A Sign Of The Times

The fashion editorial feature in the current issue of Southpark Magazine is so hot and bright the models even have to wear their shades!  But seriously, I can't tell you how excited this spread gets me.  Every project's outcome is a result of the sum of the parts, and let me tell you, we were definitely operating on all cylinders for this one.  As my father said when I proudly handed him a copy, "GREAT job.  You had a lot to work with here Whitley," followed by a boyish flirtatious smile.  Let's just say he wasn't referring to the clothes.  Models Taylor Sharpe and Hadley Hilton sizzle just like fiya (favorite Pink song!) in House of Landor vintage styles (and a few pieces from my personal collection), Addison Weeks jewels and sunglasses from Innovative Eye Care.  Joseph Bradley's camera lens tell no lie. Charlotte artist Windy O'Connor's home played the perfect back drop for telling our story of high style, and Adrienne McCann flawlessly maintained the vintage glam vibe with hair and makeup. What can I say?  I want it all.  Visit HERE for all wardrobe and accessory credits. 

Ralph Lauren Inspired All-American Wedding

A dream commission, I was tapped to work with Carolina Bride Magazine and several other amazing vendors to create three distinct designer inspired wedding day looks. I wanted to showcase inspiration from three brands that were unique and vastly different from one another.  The first of three looks was inspired by the American fashion brand genius, Ralph Lauren, to create an All-American look. Think equestrian, rich plaids, cotton lace and all the other classic staples you could imagine to recreate a timeless affair.

Her:
Dress: Willowby by Watters Petra Gown, J. Majors Bridal Boutique, Top Hat: Morris Costumes, Necklace, Earrings and Bracelet: Kristin Hayes Jewelry, Rings: Diamonds Direct
Him:
Tuxedo: Canali, Shirt: Eton, Cufflinks and Studs: Taylor, Richards & Conger, Bow Tie: R. Hanauer All from Taylor, Richards & Conger

Photography: CAPTURE ME CANDID, Planning: STUNNING AND BRILLIANT EVENTS |Florist: THE PLACE FOR FLOWERS | Makeup: ERIN ASHLEY MAKEUP | Hair: SEAN FOLEY HAIR | Second Shooter: Bryon Bench | Jewelry: KRISTIN HAYES JEWELRY | Stationary: OLIVE PAPER | Models: Megan Hollandsworth and RJ Crumpler- Marilyn's Agency I Location: JOHNSON CARRIAGE HOUSE AND MEADOWS

Dissecting the Bride: Avant-Garde

My first bridal editorial is in the books.  A big thanks to Carolina Bride for asking me to be a part of their 25th Anniversary Issue in which I was given the opportunity to style and source the wardrobe for a story on Fabulous Furs. It was such fun working with the editor to come up with a neat story about how to incorporate fur into your winter wedding, no matter your personal style.  We came up with six styles.  The editorial opened with probably my favorite look, Avant-Garde.  Is there any surprise?  Night time was upon us, and the location- a park of dense woods located in Myers Park just across from the Duke Mansion, served as the perfectly dark and moody location for a daring look.

Model: Kady McKenzie, Photography: Emby Taylor, Flowers: Flowers by Lingky, Hair and Makeup: Jami Svay, Dress: Winnie Couture, Fur: Pre-Owned Cuerulean Mink Stole from Douglas Hertzberg Montaldo's Furs, Fascinator: Nordstrom, Earrings and Bracelets: Kristin Hayes Jewelry

'Tis The Season

Photograhy: Zach Alston. Models: Emma Claris and Tyler Von Seggern (Marilyn's Model and Talent Management). Hair and Makeup: Tia Rivers. Freaturing Kristin Hayes Jewelry.

'Tis the Season from one very special young couple on their first Christmas together!  This photo shoot with models Emma and Tyler was so much fun.  Everything about it was so magical and perfect.  Thank you to a good friend for opening her gorgeous home.  It was all made for a very prominent magazine if you ask me!  I had to get in on the action in the last picture.  How do you like my sexy tough model pose?  Ha!  Merry Christmas Everyone! I hope yours was filled with love, laughter, family and eggnog to your hearts delight.

What The Hell Is A Pork Lawn?

Photography by: Joseph Bradley Photography.  Wardrobe c/o: Taylor, Richards & Conger, Banana Republic.

Styling Darin McEntee was easy an the eyes.  What more is there to say?  Oh, well he did give me a replay of the most hysterical episode of Family Fued of all time, and I almost peed in my pants in his passenger seat.  Whether you like pork or don't care for it, you NEED this for your hump day.  

Behind The Scenes Fav For The Ladies

In preparation for an upcoming photo shoot on Thursday, I came across one of my favorite Behind The Scenes videos.  It is one of my favorites for many reasons, but if you are female (or not), there's likely really no guess work.  Happy play and rewinding. Click and watch.

Styling Allison Dunavant

Photography: Kristia Knowles and Doug Brooks.  Lighting: Carl Miller. Model: Allison Dunavant. Wardrobe: Se Moi. Hair and Makeup: Deme Fourtounis. Videography: Kenneth Quiller II 

Without question, this is one of my favorite shoots ever.  It was an all star weekend jammed packed with models, clothes, make up, accessories, flashing lights, flying clothes, laughter and creativity just pouring from everyone on set. When I look at these pictures of model Allison Dunavant, the first thing always on the tip of my brain is Those Eyes.  She reminds me of Jodie Foster in Taxi Driver.  Is it just me?  See it all go down here.  Gaaahh! Those eyes!!