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Emerging Fashion Designer Of The Week: Introducing The Talented Anna Kim

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Anna Kim actually got started in the fashion industry by reading fashion books and learning fashion words used for sewing, designing, and styling. She was initially a student of Seoul National University – her major was International Relations while her second one was European studies. She was curious about fashion and she wanted to be part of that world. It attracted her so much. However, she could not give up her studies and it was quite intense at the time, so she had to learn about fashion all by herself during her free time that she almost did not have.

One day, she attended Seoul Fashion Week where she realized just how much she really wants to be a part of the Fashion world. There were several ways to become closer to the industry that she could do during her undergrad. One of them was to become a fashion journalist. She found a job looking for a journalist and she started to write articles about Korean fashion and events and every week she went to different brands to interview Korean fashion designers.

After her undergrad, she wanted to learn fashion design at a university and get a master’s degree. However, she was not allowed to enter because they required an undergrad degree in fashion design so she decided to study at Yonsei University Korean studies and concentrate on Korean costume instead. All her researches were about the history of Korean costume and women of 1920-the 30s. When she graduated she got a diploma with a “Master of Korean Arts”.

Since her approach to fashion started academically, after finishing her master’s, she wanted to learn the practical part. She wanted to learn how to sew and create patterns and practice to become a professional designer and pattern maker. At that time she already had an idea of how to create her own brand. However, she had to go to China due to personal reasons and she ended up staying there for one year, learning Chinese.

She saw how advanced the fashion industry in China was so she attended more than 50 fashion shows, met lots of people from the fashion industry, bought books about sewing techniques, etc. She learned a lot and was even more inspired to create her own brand. When she came back, she continued to attend her fashion school but at the same time, she started to rent her first office in the fashion center of Seoul, near Dongdaemun Design Plaza. She studied and tried to apply everything she learned. It was a happy time for her, despite all the hardships. This is how she got into the fashion world.

Sassy & Co Magazine recently caught up with Anna to discuss her journey in the fashion world and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a designer?

I love the feeling of creativity and freedom that you can create anything you want (from your own world). The question you have to sell is “how”.

Downside to being a fashion designer?

Factories, production, control of the process. Dust. Neverending updates and sometimes crazy pace that doesn’t let you live a normal life. When you are young it’s okay but later on, it becomes harder.

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the fashion industry so far?

Meeting people and seeing how they feel happy when buying or trying on the clothes I made.

Another moment was when Coronavirus started, I had to adapt my business to a new format and I started to teach fashion in my studio in Seoul. Sewing classes, fashion illustration, collection planning, and students’ preparation for study at the fashion design department in South Korean universities. I was happy to see how my students are growing. Recently, I continue to teach and show Korean movies related to Korean fashion, read lectures dedicated to the history of Korean costumes online and offline.

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

The most interesting people are my clients and in most cases, they become good friends.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the fashion industry. This can be about the industry or about yourself.

I have to think about every step very carefully and think about the whole strategy at the same time. It’s quite hard to keep all moments and control the situation, despite on notes or interns/assistants I have.

Is your family supportive of you being a fashion designer?

My mother supports me a lot, while my father was dreaming about a different future. He wanted me to become a diplomat and work in the Korean embassy. However, I don’t see myself working there.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I would not like to work with Korean producers, who invited me to their project (movie) to create clothes for the actors. I had to get a deposit in advance. That was my mistake and now everything is pre-paid.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

My professor from the fashion school after I graduated recommended I continue to develop my own brand rather than go to work for a company. And now I want to say many thanks for this advice.

My advice to readers: Start with what you are afraid of the most.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

I am planning to move to Moscow, collaborate with Russian artists, and continue my activities there together with my business in Seoul, Korea.

5 Fashion Dos And Don’ts You Should Take Note Of In 2021

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When it comes to fashion, trends can be pretty predictable but the outcome can be a total disaster. Time and again, we have seen cringe-worthy fashion statements that never missed sharp biting comments from interested public, even famous celebrities get lambasted after a red carpet display of tragic fashion sense. But really, how does the fashion world define elegance and style?

The fashion world is a big open space where everyone expresses himself or herself with utter braveness. The only question now lies in what makes an unflattering wardrobe and what spells an elegant style choice. It can be a frightening place for someone who does not grow accustomed to fashion success so here’s a quick peek at how to avoid embarrassing fashion fails.

Fashion Do’s

  1. Do wear bright and bold colours with equally expressive prints. Often, the fear of becoming a fashion victim is so consuming that people rather stay on the safe side. Remember that most of the time, even the most seemingly inappropriate match can turn out edgy and highly fashionable.
  2. Do wear clothes that you are comfortable in regardless if it’s the latest trend or not. Fashion is a form of self-expression. How else do trends start if no one is brave enough to try them first?
  3. Do invest in basic yet classic apparel. Buy white shirts, leggings, jeans, tights, black socks khaki pants, and black dresses. These pieces are timeless and never go out of style.
  4. Do fall in love with great accessories, from shoes to jewellery, belts, bags, and clutches. Learn to mix and match each item, as they will help reinvent your clothes and give a totally different look even if you’re wearing the same outfit from your last event.
  5. Do break fashion rules. Endless exploring brings the fashion world to where it is now. Do not be afraid to try different things. This might transform you into a fantastic social flower so wear whatever you want but don’t overdo stuff.

Fashion Don’ts

  1. Don’t over-accessorise.
  2. Don’t wear clothes just to please or impress others.
  3. Don’t wear white at a wedding party if you’re not the bride. Surely, the last thing you would like to happen is to steal the special celebration.
  4. Don’t show your undergarments and definitely, no bra straps exposure ladies. Fashion is evolving and that means strapless bras are in existence. Get them!
  5. Don’t be the fashion faux pas. Always dress appropriately and never lose your sense of style.

Can you keep up with these fashion rules to be glamour-ready?

How To Dress Up Jeans: 5 Simple Ways To Make Your Denim Stand Out

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You couldn’t agree more that the most versatile bottom-buddies that are allowed to hug are legs are jeans. Okay, there might not be such a word as “Bottom-buddy” but it fits right? As long as it fits, there is always a place for it under the sun,

Like Jeans!

As long as it fits and as long as we can carry some style out of our pants then there would always be some new styles to cover and explore. Here are 5 new ways to make sure you stand out when wearing jeans!

  1. Turtleneck Sweater + Paper Bag Jeans

Turtleneck sweaters are undoubtedly hot, not just literally but also in the fashion sense. Balancing the energy, turtleneck sweaters can be best friends with Paper Bag jeans to balance the tight-yet-comfy feels your top has and the flowy-yet-intact sensation your Paper Bag jeans provide. Striped turtleneck sweaters look sexier when tucked inside this type of jeans. Also have this combo partnered with your best heels or maybe a complementing hat!

  1. Skinny Jeans + Light-Colored Shoes + Off-The-Shoulder Top

Not that I am a fan of the flowy effect but you should check this style out if you haven’t yet. Skinny Jeans give more emphasis to your legs and provides a little bit of a slimming effect while the off-the-shoulder top exposes your upper sexiness to a higher level. The light-colored shoes in this combination balances your style in between looking hot and being cool. You may add statement earrings and a matchy-matchy necklace as well. Sweet!

  1. Straight Jeans + Striped Ruffled Cropped-top blouse.

A new way to wear the old-fashioned-yet-unshaken Straight Jeans is to wear them with a cropped-top blouse, which would be better with stripes. It might be hard to imagine but it works! No cropped-top blouse but have a normal blouse at home? Easy, a pair of scissors or shears can be your best friend! Just a little time to spend with manual tailoring and you’re all set! Flats would also complement the Straight Jeans to give it a casual and more dignified look.

  1. Ripped Skinny Jeans + Plain white Tee + Blazer + Sandals

It’s such a great year for ripped jeans and sandals, isn’t it? Why not spice it up with a plain white tee and a blazer? I mean, come on! Imagine the fierce aura, girl! Plain tees give out the neutral vibes while a blazer would give the tee a respectable-looking companion. The combination of the tops you wear would balance the wild taste of the Ripped Skinny jeans and the sandals would keep you looking approachable while staying elegant. Awesome! Slay more!

  1. Cropped Jeans + Graphic Tee + White Sneakers

Want to try out a fun-looking getup? Then this style might work great for you! Graphic Tees shows a lot more about yourself alongside statement shirts which would look awesome with cropped jeans too when paired with the right footwear. White graphic shirts and Black graphic shirts would both look absolutely stunning with white shoes, and the cropped jeans’ role is to make sure your footwear is emphasized. Make sure to invest in really good-looking shoes that do not necessarily have to be expensive, to show a playful style.

Once again, as long as it fits and as long as we can carry some style out of our pants then there would always be some new styles to cover and explore. Stay slayin’ slayer girl!

Meet The Man Behind The Cover Of The March 2021 Issue Of Sassy & Co Magazine: Steven Ozbun

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A veteran entrepreneur, music producer, and home builder, Steven Ozbun is currently the CEO of the sunglasses and apparel brand TradingLooks.com. He managed to grow his company from a team of 3 to well over 150 team members as well as expanded their product line from zero revenue to a whopping $20 million annually.

Ozbun calls his first true love to be music. As an 80’s baby, he was influenced by some of the most iconic artists of all time such as Elvis, Cher, and Prince. Because of this passion for the music industry, he established Spinindustry Entertainment which was a production company that produces his music, as well as undiscovered talents, no one has heard of yet. What’s truly unique is the vision Ozbun had for this type of music – it was a blend of house music and hip hop which is somewhere around 120 to 128 bpm repeating hip hop phrases on a house beat. Ozbun goes by the artist name of “OZ music nation.” Under this name, he has produced 20 original tracks and has released five mixes. From a passion project – Ozbun has grown his passion project into something much more.

Just recently, Ozbun founded “Continuum Residential” which is a design and build firm specializing in finding first turn historical candidate homes and re-imagining them leaving character and modern, amenities. This is all done while doing their best to use the properties’ original footprint.

Originally going to school to be an architect, the vision comes naturally for him. In the Continuum Residential portfolio are five homes in different phases of construction in Point Loma spread out across Ocean Beach, Sunset Cliffs, Plumosa Park, and Loma Portal. The properties span across architectural types mid-century modern, Tudor, Spanish, and beach bungalow – all homes are being re-imagined with hotel-like amenities and true to era modernized flair.

In addition to these brands, Ozbun also continues to provide marketing and strategic consulting services to select clients in consumer-driven industries. You can learn more information about these services via his website www.stevenozbun.com.

Sassy & Co magazine recently caught up with Steven to discuss his journey to entrepreneurship and here’s what went down:

Can you tell us more about your journey to entrepreneurship?

2008 was a great year to launch a company, right? For most, absolutely not. We didn’t let this get in our way. We hit the ground running and never looked back so we were so excited about our marketing and website products and the problems they solved. I loved the industry and the people. I had a blast, I loved what I did. In about a decade we grew from a team of 3 to well over 150 team members, expanded our product line from zero revenue to $20 million recurring, annually and most of all, we were filthy rich in company culture. Our team loved their jobs and our clients loved our team, products, and successes.

Why did you start Trading Looks?

I love sunglasses, I remember once, I spent half of my paycheck on sunglasses yet they were constantly lost, broken, or borrowed indefinitely. So I decided to create a way to solve the issue of expensive sunglasses that do not last by providing fresh new pairs regularly at a low monthly fee.

Why do you think so many startups fail before reaching their full potential?

Creating something from nothing comes with a set of extremely challenging pieces and situations. I see many startups fail due to being too concerned about the immediate impact a decision has on the company rather than the long-term effects, losses, and gain that decision may be catalyzing.

What would you say is the secret to your success?

As a business owner, our number one customer is our team. Always put your team first, make sure they are valued, love what they do, and are in the right role for their success. Watching a team grow into leaders is probably the most enriching piece of entrepreneurship.

What is your definition of success?

Rich is happiness, rich is friendships, rich is love, health, and success. Success is not the title on your business card or the zeros in your bank account. Success is failing miserably, success is being broke but happy, smiling; no matter how your day is going. Success is an accomplishment, reputation and giving it your all, and being proud of who you are. Are you set up for success?

What are your future plans for your business?

More marketing. It’s exciting to grow brands in extremely different markets and industries. I have always been into real estate design and development as well as entertainment and fashion.

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5 Bags Every Woman Should Definitely Own

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Every occasion has a perfect bag. Whether you’re working in the office, hitting the beach, or going for a night on the town, here are the 5 bags every woman should own. These will help give versatility to your closet while also being functional for any situation that may arise. To make sure you’re prepared for anything you need to do, here are our picks for 5 bags every woman should own:

1- Everyday bag

This is your go-to bag. It matches all of your clothes, it holds up against anything you put it through, and it fits all of your daily essentials. Find a bag that matches your wardrobe (whether black or leather) and that fits all of your essentials including your wallet, phone, and any other bits and bobs you carry throughout your day.

2- Small or medium cross-body bag

This bag is a bit fancier than your go-to bag and isn’t one you’d wear day-to-day. This one is your choice for business casual events when you need something that looks more put-together that’s also on your shoulder and allows you to operate hands-free. The size of the bag depends on the situation. A smaller cross-body is perfect for small things like a card sleeve and your phone while a medium size can hold your full wallet as well.

3- Tote bag

Essential for those workdays and days out on the town, the tote bag will fit everything you need and more. This one is perfect for hauling around your laptop, file folder, and anything else you need. Investing in a quality tote bag will ensure that your contents stay safe and protected while you’re out and about.

4- Backpack

Backpacks are functional for a multitude of uses – day trips and park visits to name a few. With the variety of backpacks on the market from cute stylish leather ones to functional canvas ones, you’re sure to find one that fits the style of your wardrobe while also being functional. This bag is perfect to keep everything you might need for your days out while not compromising on fashion. These are also fun to personalize with cute enamel pins or keychains!

5- Clutch

For nights out, a clutch is perfect for only the essentials. These usually have just enough room for the cards you need, some cash, your lipstick, and your phone as well. A basic clutch will match all of your outfits or you can go big and get a statement piece to instantly jazz up anything you wear. Find one with a wrist strap to help you go hands-free when you need to without the fear of leaving your bag behind.

These are the essentials to start off your bag collection. While it’s helpful to start with basics, you can never have too many bags! Experiment with what works best for you and build your collection from there. What’s your favorite go-to bag? We’d love to hear about it!

The Fashion Do’s and Dont’s For 2020

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When it comes to fashion, trends can be pretty predictable but the outcome can be a total disaster. Time and again, we have seen cringe-worthy fashion statements that never missed sharp biting comments from the interested public, even famous celebrities get lambasted after a red carpet display of tragic fashion sense. But really, how does the fashion world define elegance and style?

The fashion world is a big open space where everyone expresses himself or herself with utter braveness. It can be a frightening place for someone who does not grow accustomed to fashion success so here’s a quick peek on how to avoid embarrassing fashion fails.

Fashion Do’s

1. Do wear bright and bold colours with equally expressive prints. Often, the fear of becoming a fashion victim is so consuming that people rather stay on the safe side. Remember that most of the time, even the most seemingly inappropriate match can turn out edgy and highly fashionable.

2. Do wear clothes that you are comfortable in regardless if it’s the latest trend or not. Fashion is a form of self-expression. How else do trends start if no one is brave enough to try them first?

3. Do invest in basic yet classic apparel. Buy white shirts, leggings, jeans, tights, black socks khaki pants, and black dresses. These pieces are timeless and never go out of style.

4. Do fall in love with great accessories, from shoes to pieces of jewelry, belts, bags, and clutches. Learn to mix and match each item, as they will help reinvent your clothes and give a totally different look even if you’re wearing the same outfit from your last event.

5. Do break fashion rules. Endless exploration brings the fashion world to where it is now. Do not be afraid to try different things. This might transform you into a fantastic social flower so wear whatever you want but don’t overdo stuff.

Fashion Don’ts

1. Don’t over-accessorise.

2. Don’t wear clothes just to please or impress others.

3. Don’t wear white to a wedding party if you’re not the bride. Surely, the last thing you would like to happen is to steal the special celebration.

4. Don’t show your undergarments and definitely, no bra straps exposure ladies. Fashion is evolving and that means strapless bras are in existence. Get them!

5. Don’t be the fashion faux pas. Always dress appropriately and never lose your sense of style.

Can you keep up with these fashion rules to be glamour-ready?

5 Easy Ways to Instantly Look More Fashionable

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We all want to look chic and stylish all the time. Therefore, we are going to give you some of the best style tips that we have learned from celebrities and fashion influencers. These tips should help you to look effortlessly stylish.

Tailor Your Clothes

To look stylish and sassy, we don’t only need overpriced stylish clothes. The clothes we typically get from stores are of standard sizes, so don’t expect them to fit you perfectly. You might have a larger bust area, smaller waist, or slimmer arms so, it’s important to tailor your clothes according to your body. Celebrities themselves always tailor their suits before they wear them. It won’t cost you much, but it would surely make you look high-end. Measure your body size accurately and find a good tailor and you will definitely see a big difference.

Don’t Forget Accessories

Whether you have worn stylish clothes or not, if you aren’t wearing any accessories then you are seriously missing out. Try to wear a waist belt, your favorite hoop earrings, or your colorful bracelet to complete your look. Remember, don’t wear jewelry too much because you will probably end up looking like a disco ball. 2-4 jewelry pieces are enough because when it comes to wearing jewelry – less is more. Also, invest in some stylish sunglasses and colorful handbags because they can come in handy.

Don’t be Scared to Try New Color and Prints

Yes, you read this headline right! Don’t be afraid to try something new. If you are new to prints, then you can always try animal prints. Remember, only wear a single type of print. Never combine two prints together as it wouldn’t look good together. Basic colors should always be in your closet but it’s also not a bad idea to get bold or neon colors. Wear colors that you love and try to smile often, and you will surely stand out from the rest of the crowd.

Know your Body Type

There are different body types of body shapes and these include pear, apple, hourglass, etc. Women should always know their body type so they can embrace them. You should always shop according to your body shape. If you want to make your waist smaller then you can try wearing Victorian sleeves. Moreover, if you want to show off your hourglass body shape, then you can try wearing a dress with an A-line silhouette.

Combine Your Formal with Casual

Designers and stylists love to combine casual wear with formal wear. Whether you are a working woman or a high school teen girl, it’s always a fabulous idea to combine casual with formal. A sequined shirt with ripped jeans and glittery stilettos would surely put you in a spotlight. You can also try wearing a simple blazer with a shiny dress and that’s totally fab.

5 Surefire Makeup Tips Every Woman Should Know

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Makeup is undoubtedly women’s first love and they spend a lot of time using it. Here’s the thing though, not everyone knows how to apply makeup like a pro. If you want to know some great tips and hacks when it comes to applying makeup, then you’re at the right place as we have rounded up 5 of the best makeup tips and hacks of 2020.

Apply Powder on Lashes

Bigger and fuller eyelashes are every woman’s dream, but it is almost impossible to have fuller eyelashes without wearing false eyelashes. Mascara can surely help to make the eyelashes look longer and fuller so here’s a good tip; After the first coat of your mascara, apply translucent powder or baby powder on your eyelashes with the help of makeup brush and then apply another coat of mascara. You’ll see that your eyelashes will look thicker and fuller by this hack.

White Eye Pencil

If you don’t own a white eye pencil, then you are seriously missing out. A white eye pencil is helpful in so many ways. If you want your eyes to pop out, then you need to apply a white eye pencil on your lower waterline and see the magic. Your eyes would look bigger than before. Another great tip is that if you want a certain color of eyeshadow to standout or pop then apply it all over your eyelids before applying eyeshadow. Your eyeshadow would surely look better than before. Always carry your white eyeliner pencil with you because you never know when you’ll need it!

Set Your Lipstick

All women want their lipstick to stay all day. Thanks to liquid lipsticks which stay all day – you don’t have to rush to the washroom after eating a meal or drinking a glass of wine. But If your favorite lip color doesn’t stay all day or you are not a fan of makeup retouching, then this hack is for you. After applying lipstick take a tissue paper, a big fluffy brush, and a translucent powder. Put the tissue paper on your lips and apply translucent powder on the tissue paper generously with the help of makeup brush. Your lipstick will become matte and it will actually stay all day.

Heat Eye Lash Curler

We know every girl loves longer eyelashes so here’s another eyelash hack for you. Heat your eyelash curler for 1 minute with a blow dryer before curling your lashes. Now curl your lashes with an eyelash curler for 20 seconds. Repeat the step for your other eyelash as well. Your eyelashes will definitely look longer and fuller. Remember, don’t overheat it and always touch it with the help of your fingers before curling your eyelashes to avoid burns.

Use Pink Lipstick as a Color Corrector

Don’t have a color corrector? No worries, because we can use pink lipstick as well. If you have dark under eyes or have dark spots on your face, then apply a little bit of pink lipstick before applying concealer. The pink lipstick will work as a color corrector and you will save a few dollars as well.

Don’t forget to follow the above 5 makeup tips and hacks if you want to make your life easier.

Five Incredible Blind Women Who Are Breaking Barriers And Looking Good Doing It!

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There are some people out there who are just gorgeous on the outside and others whose personalities accentuate their beauty. But how about those people who are just stunning both inside and out? As America celebrates thirty years having passed the Americans with Disabilities Act, we thought we’d highlight some of today’s most amazing blind women, who are not only trendsetting powerhouses but first-rate fashionistas at the same time.

1. Lachi

Lachi is an award-nominated recording artist, songwriter, and author who has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry. On top of releasing consistently charting songs, Lachi is an outspoken advocate for disability representation in media and entertainment. She also models for new and established Adaptive-Clothing brands. Repping New York City, Lachi’s Instagram feed is dripping with confidence and class. You can follow Lachi on Instagram via this link: Lachi

2. Molly Burke

Hailing from Canada, Molly is a Youtube personality and motivational speaker with a channel boasting over two million subscribers. An advocate for the blind, Molly’s video content centers around fashion and makeup, focusing on her perspective as a visually impaired woman. The former Miss Teen Canada always knows how to keep it glam all the time. You can follow Molly on Instagram via this link: Molly Burke Official

3. Marilee Talkington

Marilee Talkington is a Hollywood actress, director, and writer, with her most recent role in the Apple TV series “See” alongside Jason Mamoa. She is one of the few visually impaired women authentically cast in a blind role. Marilee is prolific in her activism work founding, co-founding, and advising numerous programs helping blind and sight-impaired actors. Marilee is definitely here to change the game. You can follow Marilee on Instagram via this link An Artist Warrior

4. Haben Girma

Haben is a disability rights lawyer and speaker, being the first deaf-blind woman to graduate from Harvard Law. Having been recognized by the Obama Administration as a Champion of Change, Haben remains consistent in her advocacy efforts. From a commanding twitter feed to op-eds in the Washington Post, Girma is no strange to speaking her mind on all things disability rights. You can follow Haben on Instagram via this link Haben Girma

5. Anastasia Pagonis

Anastasia is a young Paralympic swimmer touting a few competitive metals under her belt. She continues to openly share her empowering story as she embarks on a journey of advocacy. With a national debut on NBC’s George To The Rescue, Anastasia has maintained a suave public image. She is definitely one to watch. You can follow Anastasia on Instagram via this link Anastasia