About McKinley Franklin

Beyonce graphic via Samantha Miduri for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Picking the Perfect Frames

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Picking the picture-perfect pair of eyewear frames can be a difficult job. There are so many aspects to consider including one’s face shape, overall aesthetic, everyday activities; the list just goes on and on. Luckily, 360 Magazine has compiled a list of the top factors to consider when in search of your next pair of frames.

Purpose of Eyewear

The first question to ask yourself about your desired frames is why are you getting them in the first place?

  • Vision correction

First and foremost, if you’re looking for a pair of eyeglasses frames, there’s a pretty high chance that you may need glasses to enhance some component of your sight. Whether that be correcting blurred or double vision, or trying to find relief for eyestrain, headaches and squinting, glasses can help you out.

Vision changes over time, and its important to take care of the health of your eyes. The four most frequent refractive errors attributed to vision consist of nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Nearsightedness causes objects that are far away to look blurry.

Farsightedness causes objects that are close to look blurry.

Astigmatism causes both far away and close-up options to look blurry – it is based upon the “football” shaping of ones eye in combination with genetic factors and how light passes through.

Presbyopia causes middle-aged/older adults to suffer difficulty while seeing objects close-up.

  • Protection

Glasses can safeguard your eyes from outside influences. From blue light rays that stem from screens, to blocking out ultraviolet rays shining down from the Sun or simply preventing random dirt from getting into your eyes, glasses are a suitable option if you experience a surplus of one of these circumstances.

If you find yourself working virtually, like most of us modernly, then its very important to invest in a pair of glasses that can protect your eyes from blue light rays. Blue light is awful close to the UV light on the visible spectrum and can cause trouble both indoors and outside. Possible affects of blue light exposure can cause blurry vision, eyestrain, dry eye, cataracts and sleep issues.

UV light exposure can simply be limited by using protective glasses. However, if not sheltered properly, UV light can actually “sunburn” the eyes and stimulate benign yellowish growth on the eye. Prolonged radiation can lead to eye conditions and diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration, which have been the most prominent cause linked to blindness in adults over 60 years old.

  • Fashion

On a less serious note, frames can be added to an outfit to add an extra layer of spice and chicness. With an array of varying colors, styles and shapes, glasses can be styled in numerous ways, elevating one’s sense of fashion and offering for an enrichment of ones face.

Shape of Face

Face shape is a constant concern when considering which pair of frames to purchase. Choosing the best pair of frames can assure that your prescription works more efficiently. Let’s dive into the varying face shapes, and which fits each.

  • Round face

Because your face has pretty much the same width and length, a square or rectangular shaped frame, or something with a little bit of edge and sharpness, can add more definition to your face. Adding in these elements enhancing and defines the definition of your face shape.

  • Oval face

If you possess an oval face shape, you can pick from about any style of frames you want. Go for a trendy cat eye look, or something more vintage and squared; the choice is yours.

  • Square face

If your face is square-shaped, virtually all the measurements of your face are similar, ranging from the forehead, cheekbones and jaw. Because of this, it’s important to choose a frame that holds a round or oval shape. The roundness will contrast the squareness that your face already holds.

Aesthetic Style

Everyone has their own personalized sense of style, and this can be expressed through eyeglasses frames as well. There is a surplus of styles for frames, some being unisex, and others geared towards a specific demographic.

Some important things to think over when choosing a frame style:

  • Skin complexion
  • Personal features
  • Eye color
  • Hair color
  • Size of frame

Lifestyle

To choose the best suited pair of frames for oneself, we must review over our lifestyles. What does your average day to day look like? Are you typically working behind a desk, or adventuring out and about? What are some of the leading features that your frames will need to adapt to?

It’s important to review the activities of your lifestyle to ensure that you purchase a suitable, well-fitted pair of frames to keep up with your day to day. Ensuring the fit of your frames is one of the most significant aspects of eyeglass frames.

Some elements that will affect this include the material/weight of the frames, size of lenses, exercise/daily activity and blue light/UV exposure.

By: McKinley Franklin, Armon Hayes

Evan Cygler Bugattia via Bugatti Newsroom for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Evan Cygler – Best Performing Bugatti Brand Manager

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Announced on April 7, Evan Cygler, Brand Manager at Bugatti Greenwich and Director of Special Projects at Miller Motorcars, was named ‘Best Performing Bugatti Brand Manager’ at the Bugatti World Partner Meeting in Molsheim, France. Bugatti Greenwich is the first dealer in North America to receive this prestigious award.

Each year, the Sales Excellence Program recognizes the top three performing brand managers from around the world who not only meet sales targets, but showcase what it means to be an Official Bugatti representative. In 2021, Cygler exceeded his target by more than double, skyrocketing him to become the number one dealer in the world.

“A car company cannot succeed without a strong dealer network, so it is important that we recognize those who go above and beyond,” said Cedric Davy, Chief Operating Officer of Bugatti of the Americas. “Evan’s dedication, creative spirit and excitement for the brand is evident to his customers and to us at Bugatti, making him an exceptional partner.”

Company founder Ettore Bugatti said, “If comparable, it is no longer Bugatti.” Bugatti partners stay true to this motto, providing an incomparable customer experience that goes beyond the delivery of the car. Located 45 minutes from New York City, Bugatti Greenwich serves a very active and financially robust market that includes captains of industry, automotive enthusiasts and art aficionados who are looking to create something entirely unique. Cygler ensures that each customer receives the time and attention needed to build their dream cars, but the relationship does not end there. Bugattis are built to be driven, and Cygler keeps the community engaged with events, such as car rallies and charity car shows.

“Winning this award has been a goal of mine since I started working with Bugatti at Miller Motorcars in 2015,” said Evan Cygler. “The hypercar segment has opened up in the last decade, as other companies have followed in Bugatti’s footsteps of producing million-dollar vehicles. As a Bugatti partner, it is my job to not only sell cars, but to create a bespoke and memorable journey for each of our customers, which is what sets the brand apart in a highly competitive segment. Bugatti and its customers are constantly evolving, and so am I. With the support of my incredible colleagues in Greenwich, as well as the team at Bugatti, I am able to provide an unparalleled experience for our clientele.”

Bugatti Greenwich is also one-of-two partners in the United States to have a Bugatti Service Partner of Excellence accreditation. With each technician specially trained at the Atelier in Molsheim, owners can expect to receive the best service available at their neighborhood dealership.

For more information about Bugatti Greenwich, please visit HERE.

Easter illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

Easter Paintings Up For Auction

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Dreweatts is delighted to unveil a lost Easter tradition that dates all the way back to the 17th century. The tradition, carried out in Holland, is encapsulated in a pair of oil works by revered Flemish artist Matthijs Schoevaerdts (1665-1723). The pieces are about to be up for auction in Dreweatts Old Master, British and European Art on May 26, 2022.

The scenes in the pieces of artwork show the Dutch tradition of butchers parading their finest animals proudly through the streets, set to drum rolls, where the whole town would come out waving banners and to bet on the weight of the animals. The parade took place a week before Easter, on the day of the Guild’s patron saint, St. Luke, who was symbolized by the winged ox. It celebrated the guild’s most prized cow or bull, which was decorated with gilded horns topped with oranges, as well as ribbons and floral garlands.

The celebratory procession was led by pipers and drummers and followed by a chorus of singers and dancers, made up of guild members and townspeople. The celebrations would culminate in the animal being butchered and the meat served at a grand Guild dinner and a large portion of it being given out to the poor people of the town via the church. The phrase: ‘The guild ox is on parade’, derives from the tradition, meaning ‘this will be a real feast!’.

The tradition continued well into the 20th century, but gradually disappeared after WWII, due to advent of increasing commercialism. Easter advertising moved inside the butcher’s shop, where their best-bred beef would be displayed on platters in shop windows and decorated with flowers and garlands of bacon.

The two oil works that illustrate these scenes are incredibly rare, as only a few examples of 17th century paintings with the subject of the Easter Ox are known to exist. They were created by the great Flemish painter Matthijs Schoevaerdts (1665-1723), whose landscapes are full of anecdotes and delicately painted scenes of peasants travelling, sailing or attending fairs, typically with small figures in detailed poses set against a backdrop of a pleasing landscape or buildings.

Schoevaerdts was a Flemish painter, draughtsman and printmaker who is believed to have been born in Brussels, where he trained with the landscape painter Adriaen Frans Boudewijns. His early works show the influence of the market views and other crowded scenes of Jan Brueghel the Elder, who started the tradition of landscape paintings with decorative scenes in the early 17th century.

Later he came under the influence of the Dutch and Flemish artists who worked in Rome known as the Bamboccianti, after which his landscapes also included backdrops of Italian ports and ruins as in one of the present works. His works are highly desirable and have achieved good prices at auction. That, coupled with the rare subject matter should attract a lot of interest at auction.

The Procession of the Easter Ox / Giving Out the Alms at a Ruined Church carries an estimate of £20,000-£30,000.

Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening

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The Sunset Strip just got a bit brighter with the grand opening of Hotel Ziggy. Located conveniently in West Hollywood, the brand-new hotel celebrates the longstanding music scene renowned in the area. A newly renovated space, Hotel Ziggy is ready to stun guests with four levels of entertainment and exquisite bars/restaurants to indulge in.

Before kicking off a night full good music and even better entertainment to honor the grand opening, Hotel Ziggy began with a ribbon cutting ceremony held by West Hollywood Mayor Lauren Meister. The hotel owners, executive team and Chamber of Commerce began early celebrations with Pink Floyd’s very own Scott Page while entertainment was provided by food critic Sophie Gayot as she sabered champagne with a sword blindfolded!

Inspired by West Hollywood rockstars, Hotel Ziggy’s commencement party followed the hotels’ theme to a tee. Performances throughout the night were given by icon Haley Reinhart and Pink Floyd’s Page. Mingling throughout the event, it was easy to find legendary musicians amongst the guest lists. Nine Inch Nails’ drummer Alex Carapeti was found deejaying the festivities while Guns N’ Roses Matt Sorum, rock icon Scott Weiland’s widow Jamie Weiland, were in attendance, as well as Madonna’s stylist B. Akerland, influencer Alana Hadid, DIRT star Rebekah Graf, Billions’ star Malin Akerman and recording artist Rudy Mancuso.

Upon arrival, attendees were welcomed with Jell-O shots and boozy popsicles before making way into the stunning, newly refurbished music themed hotel. Extravagant 12-foot LED palm trees and a 5-foot-tall guitar ice sculpture adorned the entry way. Beside the stunning leading saltwater hotel pool in all West Hollywood sat yummy bites including pretzel carts, cheese and charcuterie boards, dessert tables and Hotel Ziggy’s very own B-side Pizza.

Guests were pampered with top-notch cocktails crafted from celebrity alcohol brands including Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston’s Dos Hombres Mezcal, the Chainsmokers’ JAJA Tequila, Ciara’s Ten To One Rum, NEFT Vodka, Brother’s Bond Bourbon by Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, and Mulholland Gin. Further available refreshments consisted of Heineken beer, Bon Jovi’s Hampton Water Rosé, Malibu Rocky Oaks Wine and BEV Canned Fizzy Wines, while attendees hydrated with Liquid Death.  Throughout the night, popular entertainment consisted of neon painted dancers that intermingled while presenting guests with bites and shots. During the course of the night’s festivities, guests had the opportunity to get their own airbrushed Hotel Ziggy tattoos, tarot card readings and partake in vintage 80’s games.

Created by Springboard Hospitality, Hotel Ziggy now resides in the former location of The Grafton Hotel. Set in the heart of West Hollywood along the iconic Sunset Strip, the hotel honors the rich musical history that adorns the area. Suites are artistically reimagined with a rockstar ambience, with the hotel giving off the vibes that everyone loves of the lush Hollywood music scene.

For more information, visit HERE or follow @hotelziggy on Instagram and Twitter.

Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Hotel Ziggy Grand Opening Press Images shot via Jesse Richmond for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Photo Credits Jesse Richmond
Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman to serve upon the highest court of the United States via 360 MAGAZINE

Jackson Makes History

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Thursday April 7 will be remembered as one of the most historic days in American history as Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman confirmed to serve upon the highest court of the United States. In a 53-to-47 vote, Judge Jackson was confirmed a place upon the Supreme Court as nominated by President Joe Biden in February.

Judge Jackson becomes only the eighth person to sit upon the Supreme Court that has not been a White man. The confirmation continues to make history as this will be the firs time that we see four women upon the court and the majority of justices is not White men.

Of the 53 that voted in favor of Biden’s nomination, three Republican senators joined Democrats in support of Judge Jackson. Senators Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitt Romney of Utah. Despite Republicans loathing and attempting to prolong the voting process, Judge Jackson was confirmed to replace Justice Stephen Breyer once he officially steps down.

Republican Senator Rand Paul attempted to halt the vote while being the only senator not in attendance for the voting. He stalled the decision from being finalized, and he voted from the cloakroom out of dress code.

When asked about Paul’s lack of dress code for the vote, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki stated, “I will tell you I’m not spending a lot of time, nor is the president (Joe Biden), thinking about the dress code of Rand Paul today, […] We’re thinking about the historic confirmation of an eminently qualified Black woman to serve on SCOTUS. I’m not really worried about his khakis.”

On April 8, inbound Justice Jackson participated in a ceremony on the lawn of the White House, where she spoke to the weight of the confirmation. The former federal appellate judge spoke to the history that was made the day prior.

Judge Jackson stated, “It has taken 232 years and 115 prior appointments for a Black woman to be selected to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States, but we’ve made it – we’ve made it – all of us, all of us.”

President and Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black and Asian American woman to hold the title, spoke at the ceremony together while stating, “We’re going to look back and see this as a moment of real change in American history.” 

Judge Jackson referenced the late Maya Angelou, another historic Black woman, when speaking about what this confirmation means to the Black community, while stating, “‘Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave,'”

“In my family, it took just one generation to go from segregation to the Supreme Court of the United States.”

Let that sink in.

Written by: McKinley Franklin

Diversity/representation graphic via Gabrielle Marchan for use by 360 MAGAZINE

The Overlooked

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It has been found that several social media platforms possess algorithms which bury and/or shadowban certain groups within the content curation community. According to Insider.com, Black influencers make significantly less than whites, a gay wage gap exists and there’s a 30% discrepancy between fe/male influencers.

@NotLewy

NotLewy is a songwriter, solo recording artist, and a digital creator. He was diagnosed with arthrogryposis, and his music is inspired by his inner battle and life with a disability. He is very humorous, thoughtful and passionate about life and music. NotLewy’s most popular songs includes Hillary Clinton Freestyle, Summer Rain, and Burn With YOU.

Check out NotLewy’s in depth discussion with Vaughn Lowery on 360 MAG Podcast HERE.

@Leftyonhardmode

Nic is a software engineer and digital creator. He has been a prosthetics user for almost 30 years, as an amputee. After receiving a BS from Harvard University, he has worked in labs at MIT and NASA. Currently, he’s working on creating wearable robots that help people–namely, bionics and exoskeletons.

Check out Nic’s chat with Hannah Zhong on 360 MAG Podcast HERE.

@JerrisMadison

Jerris Madison is a world renowned fashion photographer as well as publisher/founder at OBVIOUS Magazine. The publication has a worldwide reach of over 4 million monthly audience members, largely within the framework of its social platforms such as Facebook. It’s a powerhouse within the design metaverse.

As a bone cancer survivor (Chondrosarcoma), Jerris continues to inhale and ends up amputating one of his legs. His story is truly inspiring.

Check out Jerris’ candid conversation with Hannah Zhong on 360 MAG Podcast HERE.

The Joanna Dana Harel SS23 'Acqua' image via Marissa Chiechi (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine

NYBFW Roundup

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New York Bridal Fashion Week (NYBFW) has continuously highlighted the crème of the crop in the world of designer bridal twice for wedding fanatics. With two dedicated weeks of bridal fashion occurring in April and October each year, this April we’ve been dazzled by a few of the new collections showcased at NYBFW.

Let’s recap some our most beloved collections that debuted this season.

Sheila Frank SS23 – Victorian Modernism

Through her new collection, Sheila Frank blends modern femininity with a historical point of view. Conservative styles were adorned with contemporary fads that made for a beautiful fusion of two periods of time through design.  

Entitled ‘Victorian Modernism,’ the collection shares elements from both the Victorian and modern era. Shown impeccably through the styling, an era known for the industrial power advancements of the British Empire, we see these elements of the Victorian age vividly in the collection. Elements of structuring from previously conventional work wear are shown through the sharp lines and masculine aspects of Frank’s work.

Through the combination of the two time periods, we also see apparent components of fresh fashions in the collection. From the feminine features of gleaming fabrics to innovative beading techniques, ‘Victorian Modernism’ provides a seamless fusion of the two times. Modern styling approaches, too, transform the bridal pieces to a 21st century point of view.

In terms of her inspiration point, Frank stated that, “This season I explored Victorian Menswear from pre-Victorian 1830s to late 1890s. Each look is designed with a garment in mind from the frock coat, waist coat, shirt variations to the cravat. Fabrics include matte and shiny satin, crepe, tulle, and beaded mesh. Gowns are adorned with bronze and gold buttons and styled with pressed flower pendant necklaces and belts. I explored the idea of vintage meets modern with clean lines and pleated fabrics that flatter the female form.”

Sheila Frank "Victorian Modernism" via Leah Gross Coded Agency for use by 360 Magazine
Sheila Frank "Victorian Modernism" via Leah Gross Coded Agency for use by 360 Magazine

Justin Alexander and Savannah Miller SS23 – Love in A Mist

Just in time for wedding season, post a hard reset on large celebrations, Justin Alexander Warshaw in collaboration with Savannah Miller resurge with their new SS23 collections of timeless Bridal fashion. Derived from legacy, the family-owned bridal business was established in 1946 by Justin’s grandparents. Rooted in humble beginnings with T&G (Thanks & Goodluck) Veils, an accessory company now empire at the hands of meticulous business of the budding mogul. A sequel to the family-owned business, the Justin Alexander brand is a pioneer in design, manufacturing including distribution. Expanding their portfolio with Adore x JA, Lillian West, Sincerity Bridal, Viktor&Rolf Mariage and now Savannah Miller Bridal founded in 2016.

“I knew I would be in Bridal; I absolutely love the fashion side & the business side, it’s in my blood.” -Justin Alexander

Reintroduced and the precursor to New York Bridal Fashion Week, 360 Magazine was cordially invited for a sneak peek at an industrial Midtown showroom. The luxury reception themed event showcased wedding dresses of both Justin & Savannah. The befitting return to NYC by Miller who decodes romance and elegance through her understated designs. Each garb overflows with personality, not to mention love which Savannah trusts prevailed within the last two years. A collection befitting of its title ‘Love in A Mist’, inclusively curating her brand with detailing inspired by her tenure at Alexander McQueen.

Armon, Creative Director for 360 Magazine met with the designers for a ‘No No-sense Conversation’ where they shared advice and candidly shared each will be preparing for their own nuptials in the coming future. When asked, what inspires them and why Bridal? Justin shares “It’s nothing better when a bride lights up when she found the dress or enters walking down the aisle with everyone in awe.” Miller goes on to say, “As a woman, you know when it’s right and how it feels on your body,” encouraging liberation. One thing they both agreed on is the significance of what a moment such as a wedding means. Therefore, having positive influences involved in your overall process.

Justin Alexander Warshaw and Savannah Miller SS23 images via Armon Hayes for use by 360 Magazine
Justin Alexander Warshaw and Savannah Miller SS23 images via Armon Hayes for use by 360 Magazine

Dana Harel SS23 – Acqua

Designed with rich inspiration points of past-time Europeans with an added Mediterranean taste, Dana Harel’s new ‘Acqua’ collection utters elegant chic. The SS23 collection was created to commemorate all things life, creativity and freedom while incorporating elements of the energy from our beloved oceans. Each piece of ‘Acqua’ resembles pieces that modern princesses would adorn during their wedding days.

The collection effortlessly showcases distinctions between western and eastern cultures through the varying designs. An array of 11 designs stem from the collection, offering for a wide selection of aesthetic preferences. Whether the bride to be is in search of a sexy, simple look or a more conservative, luxurious piece, ‘Acqua’ has all the components to make you feel like a new-day princess.

Pictured below are the Vittoria and Nicola dresses. The Vittoria elevates a modern design with a classic European cut. Dripping in the finest sequin/crystal fabric, the Vittoria is a sexy take on the contemporary, romantic essence of the 21st century. The Nicola takes on a more moderate fabric with Italian double satin. Also showcasing a slit like the Vittoria, the Nicola sports a gathering affect that reminds us of the rifts and waves in the ocean.

The Vittoria Dana Harel SS23 'Acqua' image via Marissa Chiechi (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
The Vittoria
The Nicola Dana Harel SS23 'Acqua' image via Marissa Chiechi (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
The Nicola

The Atelier Couture SS23 – Shakespeare in Love

The Bridal by The Atelier Couture transports us all the way back to the Elizabethan Era when British theatre was at its peak with their new collection ‘Shakespeare in Love.’ Distinctly crafted with bold Avant-Garde visions reminiscent of gowns that were sported in Shakespeare’s plays, The Atelier Couture captivates us with a new bridal take on classic Europeans drama.

Ball gowns adorned with extravagant beading and lacing; the ‘Shakespeare in Love’ collection encapsulates the essence of Shakespeare’s work. Each gown tells its own story through shifting necklines, silhouettes and train lengths. Mostly consisting of over the top, out of this world fluffy ball gown silhouettes, The Atelier Couture’s latest bridal collection looks as if it would be worn by the Queen of England on her wedding day.

The romantic essence of the collection references old-school fairytale silhouettes. The contents of this collection are elaborate and poetic, similar to Shakespeare’s plays. Renowned as one of the greatest writers in the English language, ‘Shakespeare in Love’ lives up to this accolade.

The Atelier Couture 'Shakespeare in Love' collection images via Serena Chang (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
The Atelier Couture 'Shakespeare in Love' collection images via Serena Chang (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine

Dress Hunt x HOUGHTON Pop-Up

Dress Hunt and HOUGHTON collaborated to bring forth an exclusive bridal pop-up event this season. Dress Hunt is a bridal hub where brides can find a selection of wedding dresses and bridal accessories essential for their big day. Ensuring access to everything that a bride may be in search of for her big day, Dress Hunt sources the finest bridal fashions into one location for a leisurely shopping experience.

Founded by Katharine Polk, the pop-up showcased HOUGHTON Season 2, seven celebrity-inspired looks crafted for seven individual women. With a luxurious reference to celebrity fashion, designs ranged from cocktail dresses to elaborate gowns. The styles were created to reflect that of what the modern woman is in search for.

Coming together to create a hands-on experience for brides in search of their perfect dress, the event turned out to be a smashing success. Aside from HOUGHTON Season 2, other collections were platformed from ASAR By Nikeen Asar, NOVA, Deesigns and more.

Dress Hunt Bridal pop-up collection image via Jules Barker (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
HOUGHTON Season 2 collection image via Jules Barker (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
HOUGHTON by Katharine Polk

Sophie Et Voilà SS22 – Cristóbal 

Individualism and philosophy blend together to create the meaning behind Sophie Et Voilà’s 2022 Cristóbal collection. A women-founded and ran company, Sophie Et Voilà prides themselves on their commitment to sustainability. Focused on handcrafting pieces for their clientele, each piece is unique and distinct. The theme of their brand follows that of their new collection, Cristóbal.

Standing alone and not conforming to the modern trends was one of the key elements of the Cristóbal collection for Sophie Et Voilà. Inspired by the ways that we think, the ways that we choose to learn and live past our mistakes throughout life, came Cristóbal. Each piece from the collection takes on their own name, one and only one. With classical structures, sleek lines and advanced styles, Cristóbal embodies potency and independence.

Regarding the collection, they stated, “At Sophie Et Voilà we never wanted to be commercial. We never thought about being others. Being different was never our goal. Doing something different has been the consequence of opting for doing things our own way. In a world where adaptation is everything, being true to oneself is a luxury that very few can afford.”

Sophie Et Voilà 2022 Cristóbal collection via Asia Anderson (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
The Giovanna
Sophie Et Voilà 2022 Cristóbal collection via Asia Anderson (Coded Agency) for use by 360 Magazine
The Gabriela
Multiplica Mixtape cover art via Tiffany Ramirez / Warner Music Latina for use by 360 Magazine

Multiplica Mixtape

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Warner Music Latina presents the future of urbano music with the unequaled release of “Multiplica Mixtape”. This trendsetting work is a concept of family, sisterhood/brotherhood, unity, and prosperity with a common goal of supporting one another as a community of trap artists from all over the world. “Multiplica Mixtape” is a body of work created by 12 artists and 7 producers who share a common goal of redefining and reinventing Latin trap. “Multiplica Mixtape” is now available on all streaming platforms.

“Multiplica Mixtape” Tracklist

  1. On The Road Ft. Kidd Keo, Yung Sarria, Elpatron970, and Felp 22 (Produced by Emy Luziano)
  2. La Familia Ft. Felp 22, Puri, Mathew, Fufu, Jay Oc, Jey Blessing, and Lennis Rodríguez (Produced by Puri)
  3. No Los Veo Ft. Mathew, Jay Oc, and Jey Blessing (Produced by Jay Music)
  4. Butti Ft. Gatillero 23 and Elpatron970 (Produced by Rb One)
  5. Vicio Ft. Yung Sarria and Jey Blessing (Produced by Emy Luziano)
  6. Asesino Ft. Elpatron970, Felp 22, and Puri (Produced by Puri)
  7. Mujeres Y Petas Ft. Kidd Keo and Elpatron970 (Produced by KZO)
  8. Bexxakeo Ft. Jey Blessing and Maki Vaez (Produced by Maki Vaez)
  9. Weed Ft. Felp 22, Lennis Rodriguez, Jay Oc, and Mathew (Produced by Jay Music)
  10. Racha Ft. Espano and Rokero (Produced by Straynane)


With 10 tracks, “Multiplica Mixtape” is a multifaceted and multidimensional music project that brings together 19 artists from 8 different countries including Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, the Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Spain and Venezuela. Primarily focusing on Trap and Drill, this mixtape incorporates several genres and has a distinct musical and visual tone. The album showcases the talent and great hits that came out of the Multiplica collective.

Numbers like “La Familia,” featuring Lennis Rodríguez, Jey Blessing, Jay Oc, Fufu, Mathew, Puri, Felp 22 give the mixtape a sense of cohesion, and as the song title states, it’s a family affair. On “Mujeres y Petas,” Kidd Keo and Elpatron970 effortlessly spit urgent bars over a blown out drill beats. On Jey Blessing y Maki Vaez’s “BEXXAKEO,” the oft-imitated sounds of reggaeton take a singular approach – separating them from the countless and seemingly endless stream of watered-down reggaeton offerings occupying the modern pop landscape.

“Mujeres y Petas” by Kidd Keo and Elpatron970 is song #7 on the Mixtape, and it is one of the most outstanding collaborations of the album. This song features Keo doing what Keo does best. Sometimes it seems that with every word he is cutting off your arms or legs, making every note feel almost effortless, as if one were floating. And Elpatron970 works as a kind of backbone necessary for the song to have a healthy life. It is the foundation of the house. The sofa that makes your living room look like a home and not an office.

The concept behind this unique mixtape explores many themes central to the human experience. “Multiplica Mixtape” encompasses family, brotherhood, unity, and prosperity. The project was born out of a Warner Music Latina musical retreat conducted in the Dominican Republic in June 2021. As Latin music is now popular in the U.S. and enjoys domestic and international mainstream attention, “Multiplica Mixtape” is embracing this momentum and paving the way for other collaborative projects of its kind.

BLK app via 360 MAGAZINE official site and podcast

Spotlight: BLK App

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Founded in 2017, the B-L-K app encompasses more than a community for singles seeking a prospective date or companionship. The niche platform has the largest subscription of Black Men & Women and is known as affiliates of the Match.com portfolio. 360 Magazine’s Armon Hayes met with the B-L-K app Head of Marketing Jonathan Kirkland via zoom to discuss what the ‘new wave’ app is all about, its impact and what’s to come.

About six years ago Kirkland began in the digital space with apps like Grindr and Bumble. He shares the experience applying to a Brand-partnership job at Grindr as a joke, which lead to a self-discovery journey that allowed him to discover how he thrives through niche communities while identifying their needs. Subsequently evolving the online dating functionality and perspective, Kirkland goes on to say, “It’s all about making connections, where those connections are is up to you and who you match with.”

When embarking on the new B-L-K app, founders knew that they wanted to keep the Black community at the forefront of the platform. “The Black experience is a unique one, especially in America and [this] transcends into the dating app space,” said Kirkland. Exploding during lockdown at the height of the pandemic, he is committed to growing the platform with the aid of the audience he serves. The app allows for an understanding that connections aren’t merely one-to-one, but a one to many. Diligent in shifting the narrative that Black women are less desirable, the B-L-K app provides the forum to communicate byway fostering understanding.

With 3 million downloads and counting, the cultural app is creating a space for a wide scale of individuals to connect and, most importantly, build friendships. B-L-K remains true to their core demographic by creating dialogue, while also educating through user connections on matters surrounding racial injustices.

Brought to the forefront on the app as well as our lives, B-L-K particularly highlights the global misfortunes of 2020 at the hands of law enforcement to Breonna Taylor & George Floyd, just to name a few. Such criteria are typically not discussed or even introduced on dating platforms, let alone the first encounter with someone new. Furthermore, getting to know someone online can be awkward as it is. Kirkland emphasizes the initiative of the app, stating, “It’s a space where blackness can be celebrated; find more qualified matches and start dating faster.”

By: Armon Hayes, Vaughn Lowery, McKinley Franklin

Listen to Kirkland/Hayes podcast interview HERE.