Monday 2 January 2012

Top Talented Linton Clarke Speaks to the Fashion Police


1)For those who are not familiar with you who are you and what do you do?

Hi I’m Linton Clarke and I’m a Model, Dancer and Creative Director

2)What 4 words best describe you as a person?

It’s absolutely impossible to choose just 4 words to describe myself in a holistic sense but I can offer 4 words that describe parts of me. Gentleman, rambunctious, peculiar, witty.

3)When not working what do you enjoy doing?

When I’m not at work (which is virtually never) I tend to do nothing really… Hang out with friends, maybe get a facial, Host movie night at my place or just parading around my house next to no clothes. I don’t really wear clothes at home… I don’t really get people that do [he laughes]
4)Which male models do you look up to based in the uk?

Gosh that’s an interesting question to have to answer. Given that I grew up in London I’m really proud of all of the guys from the UK that I see working consistently through the fashion seasons but I don’t know if I would say I look up to any them and that’s not me being a dismissive. Being a 6ft 6 model means I don’t typically fit the criteria for a fashion model per say. Our industry’s criteria banding favours guys between 5ft 11 and 6ft 2 which usually puts me in a category all by my myself. For that reason my tendency is to look inwards for inspiration as oppose to outwards. Most male models simply are not 6ft6 x-gymnasts. That said I’ve always has great respect for Anthony Kaye. He is daring and dynamic. I just remember being aware of him long long before I ever dared to dream that I would some day be a model. I think he is as recognised as a dancer as he is for modelling. That speaks well of his work ethic and that  is inspiring.

5)There are so many models what makes you different?

What makes me different is that I have a unique set of skills to use to my advantage, but even more to the point the thing that’s sets me apart from other models is my approach. I see modelling as an art form. I study it daily and dovote most of my time to my craft. I don’t think people become models. I think you either are or you’re not. It’s a part of what makes you, youand it defiantly defines a large part of who/what I am.



6)Are you a full time model are part time?

It depends on what you mean by full time model. For the most part ‘full time model’ is actually a myth. It doesn’t exist. Even world renowned super models will have other areas of interest and means of income. Work is seasonal so there will always be prolonged periods off nothingness and so in that sense I suppose no I’m not a full time model I’m a part timer. 

7)What music would bring you to the dance floor?

I just love dancing in general and I have a really unclassifiable taste in music so almost anything will get me dancing, it just depends on my mood. I have been known to clear dance floors and shut down clubs when I hear 80s Soul and 90s RnB.  I like pop in the naughtiest too. Anything with some nice texture and a bumping baseline. Oh yeah, and I’m loving some of the ‘Afrobeat’ stuff I’m hearing recently. I don’t know most the artist names and I don’t speak any African languages but I can sing the lyrics sound for sound. [He laughs]

8)Are you single/married/relationship?

I can confirm that I’m not married as for the other two options… I’m going to have to plea the fifth.


9)If you had the chance to do a photo shoot with anyone who would it be and why?

I’d have to say. I’d love to shoot with Coco Rocha. The girl is simply fire. She has oodles of personality and emotes effortlessly. I think we’d have a really good time on set together

10)What are your 4 fashion tips to our many readers?

4 tips ok

1.    This one is for guys. If you want the expensive bespoke look and you’re on a tight budget, get your suit off the peg 1 size too big and take to a good dry cleaners to get it tailored perfectly to fit you. It makes all the difference.
2.    Don’t smoke… its really not fashionable or sexy in anyway.
3.    When putting on outfit together always bear in mind “contrast” it’s the easiest way to look stylish. If you have something dramatic on top, keep the bottom simple. You never want step out in gold sequence head to toe.
4.    This goes for both guys and girls. “Get feature shoes” if your busy or lazy like me and don’t want to always have to think too hard about what to wear get shoes that stand out and wear with plain simple outfits. All black and a pair of feature shoes will always draw and hold attention. And ladies avoid fish-net tights at ALL costs. They are horrid ghastly things.  Men only think one thing when we see those however I am not at liberty to so what that is [he laughs].
I know that’s 5 tips but I couldn’t help myself.
11)What do you love most about being a model?

What I like most about being a model is “being a model” it’s a great thing to be and I hold it in very high esteem.
                  
12)Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I’m not sure if I can think 5 years into the future I can barely remember what’s on my itinerary for next week. Thank God for blackberry reminders…
I do know that I want to do a lot more work behind the scenes, because creatively if you have a vision, you need your eyes to be behind the camera to see if what is being captured satisfies you’re your idea in a true sense. I’d also like to think that I’d be in a position to share more my acquired knowledge.  I guess in a nutshell I want to do exactly what I’m doing now but get paid more for it. [He laughs again]

13)Is it easy being a model your height? As we know the standard height for male models?

I touched on this before, but no it’s not at all easy for models my height. In fact its virtually impossible for models my height to get any work period. That is unless you are incredibly savvy and business minded. Every casting, fitting, meeting etc has to be approached with a Dragons’ Den-like focus. You have to be equipped to walk into a room and convince the casting director who has probably been in the industry for years and subscribes fully the widely respected standards in terms of height, that he/she is wrong. Above that you have to then back up your claim with evidence of work that proves it to be true.  It is the equivalent of insisting on driving on the wrong side of the road despite the obvious law.  But for me I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love my height and I’m proud to say that I have broken down boundaries even if only in a small way.  Anyone who knows me will know that I feel strongly about seeing ‘potential in individuals’ and not options in collectives. I believe every man should be asses to his own merit. Is he capable? Has he proven his abilities? What is his motivation?  This could go into a entire discourse but I will spare you the lecture until another time. I am just very happy that I do get work and I am starting to get recognition… and I say starting to because I have such a very very long way to go yet.


14)If you was given a ticket to travel to any where in the world where would you go and why?

I would travel anywhere with loads of sun and a private beach.  I love water, and I love the ocean. I envisage many romantic nights with by the sea side





15)What message do you have for aspiring models?

My message is a simple one. ‘EDUCATE YOURSEVES’ I cant stress that enough. Anything you choose to do in life, if you are to do well, you MUST be well informed about it.

16)What do you think when you don't see much models of colour on catwalks/bill boards?

I actually feel that at this stage in 2012 there is a fair enough representation of models of colour currently gracing catwalks on a whole. Not FAIR representation but ‘fir enough.’ The penny seems to have dropped that we’re pretty darn good at walking. My problem is the lack of coloured campaign models.  This is where the ratio is grossly negatively skewed I believe. I do not however see it as a negative however. I don’t believe in complaining. As a model of colour it is my job to ensure that I do everything in my power over the lifespan of my career to get my ‘coloured face’ on those billboards. Each success opens the door for countless others. It’s just a challenge like everything else in life. It means when I go to work and I’m on set for a photo-shoot, I have to bear in mind that I’m not just modelling for me or just for the client but for everything that my presence represents. But no it doesn’t anger me, it just reminds me to be thankful for my opportunity to take positive steps.  

17)What attracts you to someone?

What attract me to someone… I like a person who free spirited with integrity and a wicked sense of humour. I’m also a sucker for nice plump lips.

18)If you could change one thing in the fashion world what would it be?

If I could change one thing about fashion I would clean-up some of the ‘unnecessary’ sexual provocativeness. I think we should focus on selling quality brands, labels, concepts and ideas, not ‘sex.’ Don’t get me wrong I’m not saying that there isn’t a place fore sexuality in fashion but I think sometimes it is just done ‘just because’ and not for any particular reasoned definition other than, ‘it is ‘commercially viable’

I would also like a link to my fan page on Facebook and twitter to be posted alongside the interview.
Twitter: @LintonClarke

N.B ...On behalf of Fashion Police thank you for the interview Mr Clarke to the readers any wrong spelling you may see in the questions ask.......yes yes it was made by Fashion Police.XX




Morena Ignacio taking event Decorating where it needs to be taken


1)Tell us briefly who you are and what you do for those not familiar with you?
I’m Morena Ignacio born June 5th, 1975, motherland Aruba, foster home Curacao, St.Maarten is where my heart/home at. My offspring are Shandrika en De Shawn Chittick, I’m a member of JCI St.Maarten (Jaycees) en presently a circulation clerk at Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL)

2)What makes you different from the many interior designers out there?
I will not title myself as an interior designer! I’m an “Event Decorator” that have giving ideas to persons requested it...lol...I know my limit “Never carry a title than you can’t execute”!
What makes me different in what I do...”I see all I do in colors en feelings” it’s an Art to me as I have Fun doing it! (Explain: You see a dead tree as trash, I see it as Art that can be use in a decoration...so in other word it all depend on how you view Nature)      

3)What words best describe you as a person?
Quite, Observant, Contributor, Loving    

4)How can someone from the other side of the world view your work and learn more about you?
They will view it a Fun, colorful en beautiful, if the truly are observant they will see that I express the inner me in my work! “Please take a look at my facebook photos and give me your feedback”.

5)Where do you get your inspirations from?
Definitely from Jehovah’s creation...every day I view it here on St.Maater its hills, pond, plants, animals, culture.  At times conversations with family or friend that are having an event inspire ideas.    

6)If you could interior design the home of one person of your choice who would it be and why?
I will like to design my own home, as the saying goes the carpenter create for everyone but leave his undone! That’s why I will like to.

7)Please share with us 4 tips when trying to make our home look good?
1. If you have something that you really like an object like (vase, fabric and photo frame ext.) let that be your inspiration to your design.
2. If those items have more than one color, bring them back into your design focusing on two or three of them.
3. If it a festive event add gold or silver as a complementary assent.  
4. Have fun and “feel your work” have a friend or two to get there feedback creative process. 

8)How is the competion in what you do on St maarten (Caribbean)?
I don’t compete, I go with the flow It’s my hobby as I’ve teamed up with many friends that are Artist in Balloon work, Event Planners, Interior Designer en other Decorators.      

9)When your not working what do you enjoy doing?
Play and be crazy with my kids...now that they becoming teenagers they hangout less with mommy…lol… reading, crafting, surfing the net “Google” for me!!!

10)Are you single/married/relationship?
In an Relationship.

11)Describe your fashion sense?
I like old style, but to be frank I don’t use fashion to my own temple but you will see it in my projects.

12)Name a few projects you have interior design for?
I have decorated several events for JCI St.Maarten (Jaycees) en at Philipsburg Jubilee Library, Nehesi House, friends Weddings, team up with Catwalk Proffesor, Albert Groeneveldt, Linda Carty, Raquel Carty Lbb event planner.

13)What advice do you have for anyone wanting to do what you do?
I will advise you to research if it something you will truly love to do! If so invest in how to do book, DVD en look at such program that will enhance your talent.
Team up with friends or others that share your passion.  

14)How do you stay updated in all the different styles in what’s happening?
I don’t but I say Old inspires new!!!…you put an antique singer sewing machine add an arrangement of flowers en a large photo frame around. You have an Art display. If I do get a chance I look at the wedding channel, Preston Bailey, David Tutera, Martha Steward. As well I get craft and decoration Books at PJL Library. 

15)If  someone was looking for an interior designer how would you convince them you’re the person for the job not using pictures, only using words what would you say to them to convince you have what it takes?
“I’m like a coal, provided an opportunity I will give you an brilliant Gem as result”

16) Open word!
I will like to Thank Fashion Police for this interview opportunity. I wish you the best in your future Goals!  

Make up Prime Minister speaks to the Fashion Police


1)Please tell us who you are and what you do for those not familiar with you?
 
Hi Fashion Police. My name is Angela Gallagher and I am a make-up artist with MAC in London. I also work as a freelance make-up artist in the area of Fashion, Bridal, Theatre, Film and TV. I trained in Dublin, Ireland and have 5 years work experience in the Industry.
 
2)There are so many make up artist out there what makes you different?
It is a very competitive Industry and it is imperative that you differentiate yourself from others in the Industry. I am a real people person and always strive to exceed customer's expectations no matter how big or small the job is. It is important for me to have an excellent reputation for the service that I provide. If I am providing a Bridal make-up service I always ensure that I provide a calm, relaxing environment for the Bride and I don't leave until she is ready to leave for the Church. People always remember the little things and will recommend you to others as a result, which is what this industy is all about.
 
3)What word best describe you as a person?
Passionate! I absolutely adore my job and have a passion for all things Make-up. I always give 110% to everything that I am involved in!
 
4)When not working what do you enjoy doing?
I love socialising with family and friends when I am not working, whether it is a nice meal, a trip to the cinema or a night out, I love spending time with family and friends and they are the most important people in my life!

5)Are you married/single/relationship?
I am in a relationship.
 
6)What attracts you to someone?
There definitely has to be a spark in the beginning and I love somebody that makes me laugh, is intelligent and has a passion for life!
 
7)If you was given 3 tickets to attend any event in the uk what 3 events would you attend and why?
*London Fashion Week as it would be amazing to view all the new trends
*IMATS because it is make-up heaven!
*A Film Premiere so that I could get all glammed up and mingle with the stars
 
8)If you had to grace a red carpet event which designer would you like to wear and why?
Alexander McQueen as I loved how he pushed the boundaries with all his creations!
 
9)Do you believe blondes have more fun?
I definitely believe that I have more fun as a blonde!
 
10)What's you best dance move on the dance floor
A bit of Booty Shaking a la Beyonce
 
11)Describe your fashion sense?
My Fashion Sense changes all the time! I flit between a girly style/rock chick/casual depending on the occassion.
 
12)If you was granted to do the make up of anyone of your choice who would it be and why/
Lady Gaga 100%! I love how she pushes the boundaries of fashion, re-invents herself and isn't afraid to try new styles of make-up, fashion and hair styles! I adore her music too!
 
13)Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I want to have my own Make-up Academy.
 
14)What advice do you have for anyone who wants to be a mua?
Practice, Practivce, Practice and Practice some more! You must be up to date on new trends, products and techniques and work really hard to establish yourself in the Industry. Hard work, passion, determination and enthusiasm will get you there and don't forget to Network!
 
15)Which 2 make up artist in the uk do you look up to and why?if any
I absolutely adore Alex Box, Pat McGrath. They are so creative and everything make-up look that they create looks so effortless. They always push the boundaries and inspire me to do the same!
 
16)What are your 3 tips when buying make up
*Ask for samples - There is no point spending lots of money on products that are not going to work. Most cosmetic companies will provide you with samples of their products
*Ensure that you get the basics right - Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone. So many women use foundation to give their skin colour when in fact it is meant to even out your skin tone!
*Good skin equals Good make-up - ensure that you always wear SPF, exfoliate and use a good moisturiser, otherwise your make-up will never look right!
 
17)Where do you get your inspiration from?
I am inspired by history, architecture, fashion, art, nature and other make-up artists
 
18)What music will have you on the dance flor shaking your booty?
I love R&B music!
 
19)What are your thoughts on the Fashion Police News Blog?
I love it! It is fresh, new, fun and keeps me up-to-date on all things Fashion!
 
20)What advice do you have for anyone who wants to be a make up artist?
Ensure that you research the course that you are about to study. Try and assist a more established make-up artist, work hard on your portfolio ensuring that you have amazing images to show to prospective employers and clients
 
21)What do love most about your job.?
I love seeing the transformation in people from the beginning of the make-up over until the finishing touches have been provided, not only in how they look but also how make-up makes them feel. It can make you more confident!
 
22)How can anyone from the other side of the world view your work?
You can view a lot of my work on my FaceBook page www.facebook.com/makeupbyangela
 
23)Any last words
Do something you love and you will never work a day in your life!
Love Angela.x

Upcoming Supermodel Harriadnie confess to the Police


o    for those you are not familiar with you who are you and what do you do?My name is Harriadnie Beau pronounced (Harri - add - nee - bow) a name given to me by my parents at birth contrary to rumours that this is a stage name. My parents are both English but I am told Harriadnie is Greek and Beau is French. I work all over the country but mainly in London and I live in a picturesque small Fenland village when I have the time to relax. I am a 18 year old Haute couture Model and I regularly walk the runway for HMH COUTURE - I also only work with very few selective Couture Designers.


2) There are so many models what makes you different?

Yes there are many models in this industry and I must admit when I first embarked on to a modelling career I did tell myself that if I hadn't made it as a top model by the age of twenty then maybe the industry is not for me - but I am different and it has gotten me into one or two predicaments - I am very moralistic - some would call me humble - I am respectful and I have no delusions of grandeur - I also never ever do anything that I am not comfortable with as my image is top on my list - money rules the world but it does not rule me! I'm a model simply because my body fits the job.


3) What word best describe you as a person?

haha! this is a funny question because I have several words - but I guess I must say unique!


4) What's one thing you just can't leave home without?

I can’t leave home without my mobile phone it is my life line, I speak with my manager several times a day - I tweet all the time and I speak to my mother non-stop hahaha!


5) What's are your thoughts on size 0 models?

I don't like to be controversial or opinionated as I accept there is a place and time for every aspect of modelling but I personally don't think that 0 size Models are comfortably accepted by the general public, I do need to make this clear that this is only my opinion but I think 0 size models look unhealthy. I myself was booked for a fashion show last year but I was cancelled last minute because I was too skeletal - I am 5ft 10" and a Uk size 6/8, it is a changing industry.


6) What are your thoughts on designers who use less models of colour?

I have not come across this before and I am unaware designers are selective to a models colour I personally have worked with all races and creeds - I was on the runway last year for a designer that originally came from the Congo and I was overwhelmed with the beauty of the creations and the models - I was the only white model walking for her at that show and I was so proud.


7 If you had the power to change the fashion world what would you change and why?

I would change the size of models - and the size of clothes - we don't live in a perfect world so why do we seek perfect size models for perfect size 0 clothes to be part of it?



8) Are you in a relationship/single/married?

I am single at the moment - I have just recently come out of a long term relationship - my life has become so busy that I just don't have time for love haha!


9) If you could do a photo shoot with just one male model who would it be and why?

Of course there a many fabulous gorgeous male models out there - my cousin Mark Gyoury is a top New York professional model and I would love to get the time to work with him, I have male model friends that are very successful, but in this instance I must say Philippe M Ashfield who is a young extremely talented male model definitely one to watch I have not as yet worked with him but I think a photo shoot is immanent for us :0)



10) Who are your role models?

My main role model in the fashion world is actress Charlize Theron I can relate my own body to her height her body size and stature - she is so charismatic and I just so love her J'Adore Dior Perfume TV commercial, then of course there is my Mother who was a model herself when she was young, she is so strong determined and confident.


11) What advice to you have for anyone wanting to be a model?

My advice is to look before you leap! Modelling after all is said and done a job - long hours - living in hotels - dragging suitcases on tubes and train’s and waiting in airports - you must expect to be used as a clothes horse - expect to be made up! brushed up! dressed up! and told to shut up! All in a day’s work and if you think you can handle that - go for it!



12) Describe in your own words what true beauty is?

This is a deep question - I think that true beauty shows on a models face if she is beautiful inside, I have watched and learned from some of the great female models of our time and I see that a happy, relaxed, warm, kind personality radiates beauty in a models face and her mannerisms but a model that is stressed, unhappy with hair and make-up, pushed beyond her stamina and angry reflects a bitter taunt cold expression on the face and hides beauty - so i guess that my answer is true beauty comes from inside the person.



13) What attracts you to someone?

I am attracted by a person’s mannerisms their attitude and their general good manners. I am strongly attracted to strong confident people but I don't like arrogance - I like well-kept and well groomed people that are funny friendly but most of all I find a person that is un-judgemental very appealing.



14) If Fashion Police News was to visit you what meal would you prepare for them?

I would probably do a lemon scallop starter - followed by a Grilled Sea Bass with a side salad - Desert of champagne mixed berries and NAUGHTY!! Clotted cream (Just a little) :0)



15) What are your thoughts on fashion police news report?

Love it - It’s my favourite blog site, I am a bit addicted to it to be honest I love the style and how comprehensive and informative it is and I will be truly proud to be featured on it.



16) What music would bring you to the dance floor to shake your booty?

I'm sorry to say I'm not a great dancer - I'm more of your stand watch with a cold glass of Champagne type!! Haha - but I do love old school Rod Stewart and the modern Rihanna.


17)If you was invited to a red carpet event which designer would you love to wear and why?

If i was to attend a red carpet event I would most definitely like to wear a long elegant Chanel Couture - I love Chanel!


18) What are your 4 fashion tips?

1. Good under wear always start from the basics - make sure your underwear fits correctly, bad fitting underwear can so easily make you into the shape you really don't want to be.

2. Learn what colour suits your skin your hair and your eyes. Colours are one of the most important rules for me, if you don't get it right you can look pale and unwell but if you do get it right you can look radiant and healthy.

3. I was told by my mother that my granddad told her, you can never be over dresses and I truly believe this - so in fashion dress to the max and stomp out fashion!

4. The only other tip I have is wear what makes you feel fabulous and be confident in your choices, high fashion clothes are also for real people not just for trend and celebrities.


19) If you’re wearing a very tight dress would you wear a bikini underwear......a thong are no panties?

I never go without underwear, I always wear a thong :0) when I'm working.



20) Which guy to you think is just too sexy?

I guess I could name Actors, Musicians and male Models but I think if I am going to be very truthful I must say Peterborough United Footballer Lee Tomlin.



21) Any last words to our blog readers?

Yes I would just like to say that I have the upmost respect for the Catwalk Professor and I urge all up and coming models to listen to his advice and guidance this can be a harsh and cruel industry - listen and learn. To all Fashion Police readers I hope you enjoyed my interview!
PHOTO TO MODEL BY....INFINITY PHOTOGRAPHY