FEATURE

Zero-Waste Wardrobe for Students

Upcycling Old Clothes with Sewing and Embroidery

Fashion trends come and go at lightning speed. To fight that, you can lead a zero-waste movement on campus. Creating a zero-waste wardrobe is about transforming what you have. Upcycling old clothes through sewing and embroidery is not just eco-friendly; it’s also a creative outlet to express your individuality.

Every piece of clothing you transform is a story you wear. Let the student essay writer handle your homework, and grab your sewing kit. It’s time to be creative! Let’s explore some creative upcycling ideas to get you started.

Photo: https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-pin-using-right-hand-and-red-mesh-cloth-using-left-hand-ZgMMjAR9b20

The Basics of Upcycling

Look at your old clothes not as outdated pieces but as raw materials for your next fashion project. For instance, that old T-shirt lying at the back of your drawer could be your next stylish crop top or a tote bag. The key is to see potential in everything.

In a fast-fashion world, upcycling is a stance against the throwaway culture. A small rip or an unfashionable cut doesn’t mean the end of a garment’s life. With a bit of creativity and basic sewing skills, you can give your clothes a personal touch that no store-bought item can offer.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before diving into your first project, it’s important to gather some essential tools and materials. This doesn’t mean you have to break the bank; most of these items can be found around your home or purchased at a low cost.

Sewing kit: Basic needles, threads, measuring tape, scissors, and pins.
Fabric markers or chalk: For marking out designs and alterations.
Embroidery hoop and threads: For those who want to add decorative touches.
Old clothes: Look for pieces you haven’t worn in a while.
Fabric scraps: These can be used for patches or embellishments.
Ruler and rotary cutter (optional): For precise cutting.
Sewing machine (optional): For those who want to take up more complex projects.

There’s no need to purchase everything at once. Start with simple projects that require minimal tools and gradually build up your toolkit as you explore more complex upcycling ideas.

Transforming Old T-Shirts

T-shirts are one of the easiest items to start with when you’re new to upcycling. Let’s say you have an old band t-shirt. It’s too sentimental to throw away, but you don’t wear it anymore. Why not turn it into a cool tank top or add some hand-embroidered details to give it a fresh look? You could even cut it into strips and braid it into a bohemian chic headband.

Another idea is to create a patchwork quilt or throw from several old T-shirts. This clears out your closet and gives you a cozy, memory-filled blanket.

Revamping Denim

Denim is a versatile fabric that can be upcycled in countless ways. Have an old pair of jeans? They can be turned into shorts, a skirt, or even a tote bag. If the jeans are too worn out, use the fabric to create denim patches for your other clothes or as material for a rustic denim rug. The thick fabric of denim is durable, making it perfect for projects that require sturdier material.

Embroidery on denim can also elevate a simple jacket or pair of jeans into a designer piece. Imagine adding some floral embroidery on the pocket or along the hem of your jeans. This adds a unique flair to your outfit and lets you experiment with colors and designs.

Photo: https://unsplash.com/photos/person-holding-blue-and-white-round-ornament-iCPaPcsO-mM

Upcycling with Embroidery

Embroidery is a lovely craft that can make your clothes unique and artistic. It’s not as complicated as it looks; even newbies can recreate gorgeous designs.

Go for simple patterns at first.
Contrast or complement the fabric colors.
Before working on the actual garment, practice your stitches.
Use an embroidery hoop.
Incorporate beads or sequins for a more glamorous touch.
Combine embroidery with painting for a mixed-media approach.
Use embroidery to create or attach patches.
Cover up holes or tears with creative embroidery.
Embroider your initials or a meaningful symbol.
Look at traditional embroidery styles for ideas.

After you’ve gathered your materials and chosen your design, it’s time to get stitching. Embroidery can transform a plain sweater into an eye-catching piece or add a bespoke detail to a denim jacket.

Sustainable Accessories

Upcycling isn’t limited to clothing; you can also create unique accessories. For instance, you can turn a silk scarf into a chic headband or a stylish top. Old belts can be repurposed into bracelet cuffs, and mismatched earrings can be transformed into charming brooches. These small projects are great for using up scraps and odd bits that might otherwise be thrown away.

Additionally, think about creating your own reusable shopping bags from old t-shirts or dresses. This will reduce waste and give you stylish items to use.

Wrapping Up

Upcycling old clothes is much more than a trend; it’s a meaningful and sustainable practice, especially for students looking to express their individuality without straining their budgets. To find more time for the crafts in college, use the best essay writing service to tackle your homework. Upcycling is about making a statement with what you wear, reflecting not just your style but also your values and resourcefulness. Therefore, as you give new life to your clothes, bear in mind that every stitch you sew is a stride towards a more eco-conscious and personal fashion sense.

Autumn/Winter 24/25 DFW

A stellar line-up of regional and global designers will descend on Dubai this Sunday, 4 February, for the Autumn/Winter 24/25 Dubai Fashion Week (DFW). The upcoming fashion programme sees an exciting array of new names to Dubai Fashion Week’s runways alongside leading labels, plus a calendar of exclusive presentations, events, and brand activations to inspire and attract the global fashion ecosystem.

Co-founded by Dubai Design District (d3) and the Arab Fashion Council, DFW is Dubai’s official fashion week, positioning Dubai among the major fashion capitals of the world – New York, Paris, London and Milan. It will continue at its primary residence in d3, a global creative ecosystem part of TECOM Group PJSC, with experiences stretching across the city.

Following the announcement last month – broadcast on billboard screens in Times Square, New York City – DFW’s new schedule sees it leading the global fashion calendar this season and setting the tone for the international fashion agenda. The AW 24/25 program opens with the esteemed designer duo Rizman Ruzaini – the label for which the iconic Naomi Campbell walked in the October edition of DFW; and closes with the d3-based label Designers&US.

Runway shows then get underway with an array of talented designers, including Anaya, Hummariff, Maison Sara Chraibi (a Paris Fashion Week designer making her Dubai Fashion Week debut), Choice, Riva, Selfmade, Michael Cinco, Zeena Zaki x Tryano, Reborn, Zey-ye, American Rag Cie X Fad Dubai, Emergency Room, Adolfo Dominguez, and Designers&US. DFW Members BLSSD, Lama Jouni, Dima Ayad, and Mrs Keepa are also among the talents who will showcase their collections.

“Every edition of Dubai Fashion Week represents a bold step to cement Dubai as one of the world’s fashion capitals,” said Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of d3, part of TECOM Group. “This next edition of DFW promises not only to unveil the latest industry trends as told by creatives from the region and beyond but also illuminate the vibrant tapestry of Dubai’s fashion ecosystem. What makes this edition truly special is the extensive reach across the city, but always with d3 at the heart of the action. The event’s new dates, programme, structure and venues will enhance the opportunities and buyers’ network available to participating designers while elevating the experience of fashion fans near and far. The vibrant atmosphere around DFW is a testament to the city’s status as a global fashion hub.”

Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of the Arab Fashion Council, said, “Dubai Fashion leaves an imprint on the global fashion calendar with every edition. Each show will reflect to the world what Dubai has to offer on the fashion front – the high level of talent, creativity, and courage. We are all set to make a splash with our new program, which extends across the city, and really establish Dubai as a global fashion and creative capital aligning with the Arab Fashion Council’s mission.”

While d3’s global creative ecosystem by TECOM Group PJSC is the home and central hub of Dubai Fashion Week, some designers will – for the first time – showcase in different locations around Dubai, including Mrs Keepa at Sotheby’s Dubai. In addition to the shows, guests can expect a rich assortment of exclusive events, dinners and capsule launches across the city.These include the Emergency Room X NOTHING capsule collection, the launch of an exclusive Bil Arabi Valentine’s set at Bloomingdales, the ETRO Party and industry panels by the Arab Fashion Council and Meta. Thread Talks 2.0 will feature notable speakers discussing crucial topics such as “Fashion Beyond Borders: Navigating Global Trends and Local Identities”, “A conversation with Osama Chabbi, navigating the industry on a global scale” and “The Impact of Clothing Choice on Behaviour.”

Dubai Fashion Week also caters to the business side of fashion with a dedicated buyer’s brunch and portfolio review that will allow designers to connect directly with local and international buyers. With its new scheduling, leading the way in the global fashion calendar ahead of New York, London, Milan and Paris, Dubai Fashion Week draws international collaborators, tastemakers, and visitors, with an extensive gathering of media and buyers arriving to view the seasonal collections. For the full calendar, please visit HERE.

Dubai Fashion Week is possible due to the generosity, commitment and contributions of its strategic partners: Air France as the official aviation partner; Meta as the official media partner; Microsoft as the official tech partner; Nothing as the official mobile partner; Kiko Milano as the official makeup partner; Schwarzkopf Professional as the official haircare partner; Palazzo Versace as the official hospitality partner; Bold Management as the official talent management partner; Electra as the production partner; and Eira Water as the official hydration partner.

Follow all Dubai Fashion Week events and news at: https://www.instagram.com/dubaifashionweek

@dubaifashion week

@d3dubai

@arabfashioncouncil

BOSS + NFL

BOSS UNVEILS EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION WITH THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE FOR SUPER BOWL LVIII

BOSS is proud to announce the launch of its latest collaborative capsule with the National Football League (NFL). The limited-edition offering celebrates the spirit and excitement of Super Bowl LVIII, which will take place on February 11, 2024, at the Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas. In line with BOSS’s strong connection to the exciting world of competitive sport – along with its inspiring , #BeYourOwnBOSS campaign platform – the new capsule presents NFL aficionados with the opportunity to enjoy special pieces that celebrate their fandom and the thrill of the Super Bowl.

Crafted at the intersection of lifestyle and sports, the collection embodies the essence of both brands and offers a unique blend of sophistication and athletic prowess, along with a fusion of BOSS’s signature style and iconic elements of the NFL.

The capsule comprises seven gender-neutral styles in refined silver, white, and black hues. It includes a softly padded piqué jacket finished with silver-tone hardware, elevated T-shirts in comfortable stretch jersey, and timeless sweatshirts and hoodies in soft French terry. All pieces stand out with branded accents, including the official Super Bowl LVIII logo and a bold football-helmet motif.

The launch follows a year-long collaboration between BOSS and the NFL, which resulted in two drops featuring 22 teams within the capsule. For this new drop, BOSS will host a dedicated retail space at Super Bowl Experience in Las Vegas during Super Bowl LVIII weekend, from February 7 to February 10. The pop-up promises a captivating experience where fans can explore the collection, interact with exclusive installations, and fully immerse themselves in the worlds of fashion and football.

The limited-edition capsule will be available exclusively on BOSS.com, in BOSS stores in Las Vegas, at NFLshop.com, Dillard’s, Nordstroms and in selected Macy’s locations from January 29th, 2024.

Spotlight: Hayes Warner

As of late, Vaughn Lowery has had a sit-down with prolific personality and uber talented musician Hayes Warner. After a turbulent year filled with provocative single releases and achievements, she elaborates on her whirlwind.

2023 was a big year with a lot of fun releases including your latest “Worst Time or Year.” What are you the most proud of and what are you looking forward to in 2024?

2023 has been an amazing year for me since I’ve gotten to really focus on making music. I’ve spent a lot of time in the studio putting finishing touches on my debut EP that I’ll be releasing this year. I’m definitely most proud of this upcoming music because I think the whole project really reflects who I am – there’s a lot of sarcastic humor, sprinkled in with some light-hearted sassiness, but also there are some really vulnerable songs on there. I think each song kind of dives into different sides of my personality.

In terms of what I’m looking forward for 2024, I am SO excited to get out on the road and perform these new songs. I’ve secured some super exciting show dates that I can’t wait to announce.

Speaking of “Worst Time or Year” I feel like a lot of people can really relate to that sentiment in relation to the holidays. Can you tell us a bit about your personal inspiration for that song?

I wrote “Worst Time of Year” after a series of failed attempts at creating a typical Christmas song. I gave the cheerful, jingle-bell rock anthems a shot, but the lyrics felt super forced and stupid. So “Worst Time a Year ” came about when I started writing my honest feelings about the holidays. The holidays can be a real struggle for people with weird family situations, and this song delves into what that experience looks like for me. There’s this strange societal expectation to seem perfect during the Holidays, especially when it comes to spending time with family. With “Worst Time of Year” I had a lot of fun lightheartedly making fun of that fake perfection. Obviously no judgment to people who love the holidays, I just love that “Worst Time of Year” lets me be sassy about my anti-holiday spirit :).

From whom or from where did you gain your musicality from? Who are some of your musical inspirations?

I think New York has really instilled a go-getter energy in me, and that fast-paced mentality has definitely influenced my songwriting. Growing up, I honestly used to stupidly strut around the city aimlessly with my headphones in and write lyrics to my next song. So New York is really ingrained in my music, and I think the rapid energy of the city translates into my songs.

Also growing up, I was a HUGE fan of P!nk, Avril Lavigne, Kes$ha, Joan Jette, and other Pop and Punk-Rock musicians. I’m really inspired by the no-nonsense attitude of their music – it’s like ear candy with a side of deep wisdom.

You started writing music at such a young age. Can you tell us a bit about how you got started and your process?

Growing up, I always listened to music as a way to cope with feelings, and so I think that writing songs was just the natural next step to dealing with emotions. I had this tiny keyboard in my room during middle school, and that’s where I kicked off my songwriting journey, even if those early songs were cringe-worthy at best. I became obsessed with songwriting, and still can’t believe I get to do it as a job now.

My writing process is pretty flexible and depends on the song and my mood. There are moments when a killer concept or lyric strikes, and I immediately jot it down in my notes app. Alternatively, I might spontaneously record a melody on my voice memos app – some of these morph into full-fledged songs, while others are just shower thoughts. Or, I’ll sit at the piano, tinkering with chords until I find something that sticks. In those instances, the melody takes the lead, and the lyrics follow suit.

We saw you recently worked with Loren Gray on your song “Breadcrumbs.” What was that like?

Working with Loren was the best. She’s so funny, and we have the best time joking around, but she’s also so professional. I really think we nailed a balance between having fun and getting things done. The whole process of making Breadcrumbs was by far my favorite project ever, and we’ve become super close friends through collaborating.

Loren and I met when we both found out we were unknowingly being cheated on by the same person. So, we turned that wild situation into “Breadcrumbs.” What I love about the song is that the whole playful vibe we had making the song totally shines through. It’s like our fun energy got baked right into the track.

Can you mention a few artists on your wishlist to work with in the near future?

I have been obsessed with Chappell Roan’s newest album, The Rise and Fall of A Midwest Princess. I would LOVE to collaborate with her. I would also die to collaborate with Hayley Williams and Paramore. I’m absolutely obsessed with her energy on stage. She has such a powerful voice, and is able to belt out crazy notes while bopping around the stage with so much energy.

Is there any words of encouragement or advice you can offer an aspiring recording artist?

I think the best advice that people gave me when I first started releasing music was to stop caring about other peoples’ judgements. Self-criticism is already on autopilot, and stressing over opinions can straight-up paralyze you. At the end of the day, what matters is making music that’s authentic to you. Sure, not everyone might jump on your vibe when you drop a song, but the right audience will find it if it’s authentically you. Letting go of people’s opinions is so much easier said than done. I mean, I’ve stumbled upon a few nasty comments on my TikTok that definitely took me back. But being a recording artist has become so much more fun the second I let go of other people’s opinions and became more of myself!

Videos to Watch

RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ

‘Beyonce’s Renaissance is a must-see masterpiece for the marginalized movement, a tribe of communities seeking equity and inclusion.’

—Vaughn Lowery, 360®

BUY

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter‘s Renaissance film is a testament to her hard work and heart. With a behind-the-scenes look at her most talked-about Renaissance World Tour (RWT), it’s a moment of inclusivity and pure transparency.

Queen Bey re-examines her relationship with her Uncle Johnny, former Destiny’s Child band members, and delves deeper into the socioeconomic plight of a triumphant black woman outperforming their male counterparts. The tenacious spirit of an intellectual being who continues to reinvent themselves. Beyoncé’s motherhood is one of the most powerful pivots in entertainment we’ve ever witnessed. While effectively breaking down RWT, she inadvertently continues to end generational curses that constantly cripple the black community.

An exclusive exhibition of epic talents from Honey Balenciaga, Blue Ivy, Amari Marshall, and her pregnant trumpet player, Crystal Torres. She single-handedly creates safe spaces where her stage lands. Next, she explains the RWT Jumbotrons that were mostly made by women.

During the briefing, the audience was mesmerized by her concert recaps featuring Megan Thee Stallion and Kendrick Lamar. Moreover, we got a brief glimpse of Remi & Sir, Kevin JZ Prodigy, and legendary publicist Yvette Noel-Schure (Prince).

As an opulent and decadent global citizen, Beyoncé repels negativity. She gave an open explanation to the critics about her daughter’s contribution to the tour and conveyed Blue Ivy’s determination to perform My Power. Finally, audience members understood that Blue Ivy is a Knowles-Carter and is never afraid of working on her craft. This especially proves online haters wrong. In fact, there wasn’t a non- teary-eyed person at the AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9.

Beyonce’s homage to her beautiful black progressive parents was one of the most iconic moments. Affirming her inherent attributes from father Mathew Knowles, who is an analytics expert, and mother Ms. Tina Knowles, who is resourceful, Beyoncé’s parental acknowledgment was profound. Despite the adolescent turbulence, Beyoncé reminds us to thank our parents for their sacrificial support as we journey toward success.

Lastly, Beyonce Giselle Knowles-Carter’s next gem of the evening was to trust in yourself and let your talents coupled with skills speak for themselves.

RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ feature via 360 MAGAZINE.

Photo: Beyoncé | Parkwood Entertainment

Articles in the Media

Beyonce’s Renaissance Tops Global Box Office w/ 27.4 million

Renaissance debuts No. 1 at box office

Entertainment Weekly

World AIDS Day

Newsbreak

Taylor attends Renaissance film premiere

DIDDY + CASSIE ALLEGATIONS

Media mogul Diddy, AKA Sean Combs, accused of rape by model/recording artist Cassie (Cassandra Ventura).

*Combs settles suit w/ Ventura

Diddy in the Media

The Combs Twins

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ twin daughters, Jessie and D’Lila are the cover of Galore’s Rebel Beauty Issue!

COVER STORY HERE

IG POST HERE

PRAS IN THE PRESS

Pras Michel Retains Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones and Civil Rights Attorney as New Legal Counsel.

Grammy Award-winning artist Pras Michel has retained Arent Fox Schiff LLP as his new counsel in Washington DC following recent motion proceedings.

Pras has hired a team of attorneys from the prominent Washington, DC based law firm ArentFox Schiff LLP, including Peter Zeidenberg, civil rights attorney, and former U.S. Senator Doug Jones, and Scott Peeler. At this crucial point, they will provide Mr. Michel with legal representation and guidance as he continues to address this matter.

ArentFox Schiff is well-versed in complex litigation, government investigations, and criminal defense work. Mr. Michel looks forward to working with them as the case progresses.

USA vs. Pras Michel Case Update

Attorneys for Grammy Award winning entertainer and Fugees founding member Pras Michel filed a response disputing the government’s motion for judgment of acquittal after his conviction last May. They state there was insufficient evidence to prove conspiracy to violate campaign finance laws, cause false FEC filings, make false statements to the FEC, violate the Foreign Agents Registration Act, or engage in money laundering. The defense argues that the government’s novel FARA conspiracy theory violates legal precedent and that, at minimum, Michel deserves a new trial because the verdict was against the weight of the evidence. Michel’s attorneys contend the government failed to prove he knowingly and willfully violated the law. The judge ordered an evidentiary hearing this December on Michel’s claims that the government failed to meet its evidentiary burden for conviction.

Court Document

Tiffany Haddish

Haddish gets arrested for DUI in Beverly Hills. She allegedly fell asleep at 5:45am. On Friday on Beverly Drive. According to KTLA, Police arrived after being dispatched regarding a driver falling asleep in the middle of the street.

Alabama A&M + Macy’s

According to Advance Local, this was the first HBCU marching band to start the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Three Men of Palestine Descent

Three men of Palestinian descent were accosted and shot in Vermont. Jason J. Easton pled not guilty for the allegedly hate crime.

BLACK FRIDAY

Flaire & Co.

Flaire & Co. is an affordable, hypoallergenic jewelry brand combining affordability with quality pieces that are safe for sensitive skin. Truly affordable, all styles are $30 or less and designed to be water-safe that can be worn regularly without tarnishing.

Shop these jewelry pieces featured in some of their viral TikTok videos:

1. Everyday Hollow Gold Hoops ($11) – shown in this TikTok video (1.2M views)

2. Green Gems Sterling Huggies in Gold ($13) – shown in this TikTok video (2M views)

3. Slitherin Signet Gold Ring ($15) – shown in this TikTok video (761K views)

4. Unisex Kassidy Thick Rope Chain in Gold ($27) – shown in this TikTok video (297K views)

5. White Enamel Beaded Bracelet in Gold ($16) – shown in this TikTok video (210K views)

WITHIT GEAR

Bumper with Pave Crystals for 44mm Apple Watch® - Rose Gold via 360 MAGAZINE.

Bumper with Pave Crystals for 44mm Apple Watch® – Rose Gold: $30.00
Bling bling + watch protection? Say no more. This rose gold bumper with pave crystals provides the best of both worlds. Its easy clip-on design provides protection, while genuine crystal accents provide a sparkly finish. Expert Rose Gold protection for the metal exterior of your Apple Watch® + Genuine pave crystal accents provide a sparkly finish.

Web Profile

No website or web page? Consider purchasing a slice of digital real estate to increase your or your loved one’s brand awareness. Perfect gift for an emerging author, small business owner, and/or an indie artist that needs to intensify their professional image.

Includes the following: 1 featured image, 3 hyperlinks, + a QR code.

We will copy edit up to 350 words of written material. $229 per profile.

KERISMA

The knitwear brand KERISMA offers durability, versatility, and modernity. A progressive business was established by Father Phil Ke and daughter Lihui Ke after combining their insatiable passion for fashion design in 2010. Their shared interests guided them on a journey of exploration, allowing them to take bold risks by utilizing specific color palettes and patterns.

Available at select boutiques and online.

Celebrity photographer and mixed media artist Vaughn Lowery wears Kerisma duster for women for 360 MAGAZINE editorial. — photo: shutterbug + mixed media artist Vaughn is wearing size M/L.
5’11 | 165 lbs.

Little Shop of Pins

TikTok Viral Global Sensation Fun!

Ready for some playful fun with an artistic twist? Check out the TikTok viral Little Shop of Pins!

Each pin tells a story, invites compliments and sparks conversations. Be it the iconic 1959 throw-back Barbie pin (also sold at FAO Schwartz in New York!), the world-wide popular Grandma’s Sew Kit pin (recently viral on TikTok twice!), featuring a take on the Royal Dansk cookie tin with a top that lifts to showcase sewing essentials inside, or the relatable Spaghetti Leftovers Pin in the Country Crock container (also with a lid that lifts)!

Shop by items for the Movie Buff, Foodie, Gamer, your Tita/Tito, for Kids and more! ComicCon fans love these pins! Collections sell out at ComicCon!

The brainchild of passionate pin collectors, Little Shop of Pins is committed to curating a diverse and captivating collection of pins that cater to various tastes and interests.

OREYLO – Ear Decoration

Break free from the ordinary, embrace the revolutionary. Our Helix Hook Collection redefines conventional jewelry. Bold, unapologetic, and designed to revolutionize your style. Dare to be different with our unisex statement pieces. Available in gold, silver, and black. Only requires an earlobe piercing.

FRESHCUT PAPER

A nifty idea for loved ones during the holiday. For under twenty dollars, you can send your friends and family a beautiful bouquet without breaking the bank while lowering your carbon footprint.

Tinder Gift Card

Waiting under the mistletoe isn’t the only way to see if sparks will fly this holiday season. With new holiday gift cards from Tinder, anyone can gift their friends and family the opportunity to explore the endless possibilities that are just a swipe away.

Available now at https://tinder.com/giftcard for the single person of your choice, each gift card covers the cost of one month of Tinder Gold for $39.99. A few perks of Tinder Gold include:

Full visibility on who Likes you
The ability to give Unlimited Likes
One monthly boost, which makes you one of the top profiles in your area for 30 minutes
Access to the Passport feature, allowing you to match with people from around the world

Gucci Holiday Gift Guide

DOWNLOAD

Billie Eilish for Gucci via 360 MAGAZINE.

ComplexCon 2023 – Day 2

If there’s one thing we can say about ComplexCon Day 2, it’s that it exceeded all expectations. Picture this: the entirety of pop culture encapsulated in a sprawling space, creating an environment where brands seize the spotlight and declare why they’re the next big thing. It’s an unparalleled opportunity for exposure and a chance to showcase industry prowess.

Among the standout brands, one that truly caught our eye hails from the bustling streets of New York – Fried Rice. Their distinctive Japanese-inspired apparel, featuring cropped jacket silhouettes and captivating green iridescence, made waves. Behind the scenes is Maya Wang, the self-taught designer and owner of Fried Rice, drawing inspiration from the diverse cultural identities thriving in her neighborhood.

But ComplexCon isn’t just about eccentric fashion; it’s a melting pot of creativity. One booth that commanded the attention of 360 Magazine was GloMart, a collaboration between the iconic Chief Keef and Black-owned water company Augi Water. Transforming into an urban convenience store, their setup offered alkaline water, popcorn, cotton candy, and a wave of nostalgia with its unique aesthetic.

With all the walking involved, hunger is bound to strike, and when 360 Magazine craved something boujee, the go-to spot was none other than Broad Street Oyster Co. in Los Angeles. Renowned for their mouthwatering lobster rolls, each bite is a heavenly experience – succulent lobster nestled in a buttered roll, elevated with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of hot sauce.

As the sun set on ComplexCon Day 2, the organizers ensured the day lingered in our memories just as vividly as the previous one. How? By orchestrating a mesmerizing performance by none other than Kid Cudi. The crowd was treated to hits from ‘Man on the Moon’ and even some tracks from ‘Kids See Ghosts.’ For those hungry for more details about the spectacular ComplexCon experience, head to complex.com.

ComplexCon 2023 – Day 1

The Long Beach Convention Center witnessed a pop culture extravaganza as ComplexCon kicked off its two-day spectacle on Saturday, November 18th. In its 2023 iteration, ComplexCon proved to be a must-attend event, drawing fashion enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados alike. The participating brands brought their A-game, but one that stole the spotlight and captured the essence of the event was none other than Mood Swings, a brainchild of fashion icon Bloody Dior.

Bloody Dior’s Mood Swings booth emerged as a favorite among attendees and garnered praise from 360 Magazine. The collection featured cool pieces, with beanies stealing the show. The eccentric colorways and a font straight out of a ’70s magazine added a touch of nostalgia, creating a visual feast for fashion enthusiasts. The crowd unanimously favored the shirt adorned with Campbell’s soup artwork, showcasing the brand’s commitment to blending art and fashion seamlessly.

Navigating Kid Cudi’s MOTR booth at ComplexCon felt like entering a fashion labyrinth. The booth, cleverly designed as a maze, challenged attendees to find their way through while being surrounded by the avant-garde MOTR clothing line. Unconventional pieces teased fashion norms, creating a surreal experience for those seeking a unique blend of style and maze-like mystery. Adjacent to this fashion journey, the Babylon x Minion bounce house added an extra layer of intrigue, capturing the attention of onlookers with its playful vibes.

Amidst the sea of brands and fashion-forward displays, Complex Con treated visitors to top-notch DJ sets by renowned talents such as Luka Sabbat, Lil Yachty, and socialite Zack Bia. Lil Yachty, in particular, used the platform to preview new music, solidifying his position as an artist pushing the boundaries of rap electronica. The audience was captivated as he showcased a sound uniquely his own, marking a defining moment in his musical journey.

After seeing countless articles of clothing 360 Magazine decided to venture outside to the the First We Feast Lagoon food court. There were countless food vendors like Broad Street Oyster Co, Brique French Toastery, Chicken and Mumbo Sauce, etc. So many different options to choose from.

Having immersed themselves in the fashion maze, 360 Magazine ventured outside to explore the delectable delights at the First We Feast Lagoon food court. The air was filled with tantalizing aromas as an array of food vendors beckoned. From the seafood wonders of Broad Street Oyster Co to the mouth watering creations at Brique French Toastery and the irresistible combo of Chicken and Mumbo Sauce, the food court offered a feast for the senses. With so many diverse options to choose from, it was a culinary adventure that complemented the avant-garde spirit of ComplexCon.

Day one set the bar high, and anticipation is building for day two on November 19th. F1lthy is set to take the stage with electrifying DJ sets, promising an immersive audio experience. The climax of Complex Con 2023 will be a special performance by the one and only Kid Cudi, ensuring a memorable conclusion to the two-day extravaganza.

For those hungry for more Complex Con updates and highlights, head over to complex.com. Stay tuned for a recap of the unforgettable moments, exclusive interviews, and a deeper dive into the pop culture phenomena that defined Complex Con 2023!

By Yash Thadani, Krish Narsinghani, Vaughn Lowery

Abby-Lynn ‘ABSOLUTELY’ Keen

B&N

APPLE | ANDROID

CEREBRUM

It’s been all too long since we had someone from the UK grace 360® since The Who and Gabrielle Aplin. Abby Lynn Keen, aka Absolutely, is a singer-songwriter for David Guetta, Normani, Anitta, Rihanna, Ryan Tedder, Ariana Grande, Tinashi and Selena Gomez.

This London based ingenue is a tour de force, and her international acclaim is well warranted. Signed to S10 for publishing, founded by
Brandon Silverstein, their catalog, has over 10 billion streams. Their unique positioning as a powerhouse is also helmed by provocative players like Jay-Z and Simon Fuller, which makes them one of the most legendary labels on planet Earth.

Being brought up Christian in a third generation of song birds like her sister RAYE and Lauren, her adolescent has poised her to become one of gen z’s most sought-after entertainers. This British, Sweden-Ghanaian bombshell knows what she wants and is laser focused on acquiring it. At 19, she has signed an exclusive licensing deal with Epic Records, a division of Sony, which appears to offer her freedom and flexibility. At the moment, she heads on tour with her sibling while she releases a barrage of bangers. Her recent melodies are Symphony, Higher, Patterns, and Stranger. Reminiscent of a mixture of Sade, SZA, and Moby, her innate ability to Supersonically seduce is unstoppable.

Upon meeting this this million dollar baby, she comes across as direct, stern, and reluctant to fall victim to traps like some of her siblings did. Extremely observant and guarded, she meticulously melts her creativity into mountains of motion. Constantly demanding eye contact, we acknowledged her innovative sound, and her prowess for perfection. The trajectory for her career is plane as day — a megastar and media mogul. Constantly cognizant of how she expresses herself to the people while in public, more specifically to industry professionals, this new breed of performers possess both lucrative publishing as well as recording deals. Think Muni Long and Victoria Monet. As a multi hyphenate, she’s hands-on and juggles a plethora of projects.

Unlike most, she realizes the importance of acknowledging her strengths and weaknesses. Both the orchestra and its conductor, she navigates. It’s quite fascinating to witness, as she self-directs her likeness in a mirror during a photoshoot, she doesn’t wear her vulnerability on her sleeve instead it’s her reluctance to care what others think about her. You may see her as vain or even divalike; however, her perfect mixture of confidence and humility is refreshing. Much like an algorithm, she can calculate your next move without moving. Her entourage is an army of one, compact yet competent, resulting in increased fluidity. She’s the new marquee and doesn’t accept mediocrity. There’s very few homosapiens that have the propensity to differentiate between passion and purpose, but ABs can. As a punctual perfectionist, it’s inevitable that she will conquer the world.