing classes, Hubane Cozy’s much-anticipated show, and “Love Kelly,” a creative gathering at 12 Mercer Studio.

 

Checkout our reel recap of the event below:

 

 

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Fashion’s Next Generation: Highlights from the 13th ANNUAL ROOKIE USA NYFW

by Branda Ayo
written by Branda Ayo

Parents had every reason to beam with pride at the 13th ANNUAL ROOKIE USA New York Fashion Week Show, held in the vibrant Chelsea area at IRON23. This dazzling event celebrated the world’s most fashionable kids on Wednesday, September 6th. The catwalk featured a diverse group of models, including notable Kidfluencers, and celebrity kids, who confidently strutted their stuff, leaving their parents in awe.

Presented by Haddad Brands, this exclusive event showcased the latest looks and must-have gear, featuring apparel, accessories, and footwear from top global brands such as Nike, Jordan, Levi’s®, Converse, and Hurley. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the show had a heartwarming purpose, benefiting Moms for Moms NYC on behalf of NY Knicks star Julius Randle. The mission of Moms for Moms is to empower single mothers by providing essential support for their postpartum and newborn needs.

Hosted by the charming Kidfluencer Haileigh Vasquez, the event also featured captivating performances by Sophia Rita and the local Knicks City Kids, with DJ Sophia Rocks setting the musical tempo. Cincoro Tequila added a touch of sophistication, offering specialty cocktails for the adult attendees.

 

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Chanel Nicole Marrow (L) walks the runway during the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)

Among the celebrity families present were Law &amp; Order: SVU star Ice-T, his wife  Coco and their adorable daughter Chanel. Ice-T shared his thoughts on the event, saying,  “It’s not about exclusive designer brands where parents are trying to go out of their way to show off. It’s simply about regular, cool clothes, and we like the kids to have a bit of flavor and style”.

The former Cheetah Girls star and E-News Host Adrienne Bailon-Houghton watched as her son Ever James walked for his first time and shared her enthusiasm, saying,  “I absolutely love it, honestly. It’s my favorite fashion show at New York Fashion Week, hands down my favorite. I think there’s nothing cuter than seeing little kids come down a runway, strut their stuff, and give you the cutest poses at the end of the runway.”

 

 

Checkout our reel recap of the event below:

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Israel Houghton, and Claudette Balion attend the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Sterling Shepard walks the runway during the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: A model walks the runway during the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Sophia Rita Agresta performs on the runway during the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Rajeiro Lee and Shenseea Lea attend the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Royal Reign and Lil Kim attend the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: (L-R) Nate Burleson, Mia Burleson, and Atoya Burleson attend the 13th Annual Rookie USA Fashion Show at Iron 23 on September 06, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Rookie USA)

 

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