The Star Of Karen Walker's New Campaign Is A Dog Who Has More Confidence Than Most People

January 28, 2015, 9:12 am

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By now, you've probably heard of Toast, the almost impossibly cute, toothless dog who has catapulted to Instagram celebrity status.

If not, stop what you're doing, find the nearest smartphone and follow @toastmeetsworld on Instagram. The adorable pup has already made her rounds within the fashion community (rubbing paws with the likes of Karlie Kloss & Irina Shayk on a regular basis) but this dog is much more than just good looks. In fact, she (along with her owners) use her fame as a platform to advocate against puppy mills, like the one from which she was rescued.

Just found out it is National Dog Dress Up Day so I'm posting one of my favorite outfits. #Frenchtoast #carbloading

Une photo publiée par TOAST MEETS WORLD™ (@toastmeetsworld) le 14 Janv. 2015 à 20h50 PST

It is in that spirit of good style & good cause that eyewear extraordinaire Karen Walker decided to feature Toast in her summer 2015 campaign. Sure, Walker has commissioned some unconventional models before, but Toast is a different kind of celebrity. "It wasn’t until we first saw this season’s star that we thought there was a celebrity who could actually capture the essence of our brand in a campaign," she said.

We had a chance to, er, "chat" with the King Charles Cavalier Spaniel (really her owner Katie Sturino, obviously) about her rise to stardom, the modeling advice she received pre-shoot (hint: it involves Beyoncé, naturally), and of course, how she keeps her coat so shiny.

HuffPost Style:First of all, you look fantastic in the new campaign. You were already so stylish before, how do you think being in this ad will change your look?
Toast: Well, I think I won’t be caught dead in public without a pair of Karen Walker's.

HPS: What is your favorite pair in the collection?
T: The Starburst in Navy. Who doesn't love a cat eye on a dog?



HPS: Besides a pair of KW's, what are three things every "NYC It Girl" needs in her wardrobe?
T: A solid tote that can act as a suit case (I throw my laptop, scarf, wallet, a magazine…and occasionally myself into one.) I prefer Iomoi’s classic tote, a leather jacket that makes you instantly feel like you are in the Ramones (I prefer BLK DNM) and finally, a turban.

HPSWhy do you think she picked you for the campaign?
T: Have you seen the photos?

HPS:What do your owners think of the campaign?
T:My mom is basically Kris Jenner, trying to live out her dreams as a model through me, so she is over the moon. My dad is pretty out of it but I am sure he is proud.



HPS: Did you receive any modeling advice?
T: Yes, Karlie Kloss is a friend. She sat me down and taught me how to turn it on in front of the camera. I can be shy, so she told me to pretend I was someone else during the job. So, I pretended I was Beyoncé. I think that is just the normal thing to do right now when you want to feel brave and hot.

HPS:What would you say to other dogs trying to break into the modeling industry?
T: Don't give up.

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Shantel VanSanten Lounges Poolside In A Cutout Swimsuit For Maxim

January 28, 2015, 9:48 am

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Quinn James, is that you?

Former "One Tree Hill" star and "The Messengers" actress Shantel VanSanten stuns in the latest issue of Maxim magazine, posing poolside in a white cutout swimsuit for photographers, René & Radka.



The 29-year-old opens up about her childhood, revealing that, despite her Hollywood looks, she was "a nerd" in school.

“I was a nerd: president of the glee club, president of the yearbook staff. I even started a book club!" she told Maxim, adding that her family didn't own a TV.

"Growing up as a young girl on a farm in Minnesota, it’s just not something you have. I don’t even know if you could get cable there," she explained. "The other night I had a big dinner with friends and everyone talked about their favorite movie, and I just started to laugh because I haven’t even seen 'The Godfather' or any of the epic, classic movies that everyone is talking about.”

For more with Shantel, watch the video above and pick up the February issue of Maxim, starring Shay Mitchell, on newsstands now.

Gabrielle Union Says 'The World Isn't Going To End' If We See More Diversity In Women On TV

January 28, 2015, 9:54 am

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Gabrielle Union has a brilliant strategy for getting more women of color on TV: Put more women of color on TV.

In a Jan. 25 interview with Yahoo, the 42-year-old actress talked about her BET show "Being Mary Jane" and the importance of seeing different types of women on screen.

When Yahoo's Kayleen Schaefer noted that "Being Mary Jane" is often measured against Shonda Rhimes' hit TV show "Scandal." While both shows feature strong female leads, "Being Mary Jane" is about a successful cable news anchor navigating through life while "Scandal" is a political melodrama.

Union explained why this comparison is so problematic. "What bugs me is that they’re making the comparison because they’re both shows that star black women," Union said. "It’s such apples and oranges. It’s like comparing 'True Detective' and 'Law & Order' -- you would never do that."

She offered a simple remedy that Hollywood hasn't quite been able to figure out. "What it says is we need so much more diversity in TV," she went on. "We need shows starring women of color or women of a certain age or women who aren’t a size two. If that happens, the world isn’t going to end." Preach.

After marrying NBA star Dwayne Wade in August 2014, Union caught some heat from the public when she asked her husband to sign a prenup. "For women in Hollywood, when they’re coupling, everything is about the brand," she told Yahoo. "Everything is about latching on to a rising star, so you can kick your heels up. That’s never been my story, ever."

Like any woman in or out of the spotlight who is successful, Union said she just wants to make it clear how hard she's worked throughout her career. "Now that it’s time to get married to a man who happens to play basketball and has done well for himself, I want to make it clear that I have in no way hitched my wagon to his star," she said. "I have my own wagon and star."

Head over to Yahoo to read the rest of Union's interview.

Farrah Abraham Wants More Plastic Surgery, Despite Botched Lip Procedure

January 28, 2015, 10:10 am

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It seems that Farrah Abraham's interest in plastic surgery hasn't been hampered by a recent botched attempt at lip implant surgery.

On Monday, the former "Teen Mom" star-turned-porn actress appeared on "The Doctors," discussing the allergic reaction she had to the "numbing product" a doctor injected her with, which caused her upper lip to swell to about three times its normal size, sending her to the emergency room.

Girlfriends don't say I didn't warn ya ! #BOTCHED California #ER #fixit pic.twitter.com/iN2i5QzABr

— Farrah Abraham (@F1abraham) January 6, 2015

The 23-year-old, who has already undergone two breast augmentations and had a nose job, a chin implant, cheek fillers and several rounds of lip injections, explained that she wanted the permanent lip implant because she was worried about stretching out her lips and is "scared to keep doing the injections."

Because of her immediate reaction to the anesthetic, Abraham was unable to get the implant. While the former reality star called the experience a "wake up call" and said she's "happy to be alive," Abraham admitted she's still considering getting her "butt done."

"I'm still doing research. I'm more in like the research phase," she said. "I don't want anything that's creating more problems."

Last May, Abraham opened up about her plastic surgeries, telling HuffPost Live host Ricky Camilleri, "I would just waste hours and hours and hours in front of the mirror, and it's to the point where I would waste my whole day and get aggravated with how I look, so I wanted to get surgery, and I think there's nothing wrong with that ... because I didn't mess up my features or my ethnicity or who I am."

Amal Clooney Responds To Reporter's Fashion Question Like A Boss

January 28, 2015, 10:19 am

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Amal Clooney is definitely one of our newest style icons. But getting asked fashion questions while she's working? Amal is obviously SO over it.

Amal Clooney (née Alamuddin) is an accomplished human rights lawyer who has previously represented WikiLeaks Founder Julian Assange and been involved in many other notable negotiations, lawsuits and council appearances.



Clooney is currently representing Armenia's interests in a case against Doğu Perinçek, a Turkish politician who denies the Armenian Genocide. According to The Independent, Clooney appeared before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg on Wednesday and some reporters took this time to talk about her style choices.

Bruno Waterfield, a correspondent for The Telegraph in Brussels, tweeted that he asked "Amal Clooney about the fashion speculation." Check out her reply:

I ask Amal Clooney about the fashion speculation. She laughed & pointed to her robes, "I'm wearing Ede & Ravenscroft" pic.twitter.com/cEsuy87Vda

— Bruno Waterfield (@BrunoBrussels) January 28, 2015

That's right -- Ede & Ravenscroft -- AKA the tailors that make her legal robes when she's "busy" being a human rights attorney. **Mic drop**

Dangerous Style: How Wearing The Wrong Jewelry Can Get You Locked Up

January 28, 2015, 11:31 am

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Andre Perry is 32 years old. He's a commercial photographer, lives in Brooklyn, and loves fashion. He's also black. A month ago, Perry was stopped at a subway station by an undercover officer with the New York City Police Department. He was interrogated about his two-finger ring, arrested, and charged with possession of a deadly weapon—

15 Wedding Dresses Ordered Online That Look Nothing Like The Real Thing

January 28, 2015, 11:47 am

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While online shopping is always risky, buying a wedding dress online may be biggest gamble of them all.

Still, many brides-to-be will scour the internet in search of tempting discounts or convincing counterfeit gowns. But if you dare to order that dream dress online, you may well receive a truly unrecognizable garment in your mailbox -- not to mention, it probably comes from a sweat shop.

Several Facebook pages --including Brides Beware, Knockoff Nightmares and International Ownership -- collect photos documenting the brides' online shopping horror stories. We've rounded up 15 of the best photos below.


1. Lime green is the new white?

Post by International Ownership.

2. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something "ew."

Post by Brides Beware.

3. Business casual bridal wear is something we (thankfully) haven't seen before.

Post by Brides Beware.

4. Your pre-school ballet costume is making a comeback.

Post by Brides Beware.

5. But it looked so nice on your Pinterest board!

Post by Knock Off Nightmares.

6. Warning: Online purchases may appear tackier IRL.

Post by International Ownership.

7. Rumor has it somebody got kicked off "Dancing with the Stars" just for wearing this.

Post by Knock Off Nightmares

8. If you squint REALLY hard, these dresses almost look like distant cousins.

Post by Knock Off Nightmares.

9. When DIY goes very, very wrong.

Post by Brides Beware.

10. Everything is not coming up roses.

Post by Brides Beware.

11. All you need to replicate the look? A petticoat and an over-active imagination.

Post by Brides Beware.

12. Pop Quiz: Can you spot the fake?

Post by Knock Off Nightmares.

13. One of these is not like the other.

Post by Brides Beware.

14. Nothing a whole new dress couldn't fix.

Post by Knock Off Nightmares.

15. When it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Post by Knock Off Nightmares.

Why do these dresses turn out so poorly? Aron Padley, a bridal retailer, told Brides Beware that counterfeit retailers "use the cheapest, crappy material they can find. Nothing is ever straight when it comes to hemming. If you order in ivory it usually comes in white in the wrong size with no structure, no boning and 99% of the time unhappy brides."

So what's a thrifty bride-to-be supposed to do? In a post, admins of Knock Off Nightmare write:

There are legitimate, low cost options... First, check your local bridal store clearance rack, nothing beats having the ability to try it on and take it home. Most bridesmaid dresses come in white and ivory, so try those, too! There are a ton of cancelled weddings every year, get a name brand designer at a huge discount on Ebay, Tradesy, Pre-Owned Wedding Dresses, and Once Wed.

Keep in touch! Check out HuffPost Weddings on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest

Diversifying Hollywood About More Than the Academy Awards

January 29, 2015, 7:44 am

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I will join the chorus of voices who think it is a terrible shame that Ava Duvernay will not be up for an Academy Award for her work on Selma. It's equally concerning that not a single actor or actress of color will be eligible for awards in the four acting categories and that only men will be under consideration for Best Director. While it's terrible that Ms. Duvernay won't be able to make history this year, perhaps it's even worse that there are so few women and people of color for awards panels to even choose from.

This year's Academy Awards are set to be the least diverse in 17 years. It doesn't just stop at the Oscars, a lack of diversity plagues Hollywood even more broadly. Out of the vast amount of movies produced this year only a small number featured women directors and producers or lead actors and actresses of color. We should be able to name many more African American, Latino, Asian and Pacific Islander actors, directors, screenwriters, and producers who should have been up for consideration in addition to those who worked on Selma.

During a tearful acceptance speech at the Golden Globes, Jane the Virgin star Gina Rodriguez said, "This award is so much more than myself. It represents a culture that wants to see themselves as heroes." Her words resonated with many viewers that night because they were true. Women and people of color want and deserve to see their stories accurately represented in television and on the silver screen. They also deserve consideration for Hollywood's top honors for the quality of their contributions.

Building a more inclusive Hollywood will require serious commitment from industry leaders. They must also recognize that their efforts cannot just stop at diversifying what's on the screen, it's important for Hollywood to ensure that its behind the scenes workforce -- at all levels -- is an accurate reflection of society as a whole.

Part of this means that companies will have to invest in diversifying talent from the entry level all the way up to their corporate boardrooms. Human resources divisions will have to ensure they are hiring a diverse talent pool at the assistant and junior levels. Managers and senior staff will have to help key talent acquire the soft skills and strong networks that they will need to rise to the top.

Additionally, it means diversifying the membership of governing bodies that vote for Hollywood's accolades every year. As it stands, the membership statistics for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences are dismal, at best. A study from the Los Angeles Times found that academy voters are 94 percent white and 77 percent male, with only 2 percent African American and 2 percent Latino members.

The Academy's voter demographics are even more astonishing when compared to actual census data. According to the 2010 census, African Americans represent 13 percent of the population while Latino residents are even more highly represented at 16 percent. Of the near 300 million respondents, 5 percent identified as Asian and a considerable number of people identified as more than one race. Audiences are rapidly diversifying, and if Hollywood does not work to keep up they will find themselves missing out on the wallets of a growing segment of the American public.

A serious focus on diversity and inclusion is an important undertaking not just because it's smart for business, but also because it's the right thing to do. Though we call it "entertainment" what we see in movies and on TV drives the broader cultural conversation and has an important place in our society. Now, more than ever, it's important that women and people of color are a part of that exchange.

BRENNON MARCANO is the Executive Director of the Council of Urban Professionals, whose mission is to connect, empower, and mobilize the next generation of diverse business and civic leaders.

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Carrie Underwood Spills Her Makeup Tricks And The One Look She Regrets

January 29, 2015, 7:52 am

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Carrie Underwood is a country music superstar known to fans for her killer voice, dazzling stage presence and incredible red carpet looks. Not only has Underwood already sold an astounding 64 million albums worldwide and garned 18 #1 hit singles, last year she added another accomplishment to her already insane resume -- global brand ambassador for Almay cosmetics.

HuffPost Style got the chance to speak with the 31-year-old "makeup junkie" over the phone to discuss Underwood's "Simply American" brand relaunch with Almay, her no-makeup secret to looking great and the one look she regrets from her college/"American Idol" days.

On what "Simply American" beauty means to her:

It’s all about being confident, keeping things uncomplicated and fresh and pretty... bringing out that natural beauty that I believe every woman possesses. You know, there's something about everybody that's like no other and is absolutely gorgeous and it's all about enhancing that.

On how much time it takes her to get ready in the morning:

It depends. I mean I kind of like taking my time in the morning; I'm waking up and trying to get myself going for the rest of the day. But I can be ready, start to finish in about 15 minutes -- hair, makeup, everything -- if I have to be, but I'd really rather not!

On her secret to looking great that doesn't require makeup:



Water is something that is so important, not just for a beauty routine but for keeping yourself energized and making sure your body is working the way that it should. I'm always drinking water -- SOOO much water!

On the makeup she always has in her purse or on the red carpet:

Definitely Almay Smart Shades Butter Kiss Lipstick. That's just something that's so easy to throw on or get a quick touch-up before a red carpet event. I probably have about three in my purse right now!

On the hairstyle she regrets:



Oh hair! I tend to have a natural curl in my hair anyway, but not a whole lot. When I was in college I would put a lot of product in my hair and force it to be curly. And I definitely did that my first "Idol" audition! I call it my "crunchy" hair. That I might like to undo if I could.

Rachel Maddow Goes On Letterman, Wears Awesome Shoes, Laughs At Potential 2016 Candidates

January 29, 2015, 7:53 am

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Rachel Maddow appeared on "Late Show" Wednesday night to discuss potential candidates for the 2016 presidential election with host David Letterman.

But first we need to talk about her shoes:



The MSNBC host gave a sneak preview of the sneakers she would wear to compliment her typically black and gray wardrobe. YES, Maddow. YES.



Okay, on to the interview. Letterman had many questions for Maddow, but expressed great interest in why she is so excited for the upcoming presidential election.

"Because both sides are a total mess," Maddow replied. "Both sides have it really bad. On the Republican side there's a huge field -- there's like 20 people running -- and the field is so weak that Mitt Romney thinks he might get back in."

Burn.

"On the Democratic side, everybody just assumes it's going to be Hillary Clinton," she said. "If it is, that's bad news for the Democrats if she doesn't have a contested primary. Primary makes you tough, figures out all the things about you that they might use against you in a general. If you don't have a good primary, you really can't win."

Finally, Letterman asked Maddow about the likelihood of one Sarah Palin on the 2016 ticket.

To which Maddow responded:

From Refugee Camp to Moda Boss of NYC's South Street Seaport District

January 29, 2015, 8:04 am

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When thinking about the bootstrapping success stories of the self-made American Dreamers, Monica Phromsavanh is definitely one of them. Founder and CEO of ModaBox -- a retail concept that combines personal styling with e-commerce -- Phromsavanh started before she even arrived in the United States.

Born and raised in a refugee camp in Argentina, Phromsavanh dropped out of school at 15 years old and got her first job at a wholesale clothing company in Buenos Aires to support her family. Selling sweaters through a wholesale distributor and watching her mother sell clothes on the black market was how Monica first developed her business savviness.

Like many young New Yorkers, Phromsavanh arrived with $200 in her pocket and a dream. She worked her way up the retail ladder, and eventually quit her 5th Avenue job to start her own business.

I featured Monica Phromsavanh in the latest episode of my docu-series about creative entrepreneurs, "Maker's Lane." She is an incredible reminder to live life passionately and fearlessly. Regardless of the circumstances, Phromsavanh demonstrates a life without boundaries.

Her first business, Modalistas, grew from a 100 square feet kiosk in The Limelight to a 4,000 square feet space within three years. Although wildly successful, Monica sought to grow her vision into an e-commerce brand in order to reach more people. Combining a brick and mortar, personal styling and online shopping, Phromsavanh built ModaBox.

In Spring 2014, Phromsavanh opened the doors of her second business, ModaBox, in the South Street Seaport District where her unique vision contributes to the changing area. Initially desolate post-Hurricane Sandy, Phromsavanh hopes for ModaBox to flourish in the Seaport District as the area booms with trendy, new businesses -- including the infamous Smorgasburg food fair setting up shop this summer.

Excited about ModaBox's new home, Phromsavanh is a firm believer of the saying, "It takes a village." "The Howard Hughes Corporation is so supportive of small and growing businesses like ModaBox here," said Phromsavanh. "No doubt, as fashion slowly creeps further downtown -- Vogue moving to the WTC and all -- Seaport Disrict will be the next go-to shopping and fashion mecca of N.Y.C."

Sounds like ModaBox isn't going anywhere but up soon.

Learn more about Monica Phromsavanh's vision and path to success by watching the episode above. Check out all episodes of Maker's Lane here.

Lipstick-Smearing Selfies Aim To Raise Awareness For Cervical Cancer In The UK

January 29, 2015, 8:26 am

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According to doctors, regular pap smears are the best way to detect cervical cancer. Alarmingly, one in three women between the ages of 25 and 29 in the United Kingdom don't get tested.

Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust, a U.K.-based organization that provides women with information about cervical cancer, has launched a selfie campaign called #smearforsmear in an effort to change that. The concept is simple: Smear your lipstick, take a selfie, post it on social media, raise awareness. Think Ice Bucket Challenge, but for cervical cancer.

"The number of women taking up their cervical screening invitation in the U.K. is going down year on year and this is extremely worrying," Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust spokeswoman Maddy Durrant told The Huffington Post. "Smear tests can prevent women from ever reaching a diagnosis, or can ensure early diagnosis so treatment plans are less extensive and side effects less impactful. Similarly an early diagnosis means a better chance of survival. Quite simply, a smear test could save a woman’s life."

Celebrities like Georgia May Jagger and Rita Ora have hopped on board, posting selfies on their Instagrams on Monday.

Right now, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust isn't partnered with a research organization for the campaign, but it is hoping the effort encourages women to get tested.

"We understand it’s near impossible to replicate a viral campaign like the Ice Bucket Challenge as these campaigns often start organically and require a little bit of magic," Durrant continued. "Smearing lipstick was an obvious -– and very visual –- choice. Using a hashtag that directly links the cause with the image was also key."

Check out some #smearforsmear selfies below:

Cervical Cancer Campaign #smearforsmear @JoTrust I nominate @sukiwaterhouse @caradelevingne @jasminebydesign

A photo posted by Georgia May Jagger (@georgiamayjagger) on Jan 27, 2015 at 6:46am PST

Cervical cancer campaign #smear4smear I nominate @elizhilfigz @officialjdunn @elenaora #jo'scervicalcancertrust

A photo posted by Rita Ora (@ritaora) on Jan 28, 2015 at 12:07am PST

#SmearForSmear
smear testing saves 5,000 UK women each year.
@jostrust pic.twitter.com/Yy12isTW8B

— ST ✌️ (@__sthomson) January 28, 2015

We’ve done our #smearforsmear selfie for @JoTrust! Have you? http://t.co/sd2wYdm1YI http://t.co/dJJoSRkHTE

— Now Magazine (@NowMag) January 28, 2015

Attend your smear, reduce your risk #smearforsmear. Text 'CCPW01 £3' to 70070 to donate to @jotrust pic.twitter.com/70N2WBQpni

— Jessica North (@JessicaNorthPR) January 28, 2015

H/T Elle

How To Be As Fierce As Olivia Pope In 5 Simple Steps

January 29, 2015, 8:27 am

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We could all learn a thing or two (or 12) from television's biggest #BossLady.

With the second half of season four of "Scandal" premiering Jan. 29, it's a great time to sit back and recognize just how fierce Olivia Pope is. Created by ABC, this montage of Pope being a straight boss will definitely get you excited for the next episode of "Scandal." Kerry Washington's political fixer is a powerful, smart and savvy woman who's proven time and time again she's a force to be reckoned with. Do not get in her way -- especially when she's wearing her white coat.

If you want to channel Ms. Pope, remember to ask the hard questions, throw serious shade with your eyes and always roll deep in fashion. Oh, and work, work, work.

It ain't easy wearing the white hat, but it sure looks good on Olivia.

Joe Zee Talks About The Least Glamorous Part Of His Job And Just Being A Badass Canuck

January 29, 2015, 8:45 am

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"Yes, You Can Make It In Fashion" is a HuffPost Style series that profiles men and women across every area of the fashion industry and explores how they rose to the top, how they thrive and practical advice they have for young people trying to break into their world.

Unless you've been living under a (very unfashionable) rock, you're probably familiar with Joe Zee. He's the Hong Kong-born Canadian who has taken the style world by storm, first as creative director at Elle, and now as the editor-in-chief of Yahoo Style. He's also starred on reality television shows, worked as a stylist to dozens of Hollywood heavyweights and even designed his own collection for QVC.

This style maven just got another honor that he can add to his ever-growing résumé -- host of the second annual Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards (CAFA) -- essentially Canada's version of the CFDAs.

Since Mr. Zee seems to be the guy who can do everything (and do it all so very well), we decided to pick his brain on what he has learned over his two-plus decades in the industry. We chatted with him about everything from the difference between print and digital editors to the least glamorous part of his job. Here's what we learned:

On the emerging design scene in Canada:

I think [the CAFA] is the perfect way to, number one, be celebratory about all the talent and number two, put a global spotlight on it. I think [the CAFA] is a perfect example of breaking away and showing some homegrown talent and toasting to it and celebrating it and saying hey, we're here and we can do this.



On the most common mistake newbies make in the workplace:

As great as it is with all the visibility of fashion in movies and on television and online, that visibility has also allowed people who are coming into the industry to have certain levels of expectations. Sometimes what you see portrayed in a show isn't exactly what real life is -- there is a little bit of a disconnect. A lot people who come into it think, oh I didn't think it was going to be like this, or I want to do this. When I did it, it was like, you'll do anything because there was no level of expectation, because you had no idea, you had nothing to compare it to.

On the biggest misconception about working in fashion:

People really do think this industry is glamour 24/7 and I'm not going to lie, there certainly is a level of glamour to it, but there is also a lot of hard work. You have to understand that this is -- like any other industry -- a lot of hard work without a lot of pay sometimes and you have to love what you do. On the surface it's such a glitzy and glamorous industry and I see that all the time, there are people who tweet me who say 'Oh my God, I want to be you, I want your job', but there is a lot of lead in to get to that point and there is a lot of hard work to get there and then it's a lot of hard work to stay there.

On the least glamorous part of his job:

It's First World problems but I worked 21 hours on Golden Globes day. I ate breakfast at 9 a.m. and I didn't eat again until 2 a.m. -- at all. And we were running around, we were backstage, we were doing our interviews, we were doing a live show on Yahoo and trying to get all that stuff done. And then I ate again at 2 a.m. and then went to go do "Good Morning America" at 3:30 in the morning and couldn't get to bed until 6 a.m. But that's fun and that's what it is. Yeah, I get up at 5 in the morning and comb through the daily news so that we can email with all the different editors to see what we are covering on the site -- I don't know if a lot of people want to get up at 5 a.m., but that's some of the types of things we go through here. We have new editors who start and we go okay, are you going to take the 7 a.m. shift?

On whether you can expect to have work-life balance in the fashion industry:

I don't have a ton of work-life balance, but it's what you make of it. I think when you start to sacrifice it against your will, that's when it starts to make you angry. And the minute you start to become bitter and angry about the thing that you do, you shouldn't be doing it.



On the one trait that has made him successful in fashion:

I can be an adventurous person. And I always say that fashion is the island of the misfits -- like all those kids that were insecure in high school got together and became adults and are celebrated for their eccentricities, instead of being made fun of. But at the end of the day, at the core of it, we're all still those insecure kids wanting to sit at the cool table. And that's true for me and for everybody, but I think at some point in my adult life I was like, I don't care what people think, I want to try different things and take a risk and do the things that I want to do. When you get to that point of being authentic to yourself, then I think that's when it sort of resonated for me.

On his decision to move from Elle to Yahoo:

It came out of left field -- they called me, they approached me. It wasn't anything I was thinking of and it just really made me start to think about things. I feel like I was already living that world as a bystander, so now I could actually be a participant. I read everything 24/7 anyways, so for me to be able to jump in on the conversation in such a big way, was kind of great. I mean I know for a lot of people in the industry, in traditional media, they were probably a little bit like, oh I don't get it, but they also thought that when I started on social media at the very beginning, or [when I] launch[ed] my QVC line.

On the skills you need as a digital editor versus a print editor:

Be more nimble -- that's the number one thing. As a print editor we got very married to things, because you had a lot of time to really flesh things out. [At Yahoo], you have to be ready to go -- you have to be nimble, to be like, I love this, we are going to run with this and if something isn't working, you can't be married to it and you have to move on. And I think letting go of things and being able to adapt and see things in a different way is really important as a digital editor. You're always moving, you're always seeing, you're always reading, you're always absorbing in that way and twisting things and understanding things, so you're constantly on the go. So that's my biggest thing. As a print editor I would sit in meetings with my team and my staff and we would talk about how to do story, we would have endless meetings about the same story, whereas at the time, I didn't feel like it was endless, I felt like this was a great way to really discuss this. But online, you have to keep going because if you lose time, it's already old and you want to be timely.

On Condé Nast suspending interns:

Listen I understand the labor laws and all that stuff -- I get it, it's just personally, it's a shame because when I was an intern, I learned so much. I made a lot of connections as an intern -- a lot of people I still talk to, not only the people I interned with but the people who were around me. I think it was a great way for people to meet other people, but at the same time, it probably at some point got abused or something... but I feel bad because I think Condé Nast is probably one of the best places for people to intern at and it's sad that that program went away.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

EXCLUSIVE: Get to Know the Kick-Ass Boxing Gym That's Getting the World's Top Models Into Shape

January 29, 2015, 8:50 am

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For all of their genetic advantages, most supermodels approach their fitness routines with the intensity of a professional athlete. After all, one doesn't stroll one's way onto the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway or maintain a bikini-ready body year-round without hours of hard work and dedication at the gym. To stay in fighting shape, the industry's top models seek out New York City's best trainers, and these days, it's beginning to feel like one trainer in particular: Rob Piela of Gotham Gym.

Located in New York's West Village, Gotham Gym is the not so secret home-away-from-home for a growing number of today's top models. Take a look at your Instagram on any given day and you'll likely spot photos of Gigi Hadid, Sara Sampaio, Lais Ribeiro and Josephine Skriver (and the list goes on and one) documenting their tough-as-nails workout, which includes everything from jump roping to sparing with professionally trained boxers in the ring and beating the hell out of a heavy bag. Surprised? You shouldn't be.

"They're tough!" said Piela of his model clientele. "It's really no surprise that they're all so good at it, because they understand how to move their bodies and take direction. They're athletes, and more importantly, they train like athletes."



While boxing seems to run counter to the more feminine image attached to modeling (however misconstrued that may be), Piela assures us it's actually the perfect workout for supermodels, average joes and nationally-ranked boxers alike.

"We have a 'no bullshit' approach when it comes to the workout," explain Piela. "There aren't any tricks or fangled ideas -- it's based on science. All of our trainers are very educated; we have guys here that are national champions and have fought for world titles, so we're not just putting you through a workout. We're teaching technique, and I think that's what keeps people coming back -- you're continually learning. I've been boxing for 26 years and I still learn new things about it every day!"

Of course, that's not to say that there aren't some common practices in the typical Gotham workout. According to Piela, the workout focuses on body weight training rather than using a lot of heavy weights, short bursts of calorie-burning cardio intervals (done typically with a jump rope), and training according to boxing's 3:1 ratio in the ring -- for newcomers that means three minutes on (boxing with a trainer) and one minute off (no, not rest; try core strengthening exercises like inner/outer leg abductions, burpees and planks). Still, don't expect to get the same routine twice, as Piela assures us it's "not a blanket workout."

"Each session is based on the individual's needs and personal fitness goals, so no two workouts are ever really the same," said Piela. "We're also constantly changing up the workout, so that they're constantly improving and seeing results. The body gets used to certain movement and routines after a while, so you have to keep changing things up to "shock the system" and avoid becoming stagnant."



As for the results of Piela's "no bullshit" workout (aside from the rock hard abs as evidenced in the models' Instagram photos), "there's a million!"

"To start, there's improved hand-eye coordination, improved balance and increased confidence," explains Piela. "Physically speaking, you're adding definition in the arms and shoulders, toning the hips and legs and creating lean muscles throughout the body. You really can't miss with boxing -- it kind of does it all!"

No wonder these girls keep coming back. Of course, that may also have something to do with the fact that walking into Gotham feels less like walking into a gym and more like heading into your favorite hangout.

"That's my goal first and foremost -- to create a place where people feel comfortable and actually want to go to work out," explains Piela. "We want people to feel like they can come down, hang out and also get a really good workout. It's just a good community vibe."

A good vibe and kick-ass clients -- convinced yet?

For more on Gotham Gym check out their website and follow them on Instagram!

More on Modelinia.com:

Naomi Campbell Closes Jean Paul Gaultier's Couture Show as a Bouquet of Flowers

Is This What Behati Prinsloo Looked Like on Her Wedding Day?

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10 Stylish Tech-ccessories for the Modern-Day Woman

January 29, 2015, 8:53 am

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Gadget meet glam? Yes, please! We are now rocking in a new age where usable technology is also geared to satisfy the high fashion taste of today's tech-savvy women. Here are 10 of the most intriguing tech-ccessories that are innovative, with chic written all over them:

1. Fitbit Necklace by Tory Burch
The original Fitbit Flex tracker monitors activity levels and sleep to keep you on course to perfect health, but it isn't all that attractive. Leave it to fashion designer Tory Burch to give it a decorative facade and turn it into a trendy statement piece. The tracker nests within the golden fretwork and keeps health stats close while providing a stylish wardrobe accoutrement.



2. Michael Kors Compact Rechargeable Battery
What if a beauty product could increase location independence? Well, the Compact Rechargeable Battery can, offering up to 8 additional hours of smartphone battery life via a USB port and charger cord. Small enough to fit in a clutch, it functions as a powder compact as well and comes in both deep red and bright raspberry.



3. Crystalline USB Pen
Storing data never looked so good! Made with 200 Swarovski crystals, the Crystalline Pen elegantly unsnaps to reveal a 16 GB USB key.



4. Bejeweled Headphones with Swappable Caps
Friends with Benefits headphones teamed up with fashion jewelry brand Baublebar to create these embellished beauties for ladies on the go. These gorgeous headphones have both music and phone capabilities, are made with real leather and have memory-foam ear cushions. The coolest part is the interchangeable fashion caps, which come in a wide variety of chic styles for easy accessorizing.



5. Salvatore Ferragamo iPad Mini Case
Made of genuine calfskin leather, this iPad mini case doubles as protection for your tablet and classy arm-candy. The beautiful silver logo dresses up the outer cover, but when flipped open, provides a nifty stand for hands-free usage.



6. Portable Wireless Mini-Clutch Speaker
Take the party everywhere you go with the Mini-Clutch Speaker by Stellé. This ingenious invention is a Bluetooth-enabled device that pairs with a smartphone to allow high-quality listening. Best of all, it doubles as a tiny carryall, with a mirror and storage space.




7. Sun Exposure Bracelet by Netatmo
Know someone who constantly gets ridiculous sunburns? The Netatmo June is for beauty-conscious babes who care about protecting their skin. A fashionable "jewel" that attaches to a leather strap, the June monitors UV levels and sends exposure alerts via a smartphone app.



8. Ringly Smartphone Jewelry
Most gals in the Internet age are constantly torn between the desire to remain plugged in and the more old-fashioned need to fully engage in social conversation. Ringly allows them to dispense with this tension by providing alerts for emails, texts, calls and more. Once connected to a phone, the ring vibrates or illuminates to alert the wearer of important messages while their phone remains in their purse or out of site.



9. 'ZIPP' Wireless Speaker with Interchangeable Covers
This portable speaker boasts both AirPlay and DLNA support for wireless audio streaming as well as compatibility with FullRoom surround-sound technology. The Libratone PlayDirect makes the need for a Wi-Fi access point or router obsolete while the interchangeable Italian wool covers (available in 8 colors ) make it easy to match the speaker to outfit or decor.



10. Stand-Alone Wireless Keyboard
Logitech's Keys-to-Go is a portable, stand-alone keyboard that doesn't cramp your typing style. In addition to well-spaced keys, it features a spill-proof and easy-to-clean cover, and Bluetooth wireless compatibility with all iOS devices, such as the iPad, iPhone, and Apple TV.



Whether a woman prizes health, beauty, fashion, connectivity or simply having a good time, these gadgets make it easy and stylish to reach her goals, technically and with class.

For more savvy shopping tips and style news, check me out on Sointheknow.com.

Giorgio Armani Beauty Eye Tint Gives Eyes Glamorous Studio 54 Vibes

January 29, 2015, 9:04 am

≫ Next: Brittney Griner, WNBA Star, And Fiancé Glory Johnson Appear On 'Say Yes To The Dress: Atlanta'

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Having 1970s style icons like Diana Ross, Bianca Jagger and Donna Summer, I always felt like I grew up in the wrong decade. The fashion-forward women of the disco decade embodied a natural sophistication that I still try to channel today. Sorry (not sorry) '90s.

Lucky for me, I can now recreate that seventies-tastic look with the new Giorgio Armani Beauty Eye Tint.

What Is It?

Armani's newest eye makeup combines the Italian designer's signature use of delicate and iridescent fabrics and colors into a luxurious liquid shadow. Eye Tint comes in 12 stunning metallic shades, including Obsidian (a stormy blue-black), Jade (a lustrous blue-green) and Senso (a creamy chocolate) that glide onto lids just as soft as we imagine Diana Ross' plush boas to feel.



"Orange Is the New Black" actress Uzo Aduba and "Girls" star Allison Williams wore smoldering eyeshadow to the 2015 Golden Globe Awards using multiple Armani Eye Tints. The layered effect added edge to their old Hollywood makeup without making the actresses look like Ziggy Stardust.



How I Wore It

I recently tried out the Gold Copper Eye Tint while celebrating my best friend's birthday. With lots of food, cocktails and dancing on the agenda, I knew that evening would be a true testament of this product's staying power.

When wearing eyeshadow, I usually prep my lids with a primer to prevent creasing and make the color pop even more. But after doing a swatch test of Eye Tint on the back of my hand, I decided to skip this step.

The gleaming gold pigment went on smoothly with just one swipe thanks to the fine brush applicator. I also loved how it dried down to a creamy matte finish, reflecting much-needed light for selfies. And when I say that this makeup didn't budge one bit during an intense dance-off, I absolutely mean it.

Rating: 5 out of 5. Giorgio Armani Beauty Eye Tint ticks off all the must-haves on our list for a long-wearing eyeshadow.

Giorgio Armani Beauty provided Eye Tint samples for review purposes.

Brittney Griner, WNBA Star, And Fiancé Glory Johnson Appear On 'Say Yes To The Dress: Atlanta'

January 29, 2015, 9:13 am

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The wedding day of one of our favorite queer athletes is fast approaching!

Openly gay WNBA star Brittney Griner made headlines last August when she proposed to girlfriend Glory Johnson and documented the whole experience on Instagram. Now, Johnson is trying to find the perfect dress for the big day by appearing on the Atlanta edition of the popular TLC reality show "Say Yes To The Dress."

"Being on the show was super exciting! I was nervous," Griner told The Huffington Post, adding, "but I knew at the end of the day we would have a dress. It also let me know how real things are, when I saw Glory in her dress I just couldn't keep the tears back!"

Griner was also recently named one of the top 100 black influencers of 2014 by Ebony, when she nabbed a spot on the magazine's annual "Power List."

Check out a clip from the show above. We can't wait for the wedding photos!

Griner and Johnson's "Say Yes To The Dress: Atlanta" episode will air on Friday, January 30th at 10pm ET on TLC.

Justin Bieber Is Sorry For Being A Brat

January 29, 2015, 10:01 am

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Justin Bieber is sorry, you guys.

Following an appearance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Wednesday, Bieber was inspired to make a poorly-lit video apologizing (without ever actually saying sorry) for all the crap he's pulled in the last year, which he posted on Facebook and Fahlo.

The 20-year-old pop star admitted he was nervous while on the show because it's been "a minute" since he's made a public appearance, and he was worried about what people were thinking about him.

"I didn't want to come off arrogant or conceited, or basically how I've been acting the past year and a half. And I'm not who I was pretending to be," he said. "I say pretending [because] often we pretend to be something we’re not as a cover up of what we’re truly feeling inside."

The Biebs continued his monologue, and sort of sounded like he was holding back tears:

"Just being young and growing up in this business is hard. Just growing up in general is hard. I want people to know how much I care about people. I'm not that person to say 'I don't give a fuck.' I'm not that kid. I'm a person who genuinely cares."

Bieber also wants you to know that "what's happened in the past has happened" (things like multiple arrests, using racial slurs and singing about joining the KKK, abandoning his pet monkey in Germany and peeing into a mop bucket at a restaurant just to name a few), and he now just "wants to make the best impression on people."

He's actually "kind, and loving and soft."



H/T: Vulture

This Styling Trick Is About To Become The Next Big Thing For Button-Downs

January 29, 2015, 10:30 am

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We know for a fact there's more than one way to wear a button-down, but now that the half-tuck is tried-and-true, we've been on the lookout for some new shirt styling inspiration. That's when we happened upon a trick we'd never thought of before: the wrap-and-tuck.