A beautiful sunny day made for a welcoming beckon into New York City for fashion week. It seemed as though Mother Earth was, too, celebrating the return of the beloved event like the rest of us. Sunday, September 12th marked the return of Nolcha Shows – the award-winning fashion event held during New York Fashion Week for independent fashion brands.
American Spirit at Fashion Week
The show nodded to the themes of Americana and patriotism that are emanating from the big apple this week, with the 20th remembrance of the American tragedy 9/11, a Met Gala theme appropriately titled “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion”, and an almost complete return to American life and tradition after the pandemic. Fashion Week, and this show, in particular, was surely an indicator of the latter. Cheers swelled from the crowd when Nolcha Co-Founder Arthur Mandel stood before them, acknowledging that the shows were finally back after two years.
The show began with a performance of the national anthem from the beautiful voice of Army spouse Deidra Lee Stubbs. Over the loudspeaker played the American classic, “Old Time Rock & Roll” by Bob Seger during the opening looks. Sitting front row was not only Miss USA and Miss Universe, but also a group of women deservingly recognized for their contribution to the safety of the country: military spouses. Nolcha Shows and in partnership with InstaSleep Mint Melts routinely recognizes these women as highly deserving individuals who sacrifice so much to be a part of the framework of the military and behind-the-scenes heroes.
Miss USA Asya Branch and Miss Universe Andrea Meza at Nolcha Shows NYFW 2021
Nolcha Shows NYFW Presented the Following Fashion Brands at the SS2022 Show:
KavenLiu DIMOR
The looks at KavenLiu DIMOR floated down the runway in silky blues, whites, and shades of shiny black. The collection, centered around the celebration of the female form married with elements of structure and architecture, made for delicious juxtaposition and an understanding of women’s bodies. The flattering silhouettes were complemented by what they were made up of: silk, hemp, and cotton.
Photo by Jess LugoNolcha Shows NYFW Spring Summer 2022 KAVENLIU DIMORKAVENLIU DIMORKAVENLIU DIMOR
KOREANO
The looks at KOREANO showed versatility, playfulness, and sophistication. Deep burnt oranges and antique patterns hinted at a potential for 70s inspiration. Different iterations of the little black dress revealed a keen understanding of what women seek to wear, no matter the occasion. The modern woman is sure to find her ideal look in this collection alone.
Photo by Jess LugoNolcha Shows NYFW Spring Summer 2022 KOREANOKOREANOKOREANO
KLOVA
Minimalism is KLOVA’s middle name, and this collection was a signifier of just that. This collection in particular, centered looks around two legs. Long flowy pants and jumpsuits swooshed around ankles in a beautiful display of exquisite tailoring and textile choice. Comfort, grace, and peace were all celebrated elements in this KLOVA collection.
Photo by Jess LugoNolcha Shows NYFW Spring Summer 2022 KLOVAKLOVAKLOVA
The 5th Season
Inspired by birdlike elements, The 5th Season got playful this season with patterns, unique textures, and explorative jewelry. Complementary blues and oranges made the collection contrast yet unify in a delightful manner. Tailored garments were crafted exquisitely and with precision. The 5th Season proved their collection to be born from rebirth, elegance, and freedom.
Photo by Jess LugoNolcha Shows NYFW Spring Summer 2022 THE 5TH SEASONTHE 5TH SEASONTHE 5TH SEASON
The above collections were complemented by stunning jewelry from Calista and Ashton Jewelry. Diamonds poured off of earrings, eyeglasses, and necklaces and dusted the shoulders of those strutting the catwalk. Stunning pearls dropped down from ears. Golden rings glittered at waistlines.
The show wrapped and patrons exited jubilantly and with a distinct satisfaction. Fashion is back – and better than ever – and New York couldn’t be happier.
For more on Nolcha Shows from Downtown, click here.
Somewhere, beyond the sea, Classic Harbor Line waits for thee.
Welcome back to Downtown Highlights, the series in which we take the opportunity to “highlight” businesses in NYC, like Classic Harbor Line – your one-stop (shop? or should we say port?) for seeing the city you love from the water.
After a tumultuous year and a half or so, it is important for us at Downtown to make sure that we’re serving the places that are serving us.
Classic Harbor Line owns a fleet of nine stunning vessels, designed by Scarano Boat Building of Albany, New York. These floating pieces of history call the east coast home. Hop on a Classic Harbor Line yacht in Boston, Massachusetts; Manhattan, New York; Newport, Rhode Island, and Key West, Florida.
Tours specialize in ticketed cruises and private charters, fit for guests and locals alike. Experience a sail as you’ve never experienced before on the luxuriously comfortable yachts that feature teak decks, mahogany trim, and carbon fiber rigging.
We at Downtown magazine had the pleasure of joining Captain Greg Freitas of Full Moon and Captain Sarah Pennington of America 2.0 on the two yachts for our Downtown Highlights series.
The first yacht we had the pleasure of visiting was Full Moon at Brookfield Place’s North Cove Marina in Manhattan. She’s a 65 foot fully restored 1950 classic yacht complete with full bar services, a full-service galley, and catering. We sat down with Captain Greg in her saloon to chat about Classic Harbor Line and his career as a yachtsman. “OLD SALT” fittingly read his cap as he gave anecdotal details of his experienced life on the water.
Over at The Chelsea Piers Marina, we paid a visit to America 2.0. She’s a 105 Feet LOA and a tribute to the first Schooner America — the winner of the very first America’s Cup in 1851. She’s a class act, complete with comfortable seating and bar service, and an open salon below featuring a full-service galley and two heads. Captain Sarah’s invitingly sat with us and gave us America 2.0’s history and her own.
Set sail yourself with Classic Harbor Line or take a walk along the esplanade to watch their stunning ships.
In today’s fashion landscape, influencers are everything.
Influencers have become the new innovators and early adopters that oftentimes will take the place of major mavens from yesteryear, as the runway designers. The beauty of such fashion leaders on the tiny screen is the direct link between them and their followers.
Why do you think influencers’ brand representation is so coveted?
Think about the spike in sales when influencer Kendall Jenner started tagging Alo Yoga in her social media channels, or when Emma Chamberlain nearly made Amazon sell out of yoga pants from one hard Instagram post. It is this kind of philosophy that birthed Lauren Wilson’sDora Maar. The luxury consignment brand that centers around the link between influencers, their coveted closets, and customers.
Dora Maar ingeniously links these “Muses” of all different walks of life with their customers. Now, followers can own their favorite influencer’s best pieces.
Wilson is changing the game of luxury consignment, with the help of her brilliant concept for Muses that offer up their beloved high-end pieces to be sold on Dora Maar, lovingly nicknamed DoMa. You’ll find that this born and bred brand is reimagining what it means to consign.
Lauren Wilson, Dora Maar’s Founder
Downtown: What is your personal background in fashion?
Lauren Wilson: Fashion has been an integral part of my life on both a personal and professional level. I’ve always felt that fashion is synonymous with storytelling, which in essence is the brand ethos of Dora Maar. Fashion allows one to express themselves and share creativity, emotions, and feelings in ways words cannot. Curating outfits and being thoughtful about the craftsmanship of clothing have always been important to me.
As for my career, following my graduation from USC, my first full-time job in fashion was at Gucci as an assistant in their celebrity PR dept in NYC. After Gucci, I began my Master of Art in Costume Studies from NYU, which I describe as the anthropological study of fashion. I was so passionate about the program and it played a large role in my interest in vintage clothing. Outside of fashion, I also worked in the art world at Christie’s where I was a part of their marketing team for luxury. There, I developed the keen ability to identify the importance of provenance or the origin of a piece of fine art. I realized how this concept of provenance to showcase value and authenticity was missing from luxury fashion in the secondary market. Following Christie’s, I moved back to luxury fashion e-commerce at Moda Operandi. Through the mix of these experiences, my idea for Dora Maar was born.
DT: What is the story behind Dora Maar’s name?
LW: I named my platform after Henriette Theodora Markovitch – also known as Dora Maar – an influential French photographer, painter, and poet. She was depicted in many of Picasso’s paintings, including his famous Portrait of Dora Maar and Dora Maar au Chat. She’s widely known as Pablo Picasso’s ‘muse’ which does play a role in the idea behind my Muse concept. Our Muses are influential to our consumers by providing a human element to buying clothing. That being said, Dora Maar was my point of inspiration for her unprecedented, independent, and fresh perspectives and ways. She challenged the norms through her surrealist art whether it be her paintings or poetry.With my platform, my mission is to do the same. We’re reimagining our relationship to pre-owned luxury fashion by leveraging the story behind each item through provenance and storytelling.
DT: How many designers do you carry at Dora Maar?
LW: We carry over 300 designers at Dora Maar, from Chanel to Emilia Wickstead and Carolina Herrera. We’ve designed our platform to be extremely user-friendly and serve as the link between influencers and our consumers. We’ve strategized our layout so our customers can be inspired by the apparel and accessories through various lenses. First, consumers can go through a dedicated closet page, carrying the items in a Muse’s closet. Or, they can opt to buy by the designer if they’re specifically looking for a Chanel or Saint Laurent item. We also curate special Edits which are theme-based and always a big hit for our clients. We’re really excited about our recent Bridal Muse Edit, a curated collection of hand-picked favorites for all types of wedding celebrations. We have innovative silhouettes from Huishan Zhang to incredible Balmain pieces.
DT: What does the consignment process look like at Dora Maar?
LW: Dora Maar is a high-touch consignment service, meaning we take all of the logistics in-house. Trust between our Muses and our customers is our number one focus, which is why the process behind each consigned piece is highly specialized. We handle the authentication, styling, and photographing, all the way through to the packaging and delivery of the item to our customers once a piece has sold. The reason we decided on this business model is that our mission is to connect our Muses and consumers, and we serve to make the consignment experience easy and bring a high level of trust to our customers when they are shopping for pre-owned luxury.
DT: Tell us about your “Muses” at Dora Maar. It is a really smart concept that is unique to Dora Maar. How was that idea born? What does being a DoMa muse entail?
LW: Thank you! Along with our commitment to sustainable fashion, our Muse concept is our favorite part of the platform. The idea was born when I ideated Dora Maar and was searching for a way to link influencers and customers.
We are thrilled to see how our Muses have connected the Dora Maar customers. Our Muses are inspiring tastemakers of all different shapes, sizes, and voices. We scout women (and some men!) who care about the craft and quality of clothing, and want to see their clothing passed on. Some of our Muses includeLauren Levison, Edward Barsamian, Lyn Slater, and Krystal Bick. Many of our Muses use their proceeds from their closet sales to raise funds for organizations that are important in their lives. For example, Lauren Levison recently donated 100% of her proceeds to the Present/Levison Advanced Fellowship in Inflammatory Bowel Disease at Mount Sinai Hospital.
DT: Does New York City influence and inspire Dora Maar in any way? If so, how?
LW: New York is certainly an incredibly huge source of inspiration for Dora Maar– so much so that I would say the city is a Muse in and of itself for me and our team. I moved to NYC right after college to pursue a career in fashion, so the story of New York is woven through everything we do. The energy and collision of ideas, innovation, and joy for life are all that make New York one of a kind. We are a born and bred NYC brand and our studio is headquartered in Brooklyn. All of the creatives– from photographers to our models (who are also Muses to us!) are based in the city. It’s amazing to be able to bring so many forward-thinking, talented individuals together to create Dora Maar amidst the backdrop of New York.
DT: What is your personal favorite spot to get inspired in NYC?
LW: That is a tough question! What I love about NYC is that every neighborhood is its only little world, so I am constantly inspired by so many different pockets of the city. When I am in need of an injection of inspiration, I am a sucker for the Met or Neue Galerie, an old 5th Ave mansion that was converted to a museum for early 20th century German and Austrian art – the space is just beautiful. On the flip side, my first apartment in NYC was on Bleecker Street in the West Village, so when I need a dose of New York City magic, I love wandering the streets over there. They are beyond charming, and I love popping into the small neighborhood shops and cafes, like Rosecrans on Greenwich Ave for delicious coffees, beautiful flowers, and small and unique home goods. I could probably go on for days about the places and people that have inspired me in the city, that’s what’s so amazing about it, I am always in awe of New York.
In 2011, magician and illusionist Matias Letelier followed the love of his life and now wife, Marlana to the United States.
Her “souvenir from Chile”, as he calls himself, Matias became a proponent of the American dream. Since then, he has been practicing magic for 23 years, professionally since 2005.
Today, Matias is known as one of the most elite magicians in the country, and you can be a part of the magic, right here in NYC.
Matias Performing at one of his “Pick Pocket” events
Magical Beginnings
Matias Letelier’s story of getting involved in magic is a divine one. It began with an inherited magic library and has manifested into his career. Matias enlightens us with the fact that the practice of magic by showing it has meaning and spirituality, with deep roots and religious ties.
He now shares his talents with New York City, as the city’s resident magician, brimming with Infectious charisma, charm, and friendliness. As a dedicated man to his craft, Matias did not stop amid the pandemic. He put smiles back on faces and put the awe back into people’s hearts with his Zoom magic sessions.
Downtown: What inspired you to become an illusionist & mentalist?
Matias Letelier: I never, ever, ever, thought about pursuing magic as a career. But while I was studying business, there were 4 elements that inspired me to become an illusionist & mentalist:
1) I inherited a magic library from my uncle who suffered an accident and passed away in 2004. He was a businessman but also an extremely talented magician (he did it as a hobby). Imagine myself getting so many magic books!
2) After his accident, every time I performed for his daughter (who was 3 by then) she would “see” her dad and invited him to join the show. It was crazy, and my grandmother and mom (who are fervent Christians) told me it was almost like a miracle! So I started doing a trick in his memory in every show… and thought about continuing his legacy.
3) Along with my friends at the Business school, spending 2 weeks each summer and winter in lower-income areas of our country helping them fix their houses, and then in the afternoon, we would teach them about marketing, finance, accountability, and other business skills. Then in the late afternoon, we would have some fun activities and I was in charge of the entertainment for being a magician. The shows were very simple but with so much heart that people were super excited. This is where I learned that I had a way to connect with people which made them feel happy.
4) Finally, at the business school one of my teachers told me “you should mix your passion/hobby with marketing… then you’ll have a unique business”. I thought to myself “I have the passion, the magic skills, and marketing knowledge, and most importantly, I have the story of my uncle… maybe I should do magic for a living”… 16 years after, here I am. I’m so happy and thankful for all the many blessings I’ve received so far.
DT: What is the difference between magic, and illusionism?
ML: For me, there are magicians and illusionists. Magicians were the real deal in ancient times. But they have nothing to do with the modern illusionist. While magicians were pursuing the enlightenment or spiritual connection with the divinity (God, samadhi, Heaven, etc), the illusionist tried to create the “illusion” that they were able to do the same as these magicians. For example, an ancient magician would have the ability to “read” someone’s mind and body and know exactly what was happening with them. Then they will recommend a course of action. On the other side, mentalists (which is an area in illusionism), do a few tricks to pretend they can read someone’s mind, just to reveal the number you were thinking of or the name of a loved one. In other words, magic was meant to achieve a higher state of consciousness associated with your spiritual life, while illusionists just try to entertain you.
DT: Can you tell us a bit about your performance styles and what kind of events you cover?
ML: My performance style includes strolling close-up magic and stage performances with big illusions. Although in recent years I’ve started incorporating many elements from mentalism. And I’ve done it all: private yachts in the Caribbean, cruise ships, big theaters, small theaters, clubs, hotels, private events, and corporate events all over the world.
DT: What do your performances entail? Which “trick” is the biggest crowd-pleaser?
ML: I focus on high energy and interactions. For me, the most important part is to connect with the audience. I usually become friends with my audience (even in a 10 min routine), and then it feels like I’m a friend showing them some secret skills. I have a very warm approach to the audience, more so than other magicians, this is a great benefit.
DT: It appears that you can speak four languages: native Spanish, fluent English, medium Portuguese, and basic French. Does that ever come in handy when practicing magic?
ML: Not so much when practicing, but definitely when performing. Many times I have international audiences, clients will book me because they know that I can speak different languages. People feel much more comfortable when I speak their language. Besides, it’s fun for me and they enjoy the extra effort, when I pronounce the words correctly. Even though I might not be able to do a full show in French, the fact that I can do a few tricks and communicate with them, shows them I care. People care about you when you show them that you truly care about them and make the effort.
DT: What gets you the most excited about performing?
ML: I don’t smoke, I don’t do drugs, I don’t drink. Seriously. But when I’m out performing I get a “magicians’ high”. My wife says it is because I perform with passion. I’m not focusing on the clock. I’m just out there enjoying myself, getting to know new people, learning from their stories, and sharing some magic. It makes me so happy, and I feel my audience feed off of that energy the same way I feed on their reactions and energy. To experience that is one of my favorite and exciting things during my preformance.
DT: You base your work mostly out of New York City. Where is your favorite spot to perform?
ML: Even though I’ve been lucky to bring my magic all over the world, my favorite spot in NY is Speakeasy Magick at the famous McKittrick Hotel. Todd Robbins invited me to be part of this along with the best magicians in NYC – and I’m not telling you this because I’m part of the show – but this is without a doubt, the best magic show in NYC. Why? Because we created a unique experience that happens right in front of you, in the club car at the McKittrick Hotel, a place that is so cool that you have to experience it to see what everyone is talking about. This show always puts a smile on my face, plus everyone behind the show, including all the amazing performers, and staff, are simply the best.
DT: What do you love most about NYC?
ML: Do we have time? (laugh). So many things. The diversity of cultures, all the entertainment options, the great restaurants, the social life, the fact that the different social classes mix in every block, all the activities happening in every corner no matter where you are, Speakeasy Magick, and, of course, from here you can travel anywhere in the world. I mean, how can you not love this city?
For more on entertainment from Downtown, click here.
To read our Downtown Q&A with musician Seth Kessel, click here.
It is easy to get caught up in the abyss of beauty products, especially in the summer. We’re here to help you narrow it down to the bare necessities for your beauty bag. Nurture your hair and skin this summer with only the best and hottest products of this summer season.
Olaplex proves that it is the leading brand in keeping split-ends out of our hair with its No.7 bonding oil. This product is small yet mighty. The 1oz bottle is made to last and is a true jack of all trades. It increases shine, smoothness, promotes growth, and provides UV/heat protection at up to 450°F/232°C.
This frizz spray is Living Proof that smooth hair in the summer is attainable. We have all been there. After all, it’s summer. Humidity is at an all-time high, and all you can do is pray that your locks will stay smooth. Pray no more with Living Proof’s No Frizz Humidity shield! This miracle spray also smells to-die-for. Talk about a hair double whammy.
This luxurious body cream is an absolute must-have for summer. It is buttery soft, skin tightening (thanks to the caffeine-rich guarana), and addictively delicious smelling.
This Allure 2019 Best of Beauty Award Winner proves its worth as the best lip product for summer. Slather this luxurious lip mask on overnight to diminish dryness and fine lines, or just to treat yourself.
Sunday Riley puts good genes in a bottle – literally – with this fantastic lactic acid treatment. Good Genes leaves the skin feeling decadent yet weightless as it exfoliates and clarifies. Not to mention, Sunday Riley products are all entirely cruelty-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, soy-free, phthalate-free, fragrance-free, and vegan!
Ladies and gents, meet the tanning oil that will have you tossing out those greasy brown bottles. Bali Body is truly the best in the business. This watermelon tanning oil is compact, sweet-smelling, mess-free, all-natural, and features different levels of SPF. The formula is enriched with watermelon seed extract to naturally get you that bronzed summer color.
Yes To Cucumbers Daily Eye Treatment $9.99 and Calming Facial Wipes $5.99
YesTo.com
You may know Yes To from their edible-inspired beauty products – namely their sheet masks that decorate the aisles of your local drug store. Introducing their new Yes To Cucumbers Daily Eye Treatment. Skip slicing up your salad ingredients and use this super smooth and soothing eye cream fit for sensitive skin. The formula is buttery soft, smells so refreshing, and will leave your under eyes feeling cool as a cucumber.
YesTo.com
Want more cukes in your daily routine? Try out the Yes To Cucumbers calming facial wipes. Much like their eye cream counterpart, these wipes are equally as soothing and equipped to treat sensitive skin. Skip that rough burning sensation that other facial wipes ail you with. Oh, and get this: these wipes are plant-based and compostable under both municipal and home conditions! That’s huge news people!
Welcome back to Downtown Highlights on Gluten-Free
The series in which we take the opportunity to “highlight” businesses in NYC, like the dedicated gluten-free Italian eatery, Senza Gluten.
As a result to this unpredictably tumultuous year and a half we’ve had, brick and mortar locations like this one have taken a hit thanks to the pandemic.
It is important to us here at Downtown to make sure that we’re serving the places that serve us.
For this episode of Downtown Highlights, we paid a visit to the esteemed Senza Gluten in Greenwich Village. The name Senza Gluten has Italian origins, of course, and translates to “without Gluten”.
Tiramisu
The restaurant was created in 2014, by Chef Jemiko Solo.
Chef’s goal in opening Senza was simple: to ensure a 100% gluten-free atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a gluten-free meal, devoid entirely of gluten or any risk of cross-contamination. You won’t find a spec of gluten inside the entire facility.
Our own host of Downtown Highlights, Marley Gifford, has celiac disease herself, visiting the facility was a euphoric experience as it is for many visitors of Senza Gluten with gluten intolerances.
Calamari
A Restaurant Made for those with Gluten Intolerances – Gluten-Free
Chef Solo does not have any gluten intolerances himself. However, many of his friends and relations suffer from various food allergies.
Chef made it his mission to help his friends, and all clients enjoying their food, and life, to the fullest.
He dedicates his work to ensure that his guests can again enjoy delicious dishes that disguise themselves as tasting just like the glutinous dishes we know and love.
Having the ability to eat glutinous dishes allows Solo to taste his dishes with an advantage, and gets him closer to the real thing.
The gluten-free possibilities don’t stop at the restaurant. Just down the street from the restaurant is the Senza Gluten Cafe & Bakery, which was opened in 2018.
Shortbread Cookies
This location allows the restaurant to expand its menu of different kinds of bread, pastries, and other baked goods. It is there that they also bake some of their savory dishes, like their arancini and mushroom ravioli, both Senza must-try.
Gnocchi
Pay a visit to Senza Gluten and bring both your gluten-free friends and ones that aren’t. We bet they’ll barely be able to tell the difference.
To see the last Downtown Highlights episode, click here.
