"Like shooting a fish in a barrel. There was no way I could miss it."

Anna Wintour Editor-in-Chief of Vogue takes fashion residency as part of Alex Katz first and hugely anticipated first solo exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, London. The chosen works of Katz exhibition range from a group portrait of New York intelligentsia at a cocktail party to portraits of Katz's friends and family, including a portrait of his life-long muse and his wife Ada. But, it is the portrait of Wintour which is a new and hugely sucessful approach for Katz. Capturing Anna unusually without her signature sunglasses, Katz became interested in Wintour during the September issue documentry when he noticed her 'lovely eyes. Sitting for her first painting Katz described Wintours visit to his New York Studio as, "like shooting a fish in a barrel. There was no way I could miss it." The bright yellow background and use of colour, softens the harsh associations of Wintours public character and creates a softer intriguing personality. This exhibition explians exactly why Alex Katz is deemed as one of the most exceptional painters of our time. ALEX KATZ PORTRAITS will run from 15 May - 21 September 2010, in Rooms 41 and 41A in the Contemporary Collections in the Lerner Galleries of the National Portrait Gallery, London.


By Katriona Flynn

Seeing Studs

Studded clothing and accessories have been in for a while, and it appears that this trend is here to stay- at least through the summer. This season, the studded spotlight is on shoes. Almost every kind of shoe out there (whether it be pumps, flats, sandals, or boots) is available embellished with some sort of studs. Studded shoes give of an edgy vibe even when standing alone, so dressing them up or down is all a part of the fun. The studs themselves come in all different varieties, some of the most popular being small, spiky, and jeweled. The best part about this trend is that there are a pair of studded shoes to suit every style, no matter how low-key our out there it may be. If your style is girly, try a pair of high heeled Mary Janes or a sandal with another embellishment like a flower or some ruffles. The subtle sprinkle of studs makes you look tougher without stealing the spotlight. If you go for a more androgynous look, try some studded oxfords! The two trends really compliment each other, as the studs make these schoolboy shoes a lot more glamorous. For those who are constantly on their feet, a simple pair of flats can come alive with the addition of a few sparkly studs- taking your look to the next level of street chic. Or, for those who are true rockers at heart, a pair of extreme chunky wedges or peep-toe booties covered in a layer of studs will give you what you need to complete your wardrobe! No matter who you are or how you dress, studded shoes are a must-have this season.

By Ali Antonucci

Model Watch Monday: Italian Stallion Francesco Brunetti

Francesco hails from Italy but definitely captures that "All America" look. Okay, so maybe the Varsity jacket is helping a bit.

There is this aura about him that screams Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, perhaps even Calvin Klein. This might be why he spent a successful show season in Milan walking for Armani and Ermanno Scervino.  So, with that said, I see some editorials happening in the near future for this stunner.  Perhaps a fragrance campaign [for one of the above said designers] in the near future, remember I said that!  After all Francesco's sex appeal meter is at an all time high, there is no doubt this boy is smoking and ready to work. Be sure to keep Francesco on your radar, we are!

Francesco is currently only signed with FASHION in Milan. I wonder what NYC agency is going to snatch him up.

Coney Island's Siren Music Festival

Coney Island is famous for many things such as its hot dogs, beach, and amusement park. However, Coney Island is also famous for holding one of the biggest summer music festivals: Siren Music Festival.

Siren Fest is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year with a line-up that is sure to please. Bands such as: Matt and Kim, Harlem and Ponytail along with eleven others will perform. There is also a after party held at the Music Hall of Williamsburg which We Are Scientists is headlining.

Bands as: The Killers, Morningwood, and Death Cab For Cutie have all played Siren Fest in the past. There is food, as well as local bars right near the stages.

The festival is taking place on July 17th in Coney Island, Brooklyn. It starts at noon and ends around 9:00 p.m. It usually attracts about 100,000 fans a year, so get there early to hold a sweet spot by the two stages, oh and don't forget to bring water!

For more information visit: this website.

By: Michelle Manetti

Concert For Equality by Conor Oberst

The Arizona SB 1070 act is the strictest anti-illegal immigration legislation act in the United States at the moment. It has been the cause of a lot of controversy and Conor Oberst has joined a number of artists who are boycotting the act.

In attempt to gain more supporters for the boycott, he along with his band Bright Eyes have organized a block-party style concert: Concert For Equality in Benson, Nebraska. The concert will be held on July 31 and all proceeds will benefit the American Civil Liberties Union’s fight against fining employers and landlords who employ and rent to illegal immigrants in the state of Nebraska.

Even if you don't agree with his political views, it should be a good show. A number of bands have already signed up for the concert including: Cursive and Lullaby for the Working class. Oberst will also reunite with his band Desaparecidos.

Tickets go on sale through this website, Saturday the 10th of July for $20 and due to the venue's size, will likely sell out quickly. Click here to learn more about the cause.

By Michelle Manetti