Meet XEX Magazine’s selects for “Ones to Watch”!

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Photography: Yann Bean

Styling: Monty Jackson & Lisette Mora

Grooming: Leslie Alejandro

Interview: Sailey Williams

BOO BOO STEWART

Twilight: Breaking Dawn . Twilight: Eclipse

XEX: What’s your hometown?

BOO BOO: I was born in Beverly Hills, CA and live in the LA area.

XEX: What are your current and future projects?

BOO BOO: I have a film coming out soon that I am really proud of called ‘White Frog’ –I play Nick Young the protagonist of the film who suffers from a form of Autism called Aspergers–his family suffers a great loss and he has to pull them back together in his own unique way–In March I go on tour with my sister Fivel—its called the ‘Digitour’ and we will be showcasing all new music–then I have a few other films that it looks like I will be part of-but I want to make sure they are 100% before I say anything–I don’t want to jinx myself!

XEX: How did you get started in the business?

BOO BOO: I actually got started in music–getting a record deal when I was 12–I did some modeling and stunts and then just slowly moved into acting.

XEX: What are your hobbies?

BOO BOO: I play guitar and drums–love watching movies and I have begun training again in martial arts.

XEX: What influences your fashion choices, any favorite designers?

BOO BOO: I wouldn’t say favorite designers–I really like pretty plain types of clothes–nothing to flashy.  I did just release my own jewelry line with the artist Kate Messta.

NATHALIA RAMOS

HOUSE OF ANUBIS . TRUE JACKSON: VP

XEX: What’s your hometown?

NATHALIA: I was born in Madrid, Spain but grew up between Madrid, Melbourne, Australia  and Miami, so they are all “home” in their own way and each has its  special place in my heart.

XEX: What are your current and future projects?

NATHALIA: I spend half the year working as an actress on House of Anubis on Nickelodeon and the other half studying Political Science at College. I take each day as it comes so not sure what the future holds except I know it will be fun and Ill always do something Im passionate about. I hope to be able to combine my love of acting and politics one day.

XEX: How did you get started in the business?

NATHALIA: My parents both work in music, so growing up music was everywhere. Thats probably what first inspired me to be a singer/songwriter. Acting was just the next natural step.

XEX: What are your hobbies?

NATHALIA: I love reading (usually non fiction/historical books), anything outdoors by the beach, and cooking

XEX: What influences your fashion choices, any favorite designers?

NATHALIA: It really all depends on my mood, sometimes I feel like dressing up and other times I feel like wearing what I call “boy clothes”. I am very inspired by mens fashion, and I love how designers like Chanel and Ralph Lauren can take male style clothing and make it extremely feminine and sexy, yet simple. But Top Shop in London is my go to place for amazing fashion that is also affordable.

JUSTIIN DAVIS

BOARDWALK EMPIRE . THE GOOD WIFE
XEX:What’s your hometown?

JUSTIIN: I was born and raised in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Still there now.

XEX: What are your current and future projects?

JUSTIIN: I was in Season 2 and am currently working on Season 3 of Boardwalk Empire as well as a animated feature called The Beach Chronicles which is an official selection in the Miami Film Festival. I’ll be playing the character of Winon. I’m also just about to begin production for a few other projects that I’m still sworn to secrecy over, so just be on the look out.

XEX: How did you get started in the business?

JUSTIIN: I originally started at the age of 3, when I first booked an HMO commercial. After I got into this shy and awkward phase and stop performing until about 8. That’s when I decided that I wanted to make a career out of acting and is when I started auditioning and doing plays again. That’s also when I joined a theatre company off of 42nd St called The Ujamma theatre Co. After leaving them I went to the Professional Performing Arts School (PPAS) and the next few jobs I booked were for Lowes Department store, School Prevention PSA’s, and a TV station which was called Noggin at the time but is now called Teen Nick.

XEX: What are your hobbies?

JUSTIIN: Swimming, Photography, “instagraming” ( I uploaded something like 100 photos my first day), skateboarding, video games (top three right now are Temple Run, Wheres the Water? and Sonic the Hedge Hog for the iPad) and Call of Duty, Mario and for the Xbox. I also find my time is invested in the arts program I’m working on creating. I can be a pretty chill person so I try to hand out with friends when I can too.

XEX: What influences your fashion choices, any favorite designers?

JUSTIIN: The grunge and industrial style of New York, the details and style of the 1920s as portrayed in Boardwalk Empire, the 50s w/ Mad Men, and other time periods, as well as Michael Jackson and many other music icons. I’m all about dynamics and masculinity in clothes. I’d say my style is somewhere between classic, casual and tactfully fearless. Of course winter style is different from summer but in the winters I tend to wear darker colors and in the summer I tend to wear lighter. There’s just something about color when out in the summer sun in NYC. I’m also influenced by skaters as well as my own simple, relaxed, and laid back style. Skaters have this “gettem’ and go” style and when I’m relaxing and just running around doing errands thats how I’m most comfortable. Details and clothes with substance and a story is what I really appreciate in what I wear. I have a briefcase which once belonged to my grandfather and when I use it all I can imagine is how many places it’s seen since the 50s/60s. Clothes with character is what I’m influenced by. Without it, we’re all wearing the same thing, but it’s what one can do with styling that makes those “same things” into a one of a kind look, and sometimes a master piece.. Fashion is an art all of its own. A painter has a brush and a few colors, a designer has a needle and a few fabrics. It’s what each do with those elements that make paintings and clothes amazing.
Some of my favorite designers are Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Kenneth Cole, Christan Louboutin (Men’s shoes), Gergio Armani, and Hugo Boss as well as designs done for G-Star Raw, Diesel, Zara, Trash and Vaudeville and H&M. In my closet there are also a few tees, jeans, etc. from Kid Robot, Brooklyn Industries, J.Crew, True Religion, Etienne Aigner, Dirty  English and a few other places. I also like Coco and Breezy and Mercura NYC for their sunglass designs, Joann Berman for her out-of-the-box designs, and Neuw for their jeans and sweaters. For a great suit, besides the ultra distinguished ones done by Hilfiger and Armani there is also, Kevin Dickens and Robert Graham. Their suits are sophisticated and individual.

DILLON CASEY

NIKITA . SKINS . THE VAMPIRE DIARIES

XEX: What’s your hometown?  

DILLON: Oakville, Ontario. Canada.

XEX: What are your current and future projects?  

DILLON: You can see me  playing Sean Pierce on CW’s Nikita and I can be seen as Ryan in the movie ‘The Vow’.  I’m also working with my brothers Conor and Lyndon. Check out our stuff at www.caseybrothers.ca and for a laugh, check out my satirical web-series “Living in LA With Dillon Casey”

XEX: How did you get started in the business?  

DILLON: My first substantial acting role was as The Genie in Aladdin.  It was grade 8 and, I’m not going to lie, I loved the attention.  The feeling of having the audience in the palm of my hand.  There’s a real high that comes from it.  It never really occurred to me that acting could actually be a career.  I did ‘secretly’ get an agent in high-school and went out for a few commercial auditions – once landing a small role on a kids show on Ytv (which would’ve been the Canadian equivalent to Nickelodeon).  Some people saw it and said “I didn’t even know you did that kinda stuff.”.  It started off as a bit of a hobby.   Later, I got into some high-school plays, but then put it all aside to go to University.  After my first 6 months at McGill I felt like something was missing – nothing interested me at all.  I actually flew down to TISCH (NYU’s acting school) to audition for their program, but didn’t make the cut.  Again, I put it all aside.  Whilst doing another degree I wasn’t interested in (an MA in Economics at UofT) I started going out for real auditions in Toronto.  At the end of the program, during exam time, I landed a lead role on a pilot called “MVP”.  After I shot that pilot, I was in too deep to get out.  I decided to go all out for a while and see what might happen……

XEX: What are your hobbies?  

DILLON: I played Varsity Squash at McGill and UofT (University of Toronto) and still play now.  It’s not a big sport in California, so now that I’m in Toronto I’m picking it back up.  Also in LA I do a little Kung Fu and MMA at White Tiger Kung Fu in Westwood.  That has been a great discovery and a nice place to ground me in the city.    I also love watching movies, reading and working out.

XEX: What influences your fashion choices, any favorite designers?  

DILLON: My mood mostly.  I love dressing up.  The Vow premiere was a great chance to do that and Kenneth Cole gave me an incredible suit to wear.  I definitely like to be comfortable though.  Sometimes I like to stand out, sometimes I like to blend in.  It all changes.  But I’d say when I see my brother’s dressed cooler than I am I get annoyed and motivated to dress better.  So sibling rivalry is a big one.  Also, when I dress poorly, my entire family will make fun of me and make me very aware of it.  You can’t really get away with anything with siblings!  I also love a good pair of sunglasses.  It’s nice to have one piece of clothing on you that ‘makes a statement’ (as my mom/sister say).

INDIA DE BEAUFORT

JANE BY DESIGN . ONE TREE HILL . CHUCK

XEX: What’s your hometown?

INDIA: Surbiton, Surrey, England.

XEX: What are your current and future projects?

INDIA: I’m currently playing “India Jourdain” on ABC Family’s Jane By Design. That’s my number one commitment right now.

XEX: How did you get started in the business?

INDIA: My parents are both in the same industry, and I grew up surrounded by it. It seemed like a big adventure that I just had to be a part of. A dear family friend, Wendy Baldock, got me my first job, and that lead to the next one, and so on, and somehow I’m still happy. I’ll keep doing it as long as It makes me happy.

XEX: What are your hobbies?

INDIA: Sugar craft, cake decorating, songwriting, junking, crafts, fashion design and creation ( I studied Fashion at Esher College),  I also collect vintage/antique clothes and furniture, and I build a little furniture…. really anything creative.

XEX: What influences your fashion choices, any favorite designers?

INDIA: Classic french style is a huge influence. Vintage style, 40′s/ 50′s and also corsetry and period pieces. Vivienne Westwood is my favorite designer, and I adore Dior Couture. Also Rafael Cennamo, a recent discovery of mine, he has a beautiful eye.

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Styling: Lisette Mora

MUA: Gloria Noto @ Jed Root . Hair: Caile Noble @ Jed Root

Interview: Sailey Williams

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Nickelodeon’s Victorious superstar Victoria Justice talks to XEX about her, road to stardom, upcoming film projects, her influential fashion style & thoughts about being the new teen queen of television!

XEX: You started your career modeling in Hollywood Florida @ 8 years old and now you live and work in Hollywood California, how much has this transition changed your life?

VICTORIA: This transition has changed my life in almost every way. I wouldn’t have had the same opportunities back home in Hollywood, Florida. If you really want to get into acting you really need to be in Los Angeles or New York. All of the studios and most of your networks are out here. My family has been so supportive, they all moved out here to give me a chance to give this a try. It was a huge change moving 3,000 miles to California. I wouldn’t have my own show on Nickelodeon or be where I am today if they hadn’t believed in me and helped me pursue this. I will say though, that we’ve all adapted really well and love California. Hollywood Florida will always be special and my hometown.

XEX: Tell us about your lead role of “Wren” in Gossip Girl-co-creator Josh Schwartz‘s film Fun Size (released October 12, 2012), tell us about that experience, we hear you were a little hesitant about the accepting the role?

VICTORIA: “Wren” is a teenage girl who’s trying to figure it out and also going through a rocky relationship with her mother (like a lot of teenage girls). She is stuck taking her brother out for Halloween and ends up losing him. All kinds of chaos ensues, and it all takes place in one night.  I’m not going to give any more away. You’ll have to wait and see the movie when it comes out in theaters Oct. 21.

As for accepting the role, it was never just offered to me. I had to audition for it like everyone else who was interested in it. I was a little hesitant about going into audition at first, only because the movie was edgier than what I do on Nickelodeon and I didn’t want to waste my time or anyone else’s if I couldn’t see myself in the role. I’m so careful to choose projects that I feel represent the Nickelodeon brand or don’t stray too far from it. I’ve  always loved the script, I just wasn’t sure if it was for me. Josh Schwartz (the director/producer) of the movie had sent me a sizzle reel, so I could get a better sense of the tone of the film. It was after watching that, that I knew I wanted to go all out for this movie. I loved his vision for the film and what he was looking to achieve. The movie marks my first starring role and also marks Josh Schwartz’s film directorial debut. It was amazing to go on the journey together.

XEX: You have been crowned the new teen queen of television, how do you feel about being part of such an amazing legacy of teen actresses?

VICTORIA: I don’t know about “the new teen queen” but I definitely feel part of a very privileged club (Miley, Demi, Selena and Miranda Cosgrove). I feel very grateful and I feel like right now there’s no better time to be doing what I’m doing. It’s such an amazing platform to launch from and it will be interesting to see where we all are five years from now, stay tuned…

XEX: Nickelodeons Victorious is seen by millions around the country/world, how do you think your character Tori Vega impacts young adult’s wardrobe choices on a daily basis?

VICTORIA: The clothes on the show are great and I definitely have influence of what I wear on the show. Tori Vega is definitely a jeans and boots kinda girl, which is very similar to my real life. I’m a little bit more casual than she is though. I get a lot of tweets and a lot of comments on Facebook about the wardobe for the show, but I don’t know if it impacts anyone’s choices about what they’re going to wear that day.

XEX: Artists such as Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, and Katy Perry are known to illustrate an on stage performance persona through bizarre and quirky wardrobe, how does your fashion sense and wardrobe choice differ from actress to music artist?

VICTORIA: There is definitely a difference especially in my red carpet style. My real life style is probably closer to what a musician would wear than what an actress would wear. As an actress I would wear something more conservative on a talk show, meetings and most events. If I’m doing something that has to do with music the vibe is definitely more edgy. I will still let my own personal style come through though no matter what I’m doing. It still has to feel like me.

XEX: From the moment a young girl watches her first Disney Princess movie they dream about being in a beautiful ball gown headed to a magical event, as a young adult who is the designer you dream of wearing to create that enchanting red carpet moment?

VICTORIOUS: This is an almost impossible question to answer for me, because there are so many designers that I would love to wear. It’s funny that you’re asking me this question now, because the timing of it couldn’t be better. I just found out recently that I’ve been invited to the “Met Ball” (which most people would say is the Academy Awards for fashion) in May. Talk about a Cinderella moment… I will be wearing a beautiful designer gown and headed to a magical event. I wish I could tell you who the designer will be, but I haven’t even begun trying anything on. Ask me again in a few months and I’ll let you know. In the meantime, I’m going to have a ton of fun trying things on.

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To purchase this cover visit our Online Store!

Photography: Eric Silverberg

Wardrobe: Monty Jackson

Makeup: Sarah Uslan @ Jed Root  . Hair: Caile Noble @ Jed Root

Article & Interview: Inoisell Miranda

As bizarre as Hollywood can be, it is always mesmerizing to come across a talent as interesting as Maika Monroe. This multi-gifted teenage California girl is a professional actress and Kiteboarder, which by definition is described as combining wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, and gymnastics into one extreme sport”, and while training in the Dominican Republic, she is a philanthropist who helps kids get kiting equipment and contributes to education through designing her own line for Airbound Apparel.

Although you may not heard of her just yet, this rising star is currently filming Sofia Coppola’s The Bling Ring opposite to Emma Watson and Kirsten Dunst, recently signed up to appear in Jason Raitman‘s upcoming drama Labor Day, and Maika plays Zac Efron’s love interest in the Untitled Ramin Bahrani project to be released this year.  She is a true beauty with a contagious light, strongly kicking off her acting career.

XEX: As a child, growing up on the water Kiteboarding with your dad, did you ever dream you will be in a Hollywood movie, acting along celebrities of your generation like Zac Efron and major directors like Ramin Bahrani?

MAIKA: I dreamt about it all the time!  The first time I was on a movie set was when I was 13, which is around the time I began kiteboarding.  I was so fascinated with the whole process of making a film, plus I was in it!  I knew from the moment I first stepped foot on that set, that I was destined to act.  I loved it and knew one day I would get the call that I booked a major movie.  And funny thing is the call came when I was on the beach training in the Dominican Republic.

XEX: You practice the physically demanding, dangerous sport of Kiteboarding, and you still manage to get to an acting set shinning like a star without a scratch.  What is your secret?

MAIKA: Hardly without a scratch!  I have so many scratches and scars from kiteboarding.  One time in the Dominican Republic I got dragged across fire coral.  That was painful and I have the scars to prove it.  Probably the worst accident happened recently. In November I was at a competition in New Caledonia. I was training in shallow water and crashed my head straight into a rock. I had to get my head sewn up right there on the beach!

XEX: I was recently watching Butch Walker’s music video you shot with Matthew Mcconaughey. Can you tell us more about that?

MAIKA: Oh my gosh it was so much fun! The whole time we were shooting we had to do everything double time because they were filming the whole video slow motion. The snapping was the hardest part! It was so hard to get it on beat! It was a hysterical experience filming this video, especially with the personalities involved.

XEX: You probably spent most of your time in swimwear before your acting career took off, now that you have a chance to play more with your wardrobe, and shock on the red carpets, what has fashion become for you?

MAIKA: I have always loved fashion, even on the beach!  I think it’s another way for people to express who they are. I am designing a line of clothing for Spring 2012 for Airbound Apparel and now have added a more sophisticated line.  I love playing with fashion and will definitely have a say in what I wear on the red carpet, hopefully my own designs.

XEX: What has been your most memorable acting moment in Hollywood so far?

MAIKA: In this last film Zac and I had to drive stock cars on a race track.  We had to have training driving figure 8’s at high speeds.  We had SO much fun, and I think I went a little faster than he did haha!!!

XEX: Word of advice to all girls with an acting dream?

MAIKA: I can’t remember how many auditions I did before I booked this role opposite Zac and Dennis, but there were MANY!  You will get turned down a thousand times before you are told yes. If you truly love acting and are not in it for the fame, then keep at it and your time will come.

To purchase this cover visit our Online Store!

Art Direction & Wardrobe: Inoisell Miranda (www.inostyling.com)

Model: Kathleen @ MC2(www.mc2mm.com)

Hair Styling :Carlos Vera (www.visionofvera.com)

Make Up :Roy Liu (www.royliustudio.com)

It was in the year of 1995 in a small beach town in Venezuela, where as a 15 year old, buying imported peanut M & M at the local kiosk, an international magazine caught my attention.  Spending a week’s allowance, I purchased my 1st Harper’s Bazaar Magazine with Madonna on cover, shot by Peter Lindberg with iconic, breathtaking images that awoke my desire to learn more about how such timeless work can be created, to be curious about photographers, fashion, the world and a strange, uncontrollable compulsion to buy every magazine with Madonna on cover began.

I watched the Grammy winning – Best Long Form Music Video, “Blond Ambition tour 1990” around the same time.  She was faking orgasms on a red velvet bed, dressed in her signature Jean Paul Gautier’s cone bras, having turned the stage into a theatrical cathedral where she danced and sang her soul away to millions of fans.  The material girl had become an artist of empowerment at this point.  Setting her inhibitions aside, she engaged in a sexual exploration journey that she openly shared with the world, dropping her clothes off for the lens of Steven Meisel, in a room dressed as a man debuting guys in fishnets and heels for a cover editorial story for Rolling Stones, and publishing an epic photographic book simply called “SEX” in 1992.  This included an alter ego she named Dita that started a revolutionary era of a feminine movement that encouraged woman to own their power and everyone to free themselves from their own constraints. An attitude that perhaps on a subconscious level I adopted, questioning the establishment and not taking ‘no’ for an answer. It inspired me to give it all up and follow my artistic instincts and dreams.

As I walk the streets of New York today, a fashion editor and celebrity stylist running around between photo shoots, I think about a time when all I treasured in the world was the collection of Madonna magazines I gathered in my suitcase, along with the $200 in pocket when I left home at 19. I realize my passion for magazines, fashion and self-expression go hand in hand with my fascination with The Queen Of Pop.

The publishing phenomenon Louise Veronica Ciccone incarnated as Madonna, back in the early 80′s, has manifested herself within every possible art and fashion form known to man. In the past 30 years we have witnessed her metamorphosis as an integrated artist, and in one way or another have been affected by it.  New York has been the epicenter of some of the most brilliant careers in history, and arguably the most conspicuous ones, have been a part of the pop star’s career. It all started with photographer Steven Meisel in 1984, the “Like A Virgin” look that appeared in her 2^nd album cover and the world saw her face on Rolling Stones magazine for the 1st time, with a daring, sexy look that drove every teenage girl mad. Madonna replicas were found everywhere. It was the brilliant, and forever missed photographer Herb Ritts, who would later capture some of the most iconic images of Madonna to date; her 1^st Vanity Fair & Vogue cover in 1987/89, the “True Blue” era, grabbing her crotch on the cover of Interview magazine in 1989, posing in lingerie in men’s restrooms and a collection of timeless pictures that gave life to her first greatest hits album “The Immaculate collection”, which she dedicated to the pope, her “divine inspiration” in 1990.

Over the decades Madonna’s collaborations with the leading forces in fashion and entertainment is beyond belief.  The fashion world’s preeminent photographers Mario Testino, Patrick Demarchelier, Tom Munro, Steven Klein and most recently Mert Alas & Marcus Piggot, alongside wardrobe wizard Arianne Phillips, have all been part responsible for the ever revolutionizing interpretations of herself in this new millennium. Following her print trajectory so closely over the years, has taught me to think outside the box, to constantly transform the way people see themselves, as beauty and style come from within and also to chose my teams wisely. I was organizing my collection of over 200 magazines on their new shelves, when I decided to share them with the world in celebration of Madonna’s # 1 album MDNA, and the 5^th issue of XEX.  I gathered an elite team of artists, together we created the ultimate Madonna fan, she is a girl who dresses, styles her hair, and does her make up, inspired in the one and only Queen, if only I was a girl… Every single magazine in my valued collection was taken into our studio and photographed for this editorial.

This is my XEX – Treme Fan story, and homage to the ultimate Queen Of Pop…

Long live the Queen!!!

CREDITS:

Picture # 1- Blond Ambition Fan

Yasmin Black & Gold Metal Cut Out Bandage Bodycon dress by CELEB Boutique (www.celebboutique.com), Red fingerless leather gloves by Funky Sexy

Magazines:

1- Vogue Oct 92 by Steven Meisel

2- Harper’s Bazaar May 94 by Peter Lindbergh

3- Q March 98 by Rankin

4- Vanity Fair Oct 92 by Steven Meisel

5- Q Dec 94 by Andy Earl

6- Interview March 01 by Jean-Baptiste Mondino

7- Harper’s Bazaar Feb 99 by Patrick Demarchelier

8- Vanity Fair Apr 91 by Steven Meisel

9- Vogue Oct 96 by Steven Meisel

10- Q Special Edition 03 by Dah Len/Corbis

11- The Face 91 by Steven Meisel

12- Q Special Edition 02 by Rankin

13- Harper’s Bazaar Jun 90 by Jean-Baptiste Mondino

14- The Face 00 by Dah Len

15- The Face 94 by Patrick Demarchelier

16- Rolling Stones 98 by David LaChapelle

17- Vanity Fair Apr 90 by Helmut Newton

18- Q May 08 by Steven Klein

19- Rolling Stone 00 by Jean Baptiste Mondino

20- Rolling Stone 85 by Herb Ritts

Picture #2- Truth or Dare Fan

Vegas Limited Edition Ruffle Bandage Bodycon dress by CELEB Boutique (www.celebboutique.com), Onyx Rosary necklace and Swarovski rings stylist’s owned.

Magazines:

1- Icon # 13                                                     11- Icon # 29                                                   21- Icon # 19

2- Icon # 15                                                     12- Icon # 45                                                   22- Icon # 21

3- Icon # 12                                                     13- Icon # 14                                                   23- Icon # 23

4- Icon # 17                                                     14- Icon # 36                                                   24- Icon # 27

5- Icon # 16                                                     15- Icon # 15                                                   25- Icon # 32

6- Icon # 30                                                     16- Icon # 44                                                   26- Icon # 26

7- Icon # 21                                                     17- Icon # 39                                                   27- Icon # 37

8- Icon # 42                                                     18- Icon # 28                                                   28- Icon # 24

9- Icon # 41                                                     19- Icon # 33                                                   29- Icon # 43

10- Icon # 46                                                   20- Icon # 18                                                   30- Icon # 40

Picture #3- Rain Fan                                                      

Halle Metal Embellished Black Cut Out Bodycon Dress by CELEB Boutique (www.celebboutique.com), Hat by Top Shop

Magazines:

1-      Rolling Stone 84 by Steven Meisel

2-      Rolling Stone 86 by Matthew Roiston

3-      Rolling Stone 87 by Herb Ritts

4-      Rolling Stone 89 by Herb Ritts

5-      Rolling Stone 89 by Herb Ritts

6-      Spin 87 by Iain McKell/Retna

7-      Rolling Stone 85 by Herb Ritts

8-      Interview 89 by Herb Ritts

9-      Rolling Stone 91 by Steven Meisel

10- Spin 96 by Glen Luchford

11- Interview 92 by AP/Wide World Photos

12- Interview 89 by Koto Bolofo

13- Interview 85 by Herb Ritts

14- Spin 98 by Inez Van Lamsweerde & Vinoodh Matadin

15- Interview 93 by Herb Ritts

16- Q August 06 by Lime Foto/Eyevine

Picture #4- Ray of Light Fan

Fox Black Mesh Bandage Dress by CELEB Boutique (www.celebboutique.com)

Magazines:

1-      W 09 by Steven Klein

2-      W 06 by Steven Klein

3-      Genre 02 by Mert Atlas & Marcus Piggot

4-      Esquire 94 by Wayne Maser

5-      Spin 00 by Herb Ritts

6-      Interview 93 by Herb Ritts

7-      Vanity Fair (Italy) 05 by Tim Walker

8-      Jane 02 by Daniel Smith

9-      Jane 00 by Dah Len

10- Details 94 by Bettina Rheims

11- Billboard 99 As Norma from Bellini’s Opera

12- Out 06 by Annika Aschberg

13- Vogue Paris 93 by Ellen Von Unwerth

14- Billboard 05 by Steven Klein

15- Vogue (Paris) 04 by Steven Klein

16- In Style 01 by Regan Cameron

17- L’Uomo Vogue 05 by Steven Klein

18- Vogue (British) 89 by Herb Ritts

19- Dazed & Confused 08 by Steven Klein

20- B &W 05 by Curtis Knapp

21- W 03 by Steven Klein

22- American Photo 01 by Regan Cameron

23- Tattler 05 by Steven Klein

24- Pop 02 by Mert Atlas & Marcus Piggot

25- Entertainment 92 by Steven Meisel

26- Vogue (Brazil) 08 by Steven Klein

27- Entertainment 91 by Steven Meisel

28- Record Collector 06 by Redferns

29- Elle 06 by Gilles Bensimon

30- New York 06 by Richard Corman/Retna

31- Harpers & Queen 05 by Lorenzo Agius

Picture # 5- MDNA Fan

Lingerie by La Perla, Fishnets by Givenchy, red leather glove by Funky Sexy, knee high boots by Freelance – Paris, Pearl/Swarovski Ring and white gold crucifix stylist’s owned.

1. Interview 2010 by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggot
2. Q 06 by Steven Klein
3. Elle by Gilles Bensimon
4. Harper’s Bazar 06 by Solve Sundsbo
5. Rolling Stones 05 by Steven Klein
6. Harper’s Bazar 12 by Tom Munro
7. Rolling Stones 09 by Herb Ritts
8. Vanity Fair 08 by Steven Meisel
9. Elle 08 by Tom Munro
10. Vogue 05 by Tim Walker
11. Q 08 by Steven Klein
12. Interview 08 by Steven Klein
13. Vanity Fair 02 by Craig McDean
14. Vanity Fair 00 by Mario Testino
15. Harper’s Bazar 06 by Solve Sundsbo
16. Vanity Fair 07 by Annie Leibovitz
17. Elle 01 by Gilles Bensimon
18. Harper’s Bazar 03 by Regan Cameron
19. Q May 03 by Craig McDean
20. Rolling Stone 00 by Jean Baptiste Mondino

Wardrobe: Lisette Mora

Grooming: Sarah Uslan @ Jed Root

Article & Interview: Sacha Azor

Born in South Korea and raised in Michigan, actor Steven Yeun began his life a long way from Hollywood. He started acting in college when he joined his school’s improv troupe while getting a Bachelor’s in Psychology. After graduating, Yeun decided to pursue acting further with the limited blessing of his parents. The two had expected him to head into a more pragmatic career but conceded two years for him to follow his passion. Luckily, two years was all it took. He landed several roles commercials and TV shows such as The Big Bang Theory, as well as a role in the independent film My Name is Jerry. But of course it was his role as Glenn on AMC’s The Walking Dead that made Steven Yeun a breakout star.

The Walking Dead, a serialized horror-drama, has been a surprising hit for AMC. The show broke records for a cable broadcast during its second season with 9 million viewers tuning in to the season finale.

The show follows a group of survivors in the aftermath of a zombie, or walker as they’re called on the show, apocalypse. Yeun’s character Glenn worked as a pizza delivery boy before the zombiepocalypse. His knowledge of the city and intrinsic navigational skills has gotten the group out of several dangerous situations. It’s also been a reason why he’s been chosen and often volunteered for some risky scavenging missions. “Call it foolish naïve hope,” he explains in the first season, “that if I’m ever that far up shit creek, somebody might do the same for me.” Despite his supposed naivety Glenn also has a lot of depth in his emotions which Steven Yeun portrays brilliantly.

XEX: When you decided to pursue acting did you picture yourself on a show of this magnitude?
STEVEN: Honestly, I have no clue.  I mean, I knew that I wanted this and I wanted a career, but you never want to assume too much.  Especially, in this industry.  It’s definitely been a blessing.

XEX: How did you become involved with The Walking Dead? Are you at all like the character you play on The Walking Dead?
STEVEN: I had just moved to LA in 2009 and was in time for the 2010 pilot season.  I tested for another pilot before the Walking Dead, and was so excited about it, but it fell through.  I was pretty crushed about it, but a month later The Walking Dead started casting and I just kind of zipped through.  Which to me was just crazy. As for Glenn and I, I would have to say, we are pretty similar.  Not necessarily in how we behave, but definitely in how we view the world.  Especially around my college years, I would say we were pretty in sync.  Just kind of your under noticed kid who wanted to really leave his mark on the world.  Scrappy.

XEX: Glenn always seems to adapt well to situations and is kind of a go to guy when things get tough. How well do you think he would have fared on his own?
STEVEN: I think Glenn would have been fine on is own, but I don’t know if he would have carried on as long as he had.  I think the fact that he has people to live for makes him continue on.  He puts himself into these ridiculous situations, not because he such a tough and macho guy, but rather, because he wants to leave a legacy.  If he goes out a hero, when people don’t expect him to be, then he’s done something that he never would have dreamt about before the zombie apocalypse.

XEX: Not necessarily Glenn, but a lot of the characters on the show had their hopes tied to rescuing Sophia. How do you think her death will impact him?
STEVEN: I think Sophia’s death was a turning point for everyone.  It’s not become a catalyst for decision making.  Are you going to fall into the chaos that is the new reality, or still try to live life through some sort of society and order?

XEX: How do you think the 13 episode season has affected the way the story develops as opposed to six episodes? Is it better or worse?
STEVEN: I think that there have been a lot of complaints about how this season was slower.  In it’s defense, it had to be.  Last season was six episodes.  This season is 13.  We need to build it up, it can’t be something crazy every single waking second.  I think the power comes in being able to breathe in between.  It’s weird how serialized dramas work, especially in this day and age.  I think people would appreciate the pace of the second season more if they just sat through and watched it in one sitting.

XEX: How is it for Glenn, developing a romantic relationship in the environment of the show? And how do you see the future for him and Maggie with all that’s happened on the farm?
STEVEN: I think it’s great.  The arc of Glenn really opens up once he has something/someone to live for, and that continues to be a source of change for him.

XEX: I know that you’re a fan of the comics. Who or what from those are you most looking forward to seeing on the series?
STEVEN: I’m just excited for any new affliction to hit these characters.  Also, me being a fan of the comics, I think both the series and the comic to do their own thing.  Not necessarily stray far from each other, but impact the audience independently.

XEX: How excited are you about the new Walking Dead video game?
STEVEN: I haven’t gotten a look at it.  I’m hoping it’s awesome and that I am ripped in it.

XEX: You’re currently doing improv shows in LA. Is it a nice break from all the blood and gore?
STEVEN: Absolutely.  I love improv.  It’s my salvation sometimes from going crazy.  I love the fact that I can come on stage and have nothing in my head, yet still make something with the other people on my team.  People laughing is also great too.

XEX: How do you relate to the concept of bizarre?
STEVEN: I wouldn’t say I’m bizarre.  However, I would say I’m different.  People don’t expect things of me all the time.  I surprise them.  I like that.

We are back with a brand new season of XEX with new online articles beginning January 23rd, 2012 & a brand new issue April 23rd, 2012! We would like to thank all of our loyal viewers who have followed us from our beginning in December 2009 bringing XEX to over 3 million hits over the past calendar year!

We would also like to thank our amazing creative contributors for making our Special Edition Print issue a success! Available Here

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What we have been working on:

We would like to thank everyone who supported our Coat Drive with New York Cares, we warmed a lot of New Yorkers this winter. We intend to make this an annual event.

XEX Magazine will be partnering /hosting another season of BK Fashion Weekend in support of MTV Staying Alive Foundation.

XEX Magazine & staff will be featured in the upcoming seasons of MTV’s World of Jenks, & Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York, and documentary Thru|Lines.

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Submissions:

It is still not too late to submit for Issue 5, or our upcoming new Mens issue “XEX-Y” in June. All we ask is that work is of the same quality & aesthetic or better of work we shown in the past. Email submissions@xexmag.com

Do you have an event you would like us to attend? Email our Social Editor Chavis Aaron, socialeditor@xexmag.com

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XEX MODEL SEARCH

Win a chance to be featured in XEX Magazines popular “Model XEXpose” section, along with other great prizes!

Winner receives:

• Fashion photo shoot or editorial inclusion:  including Photographer, Stylist, Makeup Artist, and Hair Stylist. (Value: $2000+)
• Makeup/Grooming products & application by: Blue Michael Cosmetics! www.facebook.com/bluemichaelcosmetics | www.bluemichaelcosmetics.com ( Value $250)
• Hair and Spa services by Evolution: The Green Room Salon! www.facebook.com/EvolutionGRS | www.evolutiongreenroom.com ( Value $250)
• Jeans & T- Shirts by Do Denim ( Value $250)
• XEX MAGAZINE ISSUE featuring winner
• If you are an unsigned talent, a possible contract from NYC modeling & talent agency!

RULES & INSTRUCTIONS

• LIKE our Public page XEX MAGAZINE (http://www.facebook.com/xexmag)
• Upload your fiercest image (Click PHOTO on wall, then UPLOAD PHOTO) *1 image per person!*
• Tell your friends to vote for you by liking our page and then liking your uploaded image.
• Winner will be decided out of the top 10 individual(s) with best photo & most likes.

UPDATE:

TOP 10 ANNOUNCED!

KYLE SANTOSH

DJ MASSEY

LONDYN BRIDGETTE

EMILY JUNG

LAUREN GIBSON

VANESSA BANKS (Posthumosly)

MATTHEW MCHARNESS

ANTONIO STARKS

OLGA MARIA

VANEIK JOHNSON

DECISION WILL BE MADE February 6, 2012

Winner!

KYLE SANTOSH & LONDYN BRIDGETTE

Visit www.xexmag.com for further information and updates!

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For most current updates:

Follow XEX on Twitter: @xexmag

Like XEX on Facebook: www.facebook.com/xexmag

Image by: William Lords/Beagy Zielinski

Since 1987, New York Cares has been creating opportunities for New Yorkers to volunteer in meaningful ways, providing a vital lifeline of support to hundreds of thousands of under-served people in our community.  Our staff works with partner organizations to identify their most pressing needs, creates projects to bridge the gaps, and recruits, trains, and deploys teams of volunteers to make a difference.  New York Cares is now the city’s largest volunteer organization, running volunteer programs for 1,200 nonprofits, city agencies and public school.

Now in its 23^rd year, the Coat Drive New York Cares endeavors to collect 100,000 new and gently used coats from caring New Yorkers. All of the coats are distributed to struggling men, women, and children at homeless shelters, community organizations, and agencies serving seniors; free of charge.  The coat drive runs until December 31.

There are multiple drop off locations throughout all five boroughs.  To find one closest to you, please click on the this link:http://newyorkcares.org/downloads/CDPublicCollectionSitesforWebMap.xlsx.pdf

Happy Holidays!

This issue features:

• Cover story and article w/ Planet Green’s The Fabulous Beekman Boys.
• Cover story “Put Some Grace In Your Face” a tribute to the Mother of Bizarre Grace Jones.
• Article and fashion editorial with Celebrity Photographer & The A-List: New York’s Mike Ruiz.
• Interview & article w/ Celebrity Makeup Artist & Groomer Merrell Hollis.
• Interview & article w/ Celebrity Fashion Stylist Beagy Zielinski.
• Editorial & Short Film w/ Dashaun “Evisu” Wesley of MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew.
• Interview & article w/Jake Mossop & Matt Baker of MTV Canada & LOGO’s 1 Girl 5 Gays.
• Interview and article with jewelry & accessory designer Alexis Bittar.
• Interview & article w/ Couture designer Hernan Lander.
• Interview, article & editorial with jewelry & accessory brand Versani.
• “A Brief Master” – Editorial tribute to Calvin Klein.
• Eyewear & accessory designer Stevie Boi.
• Designer XEXpose w/ Pop “3-D” designers Jeantrix.
• Interview & article w/ Twin eyewear & accessory designers Coco & Breezy.
• Article with “Photographic Painter” artist Bryan El Castillo
• Artist XEXpose w/ fine artist & illustrator Gabriella D’Abreau

Issue also features amazing Fashion Editorials by:

Photographers:

• Keith Major
• Laretta Houston
• Mike Ruiz
• Sailey Williams
• Mike Ruiz
• Robert Jaso……

Stylists:

• Atiba Newsome
• Beagy Zielinski
• Inoisell Miranda
• Hayden
• Jenesse Utley
• Emeline Piot……

Makeup Artists:

• Merrell Hollis
• Blue Michael of Blue Michael Cosmetics
• Byron Barnes of Iman Cosmetics
• Griselle Rosario
• Tomohiro Yamada
• Tina Georgy……

Hair Stylists:

• Mann Nance for Halcyon Days Salon & Spa @ Saks 5^th ave NYC
• Davide Torchio for Davide Torchio Salon
• Natasha for Evolution: Green Room Salon
• Tina Pearson for Tina Pearson Salon
• Tetsuya Yokuza
• Iyana Winfield…… and many more!

We would like to thank our loyal followers and contributors for your support over the past two years and making XEX one of the most popular online publications in the country!

OPEN TO ALL BIZARRE!

Sincerely,
Sailey W. Williams
Editor in Chief / Publisher
www.xexmag.com

Photographer: Marc Tousignant

Art Director: Inoisell Miranda

Grooming: Blue Michael for Blue Michael Cosmetics

Nails:  Nail Lounge

Model(s): Fernando@Q & Angelina@angelinaassereto.com

VERSANI isn’t just Jewelry. Versani is a lifestyle, an experience, a philosophy. Founder and famed jewelry designer ARA has his way to combine strength and beauty into each piece. Established in 1992, Versani began as a contemporary jewelry company.

Nowadays, at Versani you can find innovative combinations of gold and silver with wood, leather, denim, semi-precious stones, and diamonds.  Also, there is a wide selection of wedding bands, bracelets, necklaces, rings, cuff links, earrings, and accessories. Our client service is unmatched, a jewelry piece or just a smile, everything you get at Versani comes from the heart.

Versani retail shops are more like treasure chests.

Regularly noted as one of the only places to get amazing jewelry for men and women, today’s SoHo headquarter and on-site production supports Ara’s vision: to bring the magic of Versani jewelry to his clientele around the world.

The Gemstone collection uses a modern technology known as Tension Setting, which portrays the gemstone in its maximum beauty. Versani has mastered the art of preserving the stunning, dazzling quality in the most iridescent stones.

Each collection reflects the juxtaposition that inspires the Versani slogan “Stay Cool Be Strong”.

The Wood collection pairs Bocote, a beautiful, warm, and exotic South-American wood with precise, gleaming platinum, gold, or sterling silver.

The Key Design collection comes directly from the heart of Versani, based on an enchanting keepsake Ara had as a child.

A modern mix of structure and design, elegant, yet profoundly simple

XEX-CLUSIVE VERSANI INTERVIEW

1.- What is Versani?

In one word, Versani is a lifestyle. Bringing out the fun, strength, adventure and uniqueness in your life! Daring to be unique! That’s Versani! Going where most would not.

2.- A man should never wear…

Costume Jewelry. I feel that accessories are a very important and critical part of a man’s wardrobe and not only builds confidence but adds character. A fine designer suit just adds to a man’s saunter, in a similar way so does real jewelry!

3.- A woman should never wear…

Anything else but a smile. I feel that women can wear anything. 

4.- What is the source of your inspiration?

I am inspired by a lot of things but I would say nature is my greatest inspiration. I love the unpredictability of nature, it’s richness and abundance of shapes, textures, colors. I love being in nature and my stores and collections reflect this.

5.- Did you always know you were going to design jewelry?

I am innately creative, however I never thought that I would be designing jewelry. It has truly been a blessing to be able to express love and creativity through it. 

6.- What will you tell young designers at the challenging beginning of their careers?

Have a strong heart, be persistent, keep moving forward and go out and get it! PERSIST, PERSIST, PERSIST!

7.- New York is…

My Home! A place you definitely need to visit once in your lifetime! 

The American dream!

Be sure to visit the Versani website! CLICK

ARTICLE FEATURED IN XEX MAGAZINE: SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE