Saturday, October 22, 2011

European Magazine Fix via Leopold's Books

Another Magazine: Fall/Winer Cover 2011

Great selection of magazines in stock now

Leopold's Books Facebook Page

Leopold's bookstore is a smart and unassuming place to visit.  If you are a bookish/magazine sort this is a must stop and see and buy something for good keeping kind of place.  I initially stopped into Leopold's Books on one of my trips to the DIA not long after it's grand opening and made note of all the obscure semi counter culture/art/political gems it stocked.

Recently I was on the hunt for a copy of the fall issue of "Another" magazine which is published bi-annually and otherwise available on-line (Super Smart Magazine Format by the way).  The mall based book store I purchased it at last year is now closed so I knew I'd have to do some digging.  Dig I did.  The Internet search for local distribution was fruitless so I called "The Book Beat" in Southfield and was told they did not carry it. 

When I contacted the owner of Leopold's via e-mail I got a quick response back on the magazine and made arrangements to pick up a copy when it arrived.  Score!!!

Now that is what I call service Detroit.  This is why it's so important to support local business people and the resources they bring to our city.  Next time you are in the mood for some international news on Fashion/Art or Culture make a B-line for Leopold's Book store.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Sewing and Reaping Industrial Hemp In Michigan


This is a must read post for any advocate of smart Michigan based industry ideas.  I was given permission to share the content of this e-mail letter written by Mr. Everett Swift, who is executive director of Michgan Hemp.Org .  The following is an abreviated version of that message.

"Hello friends in The Garment Industry,

MIHEMP had our Annual Meeting on Saturday and made a decision to support a "Farmer Fund", the aim of this fund is to raise three thousand dollars to be used for an application fee for a permit to grow Industrial Hemp from the DEA.

The Farmer Fund will be separate from our MIHEMP funding.

Now, I know that many of you are thinking why on earth would we invest money into something like this?, the DEA is never going to approve the permit, if it were that easy someone would already be growing the crop.

First off if that is what you are thinking you are right, it would be three thousand dollars wasted on a permit that will never get approved....But, it may not be such a waste if you look at it from another angle, as our attorney Matt Abel pointed out at the meeting, you can't challenge a decision by the DEA if there has been no application filed or a decision made, also think of the media exposure something like this could get, no one has applied for the permit in Michigan that I know of since 1940 when Henry Ford had one which he used it to grow hemp and build a car and fuel it with Industrial Hemp.


If the DEA refuses to act on an application or denies a permit and a complaint is made to the State Legislators and/or Michigan Representatives in the U.S. Congress or Senate they must give a formal response, they can't just do as they do us now and send a form letter or ignore it.

I have been pushing for Michigan to join the other states in the Industrial Hemp fight for four years and if I can raise the money I WILL apply for the permit.  If handing three thousand dollars over to the DEA will get it done then I think it is worth the risk.

According to the DEA application you must show that you would be in compliance with State and Local law, I have a letter from Hillman Township saying there is no law prohibiting me from applying for the permit or growing the crop, I live in a county that has passed an Industrial Hemp Resolution,

I can find no state law that prohibits me from applying for the permit or prohibits me from growing the crop as long as I have federal approval.

When two farmers in North Dakota applied for this permit it started a movement that resulted 17 states passing pro industrial Hemp legislation so far."

Let's add Michigan to those other progressive states  and support this important legislation.  Collective industry teamwork is crucial and this kind of creative vision can help us diversify our resources and build innovative opportunities.  Contact Mr. Everett Swift at MI-Hemp.Org to support this important effort and for more details.

Monday, October 10, 2011

101% Fashion Ride Recap!

Fashion Designer Cynthia LaMaide
 
Fashion re-designer Sarah Jane Sarah Jane, photo is J. Bissette

Janna Bissetts Motor City Painting is for Sale photo is Jai Singleton

101% Fashion Ride Feature Artist Janna Bissett in front of her Painting

Event location: Crofoot in Pontiac, by Jason Loudermilk

Hi Friends, I'm a couple of blogs behind schedule but I just want to say a few words about a neat event put on by P2 productions recently.  I posted a few photos of the fashion show.  Fatoula Lambros, Cynthia LaMaide, and Sarah Jane Sarah Jane and Luminetta all had nice showings.  

The theme of the event mixed Detroit Fashion Mavens with Motorcycle enthusiest and the hip urban Art/Photography of Janna Bissett.  This event was also a "Pink Fund" fundraiser which is the cause of choice for P2 "Fash Fest" organizers.

The Artwork and Photography of Janna Bissett gave this event a cool dimension that most of these shows are missing.   

 By that I mean to say I have an affinity for both Art and Fashion in tandem, I do not experience them as exclusive or seperate entities in my lifestyle. So this made complete sense to see them together. It's a win, win format Detroit.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Berkley Eyewear: "You Look Gorgeous"

In Stock at Berkley Eyewear

Seraphin AD Campaign 2010

Ogi Eyewear Summer Ad Campaign 2011

You would have to be blind not to notice the ultra hip and functional appeal of eyeglasses lately.  In my styling work they have been a wonderful asset for fashionable story telling as well. 

If you are a discriminating customer in need of quality eye wear with personality and style, you must stop by Berkley Eyewear to see Lisa Gilbert.  That's exactly what I did when my vision became fuzzy and my need clear.  I was thrilled to find such an extensive selection of  designer frames to choose from along with the generous knowledge and help I needed to purchase my first pair of RX eyeglasses.  I'm still getting used to my new purchase, but already have another pair of frames on my wish list. 

I'm a huge fan of the Legre, Ogi, Seraphin, and Cinzia designer lines, however when I stopped into the shop last week for the "Girls Night Out" trunk show I also found a lovely selection of Revolution Beatles, and True Religion frames that were super cool.  If you can not find your preferred designer brand frame in the mix, it might be possible the quality has changed over the years and there are much better options available for the value.  Take time to look at what new designers are bringing to the market.  A future trunkshow visit is highly suggested for those super stylish options not easily stocked.

Most of my associates know I am not in the habit of blogging on local shops, but instead enjoy sharing leads on resources and people that bring value and Style to our community.  Berkley Eyewear is one of those gems and they are committed to making sure "You Look Gorgeous"!

Friday, September 9, 2011

Portfolio Vintage Inspired AD Shoot



September 2011 Issue of HOUR

Coldwell Banker Weir Manuel agents pose for us after the shoot and in front of that amazing Vintage Cadillac, Photo is Leeper Photography

AD write up in September Issues of HOUR and Styleline magazines

This was a fun styling project despite the 96 degree outdoor temperature we worked in.  Thankfully for us all we wrapped up the shoot ahead of schedule and headed for air conditioned spaces.  For more details check out the September issues of HOUR and Styleline magazines on stands now. 

A special thanks to Council Thrift in Berkley for wardrobe pieces, my super smart stylist assistant Caitlynn Demagio, photagrapher Melissa Leeper and all the agents in the shoot who were a delight to work with. 

I agree with the write up tag line for this AD, "It's all about the journey".  Congratulations to the marketing team members for making this project creatively challenging and professionally rewarding.

*Shoot location is property listing of agent Kevin Cristbrook

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Zara Brings Fashion to Michigan/Detroit with On-Line Website


Zara USA Photo Archive, descending order: "Dear Michigan" photographer is Peter Baker, below "Dear Illinois" photographer is Katherine Squier

Zara USA Photo Archive, descending order: "Dear Arizona" photographer is Stephen Tamiesie, below "Dear Texas" photographer is Noah Kalina

Polyvore Set for Zara "Dear America" Online Shop Launch
   
 Zara ( Inditex Group) is launching their on-line Shop in the American market on Wednesday September 7, 2011.

"Dear America" - Marks the launch of its e-commerce platform in the US, Zara has commissioned photographs of each of the nation’s states. Noah Kalina, Peter Baker and Stephen Tamiesie are just some of the 24 photographers participating in the ‘Dear America’ campaign, comprising 50 photos which can be viewed on Zara’s US website beginning tomorrow, September 7. "

Peter Baker is a Michigan Photographer who's work is included in Zara's "Dear America" marketing campaign.  Congratulations to him on this exciting body of work.

Upon receiving this wonderful photographic archive of prints from Zara, I decided to select a few of my favorites and post them for this blog.  Not only are the prints refreshing and uniquely American, I applaud Zara for doing their homework, and choosing to work with local creative professionals on this campaign.

Make room Ralph Lauren and Burberry, Zara is moving into the international fashion spotlight one brilliant move at a time.

Thanks for giving us easy access to retail shop inventory Zara and more specifically for reaching out to Detroit shoppers!

Saturday, August 20, 2011

250 Martin Open House: August AD Dress On Display

Coldwell Banker AD Paper Dress by Matthew Richmond
Open house at 250 Martin


Library


View of Shane Park from balcony of 250 Martin open house: photo is Janna Bissett

I'm Standing on Balcony with Agent Hannah Hoppough
Photo is Janna Bissett

Fashion/Real Estate Photographer Janna Bissett

250 Martin Real Estate Agents: Gwen Schultz, Kevin Crisbrook, and I with Matt Richmond's Agent AD Paper Dress


Matt Richmond Coldwell Banker Wier Manuel AD Shoot Dress at 250 Martin Open House
Photo is Janna Bissett

If you are dreaming of a hip upscale urban residence in Michigan, 250 Martin in downtown Birmingham might be the place for you. This unique commercial/residential property offers big city luxury loft living with the comfort of an exclusive small town community feel.

My August advertisement Styling work with Coldwell Banker featured the work of local Artist/Designer Matthew Richmond and the paper dress he constructed for the shoot. This dress was on display at this invitation only exclusive open house party on the evening of August 10. Fashion/Real Estate Photographer Janna Bissett and I attended this open house party in support of the marketing campaign work we have enjoyed with CWBWM.

The entire building was open for tours and inquiries to the guest, but the reception was located in the Four Park West Penthouse residence, which is furnished and move in ready. The entire home is beautifully designed and decorated but my favorite room is the sleek modern library (photo above).

It was a picture perfect summer evening, the weather was glorious, and from the balcony we enjoyed live music performed at the newly renovated Shane Park stage just below.

A special thanks to the open house host Christopher Ayers, (Associate of Kevin Cristbrook), Kevin Cristbook, the real estate agent for 250 Martin, and the CWBWM marketing team for their premier service and collaboration.

Thank you Matt Richmond (Saving The Planet 1 Dress at a time) for the dress loan, we missed you!

* This amazing space is also available for special events by selection, please contact Kevin Cristbrook for more details.